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Nidderdale

Nidderdale is a beauty spot in North Yorkshire.

Nidderdale, formerly known as Netherdale, is a picturesque region situated in North Yorkshire, just beyond the boundaries of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. This area encompasses the upper valley of the River Nidd, which meanders underground and winds through the dale, creating several reservoirs, including the Gouthwaite Reservoir, before taking an eastern course to eventually merge with the River Ouse. The primary town within Nidderdale is Pateley Bridge.

Historically, Nidderdale was part of the West Riding of Yorkshire, within the Lower Division of Claro Wapentake. During the 19th century, local government reforms led to most of the dale falling under the jurisdiction of the Pateley Bridge Poor Law Union, subsequently becoming the Pateley Bridge Rural Sanitary District, and finally, in 1894, the Pateley Bridge Rural District. In 1937, this rural district was amalgamated into the Ripon and Pateley Bridge Rural District.

Meanwhile, Hampsthwaite and Felliscliffe in the lower dale were associated with the Knaresborough Poor Law Union, later becoming the Knaresborough Rural Sanitary District and, in 1894, the Knaresborough Rural District. These areas merged in 1938 to form part of the Nidderdale Rural District. Since 1974, Nidderdale as a whole has been encompassed within the Borough of Harrogate in North Yorkshire.

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In 1947, the Hobhouse Report made a significant recommendation that eventually led to the establishment of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Interestingly, the report suggested excluding Nidderdale and assigning it a different conservation status. Consequently, when the National Park was officially designated in 1954, Nidderdale was notably absent from its boundaries.

Fast forward to 1963, the West Riding County Council proposed the inclusion of Nidderdale into the National Park. However, this idea faced resistance from the district councils, which were concerned about relinquishing some of their powers to the county council. The West Riding National Park Committee, later succeeded by the Yorkshire Dales National Park Committee, continued to explore this notion until 1988, when an alternative Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) designation was put forth.

The initial eastern boundary of the National Park, as per the Hobhouse Report’s recommendation, had been set at East Witton. Remarkably, the section of Wensleydale below East Witton had not been considered for national park status but was eventually incorporated into the new AONB. Similarly, the AONB’s boundaries extended to include the Washburn Valley and the area of lower Wharfedale between the Washburn Valley and the National Park, even though they hadn’t been considered for national park status. This AONB was officially designated in 1994 and retains its current boundaries to this day.

Explore the charm of Pateley Bridge, nestled in the heart of North Yorkshire within the captivating Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This renowned market town, just a stone’s throw away from Harrogate, Ripon, and Leeds, boasts a traditional high street adorned with independent retail shops, award-winning butchers, and the Guinness-accredited World’s Oldest Sweet Shop.

Surrounded by rolling hills, lush greenery, and reservoirs such as Gouthwaite and Scar House, Pateley Bridge offers a perfect base for various activities including walking, cycling, fishing, rock climbing, pot-holing, and water sports. Families can enjoy a secure enclosed play area within the Recreation Ground and the strains of music from the town’s bandstand on summer weekends.

Discover hidden treasures such as the Nidderdale Museum housed in the original Victorian workhouse, showcasing a fascinating collection of artifacts that offer a journey through the history of life in Pateley Bridge and Nidderdale. Off the high street, you’ll find charming courtyards and King Street workshops where skilled craftsmen create artwork, sculptures, jewelry, and beautiful glass pieces.

Pateley Bridge is steeped in history and tradition, hosting events like the Nidderdale Agricultural Show, the 1940s-themed weekend, MG Car festival, NiddArt Trail, NiddFest, and the Pateley Bridge Walking Festival, making it a hub of cultural and recreational activities in North Yorkshire.

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Accommodation in Nidderdale
Discover the best accommodation options in Nidderdale:
– Bewerley Hall Farm: A cozy grade two listed Yorkshire farmhouse offering a bed and breakfast experience and well-appointed ground-level holiday cottages with exclusive amenities. Location: Bewerley, Harrogate, HG3 5JA. Contact: 01423 711 636.- Braisty Woods: A delightful holiday retreat that accommodates up to 10 guests, situated on a working farm near the iconic Brimham Rocks. Location: Braisty Woods Cottage, Summerbridge, Harrogate, HG3 4DN. Contact: 07584 010 170.

– Claro Cottage: A charming cottage located at 2 The Stables, Back High Street, Pateley Bridge, HG3 5JT. For reservations, call 07801 861 114.

– Half Moon Inn: Immerse yourself in the welcoming atmosphere of Half Moon Inn, located in Fellbeck, Pateley Bridge. Experience comfortable bed and breakfast accommodations by calling 01423 711 560.

– Reservoir View: Explore the beauty of Reservoir View Holiday Cottages, situated on Wath Road, Ramsgill, Harrogate, HG3 5RJ. For reservations, call 07850 440871.

– River View Pateley: Experience a charming holiday cottage at River View, located on Low Wath Road, Pateley Bridge. Sleeps up to 3 and is situated on Nidderdale Way. For bookings, call 01423 712 6420.

– Shire Cottage: Explore the beauty of Shire Cottage at 4 The Stables, Back High Street, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, HG3 5JT. Book your stay by calling 07801 861 114.

– Sweet Heart B&B, Art & Tea Rooms: Indulge in a delightful stay at Sweet Heart B&B, Art & Tea Rooms, located at 35-37 High St, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 5JZ. Book your room by calling 01423 711 767.

– Talbot House: Experience the charm of Talbot House, a bed and breakfast located at 27 High Street, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate. For reservations, call 01423 711 597.

– Willow B&B: Relax at Willow Bed and Breakfast, situated at 10-12 Park Road, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate. Book your stay by calling 01423 711 689.

– The Lyndale Guest House: Discover comfort at The Lyndale Guest House, located on Lyndale King Street, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate. For reservations, call 01423 712 657.

Hotels:
– Harefield Hall: Experience luxury at Harefield Hall, a hotel in Pateley Bridge, Harrogate. For bookings, call 01423 715 840.

– Sportsmans Arms: Enjoy a relaxing stay at Sportsmans Arms, a hotel in Wath, Harrogate. Book your room by calling 01423 711 306.

– Crown Hotel: Indulge in the charm of Crown Hotel, located at Thorpe Lane, Lofthouse, Harrogate. For reservations, call 01423 755 206.

Campsites:
– How Stean Gorge: Immerse yourself in nature at How Stean Gorge Camping. With tent hire, bunkhouse, and outdoor activities, it’s the perfect base for exploring the Yorkshire Dales. For inquiries, call 01423 755 666.

– Riverside Caravan Site & Camping: Experience tranquility at Riverside Caravan Site & Camping on Low Wath Rd, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate. Book your spot by calling 01423 711 383.

– Heathfield Caravan Park: Enjoy a peaceful stay at Heathfield Caravan Park, located at Merryfields, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate. For reservations, call 01423 711 652.

– Westfield Caravan Site: Discover the beauty of Westfield Caravan Site at Westfield Farm, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate. Book your camping experience by calling 01423 711 880.

– Studfold Caravan & Camping Park: Experience the scenic beauty of Studfold Caravan & Camping Park in Studfold, Lofthouse, Harrogate. For inquiries, call 01423 755 084.

– Oxen Close Farm Caravan & Camping Site: Enjoy a peaceful retreat at Oxen Close Farm Caravan & Camping Site, located at Dairy Lane, Darley, Harrogate, HG3 2PQ. For reservations, call 01423 780 207.

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Eating out in Nidderdale

High Street Fisheries: 16 High Street, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 5AW | 01423 711 831

Indian Bengal Cuisine – Restaurant & Takeaway: 1A High St, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 5AP | 01423 711 109

Italian Olley’s – Restaurant & Takeaway: Bridgehouse Gate, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 5HG | 01423 712 200

Chinese Royal Baths Express Chinese Takeaway: 2 Park View, Bridgehouse Gate, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 5HG | 01423 800 197

Pateley Pizza – Takeaway: 2B, High St, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 5AW | 01423 391 946

Pubs:
– The Crown – Pub, Hotel & Dining Area: 19 High St, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 5AP | 01423 711 348
– Bridge Inn – Pub & Dining Area: Low Wath Road, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 5HL | 01423 711 484
– The Royal Oak – Pub & Dining Area: Bridgehouse Gate, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 5HG | 01423 711 577
– The Half Moon Inn – Pub: Fellbeck, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 5ET | 01423 711 560

Harefield Hall – Hotel, Restaurant & Bar: Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 5QE (Over 16’s venue only) | 01423 715 840
– Sportsman’s Arms – Hotel, Restaurant & Bar: Wath, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 5PP | 01423 711 306
– Yorke Arms – Hotel, Restaurant & Bar: Ramsgill, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 5RL | 01423 755 243

Restaurants:
– The Willow – Restaurant & B&B: 8 – 10 Park Rd, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 5JS | 01423 711 689

Sandwiches:
– The Sandwich Box – Takeaway: 8 Back High St, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 5JT | 01423 714 956

Tea Rooms:
– Just-Delicious – Tea Room & Takeaway: 9 Kings Court, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 5JW | 01423 711 595
– The Lemon Maringue – Tea Room: Bridgehouse Gate, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 5HG | 01423 712 627
– The Old Granary – Tea Shop: 17 High Street, Pateley Bridge, HG3 5NU | 01423 711 852
– The Pancake House: 1 High St, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate HG3 5AP | 01423 313 435
– Sweet Heart Art – Tea Room & Accommodation: 35-37 High St, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 5JZ | 01423 711 767
– Wildings – Tea Room: Nidd Walk, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 5NA | 01423 711 152

Nidderdale Events 2024

oin us for the Nidderdale Charity Walk & Run, a cherished annual event organized by The Rotary Club of Harrogate in partnership with local charities. Save the date for the 30th-anniversary edition on Sunday, May 19th, 2024.

Event Details:

  • Date: Sunday, 19th May 2024
  • Location: Pateley Bridge Scout Hall, starting point for all routes

Registration:

  • Online entry is now open, ensuring a hassle-free process.
  • Be part of the tradition and make a positive impact on your chosen charity.

Supporting Charities:

  • Choose the charity close to your heart; the power is in your hands.
  • When registering, specify your supported charity, but remember, you are not limited to the listed 25 charities. Your cause matters.

Achievements and Milestones:

  • In 2023, participants raised an incredible £24,000 for various charities.
  • Cumulatively, over £970,000 has been raised for charities over 29 years.
  • Will 2024 be the year we reach £1,000,000 with your generous sponsorship?

Routes:

  • Explore Nidderdale through six captivating routes, ranging from four to twenty-six miles.
  • All routes commence from Pateley Bridge Scout Hall, guiding you through the picturesque landscapes of upper Nidderdale.

Purpose and Impact:

  • The sole purpose of this Rotary event is to provide well-organized, waymarked walks with checkpoints, allowing you to raise funds for your chosen charities.
  • Let us handle the logistics; your role is to gather sponsorship and enjoy the walk or run!

Website: https://www.nidderdalewalk.com/

Your participation contributes not only to your chosen charity but also to the local charities supported by The Rotary Club of Harrogate. Together, let’s make the 30th edition of the Nidderdale Charity Walk & Run a memorable and impactful milestone. Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey!

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Nidderdale Weekend Festival – Saturday, October 19, 2024

🌐 Event Website: Nidderdale Weekend Festival

📅 Entries Open:

  • Thursday, August 31, 2023, at 18:00

🚨 Entries Close:

  • Sunday, October 6, 2024

👥 Entries So Far:

  • 8 Participants

💸 Entry Fees:

  • Ultra 111 Miles: £150.00
  • Ultra 83 Miles: £135.00
  • Ultra 55 Miles: £90.00
  • Ultra 28 Miles: £65.00

📞 Contact:

To enter, Log In or Register your Details with SiEntries.

📍 Event Highlights:

  • Explore iconic Yorkshire locations, including Ripley Castle, Brimham Rocks, Scar House Reservoir, and How Stean Gorge.
  • Run along the Nidderdale Way, a 55-mile route set in an area of outstanding natural beauty.
  • Choose from four different distances, suitable for first-time ultra runners to seasoned veterans.

📊 Distances:

  • 28/55/83/111 miles

⛰️ Climb:

  • 3500/7000/10500/14000 feet

🏅 ITRA Points:

  • 2/3/5/6

🌍 UTMB Qualification:

  • Q50K/Q100K/Q100K/Q100M

👥 Maximum Entrants:

  • 200

🕖 Event Closes:

  • 19:00, Sunday, October 21, 2024

🅿️ Car Park:

  • Nidderdale Showground, Pateley Bridge, HG3 5BD ///cross.palace.producers

🚽 Toilets:

  • Located next to the Event Gazebo in the Car Park

🐾 Dogs:

  • Dog Walking is not permitted on the showground due to roaming sheep. If you bring a dog, they must stay in your vehicle, but there is a park opposite for walking.

🏕️ Camping/Caravans/Motorhomes:

  • Nidderdale Showground, Pateley Bridge, HG3 5BD ///cross.palace.producers
  • Toilet block and running water available; no electrical hookups.
  • Friday Night: Additional charge if staying at the Showground on Friday night (please arrive after 6pm).
  • Saturday Night: Included in your entry fee; welcome to stay on Saturday night.

📝 Registration:

  • At the Event Gazebo in the Car Park
  • Friday: 19:00 to 21:00
  • Saturday: 06:00 to 06:45

🔄 Trackers:

  • All entrants will be supplied with a tracker.
  • Collect your tracker at registration; it will be already switched on.
  • Share the tracker link with friends and family to follow your progress.
  • Emergency help available: Press the button on the tracker if needed (ends your race if in range).

Join us for an epic ultramarathon trail run, embracing the breathtaking beauty of Nidderdale!

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Nidderdale Show on Sunday 22nd September 2024

Nidderdale’s Big Day Out – The Nidderdale Show

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of agricultural traditions at Nidderdale’s premier event, the Nidderdale Show. Nestled in the picturesque Bewerley Park, Pateley Bridge, this renowned agricultural spectacle, affectionately known as ‘Pateley Show,’ stands as a testament to the best in livestock and equine excellence. With one of the most distinguished displays of animals in the entire UK, the Nidderdale Show has evolved into a global brand, attracting over 15,000 enthusiastic attendees.

The 2023 Nidderdale Show Results are a testament to the show’s commitment to excellence, featuring competitions that span various categories, including Cattle, Sheep, Goats, Pigs, Horses & Show Jumping, Fur & Feather, Young Farmers Competitions, Sheep Dog Trials, Dry Stone Walling, Children’s Classes, Horticulture, Farm Crops, Home Produce, and Handicrafts.

Beyond the thrilling competitions, the Nidderdale Show offers a myriad of attractions to captivate visitors of all ages. From the excitement of Terrier Racing to the enchanting melodies of the Summerbridge & Dacre Band, the show’s diverse offerings extend to a Forestry Exhibition, Pateley Pantry Marquee, Trade Stands, Craft Marquee, Heritage Marquee, Family Area Marquee, Children’s Entertainment, Vintage Tractors & Machinery, Funfair, and even a Cricket Match.

As the Nidderdale Show tradition continues to mark the culmination of the agricultural show season, it has been modernized into a global phenomenon. For full details go to https://www.nidderdaleshow.co.uk

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