24 Harrogate – Pateley Bridge

Journey Overview

This is a route that leaves stylish Harrogate with its upmarket shops and eateries, culture and fascination behind for a journey through the rugged Dales countryside to the idyllic market town of Pateley Bridge.

The bus finds its way to the delightful Killinghall village before travelling through the conservation area of Hampsthwaite village and onto Birstwith, which is also the gateway to some great walks through the Nidderdale countryside.

The bus then follows the River Nidd to Darley with its lovely village greens, Low Green and Stocks Green. The journey then ventures deep into the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding beauty, resplendent with wildlife and incredible scenery. Through Dacre and Dacre Banks – two charming hamlets then to Summerbridge and the village of Willsill with its Nidderdale Llama Trekking at Kiln Farm. One last climb awaits and as the bus tentatively enters Pateley Bridge, there’s stunning views to be had across the Nidderdale valley. Locally produced food and drink, fashions, antiques, gifts and much more await in this smashing town as well as wonderful cafes, pubs and tea room.

A Fab Day Out!

With maybe tea in Bettys to kickstart the journey in Harrogate, the first point to stop off at is Darley which offers a great circular walk from the playing fields to the riverbank and back to find Lily Bo-Peep’s lost sheep. This splendid sojourn is called Darley’s Who-Dun-It Trail and it sure is a good warm up for the next foray off the bus further on the journey at Summerbridge, which is the nearest stop for the breathtaking Brimham Rocks. It’s a scenic 1.5mile walk from the bus stop to the Rocks and if you venture on the bus, admission for the whole family is absolutely free! Here there are 400 acres of truly amazing rock formations created over 100 million years before the first dinosaurs walked the earth.

Back on the bus at Summerbridge and then the Nidderdale Llama Trekking at Kiln Farm. Booking is necessary for a half or full day llama or alpaca trek, with special routes for younger and older visitors, including those with a range of disabilities. Continuing the journey to Pateley Bridge, there’s so much to do here, including a visit to the workhouse which now hosts a museum and craft workshops and also interesting walks round the ginnels and courtyards, with their many gems and the award winning High Street.