Skipton is often described as the ‘Gateway to the Dales’. The Yorkshire Dales National Park is one of the UK’s most spectacular, a landscape of sweeping glacial valleys, green upland pasture intersected by countless miles of dry-stone walls, and rugged limestone peaks. Skipton sits at the south-eastern extremity of the Dales and is connected to Leeds and Morecambe by the Airedale Line. It’s a lovely town, compact and lively with a friendly buzz. There are lots of shops selling high-quality local produce, a brilliant second-hand bookshop, and an array of excellent pubs and cafés. Skipton also boasts one of the grandest castles in northern England, which played a pivotal role in the English Civil War. If you’re extending your time here, the beautiful ruins of the medieval Bolton Abbey are a 15-minute taxi ride east of Skipton. It’s free to visit, simply beautiful, and a lovely place to spend a few hours wandering along the River Wharfe. Discover for yourself The Strid, the Valley of Desolation and the magnificent Abbey ruins. The paths are very well maintained and there are cafés along the way.