Places to Visit, Things to do & Eat Local
Thornbrook Barn is superbly situated for a short break or holiday in the Dales......
Venture into the immediate area surrounding our site, and you'll discover the quaint hamlet of Thornton-in-Lonsdale, just North of Ingleton. A mere ten-minute walk from the site leads you to the enchanting Church of St. Oswald, dating back to the 12th Century. : Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the creator of Sherlock Holmes, tied the knot in this very church! Right across from the church, you'll find the Marton Arms pub, an independently owned freehouse with a beer garden. Plus, it's dog-friendly.
Conveniently located opposite the site entrance on the A65 is Country Harvest. This versatile establishment is a combined food shop, gift shop, and coffee shop, open seven days a week. With ample free parking, including space for caravans and motorhomes, Country Harvest provides a wide array of offerings such as fresh produce and locally sourced meat. A selection of cheeses, eggs, milk and freshly baked bread and cakes. They also offer ready-made meals along with wine and local beer. Here too you will find great options for your BBQ and picnic items for your days away from the site. There is also a licensed coffee shop serving hot meals, including breakfast and snacks throughout the day. Operating daily from 9 am to 5 pm (Sunday 10 am to 5 pm); it's the perfect place to refuel and relax.
Explore Ingleton:
Nestled just over half-a-mile from Thornbrook Barn, Ingleton village beckons with its charm and amenities, making it an ideal destination. A pleasant walk with fine views, here's what you can discover in the village:
-
Shopping Delight: Explore a few gift shops including Stonegate glass studio and gallery and Gingerbugs a gift shop with arts and crafts produced mainly by locally talented makers and designers. There is a small Co-operative Store (ATM inside), a chemist, and a household store.
-
Culinary Variety: Indulge your taste buds with options ranging from a Fish & Chip shop to a selection of cafes, tea rooms, an Italian Bistro, and pubs. Don't miss out on the popular microbar, ice-cream parlour and restaurants for a delightful dining experience.
-
Ingleton Pottery: Located under the viaduct near the river, Ingleton Pottery is a family-run business crafting high-fired hand-thrown stoneware pottery. You can opt for workshop tours and demonstrations to witness the artistry up close.
-
River Confluence: Witness the meeting point of the River Twiss from Kingsdale and the River Doe from Chapel-le-Dale, forming the beautiful River Greta in the centre of the village.
-
Family-Friendly Attractions:
-
Outdoor Play Area/ Park: By the River Doe, delight in a wonderful outdoor play area/park for families to enjoy.
-
Heated Outdoor Swimming Pool: Open from late May to early September, the heated outdoor swimming pool offers a refreshing dip. In early and late season the pool is open for cold water swimming. Adult-only sessions are available throughout the season. Prebook your sessions online.
-
Ingleton Indoor Climbing Wall: Located in the village centre, the Ingleton Indoor Climbing Wall welcomes participants of all ages. Equipment is supplied, and instruction is available for climbers of all skill levels.
-
Places to visit
The Waterfalls Trail: This famous walk is 4.5 miles alongside the River Twiss and then the River Doe, there are refreshment stops en-route. The river meets in the village to form the Greta, later joining the River Lune at Lancaster. The entrance to the trail is half-a-mile from the site. There is an entrance fee of £10.00 per adult and £5.00 per child. Parking is free for ticket holders, although you can walk in a few minutes from our site to the entrance. (2024 rate).
Discover the Scenic Beauty on Foot....For the avid hiker or casual stroller, Thornbrook Barn offers a gateway to an array of walking adventures:
-
Three Peaks Walk: Embark on the challenging Three Peaks Walk, covering 24.5 miles in one day or split over three days. Whernside, the highest at 736m, Ingleborough at 723m, and Pen-y-ghent at 694m present a triumphant trek.
-
Local Strolls and Hikes:
-
Kingsdale Circuit: Explore Kingsdale with a circular walk covering 12 miles, passing through Scales Moor and Twisleton Scar. For a shorter adventure, opt for the 7-mile Kingsdale circuit, showcasing limestone scenery with captivating 'pots' and caves.
-
Turbary Road Exploration: Walk the Turbary Road, uncovering Rowten Pot and Yordas Cave on the way.
-
Ingleborough and the Dales: Access Ingleborough from the site via Ingleton village center, a roughly 7.5-mile roundtrip journey. For a more strenuous hike, venture into Lancashire, incorporating 'Gragareth,' one of the highest mountains in Lancashire.
-
Westhouse Walks: Take advantage of local walks starting near the site, known as 'Westhouse Walks,' detailed in a printed guide or downloadable PDF.
-
Edith's Wood: Enjoy a leisurely stroll around 'Edith's Wood,' a 7-hectare plantation of native deciduous trees, featuring a charming stream and views of Ingleborough, surrounded by pastures, stone walls, and limestone outcrops.
-
Austwick & Clapham: A short drive or bus journey to Austwick and Clapham unveils opportunities to explore the Norber Boulders, visit the small hamlet of Feizor, and witness the May bloom of Bluebells in Oxenber Wood on a circular walk from Austwick. In Clapham, access Ingleborough via Trow Gill and Gaping Ghyll.
-
The varied landscapes and marked footpaths offer an open invitation to savor the breathtaking views and indulge in a leisurely picnic by the rivers and streams. Lace up your boots and embrace the beauty on foot!
The Settle to Carlisle Railway : Known as 72 miles of scenic beauty this journey is popular with locals and visitors alike. The train can be joined at Settle or Ribblehead. At Ribblehead Station there is a visitor centre run by Settle & Carlisle Visitor Trust giving information about the construction of the line in the 1870's. The itv drama series Jericho was based on a shanty village during the construction of Ribblehead Viaduct (7 miles) and scenes were filmed there.
The Great Stone of Fourstones lies on the border of North Yorkshire & Lancashire above Bentham. The stone, a glacial erratic is 5.5m high with 14 steps carved out of it. Great views of the Three Peaks! (5.8m)
Hoffman Kiln, Langcliffe (12m) Visitors can walk around the interior of the huge lime kiln and there are other sites of interest within the surrounding area - marked out as the 'Craven Limeworks trail'. Signboards along the trail explain the history of the kiln. This is one of only two such kilns that remain in England that used the continuous burning method. 2 miles North of Settle just off the B6479
Explore Nearby Attractions:
During your stay at Thornbrook Barn, there are several delightful attractions and towns in the surrounding area to discover:
-
Ingleborough Cave (5 miles): Take a scenic 1.2-mile walk from Clapham to Ingleborough Cave, passing by the lake, alongside the stream, and through woods. Enjoy a guided tour of the cave, which is accessible for single infant pushchairs. Dogs are allowed on short leads.
-
Settle (11 miles): The bustling market town of Settle offers a variety of shops and a larger supermarket. Enjoy the indoor swimming pool (check opening times at tel: 01729 823626) and admire the panoramic view from Castleberg Crag. Settle Station is the starting point for the famous Settle - Carlisle Railway journey.
-
Hawes (16 miles): Take a scenic drive via Widdale to reach Hawes, one of England's highest towns at 850ft above sea level. Tour the Wensleydale Cheese Factory, made famous by Wallace & Gromit, and enjoy the coffee shop, restaurant, and gift shop. Explore attractions like the Dales Museum, Hardraw Force, and the nearby Semerwater Lake.
-
Kirkby Lonsdale (6 miles): This small market town offers quality shopping, great cafes, pubs, and restaurants. Visit the historic Devils Bridge, stroll alongside the River Lune, and enjoy the picturesque 'Ruskins View.' Don't miss the popular Kirkby Lonsdale Brewery based in the Royal Barn.
-
Clapham (5 miles): An attractive village with stunning features, including a picturesque church, a beck, and lovely walks like the Norber Boulders and Trow Gill. Explore the Ingleborough Estates Nature Trail and Ingleborough Cave. Clapham also provides access to the twice-yearly Gaping Ghyll Winch.
- Lords Antiques (0.7 miles): This antique emporium, located just 0.7 miles away, is one of the largest in the North West. Home to over 60 reputable antique dealers, it's a treasure trove of vintage and salvage items.
- Malham (18 miles): Enjoy a scenic drive via Upper Settle to Malham Cove, a stunning amphitheatre-shaped cliff formation of limestone rock. The vertical cliff face rises about 260 feet high, with a large limestone pavement at the top. Walk the short distance to Goredale Scar, a vast gorge with a waterfall, and visit Janets Foss, a charming woodland waterfall.
- Bentham (4 miles): Explore this traditional small town, offering a selection of local independent shops. A couple of miles above Bentham, don't miss the 'Great Stone of Fourstones,' locally known as the Big Stone. From this vantage point, enjoy panoramic views of the Three Peaks, Lakeland Fells, and the Howgills.
-
Stocks Reservoir & Forest of Bowland (13 miles): Take a stunning drive from the site via Keasden to reach Stocks Reservoir. Enjoy an 8-mile circular walk around the reservoir, with a stop at the Fishermans Lodge cafe halfway around. The area offers fly fishing and graded/marked mountain bike trails in Gisburn Forest, along with excellent meals and drinks at the Forest Hub Cafe.
-
Whitescar Caves (2 miles from Ingleton): Located on the B6255 to Hawes, Whitescar Caves are one of Britain's largest tourist caverns.
-
Grassington (30 miles): Step into the fictional market town of Darrowby from the TV series 'All Creatures Great & Small.' Cobblestone streets, a grand town hall, a bustling market square, and an array of cafes, pubs, and independent shops await you in this charming market town.
A little further afield........Kendal 22m, Windermere 27m, Ambleside 31m, Skipton 26m, Stocks Reservoir and the Forest of Bowland 13m, Morecambe 20m, Grange-over-Sands (24m) Buttertubs Pass 22m Bolton Abbey & Estate 32m
With a variety of natural wonders, historical sites, and charming towns nearby, Thornbrook Barn offers a gateway to diverse experiences.
Snaizholme Red Squirrel Trail lies in the heart of Widdale Red Squirrel Reserve. The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority and local landowners have created the red squirrel viewing area for the public at Snaizeholme, so you can see them in the wild (approx 14 miles drive to the car parking layby area).
RSPB Leighton Moss Nature Reserve: (16m): Silverdale. The reserve boasts the largest reed-bed in Northwest England, creating a haven for diverse flora and fauna. This natural habitat is particularly known for hosting a variety of bird species, including Avocets, Bittens, Marsh Harriers, and more.
Cautley Spout and the Howgill Fells (20m) Cautley Spout is the highest above ground waterfall in England at an impressive 198m (broken cascade). Although in the Yorkshire Dales National Park it is actually in Cumbria.
Dent (9m) A picturesque Dales village with its cobbled lanes is accessible via a stunning drive through Kingsdale. The journey, along a single-track road adorned with passing places and gates to open, offers a scenic adventure.
Take a leisurely stroll through the village and explore the quaint tearooms, gift shops, and a couple of welcoming pubs.
Castles and Stately homes - there are seven within 30 miles!:
Sizergh Castle (16m): The castle has been the Strickland Family home for more than 750yrs and it remains their home today. Set in beautifully landscaped garden (National Trust) and the castle is based on a 14th Century Pele Tower.
Lancaster Castle (17m): Is still a working prison and court. It is possible to take a one hour guided tour which usually includes Shire Hall with its collection of heraldy, the old cells and Hadrians Tower.
Skipton (23m): One of Englands most complete medieval castles with over 900 years of turbulent history.
Castle Bolton (29m): Over 600yrs old, dominating Wensleydale this well preserved castle was a priston to Mary Queen of Scotts in 1568.
Leighton Hall Stately Home (16m) Stunning home, gardens and parkland.
Holker Hall & Parkland (28m) Dating back to the 16th century; this vast estate offers home and garden tours throughout the Summer months as well as seasonal walks and events.
Castle Bolton (29m): Over 600yrs old, dominating Wensleydale this well preserved castle was a priston to Mary Queen of Scotts in 1568.
Sporting Activities: Ingleton is a great base for organised activities (with instruction and equipment provided. There are a couple of local companies who offer such activities: Caving, Abseiling, Climbing, Guided Walks and Navigation Training with the Yorkshire Dales Guides. Canyoning, ghyll scrambling, climbing and abseiling is available with Verticle Skills based in the village. Suitable for small groups and individuals.
Horse riding: Greenhall Riding Centre runs children's farm rides, hacks and lessons. Tel: 01524261594
Angling on the River Greta at Ingleton require permits from the Ingleton Tourist Information Centre.
Indoor Climbing Wall - in the village centre Ingleton. Learn to climb, taster sessions and experienced climbs.
The area has some stunning Golf courses at Settle 10m, High Bentham 3.5m, Kirkby Lonsdale 8m, Casterton 5.6m, Sedbergh 17m, Silverdale 16m, Lancaster Golf Club 20m, Kendal 19m
Mountain Biking: & Cycling
The Pennine Bridleway-Yorkshire Dales Section: The nearest access to the bridleway from Thornbrook Barn Caravan Site is at Clapham (5m) along a quiet B road knows as Clapham Old Road (avoiding the A65). Walks and cycling can be enjoyed. Mapped out circular tours are accessible. More information is available on the National Trails websiite. There is a local trail known as The Crummock Dale Dabs Mountain Bike route from Clapham which is easily accessible from the site.
Further mountain biking can be enjoyed in Gisburn Forest set in the Trough of Bowland - 13miles from the site. Located in the North East corner of Lancashire and within the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Gisburn Forest offers fantastic mountain biking with beautiful views.
Cycling: Ingleton is on the National Cycle Network route 68. Further information on cycling in the Dales is available on the Sustrans cycle website.
Hosted Cycling events run throughout the year such as the Ecapetothedales and the Open Wheel
Bike Hire: Escape Bikes, Westhouse near Ingleton (1ml from the site) including 015242 41226
Local Bus Services: A 'hail & ride' bus service operates just a few metres from the site entrance. Service 581 and 583 operates approx every two hours between Kirkby Lonsdale. Sett;e, Skipton and Lancaster. Ideal for guests in Motorhomes!
Market Days Locally:
Settle-Tuesday
Hawes - Tuesday
Kirkby Lonsdale-Thursday
Skipton-Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday
Eat Local
There are lots of pubs, restaurants and cafes locally. Most accept dogs. Many are within an easy walk of Thornbrook Barn. At popular times it is advisable to book a table. The distance from the site entrance is shown in brackets below.
Country Harvest - The foodhall sells fruit & vegetable, fresh meat including sausages and bacon, eggs, cheeses, milk, fresh bread and cakes, cooked meats & pies, ready meals, wine and local beers. The licensed coffee shop serves hot meals and snacks throughout the day including breakfast. (100mtrs) Open 7 days per week 9am - 5pm (Sunday 10am-5pm)
Marton Arms Freehouse - around a 10 minute walk in Thornton-in-Lonsdale, close to the church. Open Thursday- Sunday.
Peaks & Troughs - On the High Street next to the Old Post Office. Bar & Restaurant. No dogs inside / outdoor dining area accepts dogs (1.1m)
Masons Freehouse- On the A65 in Ingleton. Family owned and run pub serving food. (0.8m) Open daily. Booking advisable 015242 42040
The Wheatsheaf - on the High Street in Ingleton. Great beer garden and a separate dining room. (1m) Open for drinks and food daily.
La Tavernetta - Open evenings. Booking essential. Takeaway Pizza Opposite the church in Ingleton. (0.9m)
Ingleton Chippy - Eat in or takeaway. (1m) Check their Facebook page for opening times.
Inglesport Cafe - Hot breakfasts all day, homemade soup, cakes and daily specials. Dogs welcome. (1.1m)
The Old Post Office- Microbar serving craft ale, world beers, artisan gin, whisky and rum. No food High Street, Ingleton (1.1m)
Bank Top Restaurant Quality wholesome food - open Friday & Saturday evenings. (0.9m)
The Craven Heifer A traditional village pub set on the Main Street serving good pub food with cask ales (Thwaites) Live Sporting evens shown. (1.1m)
G&T's - on the Main Street, Ingleton A cafe serving great coffee and cakes and light snacks (0.9m)
The Old Hill Inn, Chapel-le Dale- An old drovers inn between Ingleborough and Whernside, alongside the B6255 Ingleton to Hawes road. (5m)
Seasons Bakery (takeaway) Artisan bakery with award winning Sourdough bread. (1.5m via village centre route)
Ingleton Pizza - Takeaway Pizza & Kebabs (new 2023) Ingleton village centre
Sweet Petite - Set in the village square. Ingleton. Serving takeaway Brymor icecream, milkshakes, waffles along with tea/coffee and hot chocolate (0.8m)
The Milking Parlour, Kirkby Lonsdale - a family run artisan ice-cream parlour made using their own fresh local milk...cow to cone! (6m)
The Lunesdale Arms, Tunstall - Pub/restaurant specialising in a British take on Southern Mediterranean cuisine. Very popular - booking recommended for dinner. (5.6m)
The Highwayman – Tunstall (A Brunning & Price establishment) Contemporary décor serving modern British food. (6.7m)
The Game Cock Inn, Austwick - A Traditional Yorkshire Dales pub and restaurant with a cosy bar, real fire, award winning restaurant, delicious food with a French twist. Onsite bakery selling freshly baked goods; breads and patisserie lovingly crafted by Eric each day to takeaway (6.8m) Booking essential.
The Pheasant Inn, Casterton - A traditional 18th century coaching inn with seasonally changing menus with the best of local produce. Dogs welcome in the bar area. (6.3m)
Goat Gap Cafe - an eclectic mix of simple classics such as French onion soup and modern exciting recipes such as spiced shoulder of lamb with flat bread and cucumber dip. the kitchen is open planned so customers can see delicious food being prepared by Edward. Dog friendly (3.6m)
The Courtyard Dairy - Settle - More than just a cheese shop but for all things cheese! Tastings, workshops, cafe and shop, (8m)
Local Events & Themed Weekends
During the year both visitors and locals enjoy various themed weekends and festivals in and around Ingleton. Our site usually books up early for these dates!
Late April - 69th Three Peaks Fell Race
Early May BH - Kirkby Lonsdale Beer & Music Festival Kirkby Lonsdale RUFC
Early May BH – Wray Scarecrow Festival (7miles from the site)
Late May - Gaping Gill Winch Meet (Bradford Pothole Club)– Descend over 100m by chair/winch into the largest cavern in the UK. Turn up early! £15.00
Late May - Austwick Village Cuckoo Festival , Street Market & Fell Race 10.00am – 4.00pm
Mid June- Barbon Hill Climb - Regional Multi Championship meet @ Barbon Manor, Barbon LA6 2LJ
Mid June -Escape to the Dales Cycle Sportive
5th-7th July inc - ‘Operation Homeguard’ 1940’s Weekend in Ingleton
Mid July - Barbon Hill Climb Regional Multi Championship meet @ Barbon Manor, Barbon LA6 2LJ
15th July - Ingleton Village Gala & Mountain Race
Late August - Annual Gargrave Show, nr Skipton
Mid August- Gaping Gill Winch Meet (Craven Pothole Club) – Descent over 100m by chair/winch into the largest cavern in the UK. Turn up early! £15.00
Late August- Malhamdale Show
Late August - Wensleydale Agricultural Show, Leyburn
Late August - Reeth Show
Late August- Kilnsey Show
Early September Westmorland County Show, Kendal
Late September -60th Annual 3-Peaks Cyclo Cross Race
Early October - Annual Three Peaks Fell Race
In addition to the above events, organised locally are events by the Yorkshire Dales National Park (guided walks, talks, demonstrations and craft making workshops) and the Friends of Settle to Carlisle Railway who organise guided walks (free of charge) including short walks around Ribblehead Viaduct and Blea Moor Tunnel.
Accessible from Kingsdale, 1.5 miles from the site Twistleton Scar offers many circular walks even taking in Whernside and Chapel-le-Dale