Kings Arms, Askrigg, Yorkshire Dales, England

Immerse yourself in nature and local history

There's another National Park Centre at Aysgarth Falls, less than five miles east of Askrigg. This impressive series of waterfalls, on the headwaters of the River Ure near the villages of Aysgarth and West Burton, have been attracting visitors for over 200 years. Ruskin, Turner and Wordsworth all visited and enthused at their outstanding beauty.

Just a few miles from Aysgarth is the well-preserved Bolton Castle, a massive 14th-century medieval fortress. Its oak beams were raised more than six centuries ago, but still support the great halls and galleries whose nine-feet thick walls soar upwards to the Civil War battlements. Built by Sir Richard Le Scrope, Lord Chancellor of England, it has never been sold and is privately owned by Lord Bolton, a direct descendant.

Hazel Brow Farm, a 15-minute drive north of Askrigg, is a 200-acre, family-run organic farm. Set in the heart of Swaledale, it has activities for all ages, from a nature trail challenge to some lovely self-guided walks starting at the farm.

Visit Richmond, then meet some birds of prey

Spend a day in Richmond, just 20 miles north east of Askrigg. Start at the museum, which tells the story of the town and its people. Based in a former joiner's workshop, it opened in 1978 and now has seven galleries.

Then why not head to the award-winning Green Howards Regimental Museum? Richmond is at the heart of the regiment's recruiting area and the museum charts its history to the present day, taking in the Crimean War, the North-West Frontier of India, the Boer War and World War I.

Enjoy a production at the Georgian Theatre Royal, the UK's most complete Georgian playhouse. Built by Samuel Butler in 1788, he also managed the theatre along with those at Beverley, Harrogate, Kendal, Northallerton, Ulverston and Whitby. There's something for everyone, from music and comedy to drama and dance.

Alternatively, head 25 miles east to Thorp Perrow Arboretum and its Bird of Prey and Mammal Centre. A great family day out, learn more about these spectacular birds and associated wildlife with a hands-on experience. The centre's flying demonstrations and informative commentary teach about eagles, falcons, hawks, vultures and owls from all five continents of the world.

A magnificent museum and an impressive castle

Bowes Museum is 30 miles north of Askrigg, located in the historic market town of Barnard Castle.

The museum building was built in the 19th century by John Bowes and Joséphine Coffin-Chevallier (a Parisian actress who Bowes married in 1852), and houses internationally significant collections of fine and decorative arts.

The nearby large and impressive Raby Castle has interiors and artworks from the medieval, regency and Victorian periods.

Awesome caverns and miles of footpaths

Just 50 minutes south of Askrigg, Stump Cross Caverns is located on the border of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Watch a film on the history and development of the caverns in the lecture theatre, then take a break in the tea room or browse the gift shop.

Bolton Abbey, set on the banks of the River Wharfe, is a short drive away. Explore the priory ruins or some of the 80 miles of footpaths on this 30,000-acre site. Afterwards, enjoy some local produce in the restaurants, or pick up some presents.

White Scar Cave is only 20 miles south west of Askrigg. Sculpted by nature over thousands of years, this beautifully lit subterranean landscape has streams, waterfalls, exotic cave formations and an ice-age cavern adorned with stalactites.

Head to Harrogate

For something different, Lightwater Valley Theme Park has over 40 rides and attractions, including The Ultimate, the longest roller coaster in Europe.

The more relaxing Nidderdale Museum is in nearby Pateley Bridge. Housed in a former workhouse, this fascinating museum's 11 rooms illustrate Nidderdale's rural life.

Just west of the town, Parcevall Hall Gardens are the Yorkshire Dales' only Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and English Heritage registered gardens open to the public.

A little further south east, the Victorian spa town of Harrogate has the Royal Pump Room Museum, Mercer Art Gallery and theatre, as well as the Harrogate Odeon Cinema. It has plenty of boutiques and good restaurants to suit all tastes.

Harrogate is close to many natural and other attractions, including Brimham Rocks, How Stean Gorge and Plumpton Rocks. It's also home to The Great Yorkshire Show, held in July every year.