The Dales Way : Ribblehead Stops & Where to Stay

A classic English long-distance walk — with flexible options for modern walkers

The Dales Way is one of England’s most loved long-distance footpaths, stretching roughly 80 miles from Ilkley to Bowness-on-Windermere. It gently links riverside paths, limestone valleys, traditional villages and wide open skies — making it especially popular with overseas visitors, including many from the USA, who want a true taste of the Yorkshire Dales without constant steep climbs.

While the official route information lists several traditional stage towns and villages, many walkers now choose to adapt the route— and one of the most popular additions is Ribblehead, home of the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct.

The Dales Way route

The Dales Way– Traditional Stage Options

Most walkers plant the Dales Way around these commonly used stopping points:

• Ilkley – Start point with excellent rail connections

• Bolton Abbey / Burnsall – Gentle riverside walking and classic Dales scenery

• Grassington or Kettlewell – Popular villages with pubs, shops and accommodation

• Buckden / Hubberholme – Smaller, quieter stops with traditional inns

• Sedbergh or Dent – Transition point from the Dales into Cumbria

• Bowness-on-Windermere – Finish on the shores of Lake Windermere

These are excellent options — but they are not the only way to walk the route.

The Ribblehead Viaduct

Ribblehead: A Popular (and Practical) Optional Stop

Although Ribblehead is not always listed as a formal the Dales Way stage, it has become one of the most popular overnight locations, particularly for:

• Walkers breaking the route into flexible sections

• Those arriving by train

• Visitors wanting to experience the Ribblehead Viaduct, one of the most photographed landmarks in the North of England

Because of its popularity and limited accommodation, Ribblehead is also one of the most difficult places to book, especially during spring and summer. Many walkers find they need to plan well ahead — or look for nearby alternatives.

This is where Ashes Farm offers a real advantage.

Why Ashes Farm is Ideal for The Dales Way

Located just one mile from Ribblehead Viaduct, Ashes Farm is perfectly placed for walkers who want to include Ribblehead in their journey — without the stress of securing scarce accommodation directly in the hamlet.

Ashes Farm

Flexible Walking – Stay Once, Walk More

In 2025, we welcomed two couples who stayed in our holiday cottage for almost a week while walking different sections of the Dales Way. Each day, they car-hopped to their chosen start and finish points, returning to Ashes Farm in the evening.

This approach:

• Saved them a small fortune on accommodation costs

• Allowed them to prepare packed lunches

• Meant they didn’t need to eat out every night

• Provided the comfort of returning to the same warm, familiar base

Many of our guests now choose this section-walking style, particularly those travelling from overseas.

Great for Train Walkers Too

We also host many guests arriving by train, who walk 2 or 3 days at a time before returning home — or moving on to the next part of their journey.

Ribblehead Station, famous for its scenic setting, is close by, making Ashes Farm an excellent choice for:

• Linear walks

• Short breaks

• Flexible itineraries without a car

Walker-Friendly Comforts at Ashes Farm

After a long day on the trail, the small details matter. At Ashes Farm, we’re happy to help with:

• Drying wet clothing

• Supplying newspaper for wet walking boots

• Comfortable, peaceful accommodation with Dales views

Packed Lunches – No Problem at All

Packed lunches are easily arranged, with:

• Home-cooked ham or cheese

• Homemade chutney or pickle

• Plenty to keep you going for a full day’s walking

Perfect for those who don’t want to rely on finding cafés or pubs every day.

Where Else to Stay Along the Dales Way

For those walking the full route end-to-end, there are excellent inns, B&Bs, bunkhouses and small hotels throughout the Dales. Many walkers choose accommodation listed by the Dales Way Association, then select based on availability, budget and personal preference.

A mix of:

• Village inns

• Family-run B&Bs

• Bunkhouses and hostels

works well — but availability can be tight in peak season, especially around Ribblehead.

Final Thoughts

The beauty of the Dales Way is its flexibility. Whether you walk it end-to-end, break it into sections, or simply want to include iconic highlights like Ribblehead Viaduct, there is no single “right” way to do it.

Ashes Farm offers:

• A rare opportunity to stay close to Ribblehead

• Flexible options for walkers and train users

• Cost-effective, comfortable accommodation

• Thoughtful extras that make long-distance walking easier

If you’re planning your Dales Way adventure — Ashes Farm makes a relaxed, practical and welcoming base in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.