Yorkshire Dales Weekend Break: How to Spend Two Days in Settle

Whether you're seeking adventure, stunning landscapes, or a taste of traditional Yorkshire culture, a Yorkshire Dales weekend break in Settle offers it all.

This guide will lead you through an enriching two-day itinerary that includes breathtaking natural wonders, charming villages, and delectable local food.

Why Explore the Yorkshire Dales?

The Yorkshire Dales is a stunning national park located in northern England, famed for its rolling hills, limestone cliffs, and picturesque valleys. This area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of life. With a wealth of trails, charming villages, and rich wildlife, a Yorkshire Dales weekend break is both rejuvenating and inspiring. 

The first and foremost reason to visit the Yorkshire Dales is its stunning natural beauty. Whether you're hiking in the hills, cycling through valleys, or simply soaking in the views, the scenery is nothing short of spectacular. For adventure seekers, the Dales offer a wealth of outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, rock climbing, and caving. The vast network of trails caters to all skill levels, allowing everyone to connect with nature.

With its rich history, the Yorkshire Dales provide countless opportunities to explore ancient sites, traditional villages, and cultural landmarks. From historical museums to churches, there are numerous ways to immerse yourself in the area's heritage. The Yorkshire Dales is dotted with charming villages where you can explore local shops, enjoy traditional tea rooms, and meet friendly locals. Each village has a unique story and character, inviting visitors to discover and appreciate rural life.

Why Visit Settle?

Settle, a picturesque market town, is often regarded as the gateway to the stunning Yorkshire Dales. Nestled between dramatic limestone hills and lush valleys, Settle offers a charming blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure.

Settle has a rich history that dates back to the Roman period, although it truly blossomed during the medieval era. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Settle became an important market town, facilitating trade in agricultural goods and textiles. The arrival of the Settle-Carlisle Railway in the 1870s marked a significant turning point in the town's development. Settle's historical architecture, including its stunning Victorian buildings and cobbled streets, tells the story of its evolving identity over the centuries. 

Settle boasts a vibrant community spirit and a cultural calendar filled with events. The town is also home to festivals such as the Yorkshire Festival of Story and the Settle Folk Festival, which celebrate local traditions through art, music, and storytelling. Embrace the charm of this delightful market town and choose Settle as the base for your Yorkshire Dales weekend break.

How to Organise a Yorkshire Dales Weekend Break

Travel & Transport

You can travel to Settle, the base for this Yorkshire Dales weekend break, by train via the Leeds-Settle-Carlisle line, bus, or car. While, there is a great network of public transport in this area due to its popularity, travelling by car makes visiting these smaller villages and planning your day much easier.

If you're unable to travel by car, or have simply chosen not to, you'll find most of the places on this list can be reached by bus from Settle. The only exception is Downham, which can be quite tricky to get to without a car. Perhaps consider swapping out this afternoon adventure with a trip to Scaleber Fore Waterfall or the family-friendly Jubilee and Victoria caves, all of which can be reached by foot from Settle. Learn more about these at the end of this post.

Where to Stay in the Yorkshire Dales

Overnight Parking:

• Greenfoot Car Park (Settle, North Yorkshire) - paid parking in a safe and quiet area, with specific parking spaces for motorhomes. At the time of writing, a charge of £6 applies for 6pm-9am for a maximum of 3 nights for motorhomes.
• Settle Swimming Pool Car Park (Settle, North Yorkshire) - free and quiet parking spot outside of the Settle Swimming Pool, with a donation box by the entrance to the pool. During the day, there are toilets, showers (£4pp) and a café inside.
• B6479 Layby (Stainforth, North Yorkshire) - around a 10-minute drive from the town of Settle, this peaceful layby is set away from the road and is great for an overnight stay. There's even a wild swimming spot just a couple minute's walk away.

Campsites:

• Langcliffe Park (Settle, North Yorkshire) - a 5-minute drive or 20-minute walk from Settle, this perfectly located campsite is suitable for motorhomes and caravans only.
• Lodge Park (Langcliffe, North Yorkshire) - a peaceful retreat only a 5-minute drive or 20-minute walk from the town of Settle, suitable for motorhomes, caravans and tent pitches.
• Brigholme Farm (Giggleswick, North Yorkshire) - available for Caravan Club members only, this farm and campsite only allows motorhomes and caravans. This site is only a 3-minute drive or 15-20-minute walk from Settle.

Accommodation:

• YHA Malham (Malham, North Yorkshire) - while based in Malham, this option is listed as it's the closest hostel to the town of Settle. Perfect for a budget-friendly trip to the area.
• The Golden Lion (Settle, North Yorkshire) - a charming inn in the heart of Settle, The Golden Lion is a convenient and homey place to stay during your Yorkshire Dales weekend break.
• Falcon Manor Hotel (Settle, North Yorkshire) - for a more glamorous stay at a higher price tag, consider the luxurious and elegant Falcon Manor Hotel, on the edge of the town of Settle. 

The Packing List

Regardless of the season, the Yorkshire Dales weather can be unpredictable and it's important to pack for all occasions.

• Comfortable Footwear - essential for walking and hiking. While walking boots aren't necessary, they can be useful for tackling muddy grounds or tougher hikes.
• Layered Clothing - pack plenty of layers to stay warm and dry in the Yorkshire Dales. From base layers to insulating fleeces to waterproofs, being prepared will save you from an unfortunate weather change.
• Backpack - a small 10-15L backpack might come in handy for those longer walks.
• Water Bottle - don't forget to stay hydrated during your travels.
• Camera - if you own one, it's a must for capturing the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales.

Yorkshire Dales Weekend Break Itinerary

Whether you're seeking adventure in the great outdoors or a leisurely exploration of quaint villages, this Yorkshire Dales weekend break is a fantastic way to visit this remarkable region.

Day 1: Gisburn Forest & Malham Cove

Morning: Explore Gisburn Forest

Gisburn Forest, located by the small village of Tosside, is a captivating area known for its stunning scenery, rich history, and variety of outdoor activities. Whether you're an enthusiastic walker, a cyclist, or simply looking to immerse yourself in nature, Gisburn Forest offers something for everyone. Most trails begin at either Gisburn Forest main car park or the Stocks Reservoir car park, but there's also parking at Tosside if you'd like to begin your walk from there.

Follow the Gisburn Forest Hub Trail for a shorter 2-mile (each way) linear walk that is perfect for families and beginners. It takes you through the heart of the forest where you can enjoy tranquil views and stop at various points of interest, including Dalehead Chapel. The longer Stocks Circular Path is an 8-mile grand tour of the Stocks reservoir with occasional dips into Gisburn Forest. There's also the Birch Hills Walk & Tramper Trail, the Eggberry Trail, and the Dale Head Ramble. Learn more about the Gisburn Forest trails here! For those who prefer cycling, the dedicated mountain biking trails offer an exhilarating experience. The routes range from beginner to advanced levels, ensuring thrills for all biking enthusiasts.

Don't forget to keep an eye out for red squirrels, deer, and an array of birdlife, including woodpeckers and owls. The forest is a prime location for nature spotting, allowing visitors to connect with the local wildlife. While we were here, we saw a small herd of deer and were even spooked by a fox cry!

Afternoon: Discover Malham Cove

One of the crown jewels of the Yorkshire Dales is Malham Cove, a natural limestone formation that attracts visitors from all over the world. A Yorkshire Dales weekend break wouldn't be complete without a visit to this enchanting location. This itinerary has you spending a wonderful afternoon visiting this iconic landmark with the option of enjoying a fantastic circular walk that encompasses the top of Malham Cove, a stroll through the countryside and a visit to Janet's Foss & Gordale Scar (optional additions).

Historically, Malham was a small village that thrived on agriculture and limestone quarrying. The cove itself is home to a unique ecosystem, featuring rare plants and bird species. Adding to the allure is the use of this area in various outdoor films, including the popular Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Part One).

Malham is easily accessible by car and there's a handy (paid) car park at the Malham National Park Visitor Centre. Just be aware it's around a 25-minute walk to Malham Cove from here and the car park can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. At Malham Cove, take some time to appreciate its grandeur and unique limestone pavement. If you'd like to take on the 2-3 hour walk to Janet's Foss and back, keep reading below.

Malham Cove to Janet's Foss and Back

Download the Walking Englishman's GPX file of the route here! 

Once you've completed the walk from Malham National Park Visitor Centre to Malham Cove and explored the area, head towards the path to the left of the cove that takes you on an ascent up man-made steps to the top of the cove. This is the steepest part of the route and, while challenging, the views from above are truly spectacular.

Walk across the limestone pavement once you're ready to move on and walk straight ahead for just over half a mile until you reach Tarn Road. Simply continue in the same direction, crossing Tarn Road, and make your way through the fields. The fields will come to an end and you'll reach a gate taking you onto a road. There's often refreshment vans parked in this area and you'll find picnic benches where you can enjoy a rest.

Gordale Scar

At this point, you have the option to take a route out and back, around half a mile each way, to visit Gordale Scar, or leave this part of the walk out and continue on to Janet's Foss. For Gordale Scar, simply turn left and continue on Hawthorns Lane. Follow the road a very short way and take your first left through the gate and onto a path that runs alongside Gordale Beck. Simply follow this clear path for around half a mile to Gordale Scar. Once you're ready to return, head back the way you came towards Gordale Lane.

Janet's Foss & Back to Malham

You only need to follow Gordale Lane a short way past the refreshment vans to find Janet's Foss waterfall on your left. There's a gate and sign for the trail to Janet's Foss, so you shouldn't be able to miss it. The deep pool of Janet's Foss is often used as a wild swimming spot which can be a welcome break from being on your feet all day.

To return to Malham, simply head back onto the main road and continue left from Janet's Foss along Gordale Lane. This route will take you straight to the heart of Malham village and back to the Malham National Park Visitor Centre and car park.

Where to Eat in Malham

• The Secret Garden Bistro - a beautiful and quirky café offering a fantastic range of 100% plant-based dishes that are uncompromisingly delicious. Only a 5-minute walk from the Malham National Park Visitor Centre.
• The Lister Arms - a cosy dog-friendly country inn serving a great menu of home-cooked meals, including vegetarian and vegan options. Located in the heart of Malham village.
• The Old Barn Tearoom - a friendly tearoom with a wide selection of food, an extensive gluten-free and vegan menu, homemade cakes, and warming hot drinks. You can find this tearoom right next to the Malham National Park Visitor Centre.

Evening: Settle in Settle

Following such a busy day of walking and experiencing the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales, it's time for a relaxing evening in the market town of Settle. Consider delighting in traditional Yorkshire cuisine at one of Settle's charming cafés or pubs. Look out for locally sourced dishes and hearty ales that celebrate the flavours of the region.

Where to Eat in Settle

• The Knights Table - this café and restaurant offers a fabulous Sunday Lunch sourcing beef from their own family farm, a range of homemade cakes and hot drinks, fantastic views of the surrounding area, and a great handful of vegetarian and vegan options.
• Little House Restaurant - minutes from Settle's market place, this restaurant located in a Victorian Gate house serves delectable dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Limited vegetarian options available.
• Talbot Arms - serving delicious, hearty pub food and featuring the largest beer garden in Settle, this family-run pub is a delightful place to dine, with limited vegetarian and vegan options available.

Day 2: Settle, Downham & Pendle Hill

Morning: Charming Settle

For a relaxing start to the day and a hearty breakfast, why don't you spend the morning exploring the charming town of Settle. Enjoy a stroll around the town, home to a variety of independent shops selling artisanal products, local crafts, and unique souvenirs. Browsing through these stores is a delightful way to experience the local culture and find something special to take home.

Breakfast in Settle

• Ye Olde Naked Man Café - a family-run café and bakery with homemade goods, a vast menu with delicious vegetarian options (limited vegan options), and a cosy atmosphere.
• The Golden Lion - a charming and cosy dog-friendly inn with fantastic home-cooked food right in the heart of Settle. Walk-in breakfast is available from 8am to 11am (Mon-Sat) at the time of writing, with vegetarian options available.
• Lay of the Land Café - a charming café hidden behind the Lay of the Land garden centre. Combining a passion for simple, locally sourced food with the best coffee and tea.

Afternoon: Venture to Downham & Pendle Hill

Nestled in the heart of Lancashire, the village of Downham offers a quaint retreat with stunning views of Pendle Hill, an iconic landmark steeped in history and lore. Downham is a traditional English village characterised by its charming stone cottages, flower-laden gardens, and stunning rural setting. It boasts a vibrant community and is often regarded as one of the prettiest villages in the UK.

While in Downham, consider visiting St. Leonard's Church, a historic church known for its architecture and serene atmosphere. Take a moment to admire its interior, showcasing beautiful stained glass windows and intricate woodwork. Stroll through the heart of the village and soak up the lovely views of the surrounding countryside. If you're feeling up to a challenge, consider climbing Pendle Hill.

Pendle Hill reaches a height of 557m (1,827 feet) and is a prominent feature of the landscape. It holds a significant place in English folklore, famously connected to the Witch Trials of 1612, where twelve local women were brought to trial at Lancaster Assizes. The hill is believed to be haunted and stories of the witches are part of the local lore still to this day. At the top of Pendle Hill, you'll be rewarded with 360-degree views stretching across Lancashire and into Yorkshire. On a clear day, you can see for miles, with notable sights including the Yorkshire Dales and the Bowland Hills.

Climbing Pendle Hill

Download Walking Britain's GPX file of the route here!

While there are several routes to the top of Pendle Hill, this guide will take you from Downham village to the summit and back in a 3-5 hour walk. Your starting point is the Downham Information Centre where (at the time of writing) there's a free car park and some toilets. 

The Ascent

From the car park, follow the Downham Beck, keeping to the road on its right-hand side, passing a row of charming cottages. Once at the end of these cottages, pass through the gate into a field and follow the signposted footpath. You'll follow the Downham Beck for a little while until the path veers away to the right. Once the footpath forks, take the path and continue on, over the stile, and head towards the left of the small barn ahead. Climb the stile on the wall and turn left once you reach Pendle Road. Ignore the path across the road, you'll be using this for the descent.

Continue up Pendle Road for around half a mile until you reach a small woodland on your right. Take a right here and follow the path through the trees and into the open countryside. This is a relatively clear and well-trodden path so continue to follow this until you reach Barley Lane. Turn right onto Barley Lane and follow this lane until you reach the cattle grid and then turn right towards more cattle grids and Pendle House. You should reach a footpath on your right which you'll take for a short way before heading left, keeping the wall on your left-hand side. Follow this clear path as it heads around Pendle Hill before turning towards the summit.

The Descent

Once you reach the Pendle Hill summit, descend via the northern slopes on a zigzagging path that takes you back down to Downham Village. The path is well-trodden and clear to the eye so ensure you keep following this until you reach Pendle Road. Head straight across Pendle Road and then carefully retrace your steps back to the starting point in Downham. 

Where to Eat in & Near Downham

• Assheton Arms (Downham) - located in the beautiful village of Downham serving delicious dishes and seasonal light bites, with gluten-free options and limited vegetarian/vegan choices. 
• Brown Cow (Chatburn) - a charming and cosy pub, with a sheltered beer garden, serving hearty food, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.
• Calf's Head (Worston) - in the heart of the small village of Worston, the Calf's Head offers stunning views of Pendle Hill, delicious home-cooked food, and outdoor seating areas. Great vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options.

Evening: Heading Home

Now that this wonderful Yorkshire Dales weekend break has come to an end, it's time to head home. Don't worry though, the memories and photos will be lasting. Should you choose to extend your trip or perhaps want to customise the itinerary a little more, check out the list below for more fantastic attractions located near Settle.

Yorkshire Dales Weekend Break Inspiration

If there's something on this Yorkshire Dales weekend break itinerary that you've already experienced or perhaps it just doesn't interest you, read on to discover more places and attractions to visit near Settle in the Yorkshire Dales.

Scaleber Force Waterfall

Considered one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the region and located just outside of Settle, Scaleber Force is a fantastic place to explore. This 40-foot waterfall cascades over a dramatic cliff face, creating a stunning visual spectacle. The surrounding woodland provides an enchanting backdrop and makes it an ideal spot for photography and quiet contemplation. 

Ingleborough Mountain

Standing at 723m (2,372ft), Ingleborough is one of the tallest mountains in the Yorkshire Dales and is part of the famous Yorkshire 3 peaks. Ascending Ingleborough offers a moderate challenge, but the panoramic views from the summit are well worth the effort. The routes are well-marked and, as you climb, keep an eye out for fascinating geological formations and wildlife. For my guide to the Yorkshire 3 peaks challenge, click here!

Jubilee & Victoria Cave

Located close to the town of Settle, Jubilee and Victoria Cave are family-friendly, accessible caves that are perfect to explore. These impressive limestone caves reveal a world shaped by thousands of years of erosion. The atmosphere inside is cool and calming, offering a unique perspective on the region's geology. Consider embarking on the 5-mile circular walk from Settle visiting both of these caves, taking around 2-3 hours. You can find the GPX file of this route by Walks4All here!

Ingleton Waterfalls Trail

One of the most beautiful walks in the Yorkshire Dales, this 4.5-mile circular hike takes you through lush woodlands and alongside cascading waterfalls. The trail is well-maintained, making it accessible for walkers of all ages. Along the way, you can enjoy a variety of scenic viewpoints, including Pecca Falls, Hollybush Spout, and Baxengyhll Gorge, so aim to allow 2-4 hours for this trail. You'll find the starting point at the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail car park, on the edge of Ingleton village.

Ingleborough Cave

Known for its fascinating formations, such as massive stalagmites, Ingleborough Cave is one of the most famous caves in the UK and is certainly worth a visit. You'll find this cave close to the starting point for the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail, offering an easy way to tick off two great attractions in one day. Embark on this self-guided journey and discover the enchanting processes of the natural world. For more information and ticket prices, click here!

To Summarise

A weekend in Settle, exploring the Yorkshire Dales, rejuvenates the soul and offers unforgettable memories. From the towering limestone cliffs of Malham Cove to the serene walks around Pendle Hill, this Yorkshire Dales weekend break is the perfect way to experience some of England's most beautiful places. 

If you're looking to extend your Yorkshire Dales weekend break, why not throw in an exciting Yorkshire hiking challenge? Check out my guide to the Yorkshire 3 peaks here!

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