A family-friendly route that’s fun for all ages and abilities. Our youngest managed to ride the full 12 miles at just five years old! Whether you’re cycling, walking, or just enjoying the scenery, it’s a brilliant way to explore the Dales. 

A short ride away, this is the go-to place for hiring bikes, getting yours fixed, or even just popping in for a bite. It’s a real hub for local cycling enthusiasts Stu and his friendly staff know the trails inside out. They also serve a cracking breakfast — perfect fuel before a day out on the bikes — and you’ll often find us there enjoying a cuppa and one of their delightfully scrummy cakes.

Our favourite local pub and always worth the short walk into Reeth. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, whether you’re after a pint, a hearty meal, or just a friendly chat with the locals. The pie at The Buck is truly amazing — proper comfort food after a day in the Dales. They also offer a great range of takeaway food, handy if you’d rather enjoy your meal back at the cottage. To top it off, their guest ales are always changing and always excellent, so there’s usually something new to try.

Known as the “Cathedral of the Dales,” this beautiful medieval church has been at the heart of the valley for centuries. Step inside and you’ll find fascinating history — including a rare hagioscope, or ‘leper’s squint’, which once allowed people outside to watch the service — as well as peaceful corners and a warm welcome for visitors. From the ridge in our own field at Neddy Meadow, you can actually see the top of the tower rising above the trees, and on still days you’ll hear the church bells chiming across the valley — a timeless sound that links the past to the present. It’s a short walk from the cottage and well worth a visit.

The Swing Bridge at Reeth has been part of village life since the 1920s, originally built to connect communities across the River Swale after flooding washed away earlier crossings. Today it’s a favourite local spot — a lovely walk from the cottage, and the perfect place for a paddle in the river or to let the dogs have a splash. Simple, peaceful, and full of charm, it’s one of those places that makes you slow down and just enjoy being in the Dales.

A short but beautiful drive through the valley brings you to the CB Inn, one of our absolute favourites for dining out. The setting is stunning — tucked into Arkengarthdale with big views of the surrounding fells — and inside you’ll find roaring fires, antique furniture, and a cosy, welcoming atmosphere. The food is classical with a modern twist, made with seasonal produce from Yorkshire farmers and game from the surrounding moors. In our opinion, it’s some of the best cooking in the Dales, and whether you go for a relaxed lunch or a special evening meal, it always feels like a real treat.