Escape the crowded streets of York for a full-day sightseeing tour of the Yorkshire Dales, and discover one of England’s most dramatic landscapes. Depart York at 09:30, and travel through Boroughbridge en route to Ripon. See the city’s imposing stone cathedral and the bustling market square, site of the Ripon obelisk. Continue to Masham in Lower Wensleydale. Famous for its family-run breweries, steam engines, and annual sheep fair, it’s thriving market (Wednesdays and Saturdays) is still going strong 762 years since the 1st charter. Continue towards Middleham, nestled between 2 rivers. Pause to look at its magnificent castle with the largest castle keep in the North of England. Next, go to the gateway town of Leyburn ("A Town for all Seasons"), and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Stop for lunch in Reeth, and admire the natural amphitheater surrounded by spectacular landscapes. This quirky Saxon settlement had a huge voice in the domestic economy and is best known for its extensive contribution to England's lead industry. Admire one of Britain’s best-preserved medieval castles at Castle Bolton, built by Sir Richard Le Scrope to rival the most luxurious homes in the land. See the scars of its 600-year history, including its involvement in the Pilgrimage of Grace, Mary Queen of Scot’s imprisonment, and a Civil War siege. Continue to Aysgarth Falls on the River Ure. Watch the river fall over 3 major falls in less than a mile. Drive to the picturesque village of West Burton to look at its beautiful village green. Then, drive through Bishopdale into Whafedale, and on through the classic Dales villages of Buckden and Kettlewell. Pass Klinsey and its imposing crag. Stop in Grassington to wander the cobbled market square. Sample local foods, and purchase souvenir arts and crafts at leisure. Next, go to the small market town of Pateley Bridge, home to the oldest building housing a sweet shop in England. Drive through Nidderdale via the dramatic balancing limestone rock formation of Brimham Rocks on Brimham Moor, before the return journey to York.