The last embers of summer are fading away in Nidderdale, and venturing out of the Inn might require an extra layer or two. But the countryside around us is no less glorious. In fact, with its crisp, clear skies, and summer greens merging into copper and gold, autumn might just be our favourite time of year.
And with the kids all back at school and the hustle and bustle of harvest beginning to settle down, you can enjoy the delights of the Yorkshire countryside unhurried and unflustered. Here are some of this autumn’s highlights – all well under an hour’s drive from the Timble Inn.
Studley Royal Park and Fountains Abbey – Ripon
One of two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Yorkshire (the other being Saltaire, just a half-hour drive away and also well worth a visit), both the park and abbey are majestic all year round. When the autumn colours are on display they truly take the breath away. The elegant water gardens of Studley Royal provide the backdrop for a tranquil stroll, while the Fountains Abbey ruins (the largest in England) offer an awe-inspiring glimpse into the distant past.
The Deer Park offers a more rugged but no less enjoyable walk. Autumn is rutting season, so the herds of red, sika and fallow deer are likely to be active and you may see some spectacular displays.
Fountains by Floodlight takes place on selected dates throughout October and early November. As the sun sets over the estate, the illuminations cast a magical aura over the ruins. With street food stalls and choral performances, it’s an evening to remember.
Explore markets and connect with local communities
Quaint towns and villages dot the landscape around The Timble Inn, and many of them regularly play host to markets showcasing delicious local produce and the talents of local craftspeople.
Little Birds Artisan Market pops up every week in towns across Yorkshire and offers a unique shopping experience, while many nearby towns host their own independent markets on weekends.
Skipton – the ‘Gateway to the Dales’
Skipton offers everything you could want from a country getaway and you could easily spend a whole day here. It’s the quintessential Yorkshire market town, but it’s also much more than that. You can explore one of the UK’s best preserved medieval castles, amble through ancient woodland, enjoy a boat ride and indulge in top-quality shopping and dining, all within a stone’s throw of the town centre. We’re quite sure you won’t find that anywhere else.
Skipton Castle is one of the most complete and well-preserved in the UK, and doesn’t take too long to get around. It’s well worth travelling back in time for an hour or so before enjoying more of the town’s offerings. Tucked behind the castle is Skipton Castle Woods, a small and tranquil patch of paradise where you can escape the town’s hustle and bustle if you wish.
An alternative way to relax is to take a canal cruise. Enjoy an afternoon tea and unspoiled views of the stunning Craven countryside as you glide along the Leeds-Liverpool canal.
Literature Festival
Ilkley Literature Festival is the North of England’s oldest and most prestigious of its kind. From Friday 3rd-Sunday 19th October, a host of fascinating characters, from household names to up-and-coming local talent, will descend on the charming town of Ilkley. They’ll deliver workshops, readings and talks on all manner of topics.
Highlights include Britain’s Poet Laureate Simon Armitage, Trainspotting author Irvine Welsh, and international bestselling author, Jung Chang.
Catch the end of the Yorkshire agricultural season
Nidderdale Show, known locally as the Pately Bridge Show, rounds off the show season in style on Sunday 21st September.
For something a little different, the Masham Sheep Fair is a weekend of joyous rural charm. Masham’s famous town square throngs with local farmers and their prize sheep, with races, competitions and shearing demonstrations offering plenty of entertainment. Farmers, local artisans selling their wares, and visitors all engage in good-natured banter. There’s plenty more to see in Masham itself, especially with both the Theakston’s and Black Sheep breweries based in the town and offering tours.
A festival… of cheese
Are you a fromage fanatic? If so, the Yorkshire Cheese Festival will be right up your street.
From 10th – 19th October, cafes and restaurants all across the Dales will be adding a cheesy twist to their signature dishes and local producers will be showcasing the best of their wares to pair with your favourite cheeses.
But even if cheese isn’t your thing, you’ll still find plenty to get your mouth watering. It’s a real celebration of all the fantastic produce the Yorkshire Dales has to offer. And of course, the famous Wensleydale Creamery will be pulling out all the stops. Visit the Festival’s website to see what’s on.
Get your walking boots on
Of course, you don’t need a particular event or destination to savour the magic of North Yorkshire in autumn. The countryside here is a walker’s paradise. Switch off your notifications, lace up your boots, button up your jacket and stride out into the bracing Yorkshire air. You’ll find every level of walk here. The paths around Swinsty and Fewston reservoirs, a stone’s throw from Timble, make for a pleasant stroll that’s nice and flat.
But seasoned hikers may prefer a short drive to the Yorkshire Dales, where the imposing fells provide a stiffer challenge. The views from the peaks reward the effort many times over.
There’s no need to drive anywhere if you don’t feel like it, however. Several established routes begin right here in Timble. Paths and trails circle the pretty Washburn Valley before bringing you back to the inn, where a comfortable seat and your favourite drink will be waiting for you.
So, there you have it. A sample of the delights on offer near the Timble Inn in autumn. There really is something for everyone, and our inn is the perfect base for your autumn country adventure.
See below for our autumn availability and our contact details should you have any other queries. Please feel free to get in touch.