The Yorkshire Dales offers some of the most scenic and characterful places to stay in England, from cosy village inns and boutique hotels to country houses and riverside retreats. Whether you’re planning a walking holiday, a romantic weekend or a family break, the Dales has accommodation to suit every style and budget.
This guide explains the best areas to stay, the top hotel types, and what each part of the Dales offers — helping you choose the perfect base for your trip.
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Best Areas to Stay in the Yorkshire Dales
Choosing the right base makes a huge difference to your trip. Here’s how the main areas compare:
1. Southern Dales (Skipton, Malham, Bolton Abbey)
Best for: first‑time visitors, short breaks, easy access
Why stay here: great transport links, iconic walks, lively towns
Perfect for: families, weekend trips, mixed‑ability walking groups
2. Central Dales (Grassington, Kettlewell, Burnsall)
Best for: classic Dales scenery, riverside walks, peaceful villages
Why stay here: beautiful landscapes, great pubs, excellent walking routes
Perfect for: couples, walkers, photographers
3. Northern Dales (Hawes, Reeth, Muker)
Best for: rugged scenery, remote escapes, traditional Yorkshire charm
Why stay here: quieter, wilder, superb long‑distance walking
Perfect for: hikers, cyclists, longer stays
Top Types of Hotels in the Yorkshire Dales
Country House Hotels
Often set in large grounds with views of the fells. Best for: relaxing breaks, special occasions.
Village Inns with Rooms
Traditional pubs offering comfortable rooms and hearty food. Best for: walkers, couples, food‑led trips.
Boutique Hotels
Stylish, modern interiors with a personal touch. Best for: romantic weekends, design‑focused travellers.
Family‑Friendly Hotels
Larger rooms, on‑site dining, easy parking. Best for: families and multi‑generational trips.
Hotels in the Southern Dales
The southern Dales are ideal for first‑time visitors thanks to excellent transport links and a wide choice of accommodation.
Skipton
A lively market town with a castle, canal and great food scene.
Best for: convenience, short breaks, mixed itineraries.
Skipton is a great base for first‑time visitors — see our full Skipton visitor guide for things to do, walks and places to eat.
Malham
Home to Malham Cove, Gordale Scar and Janet’s Foss.
Best for: walkers and nature lovers.
See our Guide to Malham Walks
Bolton Abbey
Riverside scenery, woodland trails and historic ruins.
Best for: peaceful, scenic stays.
Hotels in the Central Dales
This area offers classic Dales landscapes, riverside villages and some of the region’s most charming inns.
Grassington
Cobbled square, independent shops, riverside walks.
Best for: couples, relaxed breaks, scenic walks.
Learn more about Grassington
Kettlewell
Surrounded by fells and walking routes.
Best for: hikers and photographers.
Burnsall
Beautiful riverside setting with iconic stepping stones.
Best for: peaceful, romantic stays.
Hotels in the Northern Dales
Wilder, quieter and perfect for longer walking holidays.
Hawes
Home of Wensleydale cheese, waterfalls and long‑distance trails.
Best for: walkers, cyclists, longer stays.
See our full Hawes visitor guide
Richmond
Combines historic character, a handsome market-town centre and plenty to do with easy access to the northern Dales.
See our guide to Richmond
Knaresborough
Lively town centre with castle ruins and lovely walks
Best for: riverside walks and boat trips.
Find out more about Knaresborough
Practical Tips for Booking Hotels in the Yorkshire Dales
1. Book early for summer and bank holidays
Popular villages fill up months in advance.
2. Consider parking and access
Some villages have narrow lanes or limited parking.
3. Check walking routes nearby
Many hotels sit directly on famous trails like the Dales Way.
4. Look for breakfast and dinner options
Some remote areas have limited evening dining.
5. Mid‑week stays are often cheaper
Especially in spring and autumn.
FAQs About Yorkshire Dales Hotels
Is the Yorkshire Dales good for a weekend break? Yes — it’s one of the best short‑break destinations in the UK.
Which area is best for first‑time visitors? Skipton, Grassington or Malham.
Where should walkers stay? Kettlewell, Hawes, Malham or Grassington.
Are there luxury hotels in the Dales? Yes — especially around Bolton Abbey and Wharfedale.
Do hotels book up early? Yes, especially in summer and during school holidays.