Visiting the Dales

The Yorkshire Dales is home to outstanding scenery, a rich cultural heritage and a breathtakingly peaceful atmosphere. At its heart is the Yorkshire Dales National Park, where you will find Wensleydale, the home of the Metcalfes... and of course Wensleydale Cheese!  

So why not combine your interest in family history of the Metcalfe name with a visit to the Yorkshire Dales.   Each of the Yorkshire Dales has a different character. The Southern Dales are less remote, yet still wildly beautiful. The Northern Dales provide rugged scenery for walking and sightseeing. And in the West, the pretty villages and small towns each have their own charm. The Dales are worth a visit at any time of year - whether it's to visit a snug country pub with an open fire in the winter months, or stay in a rambling riverside cottage for a summer break. The possibilities are endless!

So much to see and do, all year round

There is so much to see and do, all year round, whatever the weather in this truly stunning part of the UK. Want to find out what is available for you and your interests - to see, eat, have fun, the arts, the great outdoors, nature etc, and includes 100 things to do on a rainy day!     Take a look at Dales Discoveries.  

The great outdoors

If you enjoy the outdoors, then there are plenty of activities to keep you occupied with some of the best horse riding, rock climbing, mountain biking and cycling terrain available for beginners and also experienced outdoor veterans! The Yorkshire Dales is a superb place to spend time outside, with spectacular waterfalls and ancient broadleaved woodland contrasting with scattered remains of former mine workings and other rural industries -   a reminder of the area's rich industrial heritage. Follow the Tour de France 2014 Grand Depart route to experience the Dales by cycle.

What's events are happening in the Yorkshire Dales?

So if you are planning a visit to the Yorkshire Dales, why not take a look at what's happening in the area during your visit in the Yorkshire Dales Events as seen to the right here.   Indeed, there may be one or two forthcoming events that may actually influence the dates you wish to visit.   Each event outlines the date, times, location and costs   to support the description of what's happening. There's also contact details for further information if you want to find out more!   Most of all, enjoy your visit to the Yorkshire Dales.  

Need somewhere to stay?

Choose from hundreds of B&B, self-catering, hotels and guests houses across the Yorkshire Dales. Do an online search courtesy of Welcome to Yorkshire  

Family History Research in the Dales

The Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes, Wensleydale is the home to an enviable collection of family history research facilities. So you can also research the non-Metcalfe aspects of your family history if it is based in the Dales. Whether you are just starting out or are an experienced amateur genealogist, the museum may also be able to help you with your research, perhaps suggesting how to find particular details or where else to look for geneological information. On Monday and Wednesday each week, Museum volunteers (many of whom have experience of researching their own families) are available to users of the research room to help with any queries they may have. If they are unable to help, the museum has links with the Upper Dales Family History Group who may be able to help.

Established in 1980. UK Registered Charity No. 1000879.
Post: The Metcalfe Society, 17 Bailey Walk, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF4 3QW, UK
Email: enquiries@metcalfe.org.uk | Telephone: +44 (0) 7866 202 785 | Website: http://www.metcalfe.org.uk