Yorkshire
Yorkshire is, not surprisingly, England's most popular holiday destination, as this vast county offers something for everyone. The beautiful countryside of the Dales and Moors, a dramatic and unspoilt coastline, a wealth of historic towns and cities, spectacular ancient ruins, and some of the most magnificent houses in the country. The National Trust owns over 24,000 acres of coast and countryside across the county as well as some splendid historic properties. These include Beningbrough Hall, East Riddlesden Hall, Nunnington Hall and the spectacular Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal.

Hardcastle Crags
The deep valley of Hardcastle Crags was created by glacial melt waters in the last ice age and by the swift abrasive action of Hebden water. The National Trust owns over 400 acres of beautiful Pennine woodland, including the two steep-sided valleys of Hebden Dale and Crimsworth Dean. There are over 27 miles of walkers’ routes suitable for all ages, where different types of wildlife can be seen including the rare northern hairy wood ant. A reminder of Yorkshire’s industrial past at the heart of the Crags is the 200 year old Gibson Mill, founded originally as a cotton spinning mill that latterly became a destination for day trippers used as a dance hall and roller skating rink. The mill is now the Trust’s flagship self-sustaining property in the country, generating all its own power.

National Trust places nearby: Gibson Mill, East Riddlesden Hall, Gawthorpe Hall, Marsden Estate. Shop and pub: Hebden Bridge 1 from The Lodge, 3 miles from Widdop Gate Barn. Tea-room/café/restaurant: café at Hardcastle Crags. Other attractions: traditional shops at Hebden Bridge, Fringe Festival in July, International Cider Festival in June. Activities: walking, fishing, horse riding, canal boating.

Ordnance Survey Landranger Map 103