Kingsdale – pay homage to the King of the Dales
The U-shaped valley of Kingsdale is in the western part of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, on the edge of Cumbria. It’s an area much loved by walkers, bird watchers, cyclists and climbers. Potholing enthusiasts know the area well too and there are plenty of caves and pots to keep underground explorers of all abilities fascinated. This limestone landscape, formed by glaciations over millions of years, is a scenic retreat for family holidays. If you want gorgeous countryside, wildlife and a warm Yorkshire welcome, Kingsdale is a superb destination.
The valley can be found above Ingleton, between the mountains of Whernside and Gragareth. Whernside is well known as one third of the three summits that make up the Three Peaks Walk. If you’re fit and up for a challenge, climbing it brings the reward of wonderful views. Gragareth is also worth climbing for the views, but it’s a challenging task. Conquerors of this summit can often see right to Morecambe Bay.
One of the most famous caves in Kingsdale is Yordas Cave, named from the Norse for ‘earth stream’. This was actually a show cave at the beginning of the 1800s, visited for its large main chamber and underground waterfall. Another popular, local pothole and one that is recommended for novices, is known as Bull Pot.
If your passion is more for cycling, the valley forms part of the Yorkshire Dales Cycleway, a circular route for cyclists that runs for 130 miles. Beginning and ending in the town of Skipton, obviously it’s possible to choose a section and join the route at any desired location. Choose your section carefully, according to whether you want a leisurely amble through villages and country lanes or a more arduous climb in steep country. Also, angling enthusiasts on holiday in the area can fish for salmon and trout in the local rivers.
For a village full of charm with winding, narrow streets and quaint cottages, look no further than Ingleton. Here, you can browse the shops, crafts and tearooms or use one of the leisure amenities for some family fun. The heated open-air swimming pool is always a hit with visitors as are the public tennis courts and the bowling green. In addition, picnic areas and a playground can be found on the banks of the river.
The Yorkshire Dales is celebrated for many things, its waterfalls amongst them and the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail offers many photo opportunities of falls and plunge pools. Along the banks of the River Twiss, sourced by Kingsdale Beck, holidaymakers can follow the trail, which has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) because of its important habitat for animals and plant life. Pecca Falls consists of five main waterfalls and deep pools, but the most feted is Thornton Force, which was captured by the expert skill of the artist, J.M.W. Turner when he visited the area in 1816. Today, families like to gather for picnics at its viewing area.
Caves, mountains, waterfalls and sleepy country lanes are the perfect backdrop for a relaxing break with the family. After a day of walking or cycling together, you can kick back with a nice cup of Yorkshire tea (or some local beer!) and some tasty local produce.
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