Trip over Pennines

Here’s a suggested itinerary for your road trip to the Yorkshire Dales, focusing on famous TV locations and starting from Wigan:


Day 1: Wigan to Skipton (Gateway to the Dales)

  • Distance: ~55 miles (~1.5 hours)
  • Pick up your hire car in Wigan and drive to Skipton, a charming market town.
  • Stop in Skipton:
    • Explore Skipton Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in England.
    • Walk along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal.
    • TV Connection: Skipton has been used in the TV series “Dales Diary” and various documentaries.

Day 2: Grassington and Malham Cove

  • Grassington:
    • TV Location: The fictional village of Darrowby in “All Creatures Great and Small” (2020 series).
    • Visit the Grassington Market Square and wander through its quaint shops.
    • Stop for lunch at one of the cozy pubs, like The Devonshire.
  • Malham Cove:
    • TV Connection: Featured in “The Trip” with Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon.
    • Explore the stunning limestone cliffs and the unique natural amphitheater.

Day 3: Askrigg and Hawes

  • Askrigg:
    • TV Location: Used as the original Darrowby in the classic “All Creatures Great and Small” (1978 series).
    • Visit St. Oswald’s Church and the King’s Arms Hotel, which served as the Drovers Arms in the series.
  • Hawes:
    • Famous for the Wensleydale Creamery, known for its Wallace and Gromit connection.
    • Stroll around the quaint village and stop at the Dales Countryside Museum.
    • Scenic drive through Buttertubs Pass, a spectacular route featured in “Top Gear”.

Day 4: Bolton Abbey and Harrogate

  • Bolton Abbey:
    • TV Connection: The abbey ruins and the surrounding estate have featured in period dramas like “The Secret Garden”.
    • Take a scenic walk along the River Wharfe and cross the iconic stepping stones.
  • Harrogate:
    • TV Connection: This elegant spa town inspired settings in “Downton Abbey”.
    • Relax with afternoon tea at Bettys Café Tea Rooms.

Day 5: Return to Wigan

  • On the way back, consider stopping at Esholt, the original filming location for “Emmerdale”.
    • Visit The Woolpack Inn, the iconic pub from the series.

Trip Tips:

  • Car Rental in Wigan: Book in advance to secure a good deal and ensure the vehicle is suitable for winding country roads.
  • Navigation: Use GPS or a detailed map, as phone signals can be patchy in some rural areas.
  • Packing: Bring walking boots and weather-appropriate clothing for exploring outdoor locations.

Let me know if you’d like more details or help with accommodations! 🚗📺

For more details on car hire from Wigan contact us on 01942 778899

Visit our site to book https://easihire.co.uk/van-hire-wigan/