We are extremely lucky that Hawthorns Park is so close to the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales. If you own a static caravan on Hawthorns you really are spoilt for choice. With outstanding scenery, unspoilt countryside, diverse wildlife habitats, and a rich cultural heritage there are plenty of things to do and see.
The Yorkshire Dales is a land full of hidden gems – there is nowhere like it. Over the years it’s been voted the most beautiful region in England. It’s easy to see why, with breathtaking landscapes sweeping from the coast, across the Moors and to the Dales, spectacular castles and abbeys, and grand historic houses. You’ll find busy, attractive market towns and a wide range of wonderful shops.
Like all these very special places the counties of North Yorkshire and Cumbria were designated a national park in 1954 and the area was further extended in 2013.
The Yorkshire Dales landscape has many moods; it can be wild and windswept or quietly tranquil. It includes some of the finest limestone scenery in the UK, from crags and pavements to an underground labyrinth of caves.
Each valley or ‘dale’ has its own distinct character, set against expansive heather moorland tops. The Northern Dales offer stunning, vast and rugged scenery for walkers and sightseers alike. In the west visitors can explore the villages and small towns, each with their own individual charm. The Southern Dales are less remote than their northern neighbours and attract visitors throughout the year. There is something for everyone within the Yorkshire Dales.
You will find stone-built villages sat amongst traditional farming landscapes and drystone walls galore. Take a walk off the beaten track and you will be rewarded with spectacular waterfalls and ancient woodlands.
If you want to see the Dales from a totally different aspect – why not take a train ride on the Fellsman, that runs along the Settle to Carlisle Railway.
The popular ‘Fellsman’ runs on selected Tuesdays during the summer offering a return steam hauled journey from Lancaster of over 270 miles. The Settle & Carlisle line is known for its magnificent scenery and steep gradient. Take in the magnificent Ribblehead Viaduct and stunning views of the three peaks. You can get a marvellous view down Dent Dale as the train emerges from Blea Moor tunnel and approaching Garsdale you will see sweeping views of Wensleydale – before the train climbs 1 in 100 towards the summit of the line at Ais Gill.
The service gets booked up well in advance so check availability on their website – http://www.statesmanrail.com/
The Yorkshire Dales are dotted with picturesque villages where visitors will find tea rooms and traditional Yorkshire pubs to relax and unwind in as well as market towns to satisfy any shopping needs.
Towns such as Harrogate, Wensleydale and Skipton provide a perfect break from the Dales for you to relax or shop. You will find plenty to do in this beautiful National Park regardless of the season.
And don’t forget that you are never too far away from your home from home at Hawthorns Park.