Three Days in Hawes: A Practical Base for the Yorkshire Dales

Hawes packs a market town, a waterfall and England's highest town into a few streets — here is how to pace three days from it.

Where to stay and when to come

Hawes rewards a two- or three-night stay rather than a day trip, because the best of it is on foot and early. May and June bring the longest light and the meadow flowers; September is quieter and still mild. July and August are busiest, particularly Saturdays, and the square fills with motorcycles. Late October to March is atmospheric but many tearooms close midweek, so check before booking a winter break outside Friday to Sunday.

For a hotel booking, the practical choice is a town-centre property within five minutes of Market Place, with parking, since street parking near the square is limited and time-restricted. Guesthouses on the fringes suit those with a car and no interest in an evening stroll. Book directly with the property where you can, and confirm whether breakfast is included, as it varies widely in this part of the Dales.

Questions, answered

Do I need a car to visit Hawes?

It helps. The nearest railway stations are Garsdale, about 6 miles away, and Ribblehead, and bus services along Wensleydale are infrequent. Without a car you can still walk to Hardraw and Gayle, but Aysgarth and Muker become difficult.

When is the best time to visit Hawes?

Late May and June for meadows and daylight, or September for quieter roads. July and August are busiest, especially Saturdays. Winter is atmospheric but many cafes open only at weekends, so confirm opening times before booking.

How many days do you need in Hawes?

Two nights covers the town, Hardraw Force and one valley drive. Three nights lets you add Aysgarth Falls and Muker without rushing, which is the pace this area rewards, given single-track lanes and slow traffic in summer.

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