Yorkshire Dales National Park

The National Park authority who strive to conserve the beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of all National Parks in the UK have certainly done their job well up here in the Yorkshire Dales. It's like stepping back in time to a world where life was glorious and simple, slow-paced and magical, with rolling green fields stretching as far as the eye can see and only a stream, dry stone wall or old-fashioned tea shop to navigate around. Striding through the Yorkshire Dales is good for the soul. It is famous for its incredible scenery; deep valleys (the Dales), heather-covered moorland and distinctive hills, including the famous Yorkshire Three Peaks. Hikers and cyclists love the meandering roads and trails through the picturesque villages and farmland. Or travel on the historic steam train from Settle to Carlisle which cuts through the National Park, taking in 20 viaducts, 14 tunnels and miles of unspoiled views. Other sights to see include the huge curved cliff at Malham Cove, formed in the last Ice Age, the unworldly rock formations at Brimham Rocks and Hardraw Force, England's highest single drop waterfall. The Dales offer an amazing opportunity to get back to nature and explore some of England's most beautiful countryside and, with the warm welcome of the locals, the Yorkshire Dales National Park will be a place that will be remembered long after you leave.