Start the day in the friendly market town of Skipton, surrounded by rolling green hills, with calming canal waters running through it. Skipton’s canal once formed part of the 127 mile link between Leeds and Liverpool and the well-trodden horse towpath has been upgraded to create some beautiful canal side strolls. Friday is market day and you’ll find great local produce amongst a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Wander through the market to the top of the High Street and you’ll see the Gatehouse to Skipton’s impressive 900 year old castle, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in England.

Time to take a scenic drive through the river valleys and rising hills of the Yorkshire Dales as we make our way to Harrogate. We’ll pass through the pretty village of Grassington which provided the set for the rerecording of the beloved All Creatures Great and Small, and through the stone-lined streets of Pately Bridge that’s nestled within a peaceful Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and has been inspiring writers and artists for years.

Next stop, Harrogate - the heart of Yorkshire. We can thank the Victorians for Harrogate's popularity - its longstanding reputation as a luxurious, relaxing, spa destination continues to this day! The English Heritage Grade II Listed Valley Gardens (pictured), make for a lovely springtime walk. You'll find an array of different garden styles and, when combined with the nearby woodland, you have over 17 acres to wander amongst - and best of all, they're free! You'll also find Bettys Tea Rooms (of course!), The Royal Pump Museum and Mercer Gallery but please check their websites before visiting. Don’t miss the delightful, cobbled Montpellier Quarter where you'll find antiques, boutiques, jewellers, independents and cafés. 

We’re due to arrive in Skipton at 11:45 and depart at 14:00 for our afternoon tour through The Dales. We’re due to arrive in Harrogate at 15:30 and depart at 17:30. We’ll set down in Skipton at the Town Hall Coach Park (just off the High Street) and in Harrogate we’ll drop you at St. Mary’s Walk. There will be a services comfort stop on the outward and return journey.

You might also like our 4* Harrogate & The Yorkshire Dales holiday from 7-11 Oct.

Image: Harrogate Valley Gardens by PublicDomainPictures on Pixabay

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