Leyburn Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Leyburn Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Leyburn sits in a prime spot for exploring the Yorkshire Dales. The town itself has a lovely market square with independent shops and cafes worth browsing. Don't miss Leyburn Shawl, a limestone ridge with spectacular views across Wensleydale - it's a fairly easy walk from the town centre.

The Forbidden Corner (DL8 4TQ) is a must-visit attraction just 4 miles from Leyburn. This quirky labyrinth of tunnels, chambers and surprises gets 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. Open 10am-6pm April-October and 10am-5pm November-March, but closed Mondays except bank holidays.

Bolton Castle (DL8 4ET) is one of England's best-preserved medieval castles and scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned here in 1568. The gardens and falconry displays are brilliant. Open daily 10am-5pm from March to October.

Middleham Castle (DL8 4QG) was Richard III's childhood home and gets 4/5 on TripAdvisor. It's impressive even as ruins. The town is famous for its racing stables - head there early morning to see the horses exercising. Open daily 10am-5pm.

Pet Friendly

I've found Leyburn is one of the most dog-friendly towns in Yorkshire. Many cottages welcome pets, often with enclosed gardens where they can run safely while you enjoy your hot tub. Some even provide dog beds, bowls and treats.

The Three Horseshoes pub in Wensley and the Bolton Arms in Redmire both welcome dogs and serve good food. The Sandpiper Inn right in Leyburn market place is another great option where dogs get as warm a welcome as their owners.

Wensleydale offers endless walking opportunities. The Leyburn Shawl walk is perfect for dogs with varying stamina levels. For a longer adventure, try the 5-mile circular route from Leyburn to Preston-under-Scar. Most of the footpaths cross farmland, so keep your dog on a lead around livestock.

If you need emergency vet care, Bainbridge Vets (01969 623121) in Leyburn provides 24-hour service. There's also a pet shop on the high street for any supplies you might forget.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Leyburn

Aysgarth Falls (DL8 3TH) is a series of three spectacular waterfalls on the River Ure. They featured in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and look amazing whatever the weather. The Upper Falls are the most dramatic after heavy rain. The National Park Centre has a café and information point. A visitor last month wrote on TripAdvisor: "Absolutely stunning natural beauty, well worth the walk down from the car park."

Wensleydale Creamery (DL8 3RN) in Hawes is where the famous cheese is made. The visitor centre includes a museum about cheesemaking, demonstrations and extensive tasting opportunities. The on-site restaurant serves amazing cheese-focused meals. They've won over 350 awards for their cheeses. A recent visitor commented: "We spent hours here! The tasting room alone is worth the entry fee."

The Black Sheep Brewery (HG4 4EN) in Masham offers excellent tours showing how their distinctive beers are made. The tour ends with generous tastings. Their visitor centre includes a shop and the excellent Sheepy Shop restaurant. Tours run daily at 11am, 12:30pm, 2pm and 3:30pm. A TripAdvisor review from last month said: "Fascinating insight into brewing and the family rivalry that created Black Sheep. Great value tour and the samples were generous!"

Is Leyburn suitable for a romantic weekend?

Absolutely! We think Leyburn is perfect for couples. The stunning landscapes provide a romantic backdrop and there are plenty of cosy pubs with roaring fires. Many cottages offer special touches like welcome hampers with local produce. And nothing beats stargazing from your private hot tub - the Yorkshire Dales has some of the darkest skies in England.

What's the best time to visit Leyburn?

Each season offers something different. Spring brings lambs in the fields and wildflowers. Summer has the longest days for exploring. Autumn creates spectacular colours across the dales. Winter can be magical with frosty landscapes and the hot tub feels even better! Leyburn Food & Drink Festival in May and the 1940s Weekend in July are particularly busy times, so book accommodation well ahead.

Can I get around without a car?

It's possible but challenging. Leyburn has a train station on the Wensleydale Railway (seasonal service) and buses connect to Richmond and Hawes. However, to really explore the Dales, a car gives much more flexibility. Many of the best walks and attractions are not easily accessible by public transport.

Where's the nearest supermarket?

Campbell's of Leyburn is a good-sized supermarket in the town centre with an excellent deli counter. There's also a Co-op on High Street. For bigger shops, you'll find Tesco and Aldi in Richmond, about 12 miles away. Many local cottages offer pre-arrival shopping services - worth asking when you book.

Is Leyburn good for walking?

It's fantastic! The Yorkshire Dales offer walks for all abilities. The Leyburn Shawl is an easy 2-mile route with great views. For something more challenging, try the 5-mile walk to Castle Bolton. The Pennine Way and Coast to Coast paths are also accessible. Most cottages provide OS maps and walking guides and the hot tub will sort out any sore muscles afterwards!

What if it rains during our stay?

This is Yorkshire, so always be prepared! Rainy day options include the Wensleydale Creamery visitor centre, Tennants Auction House (with a great café) and the Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes. Many cottages come with board games, books and Netflix. And let's be honest, watching the rain while you're warm in a hot tub with a glass of wine isn't exactly hardship!

1. Yorkshire Dales National Park Official Site
2. Wensleydale Creamery Visitor Centre
3. The Forbidden Corner
4. Middleham Castle