National Park Welcomes Responsible First-Time Visitors

The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority is once again preparing to welcome first-time visitors to the Dales this weekend. Carl Lis, Chairman of the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, said:

“It was great to see so many young people, young families and people from BAME backgrounds enjoying the sunshine in the Yorkshire Dales National Park last weekend, but there were issues, particularly in relation to littering and social distancing.

“We would say to anyone planning to visit the Yorkshire Dales National Park - expect to take your litter home! We are also experiencing problems with people arriving with disposable barbecues, and, whilst we’re anticipating rain, it’s still important to make the point - do not bring disposable barbecues to the Dales. They pose a very real fire risk!

“Also, remember that much of the local infrastructure, such as car parks, shops, pubs, restaurants and cafés, remains closed.

“Ultimately, we want everyone to enjoy the National Park and to have a safe space in which to relax and exercise, but this can only happen if everyone respects the land, respects the community and respects each other. That means effective social distancing - staying 2 metres part - and navigating the countryside safely and responsibly, following the Countryside Code.

To support first-time visitors, the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority has prepared the following online resources. Additional information, including maps and key advice, will be available at National Park car parks.

Information for first-time visitors

Information and resources for first-time visitors, including where to go, what to do, how to stay safe and details of car parking, maps, walks and advice on litter and barbecues, is here (www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/information-for-new-visitors)

National Park Authority Car Parks

The National Park Authority car parks in Malham and Horton-in-Ribblesdale fill up early on a Saturday and Sunday morning, followed by the car parks in Aysgarth, Stainforth and Linton around lunchtime. National Park car parks in Hawes and Clapham have good availability all day.

People can check the status of car parks at the weekend here (www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/weekend-car-parks)