Birkwith Cave

The entrance to Birkwith Cave sits tucked into the limestone hills above Settle, and it's one of those spots that rewards a bit of effort to reach. It's a proper Yorkshire cave - nothing vast or showy, but genuinely atmospheric once you're inside. The passage winds through cool rock with that mineral-rich smell you get underground, and there's enough height to walk upright for most of it, which beats crawling about on your belly.

It's best suited to adults and older kids who are comfortable in confined spaces and don't mind the damp. You won't need specialist equipment, though a decent torch helps. Allow an hour for the whole trip if you're taking it slowly and actually looking about, rather than just rushing through. The approach itself is a pleasant walk through the limestone country that makes North Yorkshire special.

What makes Birkwith work as part of a wider park holiday is that it slots nicely between other attractions in the area. You can combine it with walks across the fells, or pair it with a stay at Ribblesdale Pods just down the road - those glamping set-ups are genuinely lovely if you want to stay local. Philpin Farm Campsite is another solid option, also within striking distance. The cave itself won't take all day, but it's the sort of thing that punctuates a walking holiday rather than anchors it. Good for a morning out before moving on elsewhere.