Dales firms urged to get people off beaten track
YORKSHIRE DALES businesses are being urged to use their insider knowledge to promote attractions in the area which are less visited than others.
The first Dales Discovery Day is to take place on Saturday, March 17, to coincide with the start of England Tourism Week, It comes after
reported how the National Park could be facing the biggest crisis in its 64-year history due to social and economic pressures.
Some believe that a radical shift in policy is needed to preserve centuries-old rural life amid challenges such as the affordable homes crisis and a reliance on subsidised communityled public transport.
The discovery day aims to highlight what the Dales has to offer beyond its famous landscape.
Susan Briggs, founder of the DalesDiscoveries website, said: “With 40 dales across Yorkshire it can be easy for visitors to stick to the well-trodden favourite haunts, which means they miss many of the fantastic off-thebeaten track places and activities that can turn a visit into an unforgettable experience.
“Locals and regular visitors are often the best people to ask for recommendations and so we’re using the day to highlight the insiders’ track on the multitude of great attractions, characters and talented artists and craftspeople, as well as the lesser-known places serving great food and the quirky features that make the Yorkshire Dales distinctive.”
Organisers hope to come up with 10 new discovery trails, more than 100 ideas for things to do and 1,000 insider tips. People can get involved at www.dales tourism.com.