Burnsall North Yorkshire
A charming Yorkshire Dales village with a picturesque river, historic church, and stunning walking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for river dips & walks
Burnsall North Yorkshire
Best Time
Ideal for river dips & walks
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming Yorkshire Dales village with a picturesque river, historic church, and stunning walking trails.
"Burnsall is a popular Dales village with lots of fields leading to the river, perfect for swimming."
🥾 Pack walking boots
Essential for exploring the many scenic Dales walks around Burnsall .
🏊♀️ Bring swimwear
The River Wharfe is popular for wild swimming in summer .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
River Wharfe
Burnsall Park
A serene riverbank perfect for picnics, swimming, and soaking up the Yorkshire Dales scenery.
St. Wilfrid's Church
Village center
Historic 13th-century church with a beautiful 19th-century rood screen and ancient stone fragments.
Wharfedale Walks
Surrounding countryside
Miles of scenic trails offering breathtaking views of the Dales, from gentle strolls to challenging hikes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors
Village Charm & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Pack walking boots
Essential for exploring the many scenic Dales walks around Burnsall.
🏊♀️ Bring swimwear
The River Wharfe is popular for wild swimming in summer.
🧺 Picnic by the river
Enjoy a scenic lunch with views of the water and surrounding countryside.
🚗 Easy day trip
Just 30 minutes from Harrogate, perfect for a spontaneous escape.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Pack walking boots
Essential for exploring the many scenic Dales walks around Burnsall.
🏊♀️ Bring swimwear
The River Wharfe is popular for wild swimming in summer.
🧺 Picnic by the river
Enjoy a scenic lunch with views of the water and surrounding countryside.
🚗 Easy day trip
Just 30 minutes from Harrogate, perfect for a spontaneous escape.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Burnsall for its idyllic village charm and stunning natural beauty, particularly the River Wharfe and surrounding Yorkshire Dales. It's a highly recommended spot for walking, picnicking, and enjoying a peaceful rural escape. Some find amenities limited, and parking can be challenging during peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Burnsall is best reached by car, located in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. It's approximately 30 minutes from Harrogate
and easily accessible via scenic country roads. Public transport options are limited, so driving is recommended for flexibility.Yes, there is usually parking available in the village, though it can get busy during peak times. Consider arriving early to secure a spot, especially on weekends or during summer.
Absolutely! Burnsall is a perfect destination for a day trip from nearby towns like Harrogate or Skipton, offering beautiful scenery and activities like walking and picnicking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Burnsall is a village and its surrounding natural beauty is freely accessible. There are no admission fees to wander through the village or enjoy the riverbanks and public footpaths.
Burnsall is an open village, so you can visit at any time. However, amenities like the pub and cafe will have their own operating hours, typically from morning to evening.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Burnsall is a fantastic starting point for many walks. Popular options include riverside strolls, hikes to Trollers Gill, or longer circular routes incorporating nearby villages and landmarks.
The Dales Way also passes nearby.Wild swimming is popular in the River Wharfe at Burnsall.
Always exercise caution, be aware of currents, and check water conditions before entering. It's best suited for experienced swimmers during calm weather.Yes, the grassy banks along the River Wharfe in Burnsall Park are ideal for picnics. You'll find plenty of picturesque spots to relax and enjoy the scenery.
The main historical attraction is St. Wilfrid's Church, dating back to the 13th century, featuring a 19th-century rood screen and ancient stone fragments.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Burnsall has a charming village pub and a cafe, offering refreshments and meals for visitors.
For more extensive dining options, nearby Grassington or Skipton are good choices.While specific menus can vary, most pubs and cafes in rural areas like Burnsall are increasingly offering vegetarian options. It's always best to check with the establishment directly for current offerings.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the iconic village bridge over the River Wharfe, the historic St. Wilfrid's Church, and the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales. Autumn offers particularly vibrant colours.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful soft light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant green of the Dales.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a frisbee or ball for riverside fun. The Devonshire Arms pub is a good spot for a family-friendly meal. For a unique experience, look into glamping options nearby, which can add an element of adventure for children.
🚶♀️ Walkers & Hikers
Ensure you have sturdy walking boots, waterproofs, and a map. The Dales Way footpath also passes close by, offering opportunities for longer treks. The Devonshire Fell Hotel is a great place to stay for hikers, offering comfortable accommodation and easy access to trails.
🧘♀️ Relaxation Seekers
The Devonshire Arms pub provides a cozy spot to unwind with a drink, and the Devonshire Fell Hotel offers a more luxurious retreat with beautiful views. The unhurried pace of village life here is perfect for de-stressing and reconnecting with nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Yorkshire Dales from Burnsall
One popular recommendation from travelers is a circular walk from Burnsall to Trollers Gill, then south towards Bolton Abbey, incorporating the Simons Seat walk. This route offers a diverse experience of the Dales, showcasing varied terrain and breathtaking vistas. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for changing weather conditions, as is common in the Dales.
Beyond walking, the Dales offer opportunities for cycling, photography, and simply enjoying the tranquility of the countryside. The Devonshire Fell Hotel in Burnsall is noted for its beautiful surroundings and is a great spot for artists to sketch or paint the landscape.
The Charm of Burnsall Village
The village amenities include a welcoming pub and a cafe, offering visitors a chance to rest and refuel. This makes Burnsall a convenient stop for walkers and day-trippers alike. The Devonshire Arms pub is often mentioned as a cozy spot to enjoy local fare and ales. The overall ambiance of Burnsall is one of serene rural beauty, capturing the essence of the British countryside.
For those interested in history, St. Wilfrid's Church is a must-visit. Its origins date back to the 13th century, and it houses significant historical artifacts, including a 19th-century rood screen and fragments of older crosses. The church adds a layer of historical depth to the village's natural charm.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit