The most wonderful time of year is fast approaching. We take our festivities very seriously at The Timble Inn, and our team pull out all the stops to make it magical. But what about the countryside around us? Nidderdale National Landscape will soon be a winter wonderland, and the towns and villages will twinkle with Christmas cheer.
There’s so much to enjoy, so many memories to be made. We couldn’t possibly cover it all, but here are some of the best things to do in Nidderdale and North Yorkshire this Christmas.
Light up Christmas in a magical setting
Sometimes you need a bit of sparkle to get you into the festive mood. And there’s plenty of that on offer near The Timble Inn.
Harewood House offers A glittering invitation, as the grand stately home is bedecked in bedazzling finery. Its spectacular Regency-inspired design is the work of Siobhan Murphy, finalist of BBC’s Interior Design Masters. She also host a trio of design workshops that creative types will love. Christmas at Harewood House opens Saturday 8th November,and it’s just half an hour’s drive from The Timble Inn.
Glow at RHS Harlow Carr offers the chance to take in their majestic gardens in a whole new way, illuminated in festive colours. Warm your cockles on the way around with hot refreshments by Bettys, and perhaps pick up a unique gift or decoration from the garden centre. Glow runs from Wednesday 19th November to Tuesday 23rd December. It’s worth noting that it can get busy, so perhaps try to book off-peak if possible.
Fountains Abbey is always enchanting, but their festive events add another layer of magic. On Saturday and Sunday afternoons through December, choirs and concert bands will perform beneath the vaulted ceiling of the Abbey’s cellarium. Twinkling lights and festive music combine to warm the soul. You can also enjoy Carols by Candlelight in St Mary’s Church, situated in the Deer Park at Fountains Abbey.
And for something completely different…
If you’re looking for a Christmas experience you’ve never had before, then take a look at Nidderdale Llamas. Set among the rolling hills of the National Landscape, it offers the chance to take the charismatic creatures for a scenic stroll. The llamas are gentle, inquisitive and full of character, and their handlers are exceptionally knowledgeable. You’ll learn lots and have an unforgettable couple of hours. Perhaps not one for the traditionalists, but if you love animals and you’re looking for a novel festive treat, give it a try.
Christmas markets and fairs
You’ve got to do at least one Christmas market. There’s a chance to pick up a truly unique gift from local craftspeople, and there’s always plenty of delicious food and drink to be had.
All the nearby towns have their Christmas markets, along with all manner of smaller events. Skipton’s, which runs on Sunday 7th and Sunday 14th December, is very highly regarded.
Knaresborough is also worth a visit, also holding a Christmas market on the 6th and 7th December. There’s plenty going on there, and its many independent shops and eateries will be going all out with the festive decorations. There’s also the Christmas Tree Festival at St John’s Church, and of course don’t miss the town cryer.
A little closer to home, Otley hosts its annual Victorian Fayre on Sunday 7th December. It’s worth a look if you enjoy a real community event brimming with charm.
Winter Walks
Nothing beats a winter walk, and you’re spoilt for choice in North Yorkshire. The Swinsty and Fewston reservoir walks offer an easy stroll, less than a mile from the Inn.
A little further afield, a drive up through the heart of Nidderdale takes you to Scar House reservoir. It’s remote and surrounded by striking moorland – perfect for detaching from civilisation and clearing the mind. The dam’s intricate Edwardian stonework is worth the journey alone. But you’ll also have a good chance of seeing some Great British wildlife, including the curlew, our island’s largest wading bird, and hen harriers.
For a sterner challenge, try the Guise Cliff walk out of Pateley Bridge. It takes you out of the village and up through woodland onto the hills. Once up on the cliff, you can step onto the rocky outcrops to savour the stunning views, but take extreme care, particularly if there’s frost about.
Whatever you choose to do this Christmas, there’s always a roaring log fire and a restorative drink waiting for you back at The Timble Inn. And if you’re looking to spend a night or two away with a loved on this festive season, come and see why The Guardian named us one of the UK’s top ten country pubs for a winter escape.