Best attractions and places to see around Carlton Highdale, a civil parish in Coverdale, Richmondshire, North Yorkshire, England. The area is characterized by its tranquil setting and natural beauty, serving as a base for exploring the wider Yorkshire Dales. It features the uppermost part of Coverdale, drained by the River Cover, offering picturesque landscapes and an unspoiled rural environment. The parish also contains 38 listed buildings, showcasing local heritage and architecture.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
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Great castle/palace also wilde boar in roaming free behind it
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Lovely castle with a hard little climb alongside up into the village
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Well I will just shut up as I didn't get any views at all. It was such a miserable day but a great all round walk. I would love to do it on a blue sky day! You could also do Birks Fell the same day, making for a 17km total hike.
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Great Whernside is a cracking peak to do. The walk up from the picturesque village of Kettlewell is scenic and not that long a journey, about four and a half kilometres each way. Don't expect a jagged peak of any kind, this is a nice rolling hill, topped with the obligatory good old-fashioned trig point. At 704 metres, it is easily a UK-designated Nuttall.
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One of the best mountains in the Dales and so much quieter than the big 3 (Y3P).
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A gorgeous and stunning hill, at 704m (don't confuse it with Whernside, which is in a completely different location 27km away!). The name Whernside (from Querneside in Old English), first recorded in 1214, means "hillside where millstones are found". The word "Great" was added in the 18th century to distinguish it from Little Whernside. Fantastic views from the summit and the rocks and the trig point offer a nice place to lean against.
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Carlton Highdale is nestled in Coverdale, offering a wealth of natural beauty. You can visit the stunning Aysgarth Lower Falls and Aysgarth Middle Falls, famous for their powerful cascades and picturesque settings. For panoramic views, consider a hike to Great Whernside Summit or Buckden Pike summit, both offering expansive vistas of the Yorkshire Dales. The River Cover itself provides beautiful landscapes for walking.
Yes, the area boasts significant historical landmarks. Bolton Castle is a prominent 14th-century castle offering a glimpse into medieval history, including its time as a prison for Mary, Queen of Scots. Nearby, Middleham Castle, a favourite home of Richard III, is also worth a visit. Carlton Highdale parish itself contains 38 Grade II listed buildings, showcasing local heritage and architecture, such as the ancient Hunters Stone monolith.
Coverdale is ideal for various outdoor activities. Hiking is very popular, with routes for all levels. You can find numerous trails for hiking around Carlton Highdale. The area is also known for country sports like shooting and fishing. For cyclists, there are many road cycling routes and mountain biking trails available.
Absolutely. The Aysgarth Falls, including Aysgarth Lower Falls and Aysgarth Middle Falls, offer accessible paths and stunning views that families can enjoy. Bolton Castle is also a great family day out, with its historical exhibits, gardens, and falconry displays. For a unique adventure, The Forbidden Corner, a series of follies with tunnels and chambers, provides hours of entertainment for all ages.
The Yorkshire Dales, including Coverdale, are beautiful year-round. However, for hiking and enjoying the natural features, late spring to early autumn (May to October) generally offers the most pleasant weather conditions. During these months, trails are typically drier, and the views from summits like Great Whernside Summit are clearer.
Yes, efforts have been made to ensure some attractions are accessible. For instance, Aysgarth Middle Falls offers a disabled viewpoint, allowing visitors with wheelchairs to admire the magnificent falls. When planning your visit, it's always advisable to check specific accessibility details for other sites.
Coverdale is renowned for its walking opportunities. You can find a variety of routes, from moderate to difficult, including those leading to Great Whernside Summit and Buckden Pike summit. Komoot offers a dedicated guide to hiking around Carlton Highdale, detailing various trails and their difficulty levels.
Coverdale is often referred to as the 'forgotten dale' due to its unspoiled beauty and tranquil setting. It offers a more serene and less crowded experience than some of the more famous dales, making it ideal for those seeking peace and a true rural English experience. The River Cover drains the uppermost part of the dale, creating picturesque landscapes.
Beyond the well-known Aysgarth Falls, you can discover other charming natural attractions. Wensley Waterfall and Harmby Waterfall, both located a short drive away, offer delightful and tranquil settings, often with free parking available. The Carlton Moors also provide dramatic, high-altitude scenery for those looking for a more rugged experience.
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking views from summits like Great Whernside Summit and Buckden Pike summit, even on cloudy days. The powerful cascades of Aysgarth Lower Falls and Aysgarth Middle Falls are consistently highlighted for their beauty and the opportunity to experience a scene depicted by William Turner. The historical richness and stunning setting of Bolton Castle are also highly appreciated.
While Carlton Highdale itself is a small parish with several hamlets, the wider Coverdale area and nearby towns offer various options for accommodation, cafes, and pubs. You'll find choices ranging from traditional inns to guesthouses, providing a comfortable base for exploring the region. It's recommended to check local listings for specific establishments.
Yes, for those interested in local history and culture, the Swaledale Museum in the picturesque village of Reeth is a fascinating option. It provides insights into the area's rich heritage, including artifacts from local mining and farming communities. Additionally, the numerous listed buildings within Carlton Highdale's hamlets offer a glimpse into traditional Yorkshire Dales architecture.


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