The Dales market town of Hawes has been hitting the headlines all year, not for being the home of the world famous Wensleydale Cheese visitor centre, nor for the incomparable views featured in All Creatures Great and Small (both original and recent editions) – but for the innovative fuel garage which charges rates far below those in the rest of the country.
The community-owned enterprise is becoming a huge draw for UK travellers caught out by rising fuel prices, but was originally conceived as a way to keep essential services running in the Dales town, along with the Post Office and other services. You can check the latest prices and availability at the Dale Head Community Garage here.
If you are looking to enjoy a roadtrip through the Dales during the heatwave, here are a few handy pointers:
Things to do in Hawes
If you are making Hawes your destination this weekend, you will be greeted by plenty of car parks, friendly pubs and cafe’s as well as a large number of motorbikes stopping off in town.
Stay for Lunch
The White Hart, the Crown Hotel, the Fountain Hotel and a host of cafe’s, shops and even a sweet shop are available for hungry diners. Not to mention the extremely convenient fish & chips available on the main highstreet at the aptly named: The Chippie.
If you fancy somewhere more out of the way, Simonstone Hall and Yorebridge House are both excellent choices, with dedicated parking and private dining rooms available.
Visit Wensleydale Creamery
The Wensleydale Creamery has its own visitor centre with an interactive experience exploring the art of cheese making, the thousand-year history of cheese making in the Dales, the opportunity to watch Yorkshire Wensleydale cheese being crafted from a Cheesemaking Viewing Gallery, daily demonstrations a cafe and gift shop.
Visit the Dales Countryside Museum
See archaeological finds, learn more about the unique landscape and get involved with hands-on interactive exhibits for little ones.
Charge up an electric vehicle
If you’re travelling in convoy with electric or hybrid vehicles, there’s also an opportunity to charge up just next to the Dales Countryside Museum at a Pod Point EV charger.
Visit Hardraw Force
Just a couple of miles down the road, visitors will find an awe-inspiring waterfall beloved of artists and writers such as Turner and Wordsworth. Hardraw Force has featured in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and is a favourite spot for a moment of quiet reflection, brass band festival or selfie! Park at The Green Dragon pub and ask for access.
Go for a walk
The whole area is criss-crossed by beautiful walks taking in the fells, rivers and even the viaduct. Get an OS Map for the Northern & Central Dales or book a guide.
What do you like about Hawes?
Let us know your favourite spots in Hawes in the comments below.