Girls Weekend in the Yorkshire Dales – Yorkshire Girls Getaways

Why the Yorkshire Dales is a Dreamy Girls Weekend Destination

If you’re looking for a mix of stunning scenery, cosy charm, and just the right amount of indulgence, a girls weekend in the Yorkshire Dales ticks every box. With its rolling green hills, picture-perfect stone villages, artisan shops, and welcoming country pubs, this national park offers the ideal setting for girls' weekend breaks in Yorkshire.

Wander through charming market towns like Grassington and Hawes, sip tea in tearooms, browse local crafts, or enjoy a long walk followed by a roaring fire and a glass of wine in a traditional pub. And when its time to unwind? Think boutique-style cottages, private spa treatments, and countryside views from the hot tub.

This guide is packed with ideas to help you plan the ultimate girls’ escape—from where to stay and what to pack, to must-visit spots and memorable experiences. Ready to get inspired? Let’s dive into your perfect Yorkshire Dales retreat.

Best Places in the Yorkshire Dales for a Girls’ Getaway

Whether you’re after peace and pampering or a weekend packed with exploring, this stunning region has plenty of perfect places to base your stay. From lively market towns to tranquil villages surrounded by iconic landscapes, here are some of the best towns in the Yorkshire Dales for a girls trip—each with its own unique vibe.

1. Grassington – Charming and Classic

A postcard-perfect Dales village, Grassington offers cobbled streets, independent boutiques, and cosy cafés—ideal for a relaxed weekend of browsing and brunching. With scenic walks like the Dales Way right on your doorstep, it’s a top pick for groups who want a mix of comfort and countryside. The compact village layout makes it easy to explore on foot.

2. Richmond – Riverside Chic

Richmond blends heritage and riverside beauty with a dash of sophistication. Think castle views, stylish eateries, and the gorgeous River Swale for scenic strolls. It’s great for foodie groups who want a cultural edge to their weekend, with galleries, a Georgian theatre, and excellent dining options all in one place.

3. Masham – Creative and Crafty

If your group loves a bit of local flavour, Masham is a must. Famous for its breweries (hello, beer tasting!), it also offers galleries, craft shops, and a welcoming market square. It’s perfect for relaxed wandering, creative inspiration, and perhaps even picking up a few artisan souvenirs.

4. Hawes – Peaceful and Picturesque

Looking for a slower pace? Hawes is nestled in Wensleydale and offers a serene escape with plenty of walking routes and natural beauty. Visit the Wensleydale Creamery, explore waterfalls, or simply unwind in a cosy pub after a hike. It’s ideal for groups who want to disconnect and recharge.

5. Skipton – Lively and Full of Fun

Skipton is a brilliant base for a busier girls’ weekend. With canal boat trips, a medieval castle, independent shops, and buzzing cafés, there’s always something to do. It’s well-connected, walkable, and full of charm—perfect if your group wants variety and a livelier atmosphere.

6. Malham – Tiny but Iconic

For nature lovers, Malham is unbeatable. While it’s one of the smaller villages, it’s surrounded by jaw-dropping landscapes like Malham Cove and Gordale Scar. It’s perfect for a hiking-focused trip with jaw-dropping views, photo ops, and a sense of real escape.

Each of these Yorkshire Dales spots offers something special for your girls weekend. Whether you're into hiking, history, food, or just catching up over tea or wine, there's a perfect base waiting for you.

Yorkshire Dales Girls Weekend Cottages – Top Picks 

Featherstone House, Darlington, nr Bishop Auckland

Sleeps 8, 4 beds, 2 dogs. 7 nights from £1019

Featherstone House is a beautifully refurbished stone bungalow in Coatham Mundeville, near Darlington, with easy access to the A1. This spacious, single-level home features a cosy lounge with log burner and smart TV, a stylish kitchen with granite worktops, and a bright conservatory—perfect for entertaining. Enjoy a sunroom, dining area with patio doors to a decked terrace and hot tub, plus three comfortable bedrooms and two modern bathrooms. Ideal for families, groups, or special celebrations.

Holme House, Eldroth, nr Settle

Sleeps 6, 3 beds. 7 nights from £1155

If you’ve been searching for a holiday home with the ’WOW’ factor amidst rolling countryside, then look no further. Tucked away in the peaceful village of Eldroth, Holme House is a luxurious countryside retreat adjoining the owners' home, perfect for small groups. Surrounded by open fields and accessed via a private track, this beautifully styled property offers a serene escape with a spacious garden and stunning rural views.

Inside, the cosy living room features a multi-fuel stove and plush sofas—ideal for unwinding with a book or morning coffee. Step outside to enjoy the sounds of nature, from bleating sheep to the call of a distant owl. Located near Settle, Holme House is perfectly positioned for exploring the Yorkshire Dales, Forest of Bowland, and even the Lake District, with easy access to Skipton, Clitheroe, Kirkby Lonsdale, and the cities of Leeds, York, and Lancaster.

Penthwaite, Leyburn, Yorkshire

Sleeps 6, 3 beds, 2 dogs. 7 nights from £1099

Penthwaite is the perfect setting for a special gathering or celebration. This luxurious, detached stone property blends classic character with contemporary style, all set against a stunning rural backdrop with views toward Pen Hill. The impressive open-plan ground floor features striking picture windows, a central staircase, and an open glazed gallery that floods the space with natural light. The elegant dining area comfortably seats eight and opens into a cosy living space with two plush sofas—ideal for relaxing and soaking in the views. There's also a bespoke study nook for quiet moments.

Outside, unwind in the private hot tub while taking in panoramic countryside views. Guests are kindly asked to bring suitable footwear for the short walk to the tub, though fluffy bathrobes are thoughtfully provided. A tiered, flagstone terrace offers stylish outdoor seating—perfect for alfresco dining or simply enjoying the view of Pen Hill and the occasional steam train rolling by.

Buryemwick, Jack Hill, nr Harrogate

Sleeps 8, 4 beds, 2 dogs. 7 nights from £1855

Buryemwick is simply stunning and is a must for anyone looking for a luxurious stay within the heart of Yorkshire. Buryemwick is a beautifully restored 18th-century cottage, rich in history and nestled in the heart of the picturesque Washburn Valley, with uninterrupted views across Swinsty Reservoir. Lovingly refurbished, this elegant retreat blends period charm with modern luxury, offering all the contemporary comforts you'd expect from a premium holiday home.

Set within the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Buryemwick is a peaceful haven for walkers, cyclists, and anyone seeking to relax and reconnect with nature. The spacious garden is perfect for soaking up the scenery, complete with a hot tub, decking, barbecue, sun loungers, and a patio—ideal for enjoying sunsets with a glass of fizz, alfresco-style.

Ideally located for exploring the area, you're just 9 miles from the spa town of Harrogate, home to Betty’s Tearooms and the Turkish Baths. Ilkley (12 miles) offers charming boutiques and eateries, while nearby Otley (7 miles) provides riverside walks and convenient amenities. Must-see destinations like Brimham Rocks (8.6 miles) and the World Heritage Site of Fountains Abbey (12 miles) are within easy reach, making Buryemwick the perfect base for discovering the best of Yorkshire.

The Engine Room, Scalegill, nr Kirkby Malham

Sleeps 6, 3 beds. 7 nights from £895

The Engine Room is a charming and peaceful rural retreat, secluded down a private road and nestled in the rolling green hills of Malhamdale, next to the River Aire. The Engine Room is a striking 21st-century conversion of a historic 1924 mill turbine room, offering a unique blend of industrial heritage and modern comfort. The original 15-foot water turbine, a remarkable living space feature, remains in place and marks its centenary in 2024. Once part of Scalegill Mill—a cotton mill built in 1795—this characterful property is one of eight homes forming a peaceful community in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Surrounded by 8 acres of shared gardens and woodland, the setting is a haven for nature lovers. Spot herons, otters, kingfishers, dippers, and even the occasional deer as you explore the grounds. A network of woodland trails and footpaths, including a route to nearby Malham, provides endless walking opportunities right from your doorstep.

Despite its secluded feel, The Engine Room is ideally located for exploring the local area. The charming towns of Grassington, Skipton, and Settle—offering shops, markets, pubs, and restaurants—are all within a 25-minute drive, making this a perfect base for your Yorkshire Dales adventure.

Number Seven, Bentham, nr Ingleton

Sleeps 5, 3 beds, 1 dog. 7 nights from £445

Tucked away in the heart of Bentham village, Number Seven is a beautifully renovated holiday home designed with walkers and cyclists in mind. Fully reimagined for 2025, this charming three-bedroom, one-bathroom retreat blends modern luxury with timeless character, offering the perfect base for adventure or relaxation.

After a day exploring, unwind in the sleek, contemporary bathroom before retreating to one of the three thoughtfully appointed bedrooms: a spacious king room with distant fell views, a snug double, and a cosy single boasting wide open vistas. Each room promises comfort and a restful night’s sleep to prepare for the next day's discoveries.

Set along the banks of the River Wenning, the vibrant market town of Bentham is surrounded by meadows, woodland, and breathtaking countryside. Just three miles from Ingleton’s famous waterfalls and caves, and seven miles from Kirkby Lonsdale, it also offers easy access to the Yorkshire Dales National Park, Forest of Bowland, and even the Lake District—all within an hour’s drive. Whether you're into walking, cycling, golfing, pottery, or simply soaking in nature, Number Seven offers a delightful and well-connected escape in one of Yorkshire's most scenic corners.

Girls Weekend Ideas – What to Do in the Yorkshire Dales

This stunning region offers the perfect mix of outdoor adventure, indulgent treats, and relaxed countryside charm—ideal for a weekend of fun, bonding, and well-deserved pampering.

Start your weekend with a scenic walk to blow away the cobwebs. Iconic routes like Malham Cove, Aysgarth Falls, and the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail offer breathtaking views and Instagram-worthy moments. For something more serene, try a guided yoga session in nature or a gentle horse ride through the rolling hills.

After working up an appetite, reward yourselves with a decadent afternoon tea at a country manor such as the Devonshire Arms or at a cosy café in one of the Dales’ charming villages. Want to kick it up a notch? Book a spa day at Swinton Park or indulge in bespoke treatments at a local boutique spa for some serious relaxation.

No girls weekend is complete without a toast—so why not enjoy a tour and tasting at the Black Sheep or Theakston breweries, or sample artisan spirits at the Spirit of Masham distillery?

Back in town, explore the independent shops and local markets in Skipton or Leyburn, where you’ll find everything from handmade crafts to gourmet goodies. For an unforgettable evening, consider a cooking class or hire a private chef to create a feast in your cottage, because staying in can be just as special as going out.

With so many Yorkshire weekend activities to choose from, your girls trip to the Dales is sure to be filled with laughter, adventure, and lasting memories.

Tips for Planning a Girls Getaway in the Dales

Planning a girls trip to the Yorkshire Dales? Here are a few friendly tips to help things run smoothly and keep everyone smiling from start to finish.

Book early! Popular cottages with hot tubs, big dining tables, and stunning views fill up fast—especially for weekends and holidays. If you want that perfect cottage with space for prosecco nights and lazy brunches, get in early.

When picking your base, check local taxi availability—many rural areas have limited transport options, especially in the evenings. Pre-booking or arranging a designated driver can save a lot of stress.

Pack smart: walking boots for countryside adventures, cosy loungewear for wine-and-gossip evenings, and layers for Yorkshire’s ever-changing weather.

If you’re planning to eat out, book restaurants in advance, especially in popular towns like Grassington, Skipton or Settle—tables go quickly, especially for larger groups.

When choosing accommodation, go for a cottage with large shared spaces—a roomy kitchen, comfy lounge, and outdoor seating can make all the difference for group downtime.

Finally, to keep the planning fun and fair, use a shared document or WhatsApp poll to gather everyone’s preferences—from food and activities to bedroom picks.

With a bit of prep, your Dales escape will be full of laughter, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. Ready to get planning?

Your Perfect Girls’ Weekend in the Dales Awaits

A girls weekend in the Yorkshire Dales is just what you need to escape the everyday and make lasting memories with your favourite people. Whether it’s windswept walks through breathtaking countryside, indulging in a luxurious spa day, or late-night laughter with a glass of fizz in hand, the Dales offer the perfect setting for your next girls cottage break.

Start planning, gather your besties, and share this article with your friends—because an unforgettable weekend in Yorkshire is just around the corner! From scenic hikes to cosy nights in, the Dales are ready to deliver an experience you’ll cherish forever.

Get excited—the adventure of a lifetime awaits!

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