Lying east of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, Nidderdale is for many people the most attractive of all the glorious Yorkshire Dales, a tapestry of high moorland and lush meadows. At its upper end is Howstean Gorge, known locally as “Little Switzerland” for its dramatic rock formations. And for birdwatchers, the bird sanctuary at Gouthwaite is a firm favourite.The unofficial capital of Nidderdale is the charming market town of Pateley Bridge, where you’ll find specialist shops, cosy tearooms and characterful pubs. It makes a great centre for walkers. And not far away there are the atmospheric ruins of Fountains Abbey, now a World Heritage Site. There are charming villages like Lofthouse and Middlesmoor to explore as well as the elegant and prosperous Ilkley and its nearby moor.