Hawes North Yorkshire
A charming Yorkshire Dales market town famed for Wensleydale cheese, stunning waterfalls, and breathtaking natural landscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
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Hawes North Yorkshire
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming Yorkshire Dales market town famed for Wensleydale cheese, stunning waterfalls, and breathtaking natural landscapes.
"Hawes offers a perfect blend of delicious local produce and spectacular natural beauty."
🧥 Pack for all weathers
Yorkshire Dales weather is unpredictable. Waterproofs and layers are essential!
🧀 Taste the local cheese
Don't miss deep-fried Wensleydale or a visit to the Creamery.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wensleydale Creamery
Hawes
Discover the secrets of Wensleydale cheese, enjoy tastings, and find delicious treats. A true taste of Yorkshire!
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Hardraw Force Waterfall
1 mile north of Hawes
Marvel at England's highest single-drop waterfall, a breathtaking natural spectacle.
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Yorkshire Dales National Park
Surrounding Hawes
Explore stunning landscapes, rolling hills, and picturesque valleys perfect for hiking and photography.
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Hawes Market
Town Square
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this traditional Tuesday market, a hub for local produce and crafts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Dales Weather
Wensleydale Cheese is a Must
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Pack for all weathers
Yorkshire Dales weather is unpredictable. Waterproofs and layers are essential!
🧀 Taste the local cheese
Don't miss deep-fried Wensleydale or a visit to the Creamery.
🥾 Wear comfortable shoes
Lots of walking and hiking opportunities. Sturdy footwear is a must.
🚗 Explore beyond the town
Rent a car or use local buses to discover nearby waterfalls and lakes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Pack for all weathers
Yorkshire Dales weather is unpredictable. Waterproofs and layers are essential!
🧀 Taste the local cheese
Don't miss deep-fried Wensleydale or a visit to the Creamery.
🥾 Wear comfortable shoes
Lots of walking and hiking opportunities. Sturdy footwear is a must.
🚗 Explore beyond the town
Rent a car or use local buses to discover nearby waterfalls and lakes.
💰 Budget-friendly stays
Consider campsites or B&Bs for affordable options.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hawes for its stunning natural beauty, charming market town atmosphere, and the iconic Wensleydale cheese. The accessibility to beautiful walks and the friendly local vibe are frequently highlighted as major positives. Some find the weather can be a challenge, and parking can be busy during peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hawes is accessible by car via the A684. The nearest train stations are Garsdale and Ribblehead, both requiring a bus or taxi to reach Hawes.
Yes, local bus services connect Hawes to surrounding towns and villages within the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Many visitors use Hawes as a base for hiking and cycling. Consider renting a car for more flexibility to explore further afield.
There are several car parks in Hawes, including some near the Wensleydale Creamery and the town centre.
You can take a train to Leeds or Manchester and then connect to a local train service towards Garsdale or Ribblehead, followed by a bus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a small admission fee to visit Hardraw Force, often paid at the Green Dragon Inn.
Entry to the Wensleydale Creamery itself is free, but there are costs for tours, tastings, and purchases.
Hiking in the Yorkshire Dales National Park is generally free, though some specific attractions like Hardraw Force may have charges.
Opening hours vary seasonally, so it's best to check the Wensleydale Creamery's official website before your visit.
The main market is on Tuesdays, but the town has shops and attractions open throughout the week.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular walks include routes to Hardraw Force, Semerwater, and sections of the Pennine Way. The Dales Way also passes through.
Yes, Hawes offers family-friendly activities like visiting the Creamery, exploring waterfalls, and gentle walks.
Activities include cheese tasting, visiting waterfalls, hiking, exploring the market, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the Dales.
The surrounding hills offer excellent viewpoints. Hardraw Force and the drive into Hawes provide stunning vistas.
Hawes holds the title of one of England's highest market towns, situated at around 850 feet above sea level.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Wensleydale Creamery is the primary place, but many local pubs and cafes also feature it on their menus.
Hawes has several traditional pubs and cafes offering local cuisine, including hearty Yorkshire fare.
Besides Wensleydale cheese, look for Yorkshire puddings, local ales, and other regional dishes.
Most pubs and cafes will have vegetarian options. Vegan choices might be more limited, so it's worth checking menus in advance.
The local chippy is a popular spot for classic fish and chips, with some reviewers highlighting deep-fried Wensleydale!
📸 📸 Photography
Hardraw Force waterfall, the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales, and the charming village streets are highly photogenic.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows.
Capture the dramatic skies, use a wide-angle lens for landscapes, and look for charming details in the stone walls and villages.
Drone usage is subject to regulations within the National Park. Always check current guidelines and obtain necessary permissions.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens for landscapes and a wide-angle lens for village scenes would be ideal. A tripod is useful for waterfalls.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
A visit to Hardraw Force waterfall is also a hit, providing a sense of adventure and a chance to explore nature. Many of the walking trails around Hawes are gentle enough for younger legs, and the town itself has a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and be prepared for the changeable weather with waterproofs. 🚶 Hikers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
+1 The varied terrain means there's something for all fitness levels, from leisurely valley walks to more strenuous fell climbs. Remember to check weather forecasts and carry appropriate gear, including maps and compasses for longer treks. 🧀 Foodies and Cheese Lovers
+1 Beyond the Creamery, many local pubs and cafes serve dishes featuring Wensleydale, offering a true taste of the region. Don't miss trying the unique deep-fried Wensleydale if you're feeling adventurous! Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Wensleydale Cheese
+1Beyond just tasting, the Creamery provides an educational experience, showcasing the history and craftsmanship involved. It's a must-visit for any food lover and a quintessential part of the Hawes experience. Don't forget to pick up some cheese to take home as a delicious souvenir of your trip to the Yorkshire Dales.
Exploring the Natural Wonders
+1For those who love to hike, Hawes is an excellent starting point for numerous trails. Whether you're looking for a short stroll to a viewpoint or a more challenging trek through the fells, the Yorkshire Dales National Park offers a diverse range of options. The Pennine Way and the Dales Way are long-distance paths that pass nearby, providing opportunities for multi-day adventures or day hikes.
+1Remember that the weather in the Dales can be unpredictable, so always be prepared with appropriate clothing and footwear. The dramatic skies and rugged terrain offer fantastic photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
+1Hawes as a Market Town
Beyond the market, Hawes itself is a charming place to explore. The town centre features traditional stone buildings, independent shops, and welcoming pubs. It retains a strong sense of community and offers a glimpse into rural Yorkshire life. The Wensleydale Creamery is a central attraction, but the town's character is also defined by its historic buildings and its position as a gateway to the wider Dales.
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