NATIONAL PARK

The Yorkshire Dales is otherwise known as James Herriot country, after the famous vet who was featured in the TV programme `All Creature’s Great and Small’. It was designated as a National Park in 1954. It covers an area of 1773 square kilometres and includes some of the most spectacular scenery in Britain. The network of dry stone walls that crisscross the slopes of the hills, the beautiful bleak heather moor land, and the picturesque hay meadows all make up this unique countryside. The Dales are blessed with a wide variety of wildlife, ranging from the curlews and lapwings floating in the skies above, to the hares with their black tipped ears lolloping across the meadows.

DRIVING IN THE DALES would like to give you the opportunity to experience the peace and tranquility of the Yorkshire Dales in a traditional manor. Ride in a comfortable carriage, pulled by a pair of Dales Ponies. Driving in the Dales allows you to see the panoramic views over the dry stone walls, to witness the wildlife normally frightened away by motorized vehicles, and to really experience the peace and beauty of these fabulous Dales.

THE PONIES

DRIVING IN THE DALES uses a pair of traditional Dales Ponies to pull a six seater wagonette.
The ponies are called Molly and Mickey and are both black. Molly is 13 Years old and has pulled a gypsy caravan to Appleby Horse Fair in the past. Mickey is 4 years old and adores his partner Molly. This breed of Pony is traditional to the area, and is renowned for their strength and stamina, enabling them to pull with ease. Dales ponies are also blessed with a kind and docile temperament, whilst still being hardy enough to live outside all year round, even in the fairly harsh winter conditions as found in the Yorkshire Dales. Dales Ponies are now classified under the Rare Breeds Survival Trust as a vulnerable breed.

THE DRIVES

WEEKDAY DRIVES

We are also available for drives during the week. There is a range of drives available, from the one hour drive shown above to a full day picnic drive. We can also accommodate your own plans if there is a particular drive you wish to do simply ring or e-mail us to discuss your requirements. Discounts are available for group bookings of 4-6 people. Please note any weekday drives must be pre-booked.

The following drives are examples of what we can offer.