Make the most of your visit


We all want that feel-good factor from our holiday.


And feeling that you are helping to look after the place you have chosen to visit can provide the biggest feel-good factor of all.


Love local


The Yorkshire Dales is justifiably famous for its locally-produced food and drink. From delicious free-range lamb and beef, to cheeses from Swaledale, Ribblesdale and, of course, Wensleydale! Then there are homemade jams, chutneys and ice-cream.


For those that like their ale there is a massive range of local breweries to choose from - Theakstons, Black Sheep, Dent, Copper Dragon - and a fine collection of micro-breweries to be discovered.


Businesses in and near the National Park recognise that they are operating in a special area and are proud of their green credentials. Many have taken actions to make their businesses more environmentally friendly and some have even gone the extra mile and been accredited under the Green Tourism Business Scheme - look out for the green leaf symbol.


Linton Laithe, run by the farming Metcalfe family in Linton, offers a local feel with luxury.


Many of our accommodation providers will offer great local fare as part of their menu choice.


For dates of farmers markets visit www.ndfm.co.uk, and for annual food festivals and shows selling regional produce browse our event pages 15-25.


There is a thriving network of local artists and craftspeople whose work is inspired by this stunning landscape and can provide the perfect way to remember your visit.


Explore from the door Whilst you are here why not take the opportunity to really get to know the local area. There is so much to see and do, and taking the time to explore will reveal those quirky features which make it all the more memorable.


Chris Wildman farms in Kirkby Malham and has set up an online meat business, Paganum


Respect…Protect…Enjoy


We want you to enjoy your visit - and for other people to enjoy themselves just as much after you have gone home - so please follow the Countryside Code:


• Be safe - plan ahead and follow any signs • Leave gates and property as you find them


• Protect plants and animals, and take your litter home


• Keep dogs under close control • Consider other people.


Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority and Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty are encouraging and supporting tourism businesses in taking simple measures to minimise threats to the environment, enhance visitors’ experience and reduce costs at the same time. Find out more at www. yorkshiredales.org.uk/sustainabletourism


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Rosemary Hyslop of Layhead Farm Cottages set up a local produce armchair shopping service for her visitors


Weekly car park tickets are great value if you are staying more than a few days. They are valid at all National Park and Richmondshire District Council car parks and available from National Park Centres (see page 5).


Look out for the Dales Bus logo - you’ll receive a discount on services on receipt of a valid bus or train ticket. There are lots of offers available, from a free cup of tea with your meal to reduced entry to an attraction.


Visit the Yorkshire Dales National Park online at www.yorkshiredales.org.uk


Why not ask your accommodation provider for ideas of what you can do straight from the door?


Keeping the Dales special


There are many ways to get involved. You could join one of the Friends organisations, such as Friends of the Dales Countryside Museum and enjoy access to special events, or Friends of the Three Peaks (see below).


You could plant a tree through the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust or support Donate to the Dales to help with conservation projects - National Park Centres and many businesses carry donation boxes and further information.


Be a pal of our Peaks


Yorkshire’s famous Three Peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough in the west of the National Park instil awe - and a challenge.


With over a quarter of a million people visiting each year our rangers and volunteers face a constant struggle to hold back footpath erosion.


Now those who use and love the area have the chance to give something back by joining the Friends of the Three Peaks.


As well as an annual membership fee of £10, Friends can help by undertaking or donating to fundraising activities, getting involved in maintenance as part of Ranger-led groups, buying or selling exclusive merchandise, and sharing their passion with others and encouraging them to join the scheme too.


Benefits include regular newsletters, an annual gift, invitations to events, meeting like-minded people, access to unique volunteering opportunities, and most importantly that they are helping to maintain good access to their favourite hills.


Ask at a National Park Centre about joining or visit www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/threepeaks


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