Arkengarthdale Uncovered: The Most Northern Dale in the Yorkshire Dales

If you’re dreaming of an authentic Yorkshire Dales escape, Arkengarthdale is a stunning and remote valley, known as the most northern dale in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. This hidden gem is perfect for those seeking remote Yorkshire Dales getaways, where wild landscapes meet rich history and warm hospitality. Whether you’re here to relax, explore or reconnect with nature, Arkengarthdale delivers an unforgettable experience.

With a peaceful atmosphere and a real sense of escape, it’s no surprise that holiday cottages in Arkengarthdale are becoming increasingly popular among those looking for something off the beaten path. From dog walkers to birdwatchers, this dale has wide appeal — and if you’re wondering where to stay in Arkengarthdale, we offer cosy, character-filled cottages that bring you closer to everything this unique corner of the Dales has to offer.

Arkengarthdale has three main villages—Arkle Town, Langthwaite, and Whaw—and smaller settlements like Raw, Booze and Eskeleth that add to its rural charm. The surrounding countryside offers fantastic walking routes, including scenic walks near Langthwaite and Whaw, making it ideal for active breaks or gentle rambles. We also have a selection of dog-friendly cottages in the Yorkshire Dales, so your four-legged family members don’t have to miss out on the adventure.

What Makes Arkengarthdale Special?

Arkengarthdale is one of the Yorkshire Dales’ lesser-known and more remote valleys, offering a wonderfully tranquil atmosphere that sets it apart from the busier dales such as Wharfedale, Malhamdale, and Wensleydale. This peacefulness makes it the perfect destination for visitors seeking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in unspoilt natural beauty and authentic rural life.

This dale is famous for its:

Stunning natural beauty: Sweeping hills, lush meadows, and the serene River Arkle running through the valley create a perfect backdrop for relaxation, walking, photography, and outdoor adventures.
Rich mining heritage: Once a thriving lead mining area, Arkengarthdale still bears the marks of its industrial past. At Moulds Side, you’ll find the atmospheric remains of a former lead mine, including the ruins of a dressing floor, watercourse, and a chimney, all dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. These remnants offer a fascinating glimpse into the area’s mining history.
Wildlife and nature: The dale is a haven for wildlife, with the chance to spot roe deer, elusive red squirrels, and a wide variety of birdlife including red kites, pied flycatchers, and wood warblers. Arkengarthdale is home to some of the Dales’ most important habitats, including species-rich hay meadows, tranquil woodlands, and high upland grasslands—making it a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Traditional villages: Despite its remote setting, Arkengarthdale is dotted with characterful villages and hamlets. Langthwaite is considered the hub of the dale, thanks to its central location and the presence of two welcoming pubs. It’s a quiet, friendly place where time seems to slow down. In the tiny hamlets of Whaw and Booze, you can take a step back in time and experience what life might have felt like centuries ago—unspoilt, peaceful, and deeply connected to the landscape.
Cultural fame: Arkengarthdale is widely recognised as the original filming location for the much-loved BBC series All Creatures Great and Small. The Red Lion pub in Langthwaite famously appears in the series, and the nearby ford known as The Splash features in the show’s iconic opening scenes. Fans of the series often visit these nostalgic spots while exploring the dale.

Looking for a cosy base while exploring Arkengarthdale? Check out our handpicked holiday cottages in Arkengarthdale for an unforgettable stay.

The Three Must-Visit Pubs in Arkengarthdale

No trip to Arkengarthdale would be complete without stopping at one (or all!) of its welcoming, traditional pubs. Whether you’re winding down after a walk or looking for a memorable meal out during your stay, each of these local favourites offers a unique slice of Yorkshire charm:

The Red Lion, Langthwaite

This quirky village pub is a true gem, beloved by locals, walkers, and fans of All Creatures Great and Small, in which it famously appears. With its small, characterful bar, plenty of outdoor seating, and no-nonsense great pints, it’s a favourite stopping point on walking and mountain biking routes. While it doesn’t serve full meals, you’ll find classic pub snacks and a warm welcome. The landlady is a fountain of local knowledge—chat with her for tips on places to explore and hidden stories of the dale.

The CB Inn

Set amidst beautiful scenery, the CB Inn is a gastro pub known for its high-quality food, refined yet relaxed atmosphere, and stunning views down the valley from its outdoor seating. While it’s perfect for a special meal, they also offer light bites and lunchtime snacks for those just passing through. A small children’s play area makes it a great option for families looking for a restful break after a day of adventures.

The Tan Hill Inn

Often mistakenly thought to be in Swaledale, the Tan Hill Inn is in fact part of Arkengarthdale, perched right on the border with Swaledale. This legendary pub is England’s highest inn and offers hearty portions of traditional food, a wide selection of drinks, and some of the best views in the Yorkshire Dales. But Tan Hill isn’t just about the food and scenery—it’s also a vibrant hub for entertainment. Be sure to check their calendar of events, which includes everything from live music and band nights to comedy shows and themed evenings.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, just a short walk from the inn lies a natural peat bog pool—a cold but exhilarating spot for a wild swim. Set in a stark and beautiful landscape, it’s a bracing dip with views that are hard to beat.

Arkengarthdale Community Hub: The Heart of Local Life

If you’re staying in one of our holiday cottages, be sure to check out the Arkengarthdale Community Hub—a warm and welcoming space located at St. Mary’s Church in the dale. This vibrant hub is a key part of community life in Arkengarthdale and offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with the local area during your visit.

The Hub hosts a variety of events and gatherings throughout the year, creating a friendly space for all generations to meet, socialise, and celebrate life in the dale. From seasonal concerts to wine tasting evenings and even commemorative walks like the D-Day Anniversary event, there’s always something interesting happening. Events are often themed around food, music, gardening, and the arts—so it’s well worth seeing what’s on during your stay.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy a local evening out, meet residents, or learn more about the community spirit that defines Arkengarthdale, the Community Hub is a fantastic place to experience the dale’s welcoming atmosphere first-hand.

Rewilding in Arkengarthdale: Nature Making a Comeback

One of the most exciting developments in Arkengarthdale is the growing rewilding project taking place across parts of the dale, known as the Heggs-Castle Cluster. This local initiative is helping to bring nature back to the landscape, making it a fascinating area to explore during your holiday.

Over 34,000 native trees and shrubs have already been planted to create new woodlands and wildlife corridors. Wetlands and wildflower meadows are being restored, and natural flood defences like scrapes and leaky dams are improving water flow and habitat diversity.

The project supports local wildlife such as roe deer, red squirrels, red kites, and a wide variety of birdlife, including pied flycatchers and wood warblers. Best of all, many of these areas are accessible via public footpaths near our Arkengarthdale holiday cottages.

So, whether you’re a keen walker, wildlife lover, or simply enjoy peaceful landscapes, keep an eye out for signs of this inspiring rewilding effort during your stay — it’s nature at its best, right on your doorstep.

Discover St. Mary’s Church in Arkengarthdale

Tucked into the hillside above Langthwaite, St. Mary’s Church is a peaceful gem steeped in history. Built in 1818 and lovingly maintained ever since, it offers stunning views across Arkengarthdale and a quiet place for reflection. It’s simple design and setting reflect the area’s heritage and resilience — from its lead mining past to its strong community spirit. Whether you’re exploring local trails or just enjoying a scenic drive, this little church is well worth a stop to soak in the stillness and scenery.

Explore the Site of Special Scientific Interest near Newbiggin and Whaw

Just a short distance from Arkle Beck between near Whaw, you’ll find a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) — a protected area celebrated for its rare habitats and wildlife. The surrounding hay meadows and upland pastures are particularly beautiful in late spring and early summer, when wildflowers bloom and birds like curlews and lapwings nest. It’s a reminder of how rich and fragile the Dales’ natural landscape is, and why this region is so treasured by conservationists and nature lovers alike.

Walking in Arkengarthdale: Explore the Wild Side of the Dales

Arkengarthdale is a true paradise for walkers, offering a quieter, more remote alternative to some of the busier Yorkshire Dales like Wharfedale or Wensleydale. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a peaceful ramble, the dale is rich in scenic variety and dramatic landscapes. Popular routes include the high-level ridge walk along Fremington Edge, the heather-clad slopes of Calver Hill, the wild and open route to Great Pinseat from Surrender Bridge, and the Fore Gill Circular Walk, which winds through atmospheric moorland and historical mining remains. With fewer crowds, far-reaching views, and a real sense of tranquillity, walking in Arkengarthdale is one of the best ways to experience the untouched beauty of the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Arkengarthdale and Film: Weathering Heights (2025)

Arkengarthdale’s untamed beauty and remote character have made it an ideal backdrop for period dramas — and in 2025, it took centre stage in a new film adaptation of Weathering Heights. This latest version of Emily Brontë’s classic novel stars Margot Robbie as Catherine Earnshaw and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff, bringing a modern intensity to the much-loved tale of passion, revenge, and the harshness of the moorland landscape.

Several dramatic scenes were filmed in Arkengarthdale, taking full advantage of the dale’s rugged scenery and atmospheric skies. A key filming location is Scar House, a striking 19th-century shooting lodge owned by the Duke of Norfolk. Built in 1845 on the site of a former Norman manor, Scar House is still in use today during the grouse shooting season — but it also makes a memorable stop for holidaymakers. A public footpath runs past the lodge, offering visitors the chance to walk through the very landscape captured on screen.

Other scenes were filmed high on the surrounding fells, showcasing the raw, windswept character of the upper dale. For fans of literature, cinema, and wild countryside, Arkengarthdale offers a rare opportunity to explore real-life locations from a major film — all while soaking in the peace and grandeur of one of the Yorkshire Dales’ most remote and captivating valleys.

Why Stay in Arkengarthdale Holiday Cottages?

Choosing a holiday cottage in Arkengarthdale allows you to fully embrace the peaceful, rural lifestyle of this beautiful dale. Our cottages combine cosy, comfortable accommodation with traditional Yorkshire character, often featuring wood-burning stoves and spacious gardens. Many are also dog -friendly, making them perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends. Staying here means you’re just moments from some of the best local walks, welcoming pubs, and fascinating attractions. Plus, Arkengarthdale’s location offers easy access to explore the wider Yorkshire Dales, including the neighbouring dales of Swaledale and Wensleydale — ideal for visitors wanting a tranquil base with plenty to discover.

Best Time to Visit Arkengarthdale

Arkengarthdale is beautiful year-round, but the best times to visit are:

Spring and summer: Enjoy blooming wildflowers, longer days, and vibrant wildlife.
Autumn: Stunning fall foliage colours transform the dale into a golden wonderland.
Winter: Crisp days and occasional snow create a peaceful retreat perfect for cosy firesides.

Ready to explore Arkengarthdale? Browse our range of holiday cottages and start planning your unforgettable Yorkshire adventure today!

Discover Arkengarthdale — your Yorkshire Dales hideaway

Escape the ordinary and step into the peaceful, wild beauty of Arkengarthdale. Nestled among rolling hills, lush meadows and the quiet flow of Arkle Beck, our cosy holiday cottages put you right in the heart of nature — perfect for walkers, families, dog-owners or anyone craving a break from the everyday. Whether you’re after relaxing countryside vibes, scenic walks, or a base to explore the dales and nearby villages, Arkengarthdale offers it all. Ready for a tranquil escape? Browse our cottages in Arkengarthdale and plan your Dales adventure today.