Walks and discover
Some of the best scenery in Britain
Known in Victorian times as Yorkshire’s “Little Switzerland” because of its dramatic scenery, How Stean Gorge is a natural choice to escape the stresses of every day life.
Off the beaten track
Put on your walking boots and delve into untainted countryside or take your mountain bike and go off road! Dawdle, stroll or hike – go at your own pace. Follow old drover routes and green lanes across heather clad moorland and undulating valleys. There’s miles of way marked footpaths and trails through some of the best scenery in Britain. Passing How Stean Gorge is The Nidderdale Way, a 53 mile circular route, which leads you through the highlights of this spectacular landscape. Scar House, Angram and Gouthwaite Reservoirs as well as Great and Little Whernside are nearby landmarks and are a real test for ambitious walkers.
A haven for wildlife
Upper Nidderdale is home to red grouse, plovers, curlews, oyster catchers and lapwing. Raptors such as red kite may also be spotted soaring high above you. Gouthwaite Reservoir (SSSI) is a renowned bird sanctuary and recommended location to spot waders and wildfowl and has an excellent viewing area. The heather clad moorland is also a haven for redshank and snipe and good for spotting raptors.
