Summer is approaching and lockdown restrictions are easing. We therefore thought we’d share some of our favourite places to visit and things to see in and around Wensleydale. If you’re newer to the area, we encourage you to have a good explore of some of the local gems and if you’re not, whilst many of these will already be familiar to you, we hope you might discover some new spots, or simply jog your memory about some old favourites.
Firstly, and perhaps most obviously, there’s the Wensleydale Creamery. Alongside the cheese-tasting room, cafe and Calvert’s Restaurant, they’ve recently opened a new interactive experience including cheese-making demonstrations and a viewing gallery. Lovely cheese Gromit!
Then, also in Hawes, there’s the Dales Countryside Museum, which tells the story of the Yorkshire Dales and the people who have lived and worked here for thousands of years. It’s based in the former Victorian railway station and hosts lots of events and workshops that are worth keeping an eye out for. They also have their own podcast, ‘Voices from the Dales’ all about local people and stories.
Just 100 yards across the road, there’s The Ropemakers museum, which has free entry and gives visitors the chance to observe the ropemaking process. Ropemaking is a historic and traditional process and The Ropemakers have facilities to demonstrate lots of different techniques, including the use of a braiding room.
Lastly, the Yorkshire Dales National Park is always worthy of a mention. Whilst it’s sunny over summer, definitely get out and about and explore the local landscape. You could check out Hardraw Force, England’s highest above-ground waterfall, or even go a bit further out towards Aysgarth or Pendragon castle for more exciting things to see.
