Yorkshire Dales Guide to Nidderdale
Located in the Harrogate District, Nidderdale takes its name from
the River Nidd. It is easy to see why Upper Nidderdale has been
designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Amidst the patchwork pattern of dry stone walls and broad, green
meadows is the town of Pateley Bridge. Its setting draws visitors
from throughout the region who visit its craft centres, fine village
pubs and country tearooms. One of the largest attractions every
year is
the Nidderdale Agricultural Show, held in
September.
For
a truly authentic taste of early Dales life visit Nidderdale Museum.
Winner of a National Heritage Museum of the Year Award, this fascinating
exhibition is situated in the original Victorian Workhouse, and
features an exhaustive collection of artefacts that chart the history
of the area.
At the head of Nidderdale is the highly prized bird sanctuary at
Gouthwaite Reservoir. The River Nidd feeds this water paradise having
already passed through Angram and Scar House reservoirs before flowing
through Lofthouse and Ramsgill.
How
Stean Gorge in Upper Nidderdale is known as ‘Yorkshire’s Little
Switzerland’ and is very much part of Nidderdale’s spectacular scenery,
with a dramatic limestone cleft, 80 feet deep in places. There is
ample car parking, and bridges, walks, play area and cafe make this
visit one to remember. At the head of the dale is the village of
Middlesmoor, an unspoilt village with cobbled streets leading to the church. From here you can see down the valley with breathtaking views along the Nidderdale Way.
A
short distance from Pateley Bridge is Brimham Rocks. This spectacle
is one of the most weird and awe-inspiring in England.
The elements have fashioned the rocks into fantastic forms, providing
dramatic natural scenery. Now under the protection of The National Trust, an information
centre and shop have been opened.