There’s something rather special about autumn in the Dales.
The mornings are crisp, the hills begin to turn every shade of gold and russet, and there’s often a little mist sitting in the valleys when you wake up. The days might be cooler, but that just makes a day out walking followed by a cosy evening in feel even more inviting.
At New Thornber, autumn is one of our favourite times of year. The views change almost daily, and the landscape around us takes on a completely different feel as summer gives way to those beautiful golden colours.
So, if you’re thinking about an autumn escape to the Yorkshire Dales, here are a few of our favourite ways to enjoy it.
Wrap up and head for the hills
Autumn is made for walking.
There’s something wonderfully refreshing about pulling on your boots, wrapping up warm and heading out into the countryside with rosy cheeks and muddy boots.
From New Thornber, you’re surrounded by some of the most beautiful walking country in the area, with the dramatic peaks of Ingleborough and Whernside providing an ever-changing backdrop.
You don’t have to tackle a big mountain walk either. There are plenty of shorter routes, woodland paths and gentle countryside walks to enjoy when you simply fancy getting outside and taking in the scenery.
And on a really crisp morning, there’s nothing quite like seeing the first light across the hills.
Chase waterfalls
The Dales’ waterfalls are particularly beautiful in autumn, especially after a little rain.
Hardraw Force, Janet’s Foss and the waterfalls around Ingleton and Kingsdale are all wonderful places to explore at this time of year.
There’s something about woodland in autumn that makes a waterfall walk feel extra magical, golden leaves underfoot, mossy paths, rushing water and that lovely fresh smell of damp woodland.
And, of course, you can always come back to New Thornber afterwards, kick off your boots and settle in for the evening.
Explore Ingleton and the surrounding countryside
We’re lucky to have so much on our doorstep.
Ingleton is just a short drive away and makes a lovely base for exploring the surrounding countryside, whether you’re heading out for a walk, stopping for lunch or simply having a wander around the village.
The wider area is full of little villages, country pubs, independent shops and beautiful roads that are worth exploring simply for the views.
And because New Thornber sits so close to the Yorkshire Dales National Park, you can easily spend a day exploring before returning to your own little corner of the countryside.
Cosy evenings at New Thornber
Perhaps the best thing about an autumn day out is coming home afterwards.
There’s something lovely about returning to a warm cottage after a day in the fresh air. Muddy boots by the door, coats hung up, everyone chatting about the day and the kettle going on.
At New Thornber, the big farmhouse kitchen is made for gathering together. Cook a big family dinner, sit around the farmhouse table and take your time over it.
Then settle into the lounge for a quiet evening, with the log burner glowing and the views outside slowly disappearing into the darkness.
Autumn evenings are made for staying in.
