There’s something for everyone in the area

For cyclists

Ever since the Grand Départ of the Tour de France was held in Yorkshire in 2014 (going through Pateley Bridge) the county has become the country’s unofficial capital of cycling and 2019’s Road World Championships are cementing this reputation. Nidderdale offers countless routes to enjoy from the leisurely to the challenging and if you need any advice then the team at Nidderdale Cycles, just outside Pateley Bridge, are always ready to help. Having discovered Nidderdale, the Tour de Yorkshire goes through Pateley Bridge most years.

For walkers

There are so many walks to enjoy, a number of which start right at the cottage’s front door, that it’s impossible to choose which ones to recommend. Suffice to say that if you want stunning views of the Dales, peaceful meanders through woods or waterside walks around one of the area’s many reservoirs or gorges you really will be spoilt for choice. So remember to bring your boots.

For foodies

Where to start? Pateley Bridge itself has two locally renowned butchers famous for their pies as well as selling locally reared beef, lamb and pork and, although we may be a way from the sea, there’s even an award-winning fishmonger. But you’re on holiday so you don’t have to cook every day. Pateley’s very own Olley’s is famed for its authentic Italian cuisine, down the road in Wath The Sportsman’s Arms is a traditional gastropub or, if you’re really pushing the boat out there’s The Yorke Arms at Ramsgill, proud holder of a Michelin Star.

For history buffs

A great place to start is Nidderdale Museum in the heart of Pateley which gives a fascinating glimpse of how people have lived and worked in the area over the centuries. A short drive away there are the remains of Fountains Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the adjoining Studley Royal Water Garden, a fine example of Georgian landscaping. If family history is what interests you most, Pateley Bridge’s Folk Finders is believed to be the only high street genealogy advice service in the UK.

For thrill seekers

Maybe you’re looking for a real adrenalin buzz while you’re here. If so, head straight for How Stean Gorge where you can put your nerves to the test with the Via Ferrata, abseiling, gorge scrambling, caving and canoeing. Other outdoor thrills await you at Log Heights in the grounds of Ripley Castle - but if you prefer to keep your feet, or wheels, on the ground then tours of the castle grounds are also available by Segway.