Things to do near Ribblehead - A guide for guests staying at Ashes Farm
- jillcrowson66
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 18 hours ago
Walks, Scenic Drives, Great Food and Memorable Experiences, So many things to do near Ribblehead.
Located in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, Ashes Farm offers the perfect base for exploring one of the most beautiful landscapes in the UK. Just a mile from the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct and a short drive from the market town of Settle, there are countless ways to enjoy the surrounding countryside.
From dramatic mountain walks and scenic drives to historic railway journeys and cosy pubs, here are some of our favourite things to experience during your stay.
And if you’re looking for something specific, just ask during your visit — we are always happy to recommend walks and places tailored to your interests and ability.
Best Circular Walks Near the Ribblehead Viaduct
The Yorkshire Dales is a walker’s paradise, with routes suitable for all levels.
Ribblehead Viaduct & Blea Moor Circular
Starting near the impressive Ribblehead Viaduct, this circular walk offers fantastic views of the surrounding fells and the famous arches of the viaduct. It’s a great introduction to the landscape and ideal for photography.
You may even see trains crossing the viaduct on the historic Settle–Carlisle Railway.
Lower Ingleborough Ridge Walk
One of the most beautiful walks close to Ashes Farm explores the lower slopes of Ingleborough along the limestone ridge above Chapel-le-Dale.
This circular route takes in the charming St Leonard's Church, a peaceful and historic church set among the dramatic Dales scenery. The route offers wonderful views of both Ingleborough and Whernside.
Pen-y-ghent Circular Walk
One of the famous Yorkshire Three Peaks, Pen-y-ghent is a rewarding challenge. Starting From Ashes Farm or the village of Horton in Ribblesdale, the circular route takes you across limestone landscapes, past dry stone walls and offers panoramic views across the Dales.Whernside Circular Walk
The highest of the Yorkshire Three Peaks, Whernside offers a rewarding circular walk with breathtaking views across the Dales. Routes from Ribblehead Viaduct provide spectacular scenery, especially looking down across the railway line and surrounding valleys.
Ingleborough Circular Walk
Another favourite peak is Ingleborough, known for its distinctive flat summit and incredible panoramic views. A circular route from Clapham or Horton in Ribblesdale makes a fantastic full-day walk.
Stainforth and Catrigg Force
A lovely circular walk near Stainforth leads to the hidden waterfall of Catrigg Force. This short walk is perfect for a relaxed afternoon and is particularly beautiful after rainfall.Malham Cove Circular
One of the most famous walks in the Dales begins in Malham and includes the spectacular limestone amphitheatre of Malham Cove along with Gordale Scar and Janet's Foss.
Scenic Drives in the Yorkshire Dales near Settle
The quiet country roads around Ashes Farm offer some of the most scenic drives in England.
Halton Gill to Kettlewell Drive
A beautiful and lesser-known route runs through Halton Gill before looping around the valley to the picturesque village of Kettlewell. This drive passes through classic limestone landscapes and peaceful Dales villages.
Ribblehead to Hawes Drive
A stunning drive from Ribblehead Viaduct through the beautiful countryside to the market town of Hawes, home of Wensleydale Creamery.
Settle to Malham
A picturesque drive from Settle to Malham passes through classic limestone landscapes and charming Dales villages.
For more scenic routes and filming locations, take a look at our All Creatures Great and Small blog, which highlights several beautiful drives used in the popular TV series.
A Train Journey to Remember
A stay at Ashes Farm wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the famous Settle–Carlisle Railway.
Often described as one of the most scenic railway journeys in England, the route passes through spectacular countryside and crosses historic viaducts including the magnificent Ribblehead Viaduct.
Nearby stations such as Horton in Ribblesdale and Ribblehead make it easy to enjoy part of the journey during your stay.
Best places to Eat During Your Stay at Ashes Farm
After a day exploring the fells, nothing beats relaxing in a welcoming Yorkshire pub.
The Station Inn
A favourite with walkers and visitors, this traditional pub sits close to Ribblehead Viaduct and offers cosy fires, great food and fantastic views of the surrounding hills. A must on your things to do near RIbblehead!
The Talbot Arms
Located in the centre of Settle, this friendly pub offers a relaxed atmosphere and a great place to enjoy a meal or drink after exploring the town.
The Golden Lion
A historic coaching inn in the heart of Settle known for hearty food and traditional charm.
The Game Cock Inn
A charming country pub in Austwick known for great food and a relaxed Dales welcome.
Discover the Dark Skies
Ashes Farm sits within the Yorkshire Dales National Park, an officially recognised International Dark Sky Reserve.
On clear nights the lack of light pollution means you can enjoy spectacular views of the Milky Way, constellations and even meteor showers — all from right outside your lodge or cottage.
Why Ashes Farm is a perfect base to explore the Yorkshire Dales
Whether you’re planning a walking holiday, a relaxing countryside escape or a scenic touring break, with so many different things to do, Ashes Farm provides the perfect base for exploring the Yorkshire Dales.
And remember, during your stay we are always happy to suggest more walks, drives and places to visit to help you make the most of your time in this beautiful part of the country.
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