Ilkley

When: Monday 17th to Friday 21st May 2027

Who: Helen Venus and Barbara Hamilton

Level: Low Moderate/Moderate and Sightseeing

What's included: Four days/nights bed, breakfast, and packed lunch, dinner on three nights (we'll eat out on the other night, not included), plus three and a half days guided walking / sightseeing (entrance fees not included)

The feedback from this year's Ilkley weekend was wonderful - everyone loved the fabulous venue, and the fascinating local area. But we barely scratched the surface of the amazing walks available, and the fog cheated us of the views across the valley, so the overwhelming response was a big “yes” to going back again.

Myddleton Grange is an impressive former retreat centre, with 22 ensuite bedrooms for single occupancy. There's also an entertainment room (complete with a very popular pool table), bar, cinema room, chapel, sauna, and two hot tubs.

As for walks, there’s still so much for us to explore. We’ve yet to venture properly onto Ilkley Moor beyond its fringes, and I’d love to follow the River Wharfe from Bolton Abbey back to Ilkley along The Dales Way. Otley Chevin is close by, and we can also head a little further into the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

The sightseers are spoiled for choice with places like Harewood House, Bolton Abbey and Skipton close by. A trip to Harrogate is always a treat, especially paired with a visit to RHS Harlow Carr Gardens. Another gem in the area is the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Salts Mill in Saltaire.

And of course, the town of Ilkley itself is a absolutely wonderful - with lovely shops, cafes, and a rich and interesting history.

Ilkley is only three hours from London on the train, and we would encourage people to travel that way if possible. A shared taxi will be arranged to take you from the station to the accommodation.

You can check out the photos from the previous trip here.