Dales Way

A self-guided walking holiday through the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District National Park.

3 to 10 nights
23-78 miles
Easy / Moderate to Demanding

From £270 per person

About The Trail

The Dales Way meanders through the heart of the Yorkshire Dales to the shores of Windermere in the Lake District. Along the way, the trail enjoys a vast range of beautiful Yorkshire landscapes, including colourful moorland, tranquil riversides, rugged fells and quiet valleys.

The walk explores a range of pretty towns and villages and offers glimpses into the region’s past, including the ruins of Bolton Priory and Barden Tower. The trail then leaves the Yorkshire Dales and heads towards Windermere, passing through rolling farmland framed by the impressive mountains of the Lake District, providing a satisfying end to a remarkable trail.

We offer multiple holiday options along this trail. If you wish to walk the entire trail, simply select the first option from the list below.

Dog friendly tours available

Dogs are welcome on select routes along this trail. Look for the pawprint icon when choosing your holiday.

Trail running available

We also organise trail running holidays along this trail. Visit Contours Trail Running Holidays.

Routes on this trail

Dales Way

7 to 10 nights
78 miles
Easy / Moderate+
Dog friendly
From £595 per person
A self-guided walking holiday from Ilkley to Windermere through the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.Find Out More

Dales Way Short Break

3 nights
23 miles
Moderate
From £270 per person
A short walking break from Ilkley to Kettlewell along the Lake District section of the Dales Way.Find Out More

Dales Way Highlights

4 to 5 nights
41 miles
Moderate+
Dog friendly
From £360 per person
A short walking holiday from Burnsall to Sedbergh through the Yorkshire Dales National Park.Find Out More

Customer reviews from the Dales Way

“The walk was outstanding. We couldn’t believe the extraordinary variations in the landscape over such a short distance. We loved every section of the walk.”
Mr Duggan, Canada
“Very attractive walk. The variety of accommodation added to the enjoyment of the holiday. Apart from the weekend we met few other walkers. Small villages & towns along the way added variety.”
Mrs Badger, UK
“Accommodation was good, bag transfers were reliable, great hosts.”
Mr Noble, Australia
“Beautiful countryside, great people and places to stay.”
Mr Lent, USA
“It was amazing -one of the best holidays we have taken! We enjoyed the walking, going through endless stiles, seeing hundreds of sheep and cows, walking along beautiful rivers, crossing over historic bridges, crossing under viaducts, and stopping in small towns to eat and sleep. The directions and our luggage delivery were perfect. We'll definitely use Contours again and recommend you to our American friends. Most of our friends had not heard of this type of experience and thought it sounded fun. Thanks for arranging an unforgettable vacation!”
Ms Lewellen, USA
“The Yorkshire Dales are beautiful.”
Dr Werner, USA
“Fantastic holiday, overnight stays excellent.”
Mr McInnes, UK
“Absolutely great - loved it! Everything was well organised.”
Dr Nash, UK
“Surprisingly, my first ever visit to the Yorkshire Dales. A lovely, not-too-strenuous walk through rolling hills and along pretty river banks, often staying in characterful pubs with excellent food.”
Mr Julyan, UK