WATERFALLS: Aysgarth Falls, a triple flight of waterfalls carved out by the river Ure on its decent into Lower Wensleydale, the upper fall featured in the film "Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves" Hardraw Force, is England's largest single drop waterfall, a reputed 100 foot drop set within the grounds of the historic Green Dragon Inn. Ingleton Falls, The Waterfalls trail at Ingleton combines a 4.5 mile circular walk through attractive woodlands and dales scenery with views of a series of spectacular waterfalls . High Force, Middleton in Teesdale, High Force is one of the most impressive waterfalls in England. The river Tees suddenly drops 21 metres over the Whin Sill rock into a plunge pool below, a woodland walk leads you to the waterfall situated in the North Pennines area of outstanding natural beauty. CASTLES:Castle Bolton, Castle Bolton is a spectacular mediaeval fortress preserved in outstanding condition and open to the public from Easter to October. Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned in the castle for two years during the reign of her cousin Queen Elizabeth, legend states that during an attempted escape she dropped her shawl and that led to her recapture. The Shawl gave its name to the escarpment of rock giving commanding views over Wensleydale in nearby Leyburn. More castles within easy driving distance: Skipton Castle Guardian of the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales for over 500 years is one of the best preserved and most complete medieval castles in England. Ripley Castle, Owned by the Ingilby family for over 700 years and open for tours from Easter to September. Within Ripley village you are able to stroll amongst several shops, an art gallery, a farmyard museum, an ancient church and The Boars head public house. Middleham Castle, Childhood home of Richard the third and now owned and maintained by English Heritage, open to the public throughout the year and situated in nearby Middleham. Castle Howard, Situated on the outskirts of York, Castle Howard was voted York's visitor attraction of the year 2009. Raby Castle, A dramatic 14th century castle, home to Lord Barnard's family since 1626, on display throughout the castle are displays of fine furniture, impressive artworks and elaborate architecture. Visitors can also enjoy the deer park. FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT:The Forbidden Corner, The Forbidden Corner is a unique award winning attraction for young and old alike with its labyrinth of tunnels, chambers and follies created in a four acre garden in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales and only a short drive from Ivy Dene. The Little Chocolate Shop Watch a film on the origins of chocolate, before a tour of the factory to see the manufacture of bespoke chocolates from start to finish and then be tempted in the mouth watering shop. The little Chocolate Shop is a short walk from Leyburn centre, Alternatively you can drive there and use the private car park. Brymor Ice Cream Visit High Jervaulx Farm and sample over 30 flavours of ice cream produced from the milk of Guernsey cows that graze on the lush pastures of The Yorkshire Dales. Lightwater Valley Lightwater valley is a theme park just a short drive on the outskirts of Ripon where you can enjoy jaw dropping big thrill rides to mini adventures for the junior thrill seekers. For those needing retail therapy The Lightwater Shopping Village has over 30,000 sq ft of indoor outlets. Masham Breweries The Black Sheep, and Theakstons breweries are just a short walk from Masham centre both with excellent visitor centres. GARDENS:Constable Burton Gardens these are large romantic gardens surrounded by 18th century parkland with fine trees , woodland walks, garden trails, rockeries, extensive shrubs and roses set in beautiful countryside at the entrance to Wensleydale. Thorp Perrow Arboretum, Bird of Prey Centre There are 85 acres of woodland to explore with trees from around the world, some dating back to medieval times. The Arboretum has 66 champion trees (The biggest in Britain) There are many events marking the different seasons. The Birds of Prey Centre has birds from around the world with three entertaining displays a day with lots of audience participation. RHS Garden Harlow Carr Visit the most northerly RHS Garden and see plants experts have chosen to suit the challenging growing conditions of a northern garden. Don't miss the RHS Shop and Plant Centre. Harlow Carr is in Harrogate, a scenic drive taking in Masham and Ripon on the way. Newby Hall and Gardens Designed by Sir Christopher Wren and home to the Compton Family, Newby Hall has 25 acres of award winning gardens created in the 1920s and continuing to evolve to the present day. Voted Yorkshire in Bloom winner 2008. |