Visiting the Yorkshire Dales by Train: What You Need to Know

There are an array of significant cities close to the Yorkshire Dales National Park that provide good access, from York and Leeds in the south, to Lancaster and Carlisle to the west, and Darlington and Middlesbrough to the north-east.

Better still, the national park itself is well serviced by two major lines: the Leeds-Morecambe line and the famous Leeds-Settle-Carlisle line. Alternatively, head to Redmire, a village four miles west of Leyburn in Wensleydale, to the east of the national park, travelling on the heritage Wensleydale Railway that runs from Northallerton.

Horton-in-Ribblesdale: Yorkshire Three Peaks

There are several popular train stations within the national park, and none more so than Horton-in-Ribblesdale. This station is the entry point for the Yorkshire Three Peaks walk, and provides access to some of the national park’s most dramatic scenery. Getting to Horton-in-Ribblesdale on the Leeds-Settle-Carlisle line, you’ll experience one of the most spectacular train journeys in England. From York to Horton-in-Ribblesdale takes under two hours with TransPennine Express and Northern.

Garsdale Station: Northern edge

Other stations in the national park include Ribblehead (with its iconic viaduct), Dent (the highest main-line station), and Garsdale. The latter is located towards the north of the national park, ideal for access to Garsdale Head and various self-catering and catered accommodation in North Yorkshire. Travel from Leeds to Garsdale in about 1 hour 30 minutes with Northern.

Walk the Yorkshire Three Peaks

Many walkers visit the Yorkshire Dales National Park to take on the Three Peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Ingleborough and Whernside. Among the best-known hills in the Yorkshire Dales, these three climbs can be joined up for one full day of unforgettable walking surrounded by spectacular scenery. The 24-mile circular walk is a challenge and a memorable hike that attracts thousands of visitors every year.

Visit natural attractions galore

As well as the array of extraordinary peaks, the Yorkshire Dales boasts an impressive range of natural attractions, from Malham Cove, a 70-metre curving cliff of white limestone, to Aysgarth Falls, three stepped waterfalls visited by Wordsworth and sketched by Turner. If you want more spectacular waterfalls, head to Hardraw Force, the longest unbroken drop in England, and Ingleton Falls. Getting around the park is a scenic delight, with miles of marked trails to explore it all!

With some of the most scenic train routes in England, it is so simple to get around the Yorkshire Dales National Park without a car. With nearby towns and cities like York, Harrogate, Bradford, Leeds, Lancaster, Preston, Carlisle, Northallerton, Darlington all having direct rail links into the Dales, you’ll have no trouble arriving. Once inside the national park, take the Leeds-Morecambe line, or Leeds-Settle-Carlisle line for scenic, stress-free travel.

Walking is a great way to explore the national park, with a vast array of marked trails to follow, alongside bike and mountain bike routes. Finally, if you need even more options, there is a significant network of buses, notably the Dales Bus which operates throughout the national park.

After a busy day exploring the Yorkshire Dales, you’ll want somewhere comfortable to rest your weary body. From weekend breaks to two-week holidays, the Yorkshire Dales National Park has a huge number of guest houses, self-catering cottages, traditional pubs and friendly bed and breakfasts to suit every taste and budget. 

If you want something more basic, there are campsites, caravan sites, and youth hostels for outdoor adventures dotted around the Dales. Luxury seekers might be interested in Aysgarth Lodges, a five-star hot tub lodge accommodation in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, or the award-winning Old Coach House at North Stainley.

Season travel advice

Spring in the Yorkshire Dales is described by many as the most magical time to visit the national park. As the natural scenery comes back to life, you’ll spot wildflowers like bluebells, daffodils, primroses, as well as nesting birds filling the air with their songs, and the return of swallows and curlews. Before the crowds arrive for the summer season, you’ll have quieter conditions but enough daylight to make your way around the Yorkshire Three Peaks!

Packing essentials

When visiting the Yorkshire Dales National Park by train, you’ll have to think carefully about what to pack. If you’re planning serious walking, make sure you get your clothing right: you’ll want cool clothes in summer, but enough layers to wrap up when you reach the peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Ingleborough, and Whernside. Don’t forget a map or, if you prefer GPS navigation, get a solar-powered portable charger to keep your devices charged up.

Leave no trace in the Yorkshire Dales

Protect the landscape and its unique features by following all local rules and guidance. Stick to footpaths and cycle trails to protect the landscape and low-nesting birds, and be careful of the ancient dry-stone walls. To ensure a sustainable future for the park’s biodiversity, take collective responsibility for your actions: never leave litter in the park, and be aware of how you are impacting nature. In the first place, arriving in the Yorkshire Dales by train is a great sustainable travel choice.

Visitor Information Centres

You’ll find National Park visitor centres at key locations in the Yorkshire Dales, including Hawes, Grassington, Malham, Aysgarth Falls, and Reeth. These centres offer all the information you need to explore some of the most dramatic scenery in the National Park, with interesting displays about the area, guide books and leaflets, and friendly staff to help you enjoy the National Park to the maximum.

Buy Cheap Train Tickets

To get to the Yorkshire Dales National Park for less, buy cheap train tickets in advance with TrainPal and benefit from discounted fares, no booking fees, and split ticket prices. Save a further third on your travel to the Yorkshire Dales when you add a Railcard discount, whether that’s a 16–25 Railcard, Senior Railcard, Two Together, or Family & Friends Railcard. Unlock this special landscape at affordable prices and save the hassle of travelling by car. 

• Ultimate Guide to UK National Parks by Train
• Visiting the South Downs by Train: Best UK National Parks
• Visiting the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park by Train
• Visiting the Peak District by Train: What You Need to Know
• Visiting Northumberland by Train: What You Need to Know