England campervan hire
Yorkshire Dales
Enjoy the freedom of a campervan trip across the Dales with our route guide, whisking you away on a whistle-stop tour around the Yorkshire Dales. You'll notice we've listed more activities than we usually do - we did try to narrow it down, but there's so many 'must-see' places in the Dales we couldn't bear to leave much out!
Inside your little campervan, journey through winding country backroads and explore waterfalls, abandoned ruins, and castles to your heart's content. Along the way you'll discover hidden gems that can't be found on any map, and eat far too many delicious delicacies in the little villages you stopover in.
All recommended campsites are dog friendly, and those that remain open throughout the winter months have been signposted for you cold weather adventurers!
So if you like quieter areas, hiking up mountains, and scenic rural drives, then read on because this route will be perfect for you!
1st Stop - Skipton
Ash Keys Caravan Park 79.1 miles, 1 hr 41 mins
Skipton is a lovely little town situated on the outskirts of the Yorkshire Dales, full of history and hidden gems. There's a tight knit community here ready to welcome you with open arms!
Over 900 years old, Skipton Castle is one of England's best preserved medieval castles. During your visit you can explore the entire castle, from the depths of the dungeon to the top of the tallest tower. Bring a picnic along or stop for a spot of lunch in the new tea room!
Family fun awaits at Thornton Hall Country Park. Kids will love befriending the farm animals and taking part in seasonal, hands-on activities. Let the kids loose in the Wizzick Barn with ride-on tractors, 18ft high slide and even a sandpit!
Discover a treasure trove of 60,000 objects in the Craven Museum & Gallery. Learn all about rocks, rare books, photographs, furniture, art and taxidermy.
Head to Skipton Market and find yourself some fantastic souvenirs! Every day is different, as the market has a rotating group of vendors. And they bring along tons of stuff, from cheeses to scarves, local meat to arts & crafts, shoes & boots to Yorkshire made blankets!
Recommended camp site
Site name and details
Seat House Farm
Eshton
North Yorkshire
England
BD23 3QL
N/A
01729 830115
Description
Open Feburary to November, Ash Keys Caravan Park sits in a quiet corner of a family-run, 165 acre farm in Skipton. It's conveniently located, only a five minutes' drive from the pubs, takeaways and small supermarkets in Gargrave.
Enjoy your stay at this campsite with all your creature comforts cared for. Take the dog out in the large exercise area, have a tasty BBQ dinner, and settle in for a relaxing evening. And you won't miss out on anything with the Ash Keys' free wifi!
Just north of Skipton you'll discover the Embassy Moor Reservoir, a small place with lots of character. You can either take the one mile walk beginning from the car park, or bring a map along and journey up through the hills to appreciate the breathtaking scenery. Be sure to take a camera with you, you'll need it.
Next to the Appletreewick is the small hamlet of Skyreholme. For such a small, quiet place, there is so much you can see and do here, from exploring limestone gorges to discovering gardens from the 1920s. Don't forget to leave time to see the Stump Cross Caverns!
Amenities
Dogs allowed
Toilet and shower block
Chemical disposal
Free wifi
2nd Stop - Clapham
Orcaber Farm 17.3 miles, 31 min
Just south of Ingleton is the charming little Yorkshire village of Clapham. Through the centre of the village runs Clapham Beck, a picturesque waterfall. It's the perfect home base to explore the Southern Yorkshire Dales from!
Open seven days a week, all year round, the 7 kilometer loop at Ingleton Waterfalls Trail is a must-visit. The well-defined footpath runs as close to the edge of the two rivers as possible, giving you spectacular views of the waterfalls. And don't worry about packing lunch - the on site cafe can take care of that for you!
Devil's Bridge is a magnificent three arch bridge that dates back to around the 12th or 13th century. It's an ideal picnic spot, and a good place to start a riverside walk to the north of Kirkby Lonsdale.
A trip to the Listening Gallery in Settle is a unique experience. The world's first audio gallery located entirely within an old phone box, here you can pick up the phone and learn all about the latest exhibition.
The Ingleborough Caves were first discovered by Victorian explorers in 1837, but the caves themselves are thought to date back over 450 million years. Walk along the woodland trail to reach the entrance and follow in those explorers' footsteps to journey through these caves yourselves.
Perhaps the finest example of glacier erratics in Britain, the Norber Erratics are a marvel of geology. The huge boulders of sandstone and slate, some of them lifted up on limestone plinths, make a spectacular sight and are well worth a visit!
Recommended camp site
Site name and details
Orcaber Farm Certificated Site
Austwick
Settle
North Yorkshire
LA2 8AE
N/A
07800 624994
07790 487179
Description
With the famous market town of Settle just a few miles away, Orcaber Farm is a great home base, a place to rest after long days of exploring. A walker's paradise, the site is ideally located with access to several incredible trails near the Yorkshire Three Peaks. And if you're travelling in winter, the heated bathrooms will be a lifesaver during those cold nights!
Located just two miles from Ingleton, the White Scar Caves are England's longest show caves. Explore all the different parts of the caves on a guided tour, from the thundering waterfall to the Witch's Fingers.
The 70 metre high cliff of Malham Cove has amazed visitors for hundreds of years. It has survived several ice ages and the efforts of erosion to stand strong today, where it poses a challenge for climbers and is an oppotunity for birdwatches to catch a glimpse of two peregrine falcons.
One of the largest underground chambers in Britain, the famous Gaping Gill is the perfect place to spend an overcast afternoon. Public access to the gill is only granted twice a year, so check your calendar and see if the dates line up!
Amenities
Dog friendly
Open all year
Heated toilet and shower block
Free wifi
Dish washing area
3th stop - Grassington
Heathfield Caravan Park 35.9 miles, 1 hr 7 min
This stop is action-packed, with Grassington, a bustling market town that doubles as the set for All Creatures Great and Small, in the centre of it. There's tons to do during your visit here, from walking to fishing to stargazing!
You can walk, fish and canoe at the picturesque Scar House Reservoir. It is an incredible place to visit and learn about, but please keep your dog on leads at all times and refrain from swimming in the water, as reservoirs can be really dangerous!
The lowest of Yorkshire's Three Peaks at 694 metres, and with a number of interesting geological features, Pen-y-ghent is an ideal challenge for less experienced hikers. If you do attempt to climb it, we advise you to be fully aware of the risk.
Brimham Rocks, as a site of Significant Scientific Interest, is a place that geologists and those passionate about rock formations love to visit. Over the course of 320 million years, the elements have molded the rocks into shapes that you'll have a hard time believing is 100% natural!
The second of its kind on this list, Grimwith Reservoir provides breathtaking, scenic views of the moors that surround it, as well as the valley below. You can either take the challenging 4.5 mile walk or just park up and enjoy the view.
One of the Dales' largest areas of broadleaved woodland, Grass Wood is located in an area of carboniferous limestone. For wildlife enthusiasts the woods are a must-visit, as the wildlife here are large in both numbers and confidence!
Recommended camp site
Site name and details
Heathfield Caravan Park
Pateley Bridge
Harrogate
North Yorkshire
HG3 5PY
N/A
01423 711652
Description
A charming site, located in a peaceful valley in Upper Nidderdale, Heathfield Caravan Park is a lovely place to stay after a long day of exploring. As it is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the views and walking trails are incredible!
Millions of years ago, when the Yorkshire Dales was an ocean inhabited by marine life, the Stump Cross Caverns were formed. Nowadays, you're free to roam the caves for as long as you like - you can even bring the dog along, if they are well trained and kept on leads! Stop by the shop and cafe once you're done for some snacks and a souvenir.
At Bolton Abbey, you're free to do as much or as little as you like. Enjoy your action-packed visit and explore the moors, peruse the shops, go for afternoon tea, and attend one of the Abbey's amazing events!
Although it is unassuming in height, Linton Falls is actually the largest waterfall on the River Wharfe. It's great if you don't like too much preamble - it's a quick and easy walk from the car park to the water. Depending on the time of year and rainfall levels, the falls can look vastly different!
Another unmissable waterfall is the Gordale Scar. Adventurers will love traversing the gorge and seeing how the millenia have changed the landscape. An accessible path along the scar allows even more people to enjoy the incredible sight.
The magical woodland that surrounds Janet’s Foss is full of legend. Stories say that Janet was queen of the fairies, and lived in a little cave behind the waterfall. Follow the Malham Landscape Trail for the best route through the falls!
Amenities
Dog friendly
Shower and toilet block
Laundrette and dish wash
Free wifi
Disabled facilities
4th stop - Hawes
Hazel Brow Campsite 40.7 miles, 1 hr 17 min
The name 'Hawes' means 'a pass between mountains'. Hawes is one of England's highest towns, sitting over 750 feet above sea level. It is one of the most famous towns in the Yorkshire Dales, thanks to its status as the home of Wensleydale cheese!
Set high on a grassy mound, Norham Castle was one of the region's most important strongholds back in the 12th century. In the 16th century the fort was rebuilt, and the remains of that are what you see today.
Dentdale, a charming little village only a drive away, is home to England's highest railway station. The village is still largely undiscovered, so many of its attractions are lovely and quiet. It's a real hidden gem!
Experienced hikers looking for a challenge will love the steep climb up Whernside, the highest of the Yorkshire Three Peaks. The 758m summit gives you fine views down Dentdale and Kingsdale and across to Morecambe Bay, making the climb well worth the effort.
If you plan on visiting Yordas Cave, make sure you pack a strong torch and wellies for the best experience. You can spend hours exploring this place, and entertain the kids with an atmospheric shadow puppet show!
With events, exhibitions and workshops held year-round, the historic Farfield Mill has a long and varied history. Explore the mill and see what they have to offer in the mill shop!
Recommended camp site
Site name and details
Hazel Brow Farm
Low Row
Richmond
DL11 6ND
info@hazelbrowfarm.org
01748 886 224
Description
A real hidden gem of the Yorkshire Dales, Hazel Brow Farm is a gorgeous back-to-basics campsite with breathtaking scenery and well maintained facilities. Choose between a grass or hardstanding pitch to put your campervan on during your stay, and enjoy the walker's paradise that surrounds you!
Semerwater is the second largest lake in the Dales, and well worth a visit as it's only a ten minute drive from Hawes. In July, thousands of sun-yellow water lilies bloom across the water's edge, almost like a scene from a painting.
The beautiful Hardraw Force holds the title of England's highest single drop waterfall. It is lovingly maintained by a group of dedicated people, and the entry fee goes towards the upkeep of the site facilities.
It's a bit of a drive to get here, but Buckden Pike is a rewarding place to go for a hike. There are routes available online for a variety of skill levels, so anyone can experience the highest peak in this part of the Dales. And the nearby Fountains Fell, with its 668m summit, is also a great adventure!
Amenities
Dog friendly
Toilet and shower block
Dish washing area
BBQs allowed
5th stop - Middleham
Constable Burton Hall Caravan Park 16.1 miles, 31 min
Middleham is a gorgeous town nestled between two rivers. It's royal heritage once lead to the nickname 'Windsor of the North', and though it no longer carries that moniker, it's long and varied history influences the town to this day.
Foxglove Covert is a local nature reserve, covering 100 acres of beautiful moorland and home to over 2600 species of widlife. Open year round, the reserve is a great place to spend an afternoon amongst nature!
The triple stepped water of Aysgarth Falls has been a popular tourist attraction for 200 years. Access is easy with several nice paths leading to it; in warm months the surrounding woodland will be full of primroses and the occasional deer!
Exploring Middleham Castle is a fine way to spend an afternoon. Once Richard III's childhood home, the castle's remains are extensive. Discover gems like the gorgeous view of Wensletdale from the viewing platform!
It's a hard trek to get up there, but the views from the top of Penhill make all the work worth it. The village below has good facillties and a pub, so once you've finished your walk head down there for a pint and a well-earned rest!
As one of the best preserved medieval castles in the country, Bolton Castle has plenty on offer, from their country gardens to a lovely tearoom to the falconry! Check out their website to see what events are on and to book your tickets.
Recommended camp site
Site name and details
Constable Burton Hall
Caravan Park
Leyburn
North Yorkshire
DL8 5LJ
caravanpark@constableburton.com
01677 450428
Description
The cosy ten acre site of Constable Burton Hall Caravan Park is an ideal home base to explore this part of the Dales from. It owes its name to a stunning 17th century manor house that is within walking distance of the site. The facilities are clean and modern, and a nearby dog walk ensures that your furry friend won't get bored, even on quiet days!
Jervaulx Abbey is perhaps the definition of a place that has been completely reclaimed by the earth. Each brick of the abbey's remains is interspersed with wildflowers and moss, like something from a fairytale. Today you can visit for free all year round, dawn til dusk, and experience the magic for yourself.
The four acre folly garden of Forbidden Corner is like nothing you've seen before. Visitors of all ages will have a blast exploring the labyrinth of tunnels, statues, and the huge glass pyramid!
A short walk from the little village of West Burton is West Burton Falls, a shady spot with a beautiful waterfall and the remains of a mill. Keep your eyes peeled for water loving birds, such as bobbing dippers and wagtails!
St. Oswald’s Church Askrigg has been around since the 13th century, at least. Visit today and marvel at the beautiful architecture that has been built upon and improved for centuries, like the huge stained glass window at the church's east end!
Amenities
Dog friendly
Toilet and shower block
Free wifi
Laundrette and dish wash area
Disabled facilities
6th stop - Richmond
The Dales Camping & Caravanning 2.7 miles, 7 min
We're almost at the end now! Richmond prides itself on being one of Britain's most attractive, vibrant market towns, and we think it deserves that title. With a castle, swathes of historic buildings, rural surroundings and a cobbled high street, its no wonder the town has inspired 105 other Richmonds around the world!
First up we have Richmond Castle, an iconic building with breathtaking views of the Yorkshire Dales. Don't get too distracted exploring it though - you still have the secluded Cockpit Garden to wander around too!
Described as 'an oasis in the north of England', Millgate House is one of the highest rated B&Bs in the Dales. The garden, packed with treasure in such a small space, has been featured in magazines and TV shows, so if you get the chance definitely stop by!
Cotter Force is a small waterfall in Cotterdale Beck, easily accessible thanks to a car park just half a mile's walk away. The waterfall is actually made up of six separate drops that come together - make sure you go and see it for yourself!
The high up road of Buttertubs Pass really is a must-visit. Of course, there are many roads in the Dales that are above sea level, but they are incomparable to the beauty of the Pass. The road tends to be nice and quiet, with a few places to park up and admire the view.
In old English, Wain Wath Force meant 'ford above the fall'. It describes the places pretty well, but doesn't mention the outstnading beauty of the place. While the waterfalls are short, only two to three metres in height, the width of them and their number is what amazes people. Wain Wath Force is very accessible too!
Recommended camp site
Site name and details
Thornton Grange
No Mans Moor Lane
Thornton Steward
North Yorkshire
England
HG4 4BQ
enquiries@dalescamping.co.uk
07889 048969
Description
This stop is close to Middleham. This is because there is so much to do in this area we had to split it into two parts. You’re welcome to stay at the last stop’s campsite if you prefer, but if you love changing things up then read on!
The Dales Camping & Caravanning is a family run, rural site on the edge of Thornton Steward Reservoir. The children's play area is situated in a no-vehicle camping zone, so parents can have peace of mind. Also, it's only a ten minute drive from the quaint towns of Bedale and Leyburn, and isn't too far from the A1, so it's a well connected little spot!
It's fitting to visit Dales Countryside Museum at the end of your trip, for one final lesson in the history of the Dales and the people who lived and worked here. With a shop and cafe too, you can easily while away a morning here.
Gayle Mill dates back to 1784, and is considered the oldest structurally unaltered cotton mill ever. If you're a history nut and like learning about the Industrial Revolution, then stop by for an informative tour!
One of four waterfalls in the Keld area, East Gill Force is a lovely, peaceful place to visit if you're in the mood for a waterfall. It has relatively easy access - the path is accessible but very steep so keep that in mind.
In both height and girth, Great Shunner Fell is one of the Dales' biggest challenges. The incredible views from the summit stretch out to the Lake District and beyond. Are you brave enough to take the plunge?
Amenities
Dogs allowed
Toilet and shower block
Dish wash area
Chemical disposal
7th stop - Kirkby Stephen
Pennine View Caravan Park 50.6 miles, 1 hr 1 min
Here we are, at the final stop before you journey back home. Kirkby Stephen is a traditional market town in Cumbria, with cobbled streets and historic buildings. The town has many quaint, unique shops, so if you need to buy any last minute souvenirs this is the place to do it!
One of 32 religous houses in Britain belonging to the Premonstratensian order of canons, Shap Abbey was founded in the 12th century. Its picturesque location in the River Lowther valley means the 15th century tower and other remains are surrounded by truly stunning countryside.
Appleby Castle is a must visit, with the honour of having one of few remaining Norman keeps and events held all year round. If you're visiting during the warmer months, you're in luck - be sure to stop by and see the jousting or open air theatre.
You'll see over 25 farmers, growers, and artisan sellers at Orton Farmers’ Market, with a large amount of wares to offer. If you're looking for memorable souvenirs or treasured gifts, this is the place to go!
According to legend Pendragon Castle was built by Uther Pendragon, father of King Arthur. However, there's no evidence of it being used that far back in history, so historians have declared it a myth. Give the castle a visit and see what you think!
You can easily while away an entire day walking through the gorgeous scenery of Howgill Fells! This small collection of Cumbrian hills are relatively quiet and are a joy to explore, so make sure you put this on your itinerary.
Recommended camp site
Site name and details
Pennine View Park
Station Road
Kirkby Stephen
Cumbria
CA17 4SZ
hello@pennineviewpark.co.uk
017683 71717
Description
This family-run campsite in the heart of Kirkby Stephen is highly reviewed. It's less than half a mile from the train station, and located bang in the middle of the popular Coast to Coast route! Pennine View, with it's picturesque surroundings and high quality facilities, is the perfect place to close out your Yorkshire Dales adventure.
The legendary location of where the last wild boar in England was slain, Wild Boar Fell is one of the Pennines' finest hills with its distintive shape. The view from here is breathtaking, and well worth the climb to get there!
Cautley Spout holds the title of highest waterfall in the Yorkshire Dales, with its broke cascade of water that flows down into Cautley Home Beck. A steep path is the only way to access here, but its worth it to see this stunning spectacle of nature.
Like many other castles in the area, Brough Castle was restored in the 17th century by Lady Anne Clifford, whose additions are still visible today. A nearby cafe offers snacks and refreshments to replenish your energy once you've finished exploring. Please be aware of the risks - there are steep slopes and a chance of livestock, among other things!
Located on the boundary of Cumbria and North Yorkshire, Nine Standards Rigg is the highest point of a large sweep of moorland. The collection of cairns that named the summit have stood for at least 8,000 years, and feature in the popular Coast to Coast walk.
Amenities
Dog friendly
Toilet & shower block
Disabled facilities
Dish wash and laundrette
Free wifi
Chemical disposal