The Dearne Valley
Kirkburton, Denby Dale, Clayton West, Shepley and Emley.
On the edge of the Pennines, the rolling countryside and attractive stone-built villages of the Dearne Valley are connected by a network of footpaths and trails.
Attractions
The pretty town of Denby Dale was named 'Pie Village' after the huge pies made to celebrate special events. You will know you're in the right place when you spot the striking stone-built viaduct which spans the Dearne Valley and Emley Moor Mast in the distance.
The village centres in Denby Dale, Kirkburton and Clayton West have many independent stores.
Indulge at The Three Acres in Shelley, a Michelin Guide 2017 favourite, along with The Woodman Inn . Alternatively you can fill your picnic hamper with local produce and fruit picked by yourself at Bentley Grange .
Traditional farmhouse tearooms: Dearne Lee and Thorncliffe Farm Shop cook fine local produce. The Golden Cock in Farnley Tyas is popular with locals.
More on food and drink in the Dearne Valley:
- Artisan ice cream is a speciality at Yummy Yorkshire .
- Norman's Restaurant .
Art and music
- The Hepworth Wakefield is Yorkshire's inspiring art gallery.
- The Yorkshire Sculpture Park is the UK's leading open air gallery.
Outdoors
A little flatter than the normal Yorkshire landscape, the countryside around the Dearne Valley is ideal for exploring by bicycle or on foot. Many walks are available including 14 themed trails and 10 around the Kirkburton Parish.
The region is rich in wildlife, with good woodlands and open fields. Nature reserves including woods with public access include Blacker Wood, Cliffe Wood, Wither Wood and Lower Hartley Bank Wood.
More on the outdoors in the Dearne Valley:
- Cycle along the Trans Pennine Trail .
- Visitors are welcome at Woodsome Hall Golf Club with its testing par 70 course.
- Search for walking and cycling routes
Family entertainment
Entertain the family with great days out; trains, events, art and farms.
Take the kids on the Whistlestop Valley which offers stunning views of the Dearne Valley, Emley Moor TV mast and Blacker Wood.
The National Coal Mining Museum is free to enter and has daily underground tours. Spend the day exploring art in an outdoor setting at the Yorkshire Sculpture Park
More for families in the Dearne Valley:
- Eat in the child friendly surroundings of the Yummy Yorkshire Ice Cream Parlour and coffee shop.
- Outdoor adventure playground at Cliffe House with on-site café.
- Visit Emley Show in the summer.
- Blacker Hall Farm Shop
