Excursion B: Yorkshire Dales (with optional walk)
Tour highlights - the unique limestone scenery of the remote valleys of the Yorkshire Dales, views of the Ribble Head viaduct on the Settle to Carlisle railway line and an opportunity to walk to see the highest single drop waterfall in England, Hardraw Force.
Outline itinerary – M6 North to Jct 37, A684 to Sedbergh for coffee and toilet stop. Continue through Garsdale to Wensleydale and Hawes. Return via Ingleton with a stop to view, and if possible take a short walk, Ribblehead Viaduct and see the marvellous views of the limestone pavements.
If time permits, there will be an afternoon tea/toilet stop in Ingleton before returning to Lancaster.
Packed Lunches will be provided.
Walk from Hawes (difficulty – easy)
There is an option to complete a circular walk of approximately 4 miles (7 kms) on well trodden footpaths over farmland to the tiny hamlet of Hardraw where you can follow in the footsteps of some of England’s greatest writers and artists of their day such as Wordsworth and Turner, and watch the waters of Hardraw Force cascade over a spectacular single drop of 86ft(29m).
The falls are set in a natural amphitheatre, the setting for an annual brass band competition. Now in its 130th year the world famous Hardraw Scar Brass Band Festival is Britain's second oldest outdoor contest.
Hardraw Force and Ribblehead viaduct
Non-walking option in Hawes
Those not wishing to walk can enjoy exploring Hawes and its many attractions, including the Wensleydale Creamery where you may see cheese-making. The cheese shop is packed full of every type of Wensleydale cheese, as well as a mouth-watering selection of accompaniments including real ales, artisan oils and chutney. The Dales Countryside Museum, managed by the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, tells the story of the people and landscape of the Yorkshire Dales past and present and is well worth a visit.
Packed Lunches will be provided. Alternatively, lunch may be purchased in one of the many tea rooms or pubs in Hawes.
