Nestled within the verdant expanses of the Yorkshire Dales, the quaint grey stone village of Kettlewell stands as an idyllic gateway for countryside adventures. This charming settlement, frequently visited by walkers, combines breathtaking natural beauty with a welcoming atmosphere, particularly renowned for its exceptional food and drink offerings.
A Hub for Ramblers and Explorers
Kettlewell serves as a perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring numerous campsites that cater to ramblers and explorers seeking respite after a day of trekking. The village's strategic location has historically made it a key transport centre, a legacy preserved through its three historic inns that continue to operate as thriving pubs today. Visitors consistently praise Kettlewell for its "views beyond compare," with one TripAdvisor reviewer noting, "Driving around the dales was an absolute delight; we had to keep stopping to take pictures of stunning scenery. Any town or village is worth visiting." Another shared, "Beautiful village with 3 amazing pub restaurants and two tea rooms. The properties and scenery are amazing. We have stayed on 4 occasions over the years and plan on another visit soon."
Dining and Drinking Delights
What truly endears Kettlewell to walkers is its array of dining and drinking establishments. The Blue Bell, the oldest pub, sits at the village centre beside the water, offering crackling log fires, exposed timber beams, and perfectly pulled pints year-round. Its menu features classic pub fare like fish and chips and humble pies, ideal for recharging after extensive hiking.
Alongside it, The Kings Head and Racehorses Hotel—an 18th-century establishment retaining its character—provide additional beloved watering holes. The Kings Head claims the top dining spot on TripAdvisor, described by patrons as a "proper Dales pub." One review stated, "We've been to this pub several times over the last few years. It's compact and very cosy; it can get crowded with only 20 or 30 visitors, but that's one of the things we love about it. The locals are friendly; they love this place and are very welcoming to everybody who supports it."
Culinary delights extend beyond pubs to two charming cafes: The Cottage Tea Room offers a traditional option, while And Then – Tasting Deli is praised for its "outrageously good coffee" and warm hospitality. A customer remarked, "We visited a couple of times during our stay in Kettlewell and were impressed with the quality of the food and drink, and we found the service very friendly from the owner and all the staff. Prices were reasonable given how good everything was, and we enjoyed our visits sat in by the cosy log burner. Our takeout Wensleydale sandwiches were top-notch too!"
Great Whernside: A Hiker's Paradise
Right on Kettlewell's doorstep lies an extensive selection of rambles through the stunning Dales, with the most popular route being the trek to Great Whernside. This peak, whose highest point looms majestically over the village at approximately 1,800 feet, attracts keen walkers nationwide. Public access to the summit was only established in 1997, leading to the construction of two footpaths: one starting directly from Kettlewell and another following the summit ridge.
The challenging walk can take up to four hours, but it is clearly marked with well-defined footpaths and signage throughout the ascent. Great Whernside is part of Yorkshire's 'Dales 30'—a collection of 30 mountains, some exceeding 2,000 feet—though it should not be confused with Whernside, one of Yorkshire's three highest peaks located on the Cumbrian border.
Kettlewell's blend of historic charm, culinary excellence, and direct access to spectacular hiking trails makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Yorkshire Dales, offering a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure in a truly picturesque setting.
