Dent Station Cumbria
England's highest mainline station, offering historic charm and breathtaking Yorkshire Dales views on the scenic Settle-Carlisle Railway.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch the local bus to Dent village.
Dent Station Cumbria
Best Time
Catch the local bus to Dent village.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
England's highest mainline station, offering historic charm and breathtaking Yorkshire Dales views on the scenic Settle-Carlisle Railway.
"Lovely station with great views, like something from an old film."
🧥 Dress for the Weather
It's windy and rainy here! Pack layers and waterproofs.
🚶♀️ Walk to Dent Village
The village is a 90-min walk. Bus service is limited, check schedules!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dent Station Architecture
Dent Station
Step back in time at this picturesque, historic station, the highest mainline station in England.
Settle-Carlisle Railway
Dent Station
Experience the magic of a steam train passing over the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct.
Dentdale Views
Walks from Dent Station
Stunning vistas of Dentdale unfold on walks from the station, showcasing the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Station vs. Village
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Dress for the Weather
It's windy and rainy here! Pack layers and waterproofs.
🚶♀️ Walk to Dent Village
The village is a 90-min walk. Bus service is limited, check schedules!
🚂 Steam Train Spotting
Lucky visitors might see a steam train on the Settle-Carlisle line.
🚗 Car for Exploration
A car is ideal for exploring the wider Yorkshire Dales.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Dress for the Weather
It's windy and rainy here! Pack layers and waterproofs.
🚶♀️ Walk to Dent Village
The village is a 90-min walk. Bus service is limited, check schedules!
🚂 Steam Train Spotting
Lucky visitors might see a steam train on the Settle-Carlisle line.
🚗 Car for Exploration
A car is ideal for exploring the wider Yorkshire Dales.
📸 Capture the Views
Stunning scenery awaits! Don't forget your camera.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors love Dent Station for its historic charm, stunning elevated views of Dentdale, and its location on the scenic Settle-Carlisle Railway. The chance to see steam trains is a major highlight. However, be prepared for the exposed, often windy and rainy weather, and note that the village of Dent is a considerable walk away with limited bus services.
"Loved this place. Great views, peaceful, clean and well equipped. Ideal if you have a car to explore the Dales. Can visit Dent, and Hawes in the evenings. Train was great to get to local stations or Carlisle. Grandson loved it as loves trains and the local viaducts. Will definitely go again."
Caroline Jones
"Lovely little station with great views. Do note: the town of Dent is a 90 minute walk from the station. The bus service appears to only be on Saturdays."
Quinten Coret
"What a great little station it was like something from a old film. Interesting and great to visit."
DAZ Ashton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Leeds, you can take a train towards the Yorkshire Dales. While Dent Station is accessible by train on the Settle-Carlisle line, reaching the village of Dent from the station requires either a 90-minute walk or a bus, which typically only runs on Saturdays.
For extensive exploration of the Yorkshire Dales, having a car is highly recommended. This allows you to easily visit places like Hawes, Malham Cove, and Gordale Scar.
The walk from Dent Station to Dent village is approximately 90 minutes. The local bus service is infrequent, often only operating on Saturdays, so plan accordingly.
Yes, Dent Station is part of the famous Settle-Carlisle Railway, known for its stunning viaducts and dramatic landscapes.
The nearest towns of note are Hawes and Settle, both accessible via train or car, offering more amenities and further exploration opportunities within the Yorkshire Dales. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Dent Station is a working railway station, so standard train tickets apply for travel on the Settle-Carlisle line. There is no separate entry fee to access the station platforms and buildings.
As a mainline railway station, Dent Station is generally accessible during daylight hours when train services are operating. Specific building access might vary.
Occasionally, special heritage steam trains run on the Settle-Carlisle line, offering a unique experience at Dent Station. Keep an eye on railway enthusiast websites for schedules.
While Dent Station has historical buildings and information boards, it functions primarily as a transport hub rather than a formal visitor center.
Ticket purchasing facilities at smaller stations like Dent can be limited. It's advisable to book your train tickets in advance online or via a ticket machine at a larger station.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At Dent Station, you can admire the historic architecture, enjoy the panoramic views of Dentdale, and potentially witness steam trains passing by. It's a great spot for photography.
Being the highest mainline station in England, Dent Station is known for being windy and can experience frequent rain, so be prepared for changeable weather.
Facilities can be limited at Dent Station. While there are usually basic amenities, it's wise to check in advance or be prepared with your own provisions.
You can embark on walks into Dentdale, enjoying the rural scenery. The walk to Dent village is a popular, albeit lengthy, option.
Absolutely! The station's unique architecture, the surrounding Dales landscape, and the possibility of steam trains make it a photographer's dream.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options directly at Dent Station are scarce. The village of Dent offers pubs and cafes, but remember it's a significant walk away.
Yes, the scenic surroundings of Dent Station are perfect for a picnic. Pack your own food and enjoy the views.
Dent village has traditional pubs that serve food, offering a chance to refuel after a walk or train journey. +1
Some long-distance services on the Settle-Carlisle line may offer catering, but it's not guaranteed. It's best to bring your own snacks or plan to eat at your destination.
While direct restaurants with views at the station are unlikely, pubs in Dent village may offer pleasant countryside vistas.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic station buildings, the dramatic viaducts of the Settle-Carlisle line, and the sweeping Dentdale valley.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful atmospheric shots, especially during autumn. Be mindful of the weather, as dramatic skies can also be photogenic.
Yes, the Settle-Carlisle line occasionally hosts steam trains, providing a fantastic opportunity for unique railway photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the station and landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting distant trains or details. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low light.
Generally, photography for personal use is permitted. However, always be respectful of other passengers and railway operations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, the significant walk to Dent village might be challenging for very young children, and the exposed nature of the station means keeping a close eye on them, especially in windy conditions. For a more manageable experience, focus on a shorter visit to the station itself, perhaps timed to coincide with a scheduled train. If you do attempt the walk to Dent village, ensure children have appropriate footwear and clothing for the weather.
Alternatively, exploring other parts of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, like Malham Cove or Janet's Foss, might offer more varied activities for families with younger children. 🚶 Hikers and Walkers
Be prepared for varied terrain, from gentle valley walks to more strenuous fell climbs, and always check weather conditions before setting out. Consider routes that incorporate the Arten Gill Viaduct or explore the beauty of Dentdale.
🚂 Train Enthusiasts
The real thrill here is the chance to witness heritage steam trains passing through, a truly unforgettable sight against the dramatic Dales backdrop. Keep an eye on railway timetables for special steam-hauled services, as these are a major draw. Beyond the steam trains, the station itself is a piece of railway history, with well-preserved buildings.
The surrounding landscape, including the impressive viaducts of the Settle-Carlisle line, offers fantastic photographic opportunities for railway photographers. Even if you don't catch a steam train, the regular services on this scenic route provide a wonderful rail experience. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Settle-Carlisle Railway Experience
The journey itself is an attraction, offering breathtaking views of rolling hills, valleys, and moorland. Many visitors travel specifically to experience this iconic railway, often spotting steam trains which add an extra layer of magic to the journey. Travelers often highlight the Ribblehead Viaduct as a must-see, with many hoping to catch a steam train crossing it.
The line connects major hubs like Leeds and Carlisle, making it accessible for day trips or as part of a larger tour of the region. The remote nature of some sections means that train travel is often the most practical way to access these stunning areas, especially for those without a car. When planning your trip, consider checking the Settle-Carlisle Railway's timetable for special services, including heritage steam trains, which are a major draw for photographers and railway enthusiasts alike.
The experience is enhanced by the knowledge that this line was once under threat of closure, making its continued operation a triumph for heritage preservation and scenic tourism. Exploring Dent Village and Dale
Dentdale offers beautiful walking opportunities, with trails that meander through the valley, alongside rivers, and up onto the surrounding fells. The landscape is characterized by drystone walls, sheep-grazing fields, and the ever-present dramatic skies of the Yorkshire Dales.
Visitors often describe the area as peaceful and picturesque, ideal for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It's important to note that public transport to Dent village is limited, with bus services often restricted to Saturdays.
Weather and What to Pack
Layers are your best friend when visiting Dent Station and the surrounding Yorkshire Dales. Think moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers like fleece or down, and a waterproof and windproof outer shell. Sturdy, waterproof walking boots are also a must, especially if you plan on walking to Dent village or exploring the local trails.
While the weather can be challenging, it also contributes to the dramatic and wild beauty of the Yorkshire Dales. Embrace it, and you'll find the rugged scenery even more rewarding. Many visitors find that the atmospheric conditions add to the charm and character of the place, making for memorable photographs and experiences.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit