The Gorge
Visit our amazing Gorge & Caves attraction in the Yorkshire Dales
A family-friendly limestone gorge in the Yorkshire Dales, protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and full of things to spot along the way.
A family-friendly visitor attraction in Nidderdale
The gorge is a popular family-friendly visitor attraction in Nidderdale, offering a walk that keeps children interested with twists, turns and uneven ground rather than straight paths. It’s a natural environment, so young children will need close supervision, especially near steps, ledges and drops, but that sense of discovery is what makes it such a memorable day out.
Entry includes access to the gorge trails, caves, a hard hat for added safety and a simple map to help you find your way. With no minimum group size, it’s a flexible option for families looking for things to do in the Yorkshire Dales.
The site includes level access to the booking area, café and shop, accessible toilet facilities and a glass-floored café and viewing area that looks out over the gorge. This makes it possible to enjoy the setting even if you don’t wish to walk the full gorge route, helping the site feel inclusive while respecting the natural landscape.
A limestone gorge to explore in the Yorkshire Dales
This limestone gorge in the Yorkshire Dales is protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and has been shaped by water cutting through the rock over thousands of years. Today, it’s a place where families can walk right into the landscape, following paths along the water’s edge and through caves carved into the gorge walls.
The route takes you through narrow passages, across bridges and into places like How Stean Tunnel and Tom Taylor’s Cave, giving you a real sense of how the gorge has formed. Along the way, there’s plenty to notice, from fossils in the rock to the sound of water moving through the ravine. It’s an easy way to enjoy a natural Yorkshire Dales visitor attraction up close, without needing any special skills.
Wildlife Watch
Keep an eye out for wildlife and ancient fossils along the way, and follow your nose when the wild garlic is in season!
Sculptures
We won’t spoil the surprise with photos but keep an eye out for special sculptures along the way!
Lizard Sculptures
Keep your eyes peeled along the rocks and walls and you might spot our lizard sculpture soaking up the Yorkshire Dales Sunshine!
Spider Sculpture
Look around and you may find a spider sculpture waiting patiently. He’s impossible to ignore once you’ve spotted him, though thankfully he’s far less creepy than the real thing!
Aslan the Lion
Partway along the route you’ll spot a rather impressive lion. This is Aslan, carved from solid oak and originally created to promote the release of Prince Caspian in 2008. Commissioned by Disney and carved by chainsaw artist David Williams, the sculpture won a gold award before finding a permanent home here at How Stean Gorge.
Getting him into place was no small task. With no road access, Aslan had to be carefully hauled down the path and set in stone, though he didn’t stay put for long. He later made a short trip to Liverpool Cathedral for a Narnia exhibition before being returned and settled back where he belongs, surrounded by trees, rock and running water that suit him down to the ground.
Frequently Asked Questions & Visitor Information
How much does it cost to visit the gorge?
Entry to the gorge is £8 for adults and £6 for children. Under 5s go free.
What‘s included with entry?
Your ticket includes access to the gorge trails, How Stean Tunnel, Tom Taylor’s Cave, Orienteering Course (optional) use of a hard hat and a map to guide you around the route.
How fit do I need to be?
You’ll need a basic level of fitness. The paths include uneven ground, steep steps and caves, so visitors should be comfortable walking on natural surfaces.
Can I bring the whole family?
Yes. Families are very welcome. Children enjoy the varied paths and caves, but must be supervised at all times due to uneven ground, ledges and drops. Those who don’t want to go into the gorge can watch from the bridge or relax in the café.
Where do we get our tickets?
Pre book your tickets online here
What should we bring with us?
You will just need comfortable clothing and a pair of wellington boots can come in handy. Hard hats are provided. You can bring your own torch or purchase one from the shop. We recommend you bring clothing suitable for the days prevailing weather! Hint: it can be rainy in the Yorkshire Dales!
We are proudly rated 4.8/5 on Google ⭐
We’re proudly rated 4.8 out of 5 on Google, thanks to thousands of visitors who’ve spent time with us at How Stean Gorge. From families and first-timers to schools, groups and returning adventurers, people often tell us it’s the friendly team, well-run activities and unforgettable setting that keep them coming back.
That feedback means a lot to us. We’re proud of what we offer and even prouder of the experiences people take home with them.
Book Your Visit Today
Planning a visit to the gorge is straightforward and easy to fit around your day. Tickets can be collected from reception on arrival, and there’s no minimum group size, so you’re free to come along as a family, a couple or on your own. Once you’ve got your map and hard hat, you can head straight down and explore at your own pace.
If you’re visiting during busier times or travelling a little further, it’s worth planning ahead to make the most of your time here. Whether you’re popping in for a short wander or building the gorge into a longer day out, booking your visit gives you the freedom to enjoy it without rushing.