We have improved our walking grade scale. Read more
4 Jun - 11 Jun 2027
7 nights. Trip notes
Non-members
£1,189
ppMembers
£1,159
pp£1,014
pp£984
ppWe have improved our walking grade scale. Read more
■ Location: Yorkshire Dales
■ Duration: 7 nights at an HF Country House
■ Board Basis: Full Board
■ Travel Dates: Jun-Sep 2027
■ Itineraries available: 1
■ Choice of Walking Grade: 3 details
■ Carbon Footprint: 174kg CO2 details
Non-members From
£1,014
ppMembers From
£984
ppMembers Save £30 on this booking and get a whole range of extra exclusive benefits. Add HF Membership to your booking online. details
From September 2026, we have expanded our walking grade scale from 6 to 10 points. While the holidays themselves have not changed (the routes, daily distances and ascent levels remain the same), our newly expanded 1-10 scale offers greater distinction between holidays and clearer grade descriptions, so you can choose a holiday that best suits you.
Gentle walking grade 3
Slightly longer walks, mostly on well-trodden paths, with some gentle gradients plus stiles and steps possible. Typically, 5-6 miles (8-10km) with around 650ft (200m) of ascent.All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take alternative routes or adapt the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.
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[title] => Arrival Day
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[description] => Check-in at the hotel is available from 16:00. If you are a member you can arrive at the house from 14:00. Enjoy a complimentary cream tea at 16:30 and meet other guests.
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Check-in at the hotel is available from 16:00. If you are a member you can arrive at the house from 14:00. Enjoy a complimentary cream tea at 16:30 and meet other guests.
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[title] => Farfield Mill and views of Cautley Spout
[introduction] =>
[description] => Distance: 5 miles (8.5km)
Ascent: 500 feet (150m)
From the Cross Keys Temperance House we've the opportunity to view England's highest single drop waterfall - Cautley Spout. For those with extra energy, there's the option to follow the path up alongside the fall, before returning to begin our walk along the fell side to the arts and heritage centre - Farfield Mill. The four floors of this Victorian wool mill are home to local artists and craftsmen, often offering demonstrations. From here we take a short walk along the River Rawthey, to Sedbergh.
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Distance: 5 miles (8.5km)
Ascent: 500 feet (150m)
From the Cross Keys Temperance House we've the opportunity to view England's highest single drop waterfall - Cautley Spout. For those with extra energy, there's the option to follow the path up alongside the fall, before returning to begin our walk along the fell side to the arts and heritage centre - Farfield Mill. The four floors of this Victorian wool mill are home to local artists and craftsmen, often offering demonstrations. From here we take a short walk along the River Rawthey, to Sedbergh.
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[title] => Swaledale and Hawes
[introduction] =>
[description] => Distance: 5.5 miles (8.5km)
Ascent: 600 feet (180m)
Our exploration of Swaledale takes us on a scenic walk dotted with waterfalls. We’ll pass Aygill Force and Wain Wath Force before following the River Swale below the summit of Kisdon to Muker, a small village on the site of a settlement which dates back to the Bronze Age. Our transport then takes us to the pretty market town of Hawes at the head of Wensleydale. Here we’ll sample the famous Wensleydale cheese at the creamery (Cheese Experience included) and enjoy free time to browse the National Park Visitor Centre, or while away some time in Hawes’ tempting tea shops.
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Distance: 5.5 miles (8.5km)
Ascent: 600 feet (180m)
Our exploration of Swaledale takes us on a scenic walk dotted with waterfalls. We’ll pass Aygill Force and Wain Wath Force before following the River Swale below the summit of Kisdon to Muker, a small village on the site of a settlement which dates back to the Bronze Age. Our transport then takes us to the pretty market town of Hawes at the head of Wensleydale. Here we’ll sample the famous Wensleydale cheese at the creamery (Cheese Experience included) and enjoy free time to browse the National Park Visitor Centre, or while away some time in Hawes’ tempting tea shops.
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[title] => Free Day
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[description] => Discover more about Thorns Hall and the local area for ideas on how to make the most of your free day.
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Discover more about Thorns Hall and the local area for ideas on how to make the most of your free day.
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[title] => Settle-Carlisle Railway, Dales Way and Dent
[introduction] =>
[description] => Distance: 5 miles (8km)
Ascent: 250 feet (80m)
Our first stop is the Ribblehead Viaduct – an impressive feat of engineering that carries the Settle-Carlise railway line. We've time to explore the area, the station and its visitor centre before hopping aboard the Settle-Carlisle line, taking the train to Dent Head (train ticket included). From here we join the Dales Way and follow waterfall after waterfall along the River Dee to the cobbled streets and whitewashed houses of Dent. There’s plenty of time for optional visits here (payable locally); choose to explore the heritage centre and learn of Dent's 'Terrible Knitters' or to take a well-earned break in the historic Sun Inn, an authentic pub and lodging house that has served the village for over 300 years.
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Distance: 5 miles (8km)
Ascent: 250 feet (80m)
Our first stop is the Ribblehead Viaduct – an impressive feat of engineering that carries the Settle-Carlise railway line. We've time to explore the area, the station and its visitor centre before hopping aboard the Settle-Carlisle line, taking the train to Dent Head (train ticket included). From here we join the Dales Way and follow waterfall after waterfall along the River Dee to the cobbled streets and whitewashed houses of Dent. There’s plenty of time for optional visits here (payable locally); choose to explore the heritage centre and learn of Dent's 'Terrible Knitters' or to take a well-earned break in the historic Sun Inn, an authentic pub and lodging house that has served the village for over 300 years.
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[title] => Bolton Castle and Aysgarth Falls
[introduction] =>
[description] => Distance: 4 miles (6.5km)
Ascent: 150 feet (45m)
We begin at Bolton Castle (entrance included), a massive fortress built in 1397. This impressive setting has pleasant gardens, falconry and a tearoom. We walk from the castle through the broad valley of Wensleydale to Aysgarth Falls, which we can view by a short walk alongside a deeply wooded section of the River Ure.
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Distance: 4 miles (6.5km)
Ascent: 150 feet (45m)
We begin at Bolton Castle (entrance included), a massive fortress built in 1397. This impressive setting has pleasant gardens, falconry and a tearoom. We walk from the castle through the broad valley of Wensleydale to Aysgarth Falls, which we can view by a short walk alongside a deeply wooded section of the River Ure.
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[title] => Scout Scar and Sizergh Castle
[introduction] =>
[description] => Distance: 3 miles (5km)
Ascent: 100 feet (30m)
Our walk today provides some spectacular scenery, including far-reaching views south to Arnside and Morecambe Bay. We ascend gently above the beautiful Lyth Valley and walk along the broad escarpment of Scout Scar and on to the medieval stately home of Sizergh Castle, with its gorgeous gardens (payable locally, National Trust members free upon showing their NT membership card).
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Distance: 3 miles (5km)
Ascent: 100 feet (30m)
Our walk today provides some spectacular scenery, including far-reaching views south to Arnside and Morecambe Bay. We ascend gently above the beautiful Lyth Valley and walk along the broad escarpment of Scout Scar and on to the medieval stately home of Sizergh Castle, with its gorgeous gardens (payable locally, National Trust members free upon showing their NT membership card).
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[title] => Departure Day
[introduction] =>
[description] => Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home.
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Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home.
A warm welcome
We want you to feel comfortable from the moment you arrive. You’ll find a welcome pack in your room with guest registration forms, menus, order forms for dinners and picnic lunches, the Wi-Fi password, and the front door code. Our houses are locked at night, so we recommend noting the Duty Manager’s number on arrival in case of an emergency (or getting locked out).
Evening entertainment
While evening entertainment varies from house to house, HF Holidays Inter-House Quiz night held after dinner on Wednesdays is a weekly staple. Your HF Holidays leader may be around for tips on guided and self-guided waking routes as well as visit-worthy local attractions.
Walks talks
Our HF Holidays walk leaders host guided walking information briefings before dinner on guided walking holiday arrival days. This is followed by a group Walks Talk for information on the following day’s guided walks (held before dinner every evening). Self-guided walking guests are, of course, welcome.
The walking day
Prior to setting off on guided walks, your HF Holidays Leader will run you through a short safety briefing. There’s also an up-to-date weather forecast on display at the house to ensure you have appropriate clothing and footwear. If you choose to do your own walks or are on a self-guided walking holiday, we ask that you please complete an Independent Walker Card each day. These can be found near the Discovery Point in the house.
You are welcome to check in from 4pm at the earliest. HF Members can check in earlier, from 2pm. On arrival, you’ll enjoy a complimentary cream tea and get to meet your fellow guests, our HF Holidays Leaders, and the rest of the friendly team. Check out 10am.
| • 25 well-appointed guest rooms • Exclusive occupancy: 32 guests minimum • Check in from 4:00pm • For members check in from 2:00pm • Free Wi-Fi • Free on-site parking • Boot room and drying room • Travel cot & high chair • Discovery Point offering a wide range of local area maps, route guides, and information for self-guided walks • Books and games to borrow • Licensed bar • Lounges • Garden • Electric vehicle charging point - Please note, you will need to bring your own cables to use this EV charging point | ![]() |
Seasonal dining, tailored for you
Our team of skilled chefs design our dinner menus to showcase the best of each season, from warming winter comfort food to vibrant summer dishes, including vegetarian, vegan and high-protein options. We also source fruit and vegetables within a 40-mile radius of each house, open every break with a Chef’s Special menu inspired by dishes and flavours of the local area, and are able to adapt dishes to suit special dietary requirements.
Welcome Cream Tea
What better way to start your stay than with a cream tea, served fresh on arrival to make you feel instantly at home. A quintessentially English tradition, our scones are baked in-house and served with preserves and clotted cream, providing the perfect opportunity to meet fellow walkers.
A hearty breakfast to start the day
Start the day with a freshly-prepared cooked breakfast and a wide choice from our continental buffet, including hot drinks, juices and fresh fruit. Our team offer a quick and friendly service, leaving you fuelled and ready for your day’s adventures.
Our famous picnic lunch
Our personalised picnic lunches are perfect for a day out walking, ready to enjoy when hunger strikes. Choose from a large selection of fresh sandwiches and salads, freshly baked cakes and snacks, including the ever-popular Freddos chocolate bar! Everything is designed to fit neatly into your rucksack, and all of the packaging we provide is recyclable or compostable.
3-course evening meals
Our à la carte evening menus feature a wide choice of starters, mains, and desserts, made with seasonal ingredients and, wherever possible, herbs and vegetables from our own gardens. Shared around sociable tables, dinners are relaxed occasions, with drinks available to order at the table or from the bar, and a traditional Sunday roast to round off the week.
Designed with your comfort in mind, Thorns Hall has 25 well-appointed guest rooms available in three categories: Classic, Premium, and Superior.
Classic Rooms are comfortable en-suite guest rooms, ideal for a peaceful night's sleep. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, and shower gel), and a TV.
Premium Rooms are more spacious en-suite guest rooms*. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, body lotion, shower gel), and a 32-inch TV. Extras include bathrobes, slippers.
Superior Rooms are even more spacious en-suite guest rooms offering upgraded views of the surroundings*. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, body lotion, shower gel), and a 32-inch TV. Extras include bathrobes, slippers.
We love: The spacious Room 25 for its ground floor setting, brick fireplace, comfy seating, large bed, and gorgeous views of the gardens. Room 4 is large and airy while the cosier Room 13 has an exposed wood ceiling and courtyard view.
The Choose Your Room service is available at our UK country houses, allowing you the option of choosing and confirming a specific room for an extra charge of £30 per room. This is subject to availability. Upgrade supplements apply.
Room supplements
| Superior | Premium single | Premium double/twin | Choose your room |
| £25 pppn | £20 pppn | £20 pppn | £30 per room |
*Views and layout reflect each properties unique character and location
For accessibility and assistance information, please contact our expert team on 020 3974 8865 or view the accessibility information online for Thorns Hall
Thorns Hall
Cautley Road
Sedbergh
Cumbria LA10 5LE
Tel: +44 (0)1539 620973
The nearest station is Oxenholme, Lake District, on the main line between London and Glasgow.
Check National Rail for routes and journey times.
If you’re travelling to or from Thorns Hall on Mondays or Fridays or over the festive period, you can join our group transfer from Oxenholme Railway Station.
2026 prices are £50 per person for a return transfer or £25 per person for a single transfer.
Outward journey: Depart Oxenholme Railway Station at 16:30; arrive at Thorns Hall at 17:10.
Return journey: Depart Thorns Hall at 09:30; arrive at Oxenholme Railway Station at 10:10.
Places are limited so booking is essential. We recommend booking at least 14 days in advance by contacting:
HF Holidays Sales and Support Team
Tel: +44 (0)203 974 8865
Email: reservations@hfholidays.co.uk
The journey from Oxenholme station to Thorns Hall is 10 miles and will take about 20 minutes.
For pricing, please contact Woofs of Sedbergh directly.
Woofs of Sedbergh
You can pre-book a taxi from our recommended company, Woofs of Sedbergh*. We recommend booking your taxi at least seven days in advance by contacting:
Tel: +44 (0)1539 620414
Email: woofs.sedbergh@outlook.com
A return journey can be arranged on your behalf by the HF Holidays House Manager at Thorns Hall.
*Woofs of Sedbergh is not owned or managed by HF Holidays.
There’s a car park available at Thorns Hall if you decide to drive.
Leave the M6 at junction 37 and follow the A684 eastbound for five miles to Sedbergh. At Sedbergh follow the road into Finkle Street (avoiding the main street), then almost immediately turn left at a small roundabout into Back Lane. Turn onto the A683 following signs to Kirkby Stephen. Thorns Hall is 100 yards on the left.
The nearest airport is Manchester International Airport.
There are direct trains every hour to Oxenholme with the journey taking around 90 minutes. From Oxenholme station you can complete the journey to Sedbergh by taxi.
National Rail have up-to-date information on train times and routes.
Flying to London Heathrow airport is another option, but it'll take you at least four hours to reach Oxenholme. Catch the train to London Paddington station, then the London Underground to London Euston where you can connect to the main line train to Oxenholme. The journey from here is 2.5 hours.
The UK has a famously unpredictable climate so it's best to be prepared for weather that’s sunny one minute and raining the next. To make it easier, here’s a list of items you should consider packing.
Essentials
For holidays operating October through to the end of March, please also bring the following on your walks:
Recommended
Where attractions are noted as optional in the itinerary, entrance fees are payable locally. This gives you greater choice, freedom, and flexibility to visit the attractions that interest you most. We have listed them in good faith, but we advise you check opening times and admission information before visiting.
If you have National Trust or English Heritage membership, please be sure to bring your membership cards with you. Entrance to National Trust (NT) & English Heritage (EH) sites have not been included in this holiday as many of you are already members of these organisations and will be entitled to free entry upon showing your EH/NT membership cards.
We see it as our responsibility to minimise our emissions, not just for this year but every year to come. Our work with sustainability experts, ecollective, has enabled us to measure our carbon footprint and create a strategy to reduce the carbon intensity of our product by 5% each year. Our ambition is to be net zero by 2040 – earlier if we can.
Learn moreCode: SDB07-WOD01
Dates & availability
7 Night Western Yorkshire Dales Walking with Sightseeing Holiday
7 nights. Trip notes
Non-members
£1,189
ppMembers
£1,159
pp£1,014
pp£984
pp7 nights. Trip notes
Non-members
£1,449
ppMembers
£1,419
pp£1,274
pp£1,244
pp
We are proud to be Britain’s only walking holiday co-operative. Led by almost 40,000 members, offering hundreds of holidays across the UK and overseas, with all surplus being reinvested back into our Society.

Experienced volunteer HF Leaders guide every walk at our UK country houses, offering up to three daily options. Making it easy to find a holiday to suit your ability, and with the flexibility to switch grades each walking day.

Become an HF Member to benefit from our Price Pledge. Secure your first choice of holiday early, and if the cost drops after you book, we will automatically refund the difference (exc. travel agent, group and self-guided bookings).

If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday
If we cancel your holiday, we honour all refund requests

We know that peace of mind is priceless, so we’ll always go above and beyond to meet – and exceed – expectations
If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday

A British heritage brand with 111 years of experience
Offering a choice of over 260 itineraries in nearly 40 countries
Run as a co-operative with 40,000-plus members
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