Highlight • Pub
The Moorcock Inn
Cycling
5.0
(1)
Hiking
5.0
(1)
The Moorcock Inn is a historic public house nestled in the scenic Upper Wensleydale area of North Yorkshire, England. Situated at an elevation of approximately 320 metres, it stands near the watershed between the Rivers Clough and Ure, offering a welcoming stop for travellers exploring the Yorkshire Dales. This traditional inn is conveniently located adjacent to the junction of the A684 and B6259 roads, and close to Garsdale railway station on the famous Settle–Carlisle line, making it easily accessible for many.
Visitors consistently praise The Moorcock Inn for its warm Yorkshire welcome, especially after a long day out on the trails. Hikers and cyclists often highlight the hearty, comforting food, with meat pies and chips being a particular favourite. The inn's long history, dating back to the 1740s, adds to its charm, providing a genuine taste of local heritage in a beautiful, remote setting.
Before visiting, it's helpful to know that The Moorcock Inn is a popular spot, particularly with those enjoying the surrounding long-distance paths. While specific parking details aren't provided, its location at a road junction suggests accessibility. Given its moorland setting, appropriate clothing and footwear are advisable for any walks around The Moorcock Inn pub, especially during cooler or wetter weather.
The Moorcock Inn is an ideal destination year-round, offering a cosy retreat in winter and a perfect base for exploring in warmer months. It's particularly popular with walkers and cyclists, serving as a convenient stop or starting point for various routes. Many find it a perfect place to refuel after exploring the stunning landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales, with its family-friendly atmosphere making it suitable for all.
After a day of adventure, visitors often recount the simple pleasure of a hot meal and a refreshing drink. Cyclists have shared stories of finding a warm haven and a delicious meal, turning a wet ride into a memorable experience. The friendly service and the quality of the food are frequently mentioned, contributing to a truly authentic Yorkshire experience.
Whether you're looking for easy walking routes near The Moorcock Inn pub or more challenging trails, the surrounding Upper Wensleydale area offers a wealth of options. You can discover a variety of routes for hiking, cycling, and trail running, many of which pass close to this historic inn. To plan your next adventure and explore the best walks near The Moorcock Inn pub, you can find numerous trails on komoot, allowing you to tailor your visit to your preferred activity and fitness level.
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Tips
May 24, 2025
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Elevation 320 m
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly is The Moorcock Inn located?
The Moorcock Inn is situated in Upper Wensleydale, North Yorkshire, England. It's conveniently located at the junction of the A684 and B6259 roads, near the watershed between the Rivers Clough and Ure. It's also close to Garsdale railway station on the historic Settle–Carlisle line.
Is there parking available at The Moorcock Inn for walkers and visitors?
While the intro mentions its accessibility at a road junction, specific details about parking capacity are not provided. However, given its popularity as a stop for walkers and cyclists, it's generally understood that some on-site or nearby parking is available. For busy periods, especially during peak season or weekends, arriving earlier in the day is advisable.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walking routes directly accessible from The Moorcock Inn?
Yes, the surrounding Upper Wensleydale area offers a variety of routes suitable for different abilities. While specific 'easy' or 'family-friendly' routes aren't detailed in the provided information, the inn is a known starting point for many trails. You can find numerous options for gentle strolls or more accessible paths on platforms like komoot, allowing you to choose a route that suits your family's needs.
Are dogs welcome at The Moorcock Inn or on nearby trails?
The provided information does not explicitly state The Moorcock Inn's dog policy. However, many traditional pubs in the Yorkshire Dales are dog-friendly, especially those popular with walkers. For trails, dogs are generally welcome on public footpaths, but it's crucial to keep them on a lead, especially around livestock and to protect local wildlife. It's always best to check directly with the inn regarding their specific dog policy before your visit.
What kind of circular walks can I find starting from The Moorcock Inn?
The Moorcock Inn serves as an excellent base for various circular walks into the surrounding moorland and dales. While specific distances aren't provided, the area is rich with public footpaths and bridleways that can be combined to create loops of varying lengths and difficulties. Many hikers use the inn as a starting or finishing point for exploring the scenic landscapes of Upper Wensleydale.
How difficult are the walks around The Moorcock Inn?
The difficulty of walks around The Moorcock Inn varies significantly. The area encompasses both gentle valley paths and more challenging moorland ascents. You can find easy, relatively flat routes along the valley floor, or opt for more strenuous hikes that involve significant elevation gain and cover longer distances across the open moors. It's advisable to check route details and elevation profiles before setting out.
Is The Moorcock Inn a good base for winter walks, and what should I consider?
Yes, The Moorcock Inn is described as an 'ideal destination year-round' and a 'cosy retreat in winter.' For winter walks, the landscape can be stunning, but conditions can also be challenging. Be prepared for cold weather, potential snow or ice, and shorter daylight hours. Appropriate winter clothing, waterproofs, sturdy boots, and navigation skills are essential. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Are there any notable viewpoints or scenic spots near The Moorcock Inn?
Given its location in Upper Wensleydale near the watershed, the area around The Moorcock Inn is inherently scenic, offering panoramic views of the dales and moorland. While specific named viewpoints aren't highlighted, any walk into the surrounding hills will provide ample opportunities for breathtaking vistas across the Yorkshire Dales. The elevated position of the inn itself offers a good starting perspective.
Can I find wild swimming spots or wildlife viewing opportunities near The Moorcock Inn?
The area is rich in natural beauty, including rivers and moorland, which might suggest opportunities for wildlife spotting. However, specific wild swimming spots are not mentioned, and it's important to exercise caution and research local regulations if considering wild swimming. For wildlife, the Yorkshire Dales are home to various bird species and other moorland animals, making walks an excellent chance for observation, especially in quieter areas.
What kind of food and drink can I expect at The Moorcock Inn?
Visitors consistently praise The Moorcock Inn for its 'hearty, comforting food,' with 'meat pies and chips' being a particular favourite. The inn offers a warm Yorkshire welcome, suggesting traditional pub fare that is perfect for refuelling after a day of outdoor activity. You can expect a selection of drinks, likely including local ales, to complement your meal.