The buildings, towns and structures of Yorkshire are as synonymous with the area as the landscape and the characteristic dry-stone walls define the many beautiful pastures and cut through the land to add to the charm.
The towns and villages, themselves home to over 20,000 residents, are very popular visitor destinations and contain a variety of appealing historic architecture, charming stone houses, and all the services, facilities and amenities to cater for the large tourist numbers. Among the most popular towns is Hawes, in Wensleydale, home of the Countryside Museum, and there are many quant little towns and villages throughout, offering an authentic slice of Yorkshire life.
Some of the area's best bed and breakfast establishments are situated in the towns, close to all the attractions and amenities. Most of these hotels are as much a part of the fabric of the town as the other classic stone-built houses and immerse guests in all the delights of the town and beauty of the county.
Traditional inns form a large part of the Dales hotels. Typically built to provide food and lodgings for weary travellers of old, they make ideal accommodation for contemporary travellers looking for a comfortable stay and a base from which to enjoy all the popular activities in the area such as walking, hiking, and cycling. They will generally provide a social atmosphere too in the evenings, perfect for regaling the day's adventures over a local pint or two, and likely also wholesome pub food to enjoy for lunches and dinners.
Within the towns there is also a good selection of smaller options, often family run establishments where warm hospitality, a restful sleep and a hearty breakfast combine to great effect for a memorable experience. The smaller independent hotels in particular are mindful of all the popular activities and sights in the area and will have a host of local information to hand on how guests can best make the most of their time available. They may also have facilities in which to store bicycles and other equipment.
Other accommodation options are found outwith the towns. Some are classic country hotels, similar in style to traditional inns and often with restaurant facilities, outdoor seating and children's activity areas. Others will offer a more modern slant with standardised well appointed rooms, equipped with TV and audio systems, and often internet access too. Certainly most will have complimentary room features such as tea and coffee making facilities and toiletries in the en suite bathrooms.
A whole different experience is to be had within a certain type of Dales hotel which has all the guest facilities and services and is at the heart of the stunning countryside. These are the country house hotels, often occupying wonderful grand houses and estates. Luxury accommodation within a good selection of rooms and suites forms the basis for a very comfortable stay and the facilities on offer may include a range of activities associated with the estate and grounds, such as shooting or corporate event days. Country house hotels may also have a range of leisure options within the hotel such as gyms and spas and access to sports such as tennis and golf.
Understandably, most of the activities are associated with the stunning natural environment. In addition to several popular cycle ways, the area is also home to sections of the great walking routes such as the Pennine Way, the Coast to Coast Path, the Dales Way, and the Pennine Bridleway. The Three Peaks, a part of the Pennines, offer an opportunity for some climbing too. The limestone which characterises the three peaks and much of the Yorkshire area also means the area is one of the major caving centres of the UK. Extensive cave networks offer numerous opportunities for organised caving and many are open for public tours.
As well as being a popular destination for those from nearby areas, the Yorkshire Dales sees many national and international visitors and is a major English tourist destination. The featured Dales hotels are well suited to provide a memorable stay to anyone. Many visitors may choose to incorporate a stay with visits to other local towns such as historic York or the spa town of Harrogate, located on the edge of the National Park. For anyone coming to Yorkshire, these towns too have a wealth of hotels with convenient access to the most popular parts of the area.
