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The Nidderdale Way

At 53 miles, this long distance circular footpath was devised in the 1980s and has quickly become a favourite amongst continuous trail walkers.

  • Yorkshire

  • 6 nights
  • Half Board
  • Long Distance Paths

    Landscape

  • May

    Jul

    Aug

    Oct

  • Average group size: 10-12

Moderate

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Walking grade

Grade 5

This is a Grade 5 holiday which includes full days walks with moderate amounts of ascent and descent. The route covers some varied terrain with some relatively easy riverside paths, moderate Dale side terrain and a few steep but short inclines. Paths are mostly good.

The route is continuous, covering the long distance trail which we do in manageable daily sections (between 10 and 12 miles each day). Walks will last up to 5.5 hours and involve between 200m - 500m of ascent and descent.

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Classic Collection

Thoughtfully designed, meticulously planned, carefully graded, and expertly guided walking tours and hiking holidays along well-loved and off-the-beaten-track footpaths.

Overview

Holiday Highlights

  • Walk the 53-mile-long distance circular path over five walking days, starting and ending at Brimham Rocks.
  • Visits to the villages of Pateley Bridge, Middlesmoor, Ripley and Ramsgill.
  • View some of Yorkshire’s famous sights such as Ripley Castle, How Stean Gorge and the natural grit stone sculptures at Brimham Rocks.
  • Contrasting landscapes and good old-fashioned British scenery.
  • Accommodation in the centre of Harrogate.

Spanning an impressive 53 miles, the Nidderdale Way, conceived in the 1980s, has swiftly risen to prominence as a beloved trail for continuous walkers. Traditionally initiated from the quaint town of Pateley Bridge, home to England's oldest sweet shop, the trail unfolds over four stages. However, our meticulously crafted holiday extends for six nights, affording five blissful days of walking, granting ample time to savor the numerous intriguing highlights along the route. While the Nidderdale Way predominantly meanders along low-lying terrain, there are moments when it ascends above the valley floor, providing a varied experience.

This journey is an enchanting exploration of subtly shifting landscapes within the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, established in 1994 to safeguard the area's rich heritage and distinctive character.

Along the way, you'll encounter some of Yorkshire's most renowned landmarks. Ripley Castle, adorned with a deer park and gardens masterfully designed by Capability Brown, stands as a testament to both natural beauty and historical grandeur. Noteworthy too is the awe-inspiring How Stean Gorge, a limestone marvel, as well as the striking Guisecliff buttresses and the captivating natural gritstone sculptures at Brimham Rocks.

Charming ancient villages will greet us along our path, as will the gentle meandering of the River Nidd and the serene expanse of Gouthwaite Reservoir, teeming with a diverse array of birdlife.

Your journey commences and concludes at the striking Brimham Rocks. Convenient transportation will be provided to take you to the trailhead each day, ensuring a seamless return to the picturesque town of Harrogate at day's end.

  • En suite three-star hotel accommodation on a half board basis
  • All local transport required for the itinerary by private coach
  • Services of a Classic Tour Leader
  • Entrance fees (unless otherwise specified)
  • Personal expenses (such as your bar bill)
  • Lunches
  • Discretionary tips
  • Optional excursions
  • Travel insurance

Holiday Information

Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.

NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen

View Holiday Information Sheet

Tour Codes

79756

Itinerary & Travel

Itinerary Details

Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival day

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

Independent arrival at The Crown Hotel Harrogate. Check in is from 3pm. Dinner each evening is in the hotel restaurant. 

Day 2

Brimham Rocks to Lofthouse

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    5.5 hours

  • Distance

    11.6 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    404/495m

The tour starts at Brimham Rocks - the amazing collection of natural rock formations. You will walk downhill to Pateley Bridge then follow the River Nidd leading up the valley. The route passes Gouthwaite Reservoir and Low Sikes, walk past Nidd Heads before finishing at Lofthouse. 

Day 3

Lofthouse to Studfold Farm

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    5.5 hours

  • Distance

    9.8 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    486/481m

Today you will walk from Lofthouse and ascend to Scar House Reservoir, the largest dam in Britain when it was finished in 1936. It takes in one of the most photographed churches in Britain in Middlesmoor to Nidderdale's natural wonder, How Stean Gorge, before finishing at Studfold.

Day 4

Studfold Farm to Nought Moor

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    5 hours

  • Distance

    12 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    551/445m

This is probably the most challenging section of the holiday. There is a steep section coming out of Wath across fields on the diverted Nidderdale Way. The route takes you along the side of the valley to Ramsgill, climb up to see the old lead mine and descend to Bewerley before climbing to Nought Moor.

Day 5

Nought Moor to Hampsthwaite

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    5.25 hours

  • Distance

    10.5 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    212/417m

Start up on the moor, passed Yorke's Folly, which can be rough underfoot, then downhill to the river. This walk includes the gritstone crag which rivals Brimham Rocks for views. Continue along the river then uphill through the woods, back along the river and around Birstwith and into Hampsthwaite, finishing by the church.

Day 6

Hampsthwaite to Brimham Rocks

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    5 hours

  • Distance

    11.4 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    464/265m

You cross over fields, tracks and bridleways for a moderate walk featuring the ancestral seat of the Ingilby family for 28 generations at Ripley Castle, continue along Clayton Gill, walk through farmland and finish back at the rock formation at Brimham Rocks where you started the holiday. There will be time to explore these dramatic moorland rock formations before transport takes us back to your hotel. 

Day 7

Departure day

Meals

Breakfast

Independent departure after breakfast. Check out is by 11am. 

We hope you have enjoyed your holiday and we look forward to welcoming you on another soon. 

Departure dates for your selected tour

4th May 2025 - 10th May 2025 (6 Nights)

27th Jul 2025 - 2nd Aug 2025 (6 Nights)

24th Aug 2025 - 30th Aug 2025 (6 Nights)

5th Oct 2025 - 11th Oct 2025 (6 Nights)

Ramble Worldwide map graphic of Nidderdale and surrounding area for walking holiday The Nidderdale Way

Travel Details

Private coach transport to and from the trailheads each walk day is included.

Please note,  if you choose to drive to the Crown Hotel, car parking is very limited and is on a first come, first served basis. If you are able to park at the hotel, the hotel charges a surcharge of £12 per day. Reception staff can assist with nearby street parking if required, however street parking is likely to be charged on the meter. There are various other chargeable car parks in the town and Park and Ride options which you may wish to use. For more information please see:

Harrogate Parking | Car Parks - Visit Harrogate

The hotel is located about 0.5 mile from Harrogate train and bus stations.

Accommodation

Accommodation information

Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.

The Crown Hotel Harrogate

We stay at the three-star Crown Hotel situated in the heart of the charming old town of Harrogate. Just a few minutes walk from the Turkish Baths, Royal Pump Rooms, Betty's Tea Rooms and Valley Gardens. The hotel was built over 300 years ago as a private house and was renovated in the 19th Century for Victorian visitors to go to the pump room. Due to the age of the building, we ask that you are sympathetic to its style and note that this is not a modern hotel. This comfortable and affordable hotel has been chosen for its excellent location to the town and the public transport links as well as being in a perfect location to complete the holiday itinerary. 

The hotel has 115 individually styled bedrooms, each with simple décor and offering 24-hour room service, complimentary Wi-Fi, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities. There are no fridges in the rooms. Bedrooms all vary in size and location within the hotel building. Please note that single occupancy bedrooms are small and have a single bed. 

Breakfasts and dinners are taken at the hotel. Meals are served in either the historic Churchill Suite or the Brasserie Restaurant. Breakfasts are buffet style and evening meals will be offered from a set menu with a choice of dishes. 

Like many city centre hotels, car parking is very limited and is on a first come first served basis. Because parking is at premium in Harrogate, the hotel charges £12.00 per night. If you do park at the hotel, you will need to advise the reception team that you have parked onsite and obtain parking permits for your stay. If the car park is full then we recommend the following alternatives: Montpellier Shoppers (Postcode for Satnav HG1 2TF) – 2-minute walk away - £11.00 per 24 hours, Jubilee Car Park (postcode for Satnav HG1 1DJ) – 5-minute walk away - £14.00 per 24 hours. There are also several off-street parking options available close by: Cornwall Road, Harlow Moor Drive and Duchy Road. Please check any parking restrictions before leaving your vehicle.

Trip Information

All the details you need

Holiday Grade

This is a Grade 5 holiday which includes full days walks with moderate amounts of ascent and descent. The route covers some varied terrain with some relatively easy riverside paths, moderate Dale side terrain and a few steep but short inclines. Paths are mostly good.

The route is continuous, covering the long distance trail which we do in manageable daily sections (between 10 and 12 miles each day). Walks will last up to 5.5 hours and involve between 200m - 500m of ascent and descent.

Walks & Excursions

Local Transport Costs

In the holiday cost, we have included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.

Optional Excursions

At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.

Spending Money

Holiday Budgeting

When budgeting for your holiday, you will need to consider drinks, non-included entrance fees, optional excursions you may choose to participate in locally and any souvenirs or additional services such as laundry. 

Tipping

In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.

Tour Leaders & Local Guides

Tour Leaders

Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations.  Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.

Leader's Evening Briefing

Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.

Your Travel Details

To reach the hotel…

by car: From the A1 North – Exit the A1(M) junction 47 to Harrogate. Follow the A661 for Harrogate town centre into West Park one way system. After the second pedestrian crossing turn left down Montpelier Hill. The Crown Hotel is at the bottom.

From the A1 South – Exit at Wetherby onto the A661 following signs for Harrogate town centre. Follow the A661 for Harrogate town centre into West Park one way system. After the second pedestrian crossing, turn left down Montpelier Hill. The Crown Hotel is at the bottom.

by rail: The nearest railway station is Harrogate which is a 10 minute walk to the hotel. There are trains from London Kings Cross amongst other places.

by coach: The nearest bus station is at Harrogate. The coach station is in the town centre just off Station Parade, which is less than 100 metres from the railway station.

You may also wish to look at the following website for advice on the best way to travel to the accommodation: www.rome2rio.com 

The AA and RAC both offer free and detailed on-line route planning facilities on their websites which may help you find our hotels. Details can be found at: www.theaa.co.uk and www.rac.co.uk 

Please check the time of dinner on arrival at the hotel, and aim to be in the hotel bar half an hour before dinner (approximately 7pm) for an introduction to your tour leader, an outline of the planned programme for your holiday and the chance to meet your walking companions.

Please note, if you choose to drive to the Crown Hotel, car parking is very limited and is on a first come first served basis. If you are able to park at the hotel, the hotel charges a surcharge of £12 per day. Reception staff can assist with nearby street parking if required, however street parking is likely to be charged on the meter. 

Personal Details Check

To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.

Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.

You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.

Footwear & Kit List

Footwear

Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good, moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are strongly recommended and may be essential for some walks.

General Kit List

Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.

If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:

  • Waterproof jacket (Goretex or similar) and trousers
  • Lightweight quick-drying trousers
  • Walking T-shirt/shirts
  • Walking socks
  • Fleece or jumper
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, lip salve and sun block
  • Warm hat and gloves (if appropriate)
  • Swimwear & towel (if appropriate)
  • Day sack (this should be able to carry all you would need for the day's activity)
  • Day sack liner
  • Water bottle - at least 1 litre capacity (more than 1 bottle may be required)
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Lunchbox
  • Walking poles (should you find them useful)
  • Sit mat

This list is not exhaustive, and every walker is different and may have their own preference.

Travel Documents Checklist

Documents and Information to take with you:

  • Holiday money
  • Credit or debit cards (and separate details of who to call if lost)
  • Car parking ticket and car park directions (if prebooked)
  • Coach or rail travel tickets (if prebooked)
  • Holiday booking confirmation document
  • Travel insurance details (if applicable)
  • Details of any medical condition or allergy your holiday leader should know about

Water To Go

Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.

Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.

As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWH17 during your order.                        

Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!

Maps, Guidebooks & Other Information

Maps, Guidebooks & More

Ordnance Survey Explorer Map (1:25,000)

OL2 Yorkshire Dales Southern and Western Area
OL30 Yorkshire Dales Northern and Central Area
289 Leeds, Harrogate, Wetherby and Pontefract
297 Lower Wharfedale and Washburn Valley
298 Nidderdale
299 Ripon and Boroughbridge

The Map Shop

If you cannot find the maps or books locally, we recommend:

The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England

Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com

If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.

Weather

Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:

Staying Healthy On Holiday

Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Health Advice for United Kingdom

No compulsory immunisations are required for holidays in the UK although you should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended for life in Britain. Tetanus immunisation is recommended.

Further Travel Advice

For further advice please visit:

You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.

Travel Insurance

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.

If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.


Personal Safety

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.

When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!

Cultural Awareness

Responsible Travel

We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust

Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust is passionate about making the outdoors more accessible for more people from all communities. We grant funds to many organisations and have recently partnered with Mind Over Mountains, Adaptive Grand Slam, and other groups to create an enduring impact on people’s lives and to support them to enjoy the outdoors. In addition, the Trust makes many small grants to local organisations such as Ramblers Groups, Walkers are Welcome, My kind of Books and recently provided a small grant, via his scouting group, to enable a young man whose family had fallen on hard times to complete his DofE Gold award.

Patron of the Trust is the renowned explorer, Mark Wood. Over 20 years Mark has undertaken expeditions to some of the most remote parts of our planet. Our shared values make for an exciting partnership, and we believe that by standing shoulder to shoulder we can encourage people from all communities to enjoy being active outdoors in whatever way suits them best.

For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.

Heart and Sole

We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.

Staying In Touch

Mobile Phones

Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilize this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.

Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last-minute updates concerning your travel plans.

In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or try to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimize the use of mobile devices. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.

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