Be a green visitor

There's one major attraction that draws more visitors to the Yorkshire Dales National Park than any other - our unspoilt landscape. And we plan to keep it that way...

Wherever we go and whatever we do, we have an impact. Make a positive choice to reduce yours and help care for the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Reduce, reuse, recycle

At home and away… travel lightly. Opt for less packaging and baggage, reuse materials when you can and please use recycling facilities wherever possible. Please take your rubbish home with you.

Give the car a break

Walk, cycle, take the bus – find ways to leave the car behind. There are some fantastic places to see on your doorstep… just ask!  Don’t forget to keep hold of your public transport ticket; show it to businesses displaying the Dales Bus Discount Scheme sticker and you can claim a discount or special deal.  If you do have to bring the car, get a weekly parking ticket so it’s easy to just park up, get out and explore by foot, without rushing back to feed the meter.

Stay local, eat local, buy local

Get a real flavour of the Yorkshire Dales National Park by visiting farmers markets, village hops, pubs and cafes.  Absorb yourself in the distinct culture of the area by taking part in some of the great annual events and activities that go on, all year round.

Chill out – switch off!

One of the greatest features of our National Park is the sky. Especially at night. Switch off lights and enjoy the starry spectacle above your head. And whilst you’re at it, why not switch off TVs, computers and mobile phones too? Enjoy the peace and quiet.

Follow the Countryside Code

Protect, respect and enjoy. Read the full code.

Make your holiday green

Look for places to stay and things to do that will reduce your 'carbon footprint':

• Look for places with plenty of opportunities to walk, cycle, take the bus or rail.

• Look for local food and drink - businesses selling and promoting regional or local food as THE main part of their menu choice. Also look out for food festivals and farmers' markets.

• Look for the leaf when booking your holiday.  The Green Tourism Business Scheme (GTBS) award recognises a number of places to stay and visit in the Yorkshire Dales that are taking action to support the local area and the wider environment.  It is the largest scheme of its type to operate globally and assesses hundreds of fantastic places to stay and visit in Britain.  For a list of places which have a bronze, silver or gold award visit www.green-business.co.uk or our green accommodation page.

Give something back

There are lots of ways for you to contribute to this very special area so it is enjoyed by many for years to come. You could volunteer, join a friends scheme or donate money.