Guide to Nidderdale

Softer than the more westerly Dales, Nidderdale takes its name from the River Nidd. Much of the Dale forms part of the Harrogate District.

Pateley Bridge

The small town of Pateley Bridge is the capital of Nidderdale, set amongst broad meadows on the banks of the river. It is noted for its craft shops, two renowned butchers, the oldest sweet shop in England, and a variety of pubs and tea rooms. Set in the old Victorian workhouse, the award-winning Nidderdale Museum charts Dales life and the history of the area. A major attraction is the annual Nidderdale Show, held in September each year.

Upper Nidderdale

Above Pateley Bridge, upper Nidderdale has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Reservoirs abound, with a renowned bird sanctuary at Gouthwaite Reservoir, and Angram and Scar House reservoirs fed by the river.

The road through upper Nidderdale passes the villages of Ramsgill and Lofthouse to reach Middlesmoor at the head of the valley. How Stean Gorge is known as 'Yorkshire's Little Switzerland' with a dramatic limestone cleft, 25 metres deep in places.

Sights and Attractions

A short distance from Pateley Bridge near Summerbridge is the amazing sight of Brimham Rocks. The elements have fashioned the rocks into fantastic forms, creating providing dramatic natural scenery now under the protection of the National Trust. Further on are the ruins of Fountains Abbey, in a parkland setting leading to the water scenery of Studley Royal and its deer park.