Welcome to The Arches, a charming and much-loved Swaledale holiday cottage nestled in the peaceful village of Muker, right in the heart of the stunning Yorkshire Dales. This beautifully converted 17th-century hay barn and forge now offers spacious, family-friendly accommodation for up to six guests – and two well-behaved dogs are welcome too!
This cosy Dales cottage is perfect for walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers alike. Surrounded by dramatic scenery, it’s the ideal cottage in Muker for those looking to explore the incredible walking and biking routes that start right from the doorstep.
Comfort Meets Character
Step inside The Arches and feel instantly at home. This unique cottage blends rustic charm with modern convenience, creating a warm and welcoming space that’s perfect for family holidays or getaways with friends. Original 17th-century features such as exposed beams and a cosy open fire evoke the building’s rich history, while the large, characterful windows frame picture-perfect views of the surrounding hills and bathe the rooms in natural light.
Tastefully styled with a blend of modern comfort and traditional charm, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to ensure a truly relaxing and enjoyable stay. Here’s what you can look forward to:
- Free WiFi– stay connected during your stay with complimentary, reliable WiFi – ideal for checking walking routes, streaming a film after a long hike, or sharing your Dales adventures with friends and family.
- Economy 7 Central Heating – keep warm and toasty, whatever the season. The heating system ensures the cottage stays snug throughout your stay – especially lovely after a bracing walk on the fells or a cycle through the valley. There is also an open fire in the living room for additional heat.
- Well-Equipped Kitchen & Comfortable Living Spaces – the heart of the home, the kitchen is stocked with all the essentials you need to cook hearty breakfasts or laid-back evening meals. Enjoy dinner around the table, then curl up in the lounge with a good book or your favourite show. The open fire adds a magical glow on cooler evenings – perfect for toasting your toes or sharing stories over a glass of wine.
- Secure Bike Storage – for the cyclists in your group, there’s a garage for a secure place to store your bikes. No need to worry about bringing them inside or leaving them in the car – your gear will be safe and ready for the next ride.
- All Bed Linen, Towels, Electricity & an Initial Supply of Coal Included – pack light and settle straight in. Soft, freshly made beds, fluffy towels, and all electricity costs are covered. You’ll also have a starter supply of coal for the fire, so you can enjoy your first night by the flames with no fuss.
- Two Well-Behaved Dogs Welcome – no need to leave your four-legged family members behind – The Arches warmly welcomes two well-behaved dogs. With scenic walks and open countryside right on your doorstep, it’s the perfect place for your pups to explore.
- Parking – free roadside parking is available throughout the village. You’ll often find a space right outside the cottage. Paid parking is also available in the village car park.
Explore, Discover, and Unwind – The Perfect Dales Escape
Whether you’re an avid walker, a keen cyclist, or simply someone who loves to soak up the atmosphere of a beautiful village in an incredible setting, Muker is the ideal destination. Nestled in the heart of Upper Swaledale, this tranquil and unspoiled village offers visitors the very best of the Yorkshire Dales – breathtaking landscapes, rich local history, and warm hospitality.
Step out of the door at The Arches and into an adventure. Here’s why Muker and the surrounding area make such a fantastic place to visit:
- Packed with Character – Muker may be small, but it has a big heart. Just 50 yards from the cottage, the Farmers Armsis a traditional Dales pub, now community owned, and loved by locals and visitors alike, offering a warm welcome and a great atmosphere – especially on sunny days when the conversation spills outside. You’ll also find a charming tearoom perfect for a slice of homemade cake and a cuppa, as well as a handy village store for any essentials – all just steps from your door. And for a quieter moment, don’t miss the delightful art gallery tucked away in the village. Showcasing local artists and inspired by the beauty of Swaledale and beyond, the gallery also features a peaceful garden where you can sit, relax, and soak up the atmosphere – a perfect spot for unwinding after a morning walk.
- Walking for Every Level – From gentle riverside strolls through traditional hay meadows (famous for their vibrant wildflowers in summer), to more challenging hikes up Great Shunner Fell, Swinner Gill, or along the Coast to Coast and Pennine Way, there’s no shortage of inspiring routes right from the doorstep of this holiday cottage.
- Cycling in Every Direction – explore the dramatic beauty of Swaledale on two wheels – whether you’re into road cycling or mountain biking, this area has it all. Tackle scenic road climbs like Kisdon Hill or Oxnop Gap, or head off-road along rugged trails through wild, open countryside. For a more relaxed ride, the family-friendly Swale Trail offers a stunning, mostly traffic-free valley route from Keld to Grinton. Bring your own bikes – there’s secure storage at the cottage – or hire everything you need locally from the excellent Dales Bike Centre in nearby Fremington.
- Surrounded by History and Beauty
The whole of Upper Swaledale is steeped in the legacy of its lead mining past and dotted with stunning natural features including Kisdon Force and waterfalls around Keld. The views alone are worth the trip, with every walk or drive offering a new postcard-worthy scene.
Whether you’re here to explore, unwind, or simply soak up the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales, The Arches is a special place to make lasting memories.
Further Afield – Days Out to Remember
While Muker offers peace, beauty, and plenty to explore right on the doorstep, there’s also a fantastic range of day trips within easy reach of The Arches. Whether you’re into food, history, scenic walks, or charming market towns, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
- Hawes – Just a short drive from Muker, over the spectacular Buttertubs Pass, Hawes is one of the most vibrant and best-loved market towns in the Yorkshire Dales. The drive itself is worth the journey – a dramatic and winding route with breathtaking views that’s popular with cyclists and photographers alike. Once in Hawes, visit the famous Wensleydale Creamery, where you can sample the iconic cheese made popular by Wallace & Gromit. Don’t miss the Dales Countryside Museum, which tells the story of rural life in the Dales, and take time to enjoy the town’s inviting cafés, tearooms, and an excellent fish and chip shop that’s a firm local favourite.
- Aysgarth and Aysgarth Falls – A must-see natural wonder, Aysgarth Falls is a series of stunning waterfalls on the River Ure, set within peaceful woodland and scenic walking trails. The falls famously featured in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, starring Kevin Costner – making it a must-visit for film fans and nature lovers alike. It’s also a brilliant picnic spot, especially after a wander through the nearby village of Aysgarth, with its cosy tearooms and relaxed, welcoming vibe.
- Tan Hill Inn – The Highest Pub in Britain – Just a scenic drive from Muker, you’ll find the Tan Hill Inn, officially the highest pub in Britain. Perched on the moors, it offers breathtaking views, hearty food, and a warm fire – the perfect stop after a day of walking or exploring.
- Leyburn & Richmond – The handsome market towns of Leyburn and Richmond are also within easy reach. In Leyburn, you’ll find quirky shops, galleries, and the famous Tennants Auctioneers, while Richmond boasts a historic castle, riverside walks, and an atmospheric Georgian town square.
- Yorkshire Three Peaks – Fancy a challenge? The Yorkshire Three Peaks – Pen-y-ghent, Ingleborough, and Whernside – are just around an hour’s drive from Muker. Whether you’re aiming to complete the full challenge or simply want to hike one of the peaks, it makes for an unforgettable day out in the great outdoors.
Helen –
Lovely cottage in a great location.
Francis –
The house is in a great location, far more spacious than expected and very well appointed. The weather was not great but didn’t spoil our enjoyment of staying at ‘The Arches’. WE hope to return in due course.
Miles –
Very comfortable house
Anna –
Really enjoyed our stay, cosy cottage in a beautiful location. Locals very friendly. Great pub.
David –
The cottage is extremely well kitted out, with a top class tea room and small general store in the village, just 40 metres away. There’s no garden but enough room to sit outside at the front and have an evening drink. We didn’t try the pub but it’s worth looking at the reviews for it ???? Fantastic walking from the door, and if the weather is good you can even swim in the river across the fields.
Donald –
Not enough stars too rate this property and the location! Walking in the Dale’s was amazing. The pub in the village was an experience with great food, drink, and a very amiable host. The weather is so changeable it doesn’t matter when you go, you will have great walks. The drive over the Buttertubs Pass in thrilling!
Tom –
Great position, very well appointed, beautifully cleaned, and clear instructions for everything.
Louise –
Really lovely cottage in a beautifully positioned village with great amenities – local pub, tea shop and village store as well as art galleries and gift shops. You could walk straight from the door onto the Fells which was perfect for our dog.
Sophie –
Really lovely holiday home, right in the heart of some great scenery and walks. We felt very comfortable there and could want for nothing. Would love to stay again.
David –
Beautiful location in the Yorkshire Dales… close to many beautiful places and walks.
Aileen –
I booked the cottage for a family get-together with my uncle and aunt who were visiting from Australia and who had never been to the Yorkshire Dales before. There were 5 adults and one dog and the cottage was plenty big enough for us and really comfortable. The kitchen was well equipped and had everything we needed. The only thing we felt was missing was milk as the village shop was closed when we arrived but luckily our later arrivals managed to find a shop in another village en route. We loved Muker and spent the days out exploring – we even swam in the river! – and then sat out front with a beer every evening, basking in the sunshine (we were very lucky with the weather!). We would definitely stay again.
Scott & Amy –
We really enjoyed our stay here! The house is comfortable and well stocked. We loved exploring the little village of Muker. There is a tearoom, pub, art gallery, and woolen store in the village. Public footpaths and beautiful walks are in all directions. One suggestion, shop before your arrival and bring your groceries with you.
Gillian –
Beautiful house in a lovely Dales village. There are great walks straight from the front door, and the pub had great food. We had a fantastic stay and Hannah is a great host, with quick communication.
Duane –
We loved this old cottage. The area could not be any more beautiful!!
Nick –
Lovely area, really nice and clean house!
Mark –
Fabulous location and excellent communication from Hannah. Very characterful property offering tranquillity.
Andrew –
Amazing house, plenty of walks nearby and a pub within walking distance (although make sure you book if you’re planning on eating there)
Kat –
Absolutely perfect house in an idyllic location. Our 3 year old loved the toys that were provided and we all loved the comfy beds, well stocked kitchen and beautiful surroundings!
Jo –
Great location of cottage. Well stocked kitchen Plenty of space. Shop doesn’t have set opening times so take supplies as closest is 20 minutes away. No garden to let dog out for late night business but some grass outside fine with a lead and it’s so dark no one can see you in your pj’s. Sofa’s are very hard and uncomfortable which is a shame as much needed after long walks
Peter –
Very comfortable and relaxing holiday in a lovely part of the world. Exactly as described. Wonderful position
Clive –
Fantastic place. The only thing that can improve is the pub re-opening
Louise –
This is a great house in a fabulous location in Muker. The house was well equipped for a short stay, warm and comfortable. There are some amazing walks straight out of the door to Keld, Gunnerside and Thwaite, and a 15 minute drive over the buttertubs pass to Hawes and the walks in wensleydale which was also spectacular. The free coal, plenty of toys and games for children were much appreciated. We would definitely stay at the house again, and my only reason for giving it four stars is that some of the crockery wasn’t cleaned from previous guests use.
Rachael –
Stunning location, beautiful views fantastic for walking . Unfortunately we didn’t have good weather storms Eunice and Franklin put pay to that! Communication with the owner was fantastic and she was very helpful. Lots of games, maps and books if you need some indoor entertainment. If you like walking definitely the place to stay. Just be aware that the pub is closed Monday , Tuesday and the little village shop opens when it wants. Make sure you have some provisions just in case.
Helena –
Great cottage in a fantastic location. There was an initial hiccup however this was resolved very quickly and we had a fabulous stay.
Jonathan –
Hannah was really helpful and the cottage is great and in a great location for hiking the Pennine way. Highly reccomend
David –
A beautiful, well equipped cottage in traditional style, especially for families. Lovely location and wonderful pub with amazing food right next door. Our only (slight) criticism is that the sofas in the lounge were a little uncomfortable. Not so bad that we would not like to return. Thank you for a great holiday
Linda –
This is a lovely spacious cottage which had everything we required. It is in a very beautiful area of Swaledale and has the advantage of an excellent pub next door and easy access to lots of small villages close by.
Sian –
The Arches is a beautiful cottage in a lovely village. We loved exploring Swaledale and Muker is a great base – it’s really quiet and slightly off the beaten track. The house is really pretty with comfy beds and a good shower – it’s basically everything you need! We’ll definitely be staying there again.
Ernie –
Lovely area and great walks. Good location for a visit
Steven –
We had a super family reunion in Muker thanks in no small part to the perfect accommodation. Clean, comfortable, connected and sharp knives in the kitchen… a rarity. Stunning countryside for long walks with an excellent pub nearby.
Gillian –
Very cosy and comfortable cottage with all of the facilities you would need to self- cater or just relax and unwind. The only warning we would give is to book very far in advance to be able to eat out for several miles as most dales pubs were closed Monday and Tuesday and they had been fully booked for weeks so we had to eat takeaways . We did manage delicious cheese and chutney from the Wensleydale creamery which is well worth a visit. But really disappointing not to enjoy the local pub which looked lovely and inviting .
John –
A great stay in a lovely property, very homely and comfortable. The location in Swaledale is stunning, with lots of walks straight from the door, a great pub that does fabulous food and a lovely teashop.
Julie –
Perfect location for us for hiking. Good cooking facilities and the option of the pub in the village. We had a perfect stay.
Jess –
Great location and amazing scenery on your doorstep
Paul –
A beautiful and remote area, which was great for walks in the Yorkshire Dales. The house was very comfortable and well kept. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay.
Chris –
Great location, very authentic Yorkshire Dales cottage! Lovely fire, all the fuel provided. Had a nice couple of days.
Ben –
Can’t recommend this cottage enough for a stay in the yorkshire dales. Muker is a very small quaint village with only the sounds of tractors to distract from the peace and quiet and animal calls. There is a small village shop to provide the basics, with a large tesco around 40 minutes away. We found it created a great base to explore the dales by car and foot with beautiful walks starting just outside the door. The cottage itself provided everything we needed for the four of us to have a relaxed stay and set us up for the week. It is obviously a very old building so there isn’t an abundance of plug sockets, but an extension lead was provided downstairs. The view from the bedroom window in the morning is something truly special. Thank you for a great stay 🙂
Janet –
Nice cottage in a beautiful location. Owner was helpful with any issues. Would recommend
Wendy –
Great location for walking, well equipped cottage, value for money.
My friends and I have had a fantastic weekend staying at the Arches. Great location for walking and even managed a swim in the river. Very well equipped, would recommend to friends.
Lynda – Anne –
Lovely cottage in a fantastic area. Highly recommend a trip to the Farmer’s Arms where the beer, food and service is outstanding.
Emma –
Excellent stay in a cottage that manages to be cozy and spacious at the same time, in the perfect location. 2 mins walk to the pub, the tea room, the village shop and craft center and the beginning of the walking trails that go in every direction for as long as you wish. The beds were comfortable, the shower had lots of very hot water and the kitchen was well stocked for cooking. I would highly recommend this cottage and this village. We loved every minute of it.
Jane –
We have had a wonderful week in The Arches. Such a perfectly located cosy comfortable cottage. Muker is a gorgeous village and this is the perfect place to enjoy it. The coal fire was a treat on cold nights and we enjoyed sitting on the sunny doorstep in the afternoons. Very well equipped with everything you might need. We will definitely come back.