The 7 Best Hotels in the Yorkshire Dales

The Yorkshire Dales is one of England’s most beautiful countryside locations. Set primarily within the North and West Riding of Yorkshire, the region is famed for its rolling hills, dramatic limestone landscapes, charming villages and winding country lanes. It also offers some of the country’s finest hotels.

From historic country houses to grand estates, the Yorkshire Dales offers accommodation for every type of traveller. These are the 7 best hotels in the Yorkshire Dales.

Where to stay in the Yorkshire Dales

1. Simonstone Hall – Hawes

For a traditional country house escape, Simonstone Hall is a wonderful choice. Set in an elevated position just outside Hawes, this historic property enjoys spectacular views across Upper Wensleydale and the surrounding countryside.

With just 18 individually-styled bedrooms, which combine period furnishings, antiques and contemporary comforts, you are practically guaranteed a serene and peaceful stay here. Some of the rooms offer grand four-poster beds, and if you want to push the boat out, book a suite with a luxurious bathroom and endless countryside views.

Dining is another top-end experience here, and the menu reflects local Yorkshire dishes, with a natural focus on cheese from the nearby Wensleydale Creamery. Roaring log fires entice guests in and out of the cold – especially during bracing autumn and winter days – while the cosy lounges are a wonderful place to retreat on a rainy afternoon with a good book and a hot drink. 

2. The Lister Arms – Malham

Dating back to 1723, The Lister Arms is a beautiful Grade II-listed coaching inn located in the picturesque village of Malham. It combines traditional Yorkshire pub character with stylish accommodation, making it an excellent base for exploring the nearby countryside.

Guests can choose between the original inn bedrooms, the Lister Barn and the Lister Farmhouse, which adds 13 individually-designed country bedrooms. Interiors blend exposed beams and traditional stonework with contemporary furnishings and modern comforts.

The pub serves hearty British classics like homemade pies, fish and chips and full English breakfasts, and has been recognised for its food in recent years, picking up an AA Rosette, the AA Group of the Year Award for 2025/26, and an AA 4-Star Inn Rating.

Malham Cove, one of the Dales’ most-visited attractions, Gordale’s Scar and Janet’s Foss are all within easy reach of the hotel, too, making it an ideal place to stay for outdoor enthusiasts.

3. Grassington House Hotel – Grassington

Overlooking the cobbled village square in Grassington, Grassington House is a charming boutique hotel combining Georgian elegance with contemporary luxury.

With a history dating back to the mid-18th century, the beautifully restored property retains plenty of original character. There are just nine bedrooms, with king-size beds and some with roll-top baths. The interiors of the hotel perfectly strike the balance between historic townhouse and modern boutique styling.

Food is a major attraction at Grassington House Hotel, with chefs championing locally sourced ingredients and produce across the menu. With independent shops, traditional pubs and the beautiful Wharfedale countryside on its doorstep, Grassington House Hotel is ideal for a relaxed village escape.

4. Yorebridge House – Bainbridge

Yorebridge House is one of the Yorkshire Dales’ standout boutique hotels, offering a luxurious countryside retreat in the village of Bainbridge. Housed in a beautifully restored Grade II-listed building, it combines historic architecture with contemporary design.

Originally a village school and later a private residence, the hotel has 12 individually-designed rooms, featuring high-end furnishings and modern bathrooms with thoughtful finishing touches. The suites feature private terraces and hot tubs.

Dining is a particular highlight: the hotel’s restaurant has held 3 AA Rosettes since 2014, and the food reflects this. Local ingredients and produce are used to create some of the most fantastic dishes in the region, while also supporting local suppliers and businesses.

The surrounding Wensleydale countryside is just a short walk from the hotel, and there are also lots of lovely walks along the nearby River Ure.

5. The Angel at Hetton – Skipton

For food lovers, The Angel at Hetton is one of the Yorkshire Dales’ most exciting places to stay. This historic village inn dates back to the 15th century and combines traditional stone architecture with stylish, contemporary interiors.

The design takes inspiration from both Scandinavian and Japanese aesthetics, with understated furnishings, natural materials and a calming minimalist feel. The rooms are also individually designed, adding an extra layer of personality and welcome to each stay.

And no stay at The Angel at Hetton is complete without dining in the legendary restaurant. The Angel has earned a Michelin Star, alongside not one, not two, but five AA Rosettes. The seasonal tasting menus showcase a perfect blend of exceptional ingredients and sophisticated cooking – a must-visit for foodies.

Surrounded by classic Dales scenery, the inn is well placed for countryside walks, with the town of Skipton also easily accessible. Perfect for a romantic foodie weekend getaway.

6. Aysgarth Falls Hotel – Leyburn 

As its name suggests, Aysgarth Falls Hotel enjoys an enviable location beside the famous Aysgarth Falls, one of the Yorkshire Dales’ most recognisable natural attractions.

The property has a fascinating history, with origins dating back to the Middle Ages when it provided a resting point for sick or weary travellers. The current building dates back to the 18th century, and expertly blends its historic character with comfortable and modern country hotel amenities. Earlier this year, the 14 luxury Hyllside Suites were finished and added another touch of luxury to the hotel.

Surrounded by woodland, waterfalls (which featured in the 1991 blockbuster film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves) and beautiful countryside, it’s an excellent choice for nature lovers and keen hikers.

7. Swinton Park Hotel – Ripon

For an especially luxurious Yorkshire Dales escape, Swinton Park Hotel is hard to beat. This magnificent Grade II-listed castle hotel sits within 200 acres of parkland and gardens, surrounded by the impressive 20,000-acre Swinton Estate.

The castle has been the ancestral home of the Cunliffe-Lister family since the 1880s, and today it offers 42 beautifully appointed bedrooms and suites across the castle itself and the nearby Coach House. The turreted castle comes alive every autumn with red Virginia creeper, adding even more to the already outstanding wow factor.

One of the hotel’s biggest attractions is the Swinton Country Club & Spa, where guests can enjoy indulgent treatments. Dining options include Samuel’s Restaurant, which serves modern British cuisine, and The Terrace for more relaxed meals, ideal for families.

The hotel also holds an AA 4 Red Star Rating, which is the AA’s supreme accolade for hotels. With its historic architecture, extensive grounds, luxury spa facilities and excellent dining options, Swinton Park Hotel is a wonderful hotel for a special occasion, romantic getaway or a long weekend countryside retreat.