Hawes City Guide

About Hawes – History and Culture

Hawes is a historic market town nestled in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Its origins date back to the Norse settlement period, with the name derived from Old Norse meaning a pass or neck of land. The town grew as a centre for wool and livestock trading, and its market charter was granted in 1705. By the 18th century, Hawes became a bustling hub for the thriving Wensleydale cheese industry, a tradition that continues to this day.

The town played a role in the Industrial Revolution, with mills and ropeworks harnessing the power of the River Ure. The Hawes Ropeworks became one of the largest in the UK, supplying rope for maritime and mining industries. Today, the town is a gateway to the Yorkshire Dales, attracting walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers. Its architecture reflects its prosperous past, with stone-built houses, the cobbled market square, and the parish church of St Margaret of Antioch, dating from the 12th century.

Modern Hawes combines a strong sense of community with a thriving tourism economy. The annual Hawes Agricultural Show and the Wensleydale Cheese Festival celebrate local heritage. The culture is rooted in farming, friendliness, and a deep appreciation for the surrounding landscape. Art galleries, craft shops, and the Dales Countryside Museum add a cultural dimension, while traditional pubs serve real ales and local food.

• St Margaret of Antioch Church – a Norman church with medieval wall paintings.
• Hawes Market House – built in 1835, hosts the weekly Tuesday market.
• Dales Countryside Museum – housed in a former railway station, featuring Dales history.
• Hawes Creamery – offers tours and tastings of Wensleydale cheese.
• The Courtyard Gallery – contemporary art and crafts by local artists.
• Hardraw Force – England's highest unbroken waterfall, a short walk from Hawes.
• Old School Gallery – a historic building showcasing photography and art.
• Buttertubs Pass – a dramatic mountain pass connecting Hawes to Swaledale.

Did You Know? – Facts about Hawes

Hawes may be small, but it holds several remarkable distinctions. As the highest market town in England, it enjoys crisp, clean air and panoramic views of the Dales. Its claim to cheese fame is global: Wensleydale cheese was a favourite of the Romans and later of Wallace and Gromit. The town's location makes it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with the Pennine Way beginning just beyond the village of Horton-in-Ribblesdale, a short drive away.

The town’s character is shaped by its isolation and rugged beauty. It is a place where traditions endure, from the weekly market to the annual show. The local dialect still contains words from Old Norse and Old English. Hawes is also a dark-sky area, offering exceptional stargazing. The Wensleydale Railway, heritage steam trains, and the nearby Aysgarth Falls attract families and railway enthusiasts alike.

• Hawes is the highest market town in England at 366m (1,200ft).
• Wensleydale cheese was first made by Cistercian monks in the 12th century.
• The Pennine Way, 268 miles long, starts near Hawes at Edale (or Malham).
• Hawes Creamery produces over 2,000 tonnes of cheese annually.
• The town has its own brewery, the Hawes Brewery, making Wensleydale Ale.
• The Wensleydale Railway is the longest heritage railway in North Yorkshire.
• Hawes appears in the Domesday Book as 'Haus'.
• The local food festival features cheese rolling on the moors.
• Hardraw Force waterfall is 30m (100 ft) high.
• The Dales Countryside Museum won a national award for its interactive exhibits.
• Hawes has a population density of just 0.2 people per hectare.
• The town has one of the highest proportions of second homes in the Dales.
• Famous walker Alfred Wainwright described the Hawes area as 'invigorating'.

Geography and Climate of Hawes

Hawes lies at the head of Wensleydale, a broad valley carved by glaciers, with the River Ure flowing through the town. The surrounding fells rise to over 600 metres, with Great Shunner Fell (716m) and Lovely Seat (648m) dominating the skyline. The town’s location in the Yorkshire Dales National Park ensures its landscape is protected from overdevelopment. The geology is mostly carboniferous limestone, with scars, pavements, and caves.

Climate in Hawes is typical of upland Britain: cool, wet, and windy. Winters bring snow and frost, with the town often cut off by deep snow. Summer temperatures rarely exceed 20°C, and rainfall averages 1,600mm per year. The weather can change rapidly, making sturdy footwear and waterproofs essential. Despite the damp, the lush green landscape and dramatic skies are a photographer’s dream.

• Elevation: 366m (1,200ft) above sea level.
• River Ure flows through the town; the waterfalls are a major attraction.
• Nearby fells: Great Shunner Fell, Lovely Seat, Dodd Fell.
• Geology: Carboniferous limestone with some Yoredale series.
• Average summer high: 18°C (64°F).
• Average winter low: -1°C (30°F).
• Annual rainfall: ~1,600mm (63 inches).
• Snowfall: frequent from December to March; road closures common.

Things to Do in Hawes

Hawes offers a wealth of activities for all seasons. From exploring historic sites and tasting local cheese to hiking over the moors and cycling through dales, there is something for everyone. The town’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, and its welcoming pubs provide a cosy end to an active day.

Food & Dining

Hawes is a food lover’s destination. The Wensleydale cheese is the star, but local butchers, bakeries, and tea rooms also shine. The weekly market sells fresh produce, and several restaurants offer seasonal British cuisine. For traditional fare, try the ‘Wensleydale Ploughman’s’ or a ‘Moorland Pie’ – often made with lamb and root vegetables.

Dining options range from the elegant Stone House Hotel to the rustic White Hart Inn. Many pubs serve real ales from local breweries, including Hawes Brewery and Theakston’s from Masham. Afternoon tea is a popular treat, often served with homemade scones, curd tart, and, of course, a wedge of Wensleydale.

• Wensleydale Creamery café – cheese platters and lunch.
• The White Hart Inn – gastro pub with local steaks.
• Cockett's Hotel – fine dining in a historic setting.
• The Crown Hawes – modern British menu.
• Hawes Tea Rooms – traditional scones and tea.
• Market day street food – artisan cheeses, pies, and sausages.
• Simon's Bakery – award-winning pork pies.
• Wensleydale Heifer – signature cheese and ale fondue.

Festivals & Events

Hawes hosts a vibrant calendar of events throughout the year. The Hawes Agricultural Show in September is a highlight, with livestock competitions, craft stalls, and traditional entertainment. The Wensleydale Cheese Festival in May celebrates the region’s dairy heritage with tastings, demonstrations, and cheese rolling uphill (a local twist).

Other events include the Hawes Farmers' Market, which runs monthly, and the Dales Festival of Food and Drink, attracting chefs and foodies. In December, the town holds a Christmas market with local gifts and mulled wine. Music festivals, real ale trails, and walking festivals also feature, drawing visitors and strengthening community ties.

• Hawes Agricultural Show – September, livestock and trad.
• Wensleydale Cheese Festival – May, cheese rolling.
• Dales Festival of Food and Drink – August, cookery demos.
• Hawes Farmers' Market – monthly, local produce.
• Christmas Market – December, festive stalls.
• Dales Walking Festival – spring and autumn, guided walks.
• Hawes Real Ale Trail – summer, pub crawl.
• Sheep Dog Trials – July, at nearby Bainbridge.

Cultural Attractions

The Dales Countryside Museum is the premier cultural attraction, housed in the converted Hawes railway station. It tells the story of the Dales through interactive exhibits, historic objects, and a reconstructed Victorian street. The museum also holds the National Park’s visitor centre, offering advice on walks and accommodation.

Art enthusiasts can visit the Courtyard Gallery and the Old School Gallery, both showcasing work by local painters, potters, and photographers. For a taste of local history, the village of Bainbridge, a mile away, has a Roman fort and a 15th-century church. The Wensleydale Railway offers steam train rides through the valley, while the Force Gill Aqueduct is an engineering marvel.

• Dales Countryside Museum – comprehensive Dales history.
• Hardraw Force – England's highest waterfall.
• Wensleydale Creamery – cheese making tour.
• Gayle Mill – restored water-powered mill.
• Buttertubs Pass – scenic mountain pass.
• Bainbridge Roman Fort – remains of a 1st-century station.
• Aysgarth Falls – three-step waterfall.
• St. Margaret's Church – medieval architecture.

Outdoor Activities

Walking and Hiking

Hawes is a walker’s paradise. The Pennine Way passes within five miles, and many shorter routes start from the town. The walk to Hardraw Force is an easy family trail. For a challenge, climb Great Shunner Fell or the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail (a short drive). The Dales Way, a 78-mile long-distance path to Windermere, passes nearby.

Mountain biking is popular on the numerous bridleways and forest tracks. The Wensleydale cycle route offers a moderate 20-mile loop through pretty villages. Fishing on the River Ure is possible with a permit, and caving adventures are available in the limestone caves of Mossdale and Gaping Gill.

• Pennine Way access – Horton-in-Ribblesdale.
• Hardraw Force walk – 1.5 miles round trip.
• Great Shunner Fell – 7 miles strenuous.
• Dales Way – section from Buckden to Hawes.
• Cycling route: Hawes to Askrigg (4 miles).
• River Ure fishing – trout and grayling.
• Mossdale Caverns – guided caving trips.
• Horse riding – local stables offer hacks.

Economy and Key Industries

Hawes has a small but resilient economy rooted in agriculture, tourism, and food production. Wensleydale cheese is the flagship product, with the creamery employing around 80 people. Tourism supports many jobs in hospitality, retail, and outdoor guiding. The weekly market and local shops provide goods and services to residents and visitors.

Farming remains vital, with sheep and cattle rearing across the dale. The landscape supports upland farming, but subsidies and environmental schemes are becoming increasingly important. There is also a growing number of small businesses, including breweries, art studios, and holiday accommodation providers. The National Park Authority and the North Yorkshire Council are key employers.

The digital economy is limited, but some residents work remotely in creative and tech sectors, drawn by the quality of life. The Inland Revenue office in Hawes is a major employer, processing tax returns for the region. Future growth is expected in sustainable tourism and local food innovation.

• Wensleydale Creamery (cheese production).
• Tourism: hotels, B&Bs, pubs, attractions.
• Agriculture: sheep, cattle, haymaking.
• Retail: market, independent shops.
• Hawes Brewery (craft beer).
• Dales Countryside Museum (visitor attraction).
• Self-employment: guides, artists, trades.
• HM Revenue & Customs (local office).

Where to Live in Hawes

Hawes offers a range of housing, from stone-built cottages in the town centre to modern houses on the outskirts. The central area around Market Place is bustling but can be noisy on market and show days. The village of Gayle, just south of the river, has a quieter, scenic setting with historic cottages and a Methodist church.

Bainbridge, one mile east, is a separate but connected village with a green, a pub, and a primary school. Its houses are typically 18th-century stone terraces. For those seeking a more remote lifestyle, the hamlets of Countersett and Stalling Busk sit above the valley, offering solitude and stunning views. Most properties are in high demand, with prices above the Yorkshire average due to the National Park designation.

Living in Hawes means embracing a slower pace, strong community spirit, and a dependence on a car for most journeys. Amenities include a Co-op supermarket, post office, library, doctor's surgery, and primary school. Secondary education requires a 12-mile bus ride to Settle or Leyburn. Broadband speeds are improving but can be patchy in outlying areas.

• Gayle Village – charming, riverside, popular with families.
• Bainbridge – historic, with pub and school.
• Countersett – remote, panoramic views.
• Stalling Busk – hamlet, near Semerwater.
• Market Place – central, convenient but busy.
• Worton – small settlement, affordable.
• Asking area – larger village, amenities.

Formalities and Visas in Hawes

As Hawes is in the United Kingdom, visa requirements are governed by UK immigration rules. Visitors from the EU, US, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter for up to 6 months without a visa for tourism or short business trips. For longer stays, a relevant visa such as a Skilled Worker visa, Family visa, or Student visa is required.

EU citizens now need to apply through the EU Settlement Scheme if they were resident before 31 December 2020. All visitors should carry a valid passport and may be asked to show onward travel proof and sufficient funds. For work or study, employers and educational institutions must sponsor the visa. The local UKVI office is in Leeds, about 1.5 hours away.

Residents can register with the local GP, open a bank account, and get a National Insurance number. Applying for a driving licence is straightforward, but an International Driving Permit may be needed for some foreign licences. Always check the latest Home Office guidelines before travelling.

• Tourist visa-free: up to 6 months for most nationalities.
• EU Settlement Scheme: deadline 30 June 2021 (late applications possible).
• Skilled Worker visa: job offer required, points-based.
• Global Talent visa: for academics, artists, and researchers.
• Family visa: for joining a spouse/partner who is a UK citizen/settled.
• Student visa: for courses at recognised institutions (none in Hawes itself).
• Yorkshire and Humber regional limited visa options.
• Leeds Home Office office handles local applications.
• Biometric residence permit required for most visas.
• Travel insurance recommended due to limited public healthcare.

Working in Hawes

The job market in Hawes is small but niche. Tourism, hospitality, and the creamery are the largest employers. Seasonal work is common in hotels and cafes, from March to October. There are also opportunities in farming, construction, and retail. Professional roles are limited, so many locals commute to Leyburn, Northallerton, or even Harrogate.

Self-employment is popular among artists, craftspeople, and outdoor guides. The rise of remote work has allowed a few people to move to Hawes while keeping city jobs. However, fast broadband is not yet universal, and mobile signal is weak in many spots. The National Park Authority and North Yorkshire Council offer some office-based jobs in planning, conservation, and visitor services.

Work culture is relaxed and friendly, but the seasonal nature of tourism can make income unpredictable. It is essential to have a driving licence and car to access most jobs. The minimum wage is the same as the UK national living wage. Union membership is not common, but support is available from the TUC.

• Hospitality: chefs, wait staff, housekeeping.
• Retail: shop assistants, market stall holders.
• Agriculture: farm workers, shepherds.
• Food production: creamery operatives, packers.
• Outdoor guiding: walking, cycling, fishing.
• Construction: tradespeople, builders.
• Professional: rare, mainly in council or remote IT.
• Voluntary: many opportunities in National Park.
• Seasonal spike in summer; quiet in winter.

Studying in Hawes

Hawes has a Church of England primary school, Hawes Community Primary School, which is rated 'Good' by Ofsted. For secondary education, students travel to Settle College (12 miles) or The Wensleydale School in Leyburn (14 miles), with daily bus services. There are no universities in Hawes, but nearby institutions include the University of Cumbria in Ambleside (2 hours), Leeds University (1.5 hours), and Durham University (1 hour).

Adult education is available through the Dales Countryside Museum, offering courses in local history, traditional crafts, and conservation. The Hawes Library hosts workshops and reading groups. Some local residents take online courses from the Open University. For vocational training, there are apprenticeships in hospitality, agriculture, and engineering through local businesses.

Student life is not typical in Hawes due to its size, but the outdoor opportunities are immense. Nature lovers will thrive, while cultural entertainment is limited. Studying here would suit someone focused on field studies, remote learning, or a mature student seeking peace and quiet.

• Hawes Community Primary School – ages 4-11.
• Settle College – secondary school, bus service.
• Wensleydale School, Leyburn – alternative secondary.
• No local sixth form; options in Leyburn or Settle.
• Nearby universities: Leeds, Durham, Cumbria.
• Open University – distance learning option.
• Apprenticeships: hospitality, agriculture, engineering.
• Museum courses: dry-stone walling, weaving.
• Library study space – limited but free.
• Cost of studying: low living costs, high travel costs.

Finance and Banks in Hawes

Banking services in Hawes are limited. There is no longer a high-street bank branch, but the Hawes Post Office offers basic banking facilities for customers of Barclays, Santander, and other banks. For full service banking, residents travel to Leyburn or Northallerton. Withdrawal of cash is possible at the Post Office and at a few ATMs in the town.

Digital banking is widely used. Most people open accounts with nationwide banks such as Lloyds, Halifax, or online-only banks like Monzo or Starling. The tax system is managed by HMRC, with a local office in Hawes for self-assessment and enquiries. Wealth management is not locally available; specialist advice is sought in larger towns.

• Post Office banking: basic cash and cheque services.
• ATMs: at Co-op, Post Office, and pub (small fee).
• Main banks: Lloyds, Barclays (by post/online).
• Digital banks: Monzo, Starling, Revolut popular.
• Tax office: HMRC in Hawes for problems.
• Currency: GBP (sterling).
• Mortgages: available from high-street lenders, but low property turnover.
• Financial advice: independent advisors in Leyburn.

Health Care in Hawes

Healthcare in Hawes is provided by the NHS. The main facility is Hawes Surgery, a GP practice with a small team of doctors and nurses. It offers general medical services, minor surgery, and chronic disease management. For emergencies, the nearest A&E is at the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton (23 miles) or the Royal Lancaster Infirmary (30 miles). Dental care is available at a practice in Hawes, but for specialists, residents travel to Richmond or Lancaster.

Hospital admissions are covered by the NHS for residents. Visitors from outside the UK should have travel insurance, as some care may be charged. Ambulance services are provided by Yorkshire Ambulance Service, but response times can be long due to the rural location. Community services like physiotherapy and mental health support are available via outreach from North Yorkshire. Pharmacies in Hawes include a well-stocked pharmacy in the town.

• Hawes Surgery – GP service, NHS.
• Friarage Hospital Northallerton – A&E.
• Royal Lancaster Infirmary – alternative A&E.
• Hawes Dental Practice – private/NHS.
• Community pharmacy – prescriptions and advice.
• Mental health services – limited; referral needed.
• Ambulance services – long response times.
• Health visitors and midwives – monthly clinics.

Accommodation in Hawes

Accommodation options in Hawes range from self-catering cottages and B&Bs to inns and small hotels. The town has a high proportion of second homes and holiday lets, which can make long-term rentals scarce and expensive. For buying, stone terraces in the centre typically cost £200,000–£350,000, while larger detached houses with land can exceed £500,000.

Renting is difficult, with few properties available and high demand. A two-bedroom cottage might rent for £600–£800 per month. Social housing is managed by local housing associations, but waiting lists are long. New development is restricted by the National Park, so supply is limited. Many locals live in adjoining villages to find affordable homes.

• Holiday lets: short-term, popular with tourists.
• B&Bs: Stone House, Cockett's, White Hart.
• Self-catering cottages: available via agencies.
• Long-term rental: very limited; use Rightmove.
• Buying: typical terrace £250k, detached £450k.

Planning Your Move to Hawes

Moving to Hawes requires careful planning, especially if you are coming from abroad. First, arrange your visa if needed. Next, budget for housing, living costs, and a car – public transport is minimal. You will need a UK bank account, National Insurance number, and to register with the GP. It is wise to visit before committing, ideally in both summer and winter, to experience the full climate.

Shipping belongings may be expensive; many people sell and rebuy locally. You will need to import a vehicle or buy one in the UK. Check driving licence rules: EU/EEA licences can be exchanged, others may need a test. Setting up utilities (electric, water, internet) is straightforward but broadband speeds vary. Council tax band for Hawes is typically Band B (average £1,500 per year).

• Visa application: start 6 months before move.
• Housing: use local estate agents (e.g., GSC Grays, JN & WH Unthank).
• Bank account: Monzo (online) or Lloyds (local branch in Leyburn).
• National Insurance: call HMRC or apply online.
• GP registration: contact Hawes Surgery.
• Vehicle: import or buy used; check MOT history.
• Utilities: providers include EDF, British Gas.
• Broadband: check availability at uSwitch.
• Council tax: register with North Yorkshire Council.
• Winter preparedness: stock up on food and supplies.

Leisure in Hawes

Leisure in Hawes is centred on the great outdoors. After a day walking or cycling, the pubs offer a warm welcome with open fires and local ales. The Hawes Ropeworks has been converted into an indoor climbing centre, and there is a swimming pool at the Bainbridge village hall. For shopping, the weekly market and independent shops provide gifts, outdoor gear, and local produce.

Evening entertainment is low-key, with folk music sessions at the Crown or the White Hart. The Wensleydale Cinema in Leyburn shows films, and live theatre is occasional at the charity shop venue. For a quiet night, bring a book or enjoy the starry skies. The town has no nightclubs or late-night bars; everything winds down by 11pm.

• Indoor climbing – Hawes Ropeworks climbing wall.
• Swimming – Bainbridge pool (seasonal).
• Folk music live – Crown, White Hart.
• Weekly market – Tuesdays, fresh produce.
• Bookshops – one indie bookshop.
• Gym – a small fitness room at the community centre.

Transportation Options in Hawes

Hawes is car-dependent, with limited public transport. The nearest train station is at Garsdale (4 miles), on the Settle-Carlisle line, offering scenic services to Leeds and Carlisle. The Wensleydale Railway runs heritage trains to Redmire, but does not connect to the national network. Buses are infrequent: the 156 runs from Hawes to Leyburn and Northallerton a few times daily, and the 113 to Sedbergh.

Roads include the A684, which connects to the M6 at J37 (Kendal) and the A1(M) near Catterick. Parking in the town is free in the main car park, but spaces fill quickly on market days and summer weekends. Taxis are available but must be pre-booked. For cyclists, the route over Buttertubs Pass is iconic but steep. Air travel is via Manchester (1.5 hours) or Leeds Bradford (1 hour).

• Garsdale station – 4 miles, Settle-Carlisle line.
• Wensleydale Railway – heritage steam to Redmire.
• Bus 156 – to Leyburn and Northallerton.
• Bus 113 – to Sedbergh and Kendal.
• A684 – main road; scenic but slow.
• Taxi – Hawes Cars (01756 760000).
• Car hire – available in Leyburn or Northallerton.
• Airports: Manchester (2h), Leeds Bradford (1.5h).

Everyday Life in Hawes

Daily life in Hawes revolves around the town centre, with its market square, shops, and pubs. The Co-op is the main grocery store, open 7am-10pm. For more variety, residents drive to Leyburn or Asda in Northallerton. The post office is a social hub, and neighbours greet each other by name. Safety is high; crime is rare, mostly minor theft. The community is tight-knit, and newcomers are usually welcomed, though it can take time to integrate.

Services include a library, a bank (post office), a chemist, and a doctor. Mobile phone coverage is poor in the valley; many use Vodafone or O2 with limited 4G. Broadband is improving; some areas have fibre (up to 80Mbps). The school run is on foot or by bus. Many residents volunteer for the National Park, the museum, or the church. Winter brings challenges: snow can block roads, and power cuts are rare but possible. People tend to stock up and hunker down on cold days.

• Co-op supermarket – main grocery, limited range.
• Post office – banking, parcels, essentials.
• Library – free use, Internet access.
• Safety: very low crime; very safe for families.
• Community events – market, church fete, shows.
• Volunteer opportunities – museum, path maintenance.

Cost of Living in Hawes

Living in Hawes is generally more affordable than major UK cities, but housing costs are high relative to local incomes. Property prices are inflated by second-home buyers and holiday lets. Rent is scarce and expensive. Food and household goods cost slightly more than in towns due to transport costs, but the market provides fresh local produce. Heating is a significant expense, as winter months require constant central heating and many homes use oil or LPG.

Public transport is minimal, so car ownership is essential – fuel costs are typical. Council tax is moderate. For a single person, monthly costs (excluding rent) might be £600–£800. For a couple, around £1,200. Eating out is cheaper than in cities; a pub meal costs £12–£18. The overall cost of living index is about 10% lower than the UK average.

• Rent: 1-bed cottage £600–£800/month.
• Buy: terraced house £250k, semi-detached £350k.
• Heating: oil-filled radiators, annual bill £1,000–£1,500.
• Council tax: band B average £1,500/year.
• Petrol: about 5p more per litre than city.
• Groceries: £200–£300 per month for couple.

Places to Visit in Hawes

Hawes itself has several attractions. The Dales Countryside Museum is a must, with interactive exhibits tracing the history of the area. The Wensleydale Creamery offers tours, tastings, and a shop. Hardraw Force is a magnificent waterfall, accessible via a short walk through the Green Dragon Inn. The town’s churches, including St Margaret’s, have beautiful stained glass and ancient history.

Beyond Hawes, the Yorkshire Dales offer endless exploration: Aysgarth Falls, a series of waterfalls that were used in the film *Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves*. The Buttertubs Pass offers dramatic views, and the village of Askrigg, known as the village from *All Creatures Great and Small*, is just 3 miles away. For a longer excursion, the Settle-Carlisle Railway provides a scenic journey across the Dales.

• Dales Countryside Museum – history, family friendly.
• Hardraw Force – highest unbroken waterfall in England.
• Wensleydale Creamery – cheese tasting and shop.
• St Margaret's Church – medieval, wall paintings.
• Aysgarth Falls – 3-tier waterfall, film location.
• Buttertubs Pass – iconic mountain road.
• Askrigg – *All Creatures Great and Small* village.
• Semerwater – lake with legend, nature reserve.
• Bainbridge Roman Fort – 1st-century ruins.
• Gayle Mill – restored water-powered mill.
• Wensleydale Railway – heritage steam train rides.
• Mossdale Caverns – guided caving available.
• School of Art and Pottery – hands-on workshops.

News & Testimonies

Recent news in Hawes includes the ongoing success of the Wensleydale Creamery, which has won multiple awards for its cheese. The town has also seen improvements in broadband, with a community-led project to extend fibre to rural hamlets. The Hawes Agricultural Show continues to draw crowds, and the Dales Countryside Museum recently reopened after a renovation, adding interactive exhibits on climate change. A new cycle route linking Hawes to Redmire was opened in 2023, promoting sustainable travel.

Residents often praise the quality of life, the stunning scenery, and the strong community spirit. Some note the challenges of isolation, limited jobs, and the influx of tourists in summer. One long-time resident said: “Hawes is a wonderful place to raise a family if you love the outdoors. You get to know everyone, and there’s always a helping hand. But you need to