The most peaceful spots in the Yorkshire Dales

Do you ever just want to hit that "pause" button and catch your breath? Amid the chaos of life, it's important to take the time to slow things down.

Deliberately disconnecting and pausing allows us to reconnect with ourselves, replenish our energy and find some clarity. It might be a cosy nook where you can escape with your favourite book. It could be a warm living room, festooned with fairy lights and warmed by a roaring fire. Or maybe it's a secluded spot among nature – a place to relax, unwind and take in the scenery.

Want to hone your hygge? Sit back and let the stress fade away as we go on a tranquil journey through some of the Yorkshire Dales' most peaceful hideaways.

1. Malham Cove and Tarn

Search for "Places to visit in the Yorkshire Dales" and you'll see – Malham Cove is close to the top of almost every list.


There's a good reason for that. Malham Cove is pretty much the most beautiful and tranquil place on this side of the Scottish border.

As you approach the cove, you'll spot a spectacular natural limestone formation in the form of a huge curved amphitheatre. Up until the 19th century, a waterfall flowed through these rocks, slowly carving them into shape.

It would have been a dramatic sight as the cove is bigger than Niagara Falls. Even without water, it's a joy to behold.

As if that wasn't enough, you'll find a glacial lake called Malham Tarn nearby. This lake is special because of its impermeable slate base. Normally, water finds its way down through the earth – but at Malham Tarn, it remains trapped in place.

The effect is dramatic and otherworldly. Malham Tarn's unusual geographic makeup means the lake is full at all times of year – an out-of-place water feature, suspended high above sea level.

Between Malham Cove and Malham Tarn, you'll find plenty of private nooks and crannies where you can relax and rejuvenate.

2. Janet's Foss, near Malham

While you're in the area, why not stop for a little peaceful enchantment at Janet's Foss?


This waterfall empties into an enticing pool of fresh, turquoise water. It's no wonder that it's such a popular spot for wild swimmers.

If the legends are to be believed, a fairy queen called Janet lives in the cave behind the waterfall. She's said to hover as green mist above the waters. Perhaps you'll catch a glimpse of her on your peaceful retreat.

Here's a top tip: get here either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Not only will you beat the crowds and have Janet's Foss to yourself, but the magic of this place becomes ever more present at these times of the day.

3. Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park, near Grewelthorpe

Fancy a trip to the Himalayas without breaking the bank?


Let us take you to a lesser-known attraction in the Yorkshire Dales, close to the picture-perfect village of Grewelthorpe. Here, nestled among the sweeping hills and valleys, you'll find the delightful Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park. Who knew?

The park boasts 45 acres of beautifully planted woodland gardens, as well as a lake and an arboretum. Sympathetically dotted around the grounds are 90 striking sculptures.

Add to this the sounds of wildlife in the air and you have an oasis of calm and nature. It's the perfect place to escape for an hour or two.

4. Hackfall Wood, near Grewelthorpe


A hop and a skip across the way we find Hackfall Wood. Set over nearly 120 acres, this woodland is home to rustic temples, waterfalls, bluebell woods, grottos and glades.

You can't beat this place for a restful escape. Here, off the beaten track, you'll struggle to come across another person, let alone get caught up in the crowds. 

Hackfall was originally landscaped in the 1700s by William Aislabie: a man who had the foresight to imagine how the woodlands would look 300 years later. Thanks go to him for this soothing and revitalising place.

5. Anne Boleyn's Seat at Fountains Abbey, near Ripon

Talking of William Aislabie, here's another site he designed: the gem that is Fountains Abbey. Hidden here is another smaller gem in the form of Anne Boleyn's Seat.


Now Anne Boleyn doesn't really bring to mind peace, does she? This spot, however, leads us to the "Surprise View": a breathtaking panorama of the gardens designed by Aislabie with the ruins of the abbey in the background.

It's doubtful that Anne Boleyn ever visited this place. The name actually comes from the headless statue of a woman, which stood on this site for hundreds of years.

 
Don't let headless statues put you off, though. The view is anything but grisly.

6. The Druid's Temple, near Masham

The next place on our journey of peaceful discovery is The Druid's Temple: a little-known beauty on the outskirts of the chocolate box village of Masham.


Located in the woods at Swinton Bivouac, this 19th-century folly is loosely based on Stonehenge.

If you follow the path beyond the temple, you'll come to the Druid's Viewpoint with stunning views over Leighton Reservoir. Because it's not at the top of every traveller's list, it's the perfect place to find some peace and solitude.

Sunsets here are especially stunning, as you watch the day drift away and the blanket of darkness descends around you. Sit back, relax and drink in the atmosphere – or take a stroll in the forest. Whatever you decide to do, you won't be disappointed.

7. Stump Cross Caverns' Time Out Pod, near Pateley Bridge


It's time to feature something a little closer to home: our very own Time Out Pod.

It's the perfect spot for a bit of peace and quiet. Part chill-out room, part summerhouse, it has everything you need to relax, get a bit of work done or catch up with family and friends.

Book your spot and you'll enjoy spectacular views across the Yorkshire Dales as you wind down from the hectic pace of life.

You can even order home-cooked food and refreshing drinks from our on-site cafe. So, check out our menu and start planning for a day of much-deserved R & R.


Learn more about our cosy chill-out space in the Yorkshire Dales – or reserve your relaxation session online .