Eldean WalterYorkshire is a haven for anyone seeking tranquillity away from the crowds. With its rolling dales, serene moorlands, and sleepy stone villages, the region offers a perfect backdrop for those who crave peaceful escapes. From tucked-away hamlets in the Yorkshire Dales to remote corners of the North York Moors, Yorkshire is dotted with quiet gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re planning a solo retreat, a romantic getaway, or just a break from the bustle of city life, these villages provide serenity, stunning landscapes, and a warm welcome. Here are the top 25 quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes.
Top 25 Quietest Places to Stay in Yorkshire For Peaceful Escapes
1. Muker, Swaledale
Tucked away in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, Muker is one of the quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes. Surrounded by wildflower meadows and dry-stone walls, this charming village is perfect for walkers and nature lovers. It has remained relatively unchanged for decades, with stone cottages, a quaint tea room, and a traditional pub called The Farmers Arms. The Swaledale Valley is known for its lack of noise pollution and minimal traffic, making it ideal for a digital detox. To get there, drive from Richmond via the B6270, enjoying breathtaking scenery along the way. There’s limited mobile signal here, which only enhances the escape from the hustle and bustle. Muker also offers access to remote trails that wind through moorland and along rivers, offering absolute solitude. For a quiet countryside stay, this peaceful corner of Yorkshire is hard to beat.
2. Hutton-le-Hole, North York Moors
Hutton-le-Hole is nestled in the heart of the North York Moors National Park and is considered one of the quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes. This postcard-perfect village features a green grazed by sheep and a gentle stream running through its centre. Despite its charm, it remains uncrowded, especially outside summer weekends. The Ryedale Folk Museum offers a glimpse into local heritage without overwhelming visitors. There are a few peaceful cottages and B\&Bs, with no large hotels or commercial establishments. To reach Hutton-le-Hole, follow the A170 from Pickering, then take the local road north. The surrounding countryside is filled with gentle walking routes, heather-covered moors, and expansive skies. It’s an ideal spot for those wanting to slow down, read a book by the fire, or simply listen to birdsong without interruption.
3. Litton, Littondale
Litton is a serene village located in the quiet and lesser-known valley of Littondale in the Yorkshire Dales. With only a few houses and a pub named The Queens Arms, it embodies peace and simplicity. This area sees fewer visitors compared to nearby Wharfedale or Malhamdale, making it one of the quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes. The village is surrounded by gentle hills and sheep pastures, offering plenty of peaceful walking trails. There’s no mobile signal or busy road in sight. You can reach Litton by car from Grassington, following the narrow B6160 and then the scenic country lanes. For those who enjoy star-gazing or simply being surrounded by silence, Litton delivers in every sense. Whether it’s early morning mist or late evening quiet, this village offers the type of tranquillity many travellers seek but rarely find.
4. Rosedale Abbey, North York Moors
Rosedale Abbey lies in the heart of the North York Moors, tucked into a quiet valley far from the tourist trails. This former monastic site is now a sleepy village with just a few cafes, a tearoom, and a pub. It offers an ideal setting for peaceful stays, surrounded by heather-covered hills and forgotten footpaths. You’ll find cosy holiday cottages and friendly guesthouses that attract walkers and artists seeking inspiration. It’s accessible via the winding Rosedale Chimney Bank from Hutton-le-Hole, one of the steepest roads in the country. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by calm landscapes and a timeless atmosphere. Early morning walks here are often accompanied only by the sound of birds and the soft breeze across the moors. For a true escape into nature, Rosedale Abbey is among the quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes.
5. West Burton, Wensleydale
West Burton is a hidden jewel in Wensleydale, often overlooked by visitors who flock to nearby Aysgarth Falls. This quiet village is built around a spacious green and is known for its picturesque waterfall, Cauldron Falls, just a short walk away. With no through-traffic and minimal development, it provides a peaceful haven perfect for those seeking calm and reflection. The village offers charming stone cottages and a traditional village shop, as well as a local inn serving home-cooked meals. Reaching West Burton is simple—drive from Leyburn on the A684 and turn off towards Aysgarth, then follow the local signs. The surrounding hills are excellent for walking, and the views stretch across untouched countryside. The peace in West Burton is almost palpable, making it one of the quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes.
6. Gunnerside, Swaledale
Gunnerside is a quiet, unspoiled village tucked deep in the Swaledale valley, and it’s ideal for peaceful Yorkshire escapes. The village is small and surrounded by steep hills, riverside meadows, and remnants of lead mining history. A narrow winding road from Reeth leads into the village, ensuring limited traffic and plenty of quiet. Traditional stone cottages line the lane, and walkers can follow the Coast to Coast or Pennine Way trails nearby. Gunnerside Gill is a scenic and tranquil walk that follows a wooded beck with waterfalls and old ruins. The King’s Head pub serves simple local fare in a peaceful setting. There’s no noise from tour buses or city life—just the sound of sheep and rushing water. For anyone seeking solitude and Yorkshire charm, Gunnerside is one of the most peaceful places to stay.
7. Thornton-le-Dale, North York Moors
Nestled just east of Pickering, Thornton-le-Dale is a picturesque village that offers peace and beauty in equal measure. Known for its thatched cottages and babbling brook, this village remains quiet throughout most of the year, especially during weekdays. The area is filled with tree-lined lanes, hidden walking paths, and historic buildings. It’s easily accessible via the A170 from Pickering and is close to Dalby Forest, where silence and bird songs replace the noise of modern life. There are plenty of quiet cottages and B\&Bs that cater to couples or solo travellers wanting a restful break. A charming village tearoom and a small local pub are the only hints of activity. It’s among the quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes, perfect for relaxation and light outdoor adventure.
8. Hawnby, North York Moors
Hawnby is a tiny hamlet perched on a hillside in the North York Moors, often bypassed in favour of larger villages like Helmsley or Rievaulx. Its isolation is its charm. The village consists of just a few homes, a church, and the traditional Hawnby Inn. The surrounding moorland is wild, open, and almost untouched, making this one of the quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes. You can access Hawnby via the B1257 from Helmsley and then a scenic road through Bilsdale. Accommodation options are limited but serene, often with sweeping views across the valley and no mobile signal. Birdwatching, hill-walking, and simply enjoying the peaceful pace of life are the main attractions. The quiet beauty here makes Hawnby a true hidden gem.
9. Langthwaite, Arkengarthdale
Langthwaite is a charming and little-known village in Arkengarthdale, one of the least visited parts of the Yorkshire Dales. With only a few cottages, a pub, and a small chapel, it’s the epitome of tranquillity. The winding road from Reeth into Arkengarthdale is breathtaking, with almost no traffic and views of heather moorland and stone barns. The Red Lion pub, featured in classic TV dramas like All Creatures Great and Small, is as peaceful as they come. There’s very little development here, ensuring your stay is uninterrupted by noise or distraction. Langthwaite is ideal for long moorland hikes, riverside strolls, or simply sitting by the fireplace in one of the quiet local rentals. For true rural isolation and Yorkshire beauty, this village is a top pick.
10. Austwick, near Settle
Austwick is a quiet and pretty village on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, not far from Settle. Although close to well-known attractions like the Norber Erratics and Ingleborough, Austwick remains peaceful and largely untouched by mass tourism. It has a timeless feel, with stone cottages, a welcoming pub, and gentle walking trails that start right from the village. You can reach Austwick via the A65 from Settle, with signs leading through meandering country roads. The scenery includes limestone pavements, grazing sheep, and silent woodlands. The Dales High Way and other long-distance routes pass nearby, yet few people linger here, making it one of the quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes. It’s the perfect base for countryside lovers wanting a quiet, undisturbed stay.
11. Osmotherley
Osmotherley is a quiet, charming village nestled on the western edge of the North York Moors. This peaceful place is surrounded by rolling hills, ancient woodland, and heather moorland, making it ideal for long, relaxing walks. The village is known for its traditional stone cottages and friendly local pubs like the Golden Lion, which offer cozy stays and warm hospitality. It’s a favourite base for those looking to explore the Cleveland Way and Cod Beck Reservoir. Despite its popularity among walkers, the village maintains a calm, serene atmosphere. There’s also a centuries-old church and a quaint village shop. To get to Osmotherley, take the A19 and exit towards Northallerton, following signs for Osmotherley. If you’re coming by train, Northallerton Station is the nearest, followed by a short taxi ride. This is easily one of the quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes and countryside charm.
12. Bishop Burton
Bishop Burton is a peaceful, historic village in the East Riding of Yorkshire, just a few miles from Beverley. With its stone houses, duck pond, and rural backdrop, it’s a classic English village perfect for a restful getaway. Home to Bishop Burton College and beautiful Georgian architecture, the village feels untouched by modern hustle and bustle. Visitors can enjoy quiet country walks and spot wildlife along the hedgerows and in nearby fields. Accommodation here includes small B\&Bs and countryside inns that offer personalised and tranquil stays. Bishop Burton’s location also makes it convenient to visit the historic market town of Beverley without sacrificing calm surroundings. To reach Bishop Burton, drive along the A1079 from Hull or York and turn off at the signs for Beverley, then follow local directions to the village. With its stillness and scenic beauty, Bishop Burton is one of the quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes.
13. Thornton-le-Dale
Thornton-le-Dale lies on the southern edge of the North York Moors and feels like a picture-perfect postcard from rural England. Known for its thatched cottages, peaceful beck, and stone bridges, this village offers a slow pace of life and stunning scenery. It’s ideal for those wanting to disconnect and unwind in nature. The village is dotted with independent tea rooms, family-run guesthouses, and quiet walking paths that wind through the countryside. A short drive from Pickering, the area gives visitors easy access to the heritage steam railway, while still maintaining its peaceful charm. To get to Thornton-le-Dale, follow the A170 from Pickering, and you’ll arrive in minutes. It’s also accessible by bus from nearby market towns. With its picturesque lanes and relaxed atmosphere, Thornton-le-Dale stands out as one of the quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes surrounded by natural beauty.
14. High Bentham
High Bentham is a small market town in North Yorkshire, close to the Forest of Bowland and Ingleborough. It’s a great destination for those who seek a rural retreat without total isolation. The area is ideal for gentle hikes, cycling, and birdwatching, and offers sweeping views over the dales and the Yorkshire Three Peaks. High Bentham has a quiet high street with small shops and traditional pubs that provide a low-key atmosphere for visitors. Its peaceful vibe is perfect for those wanting to explore the surrounding countryside without crowds. Nearby walking trails follow the River Wenning and stretch into beautiful open moorland. The easiest route is by car via the A65 or by train to Bentham Station, which connects to Leeds and Lancaster. With its laid-back setting and lovely views, High Bentham earns its place among the quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes.
15. Bishop Monkton
Tucked between Harrogate and Ripon, Bishop Monkton is a small, picturesque village known for its gentle stream that runs through the heart of it. The calming sound of water, the ducks paddling along the brook, and the surrounding green fields make this village incredibly soothing. It’s the sort of place where time seems to slow down. Visitors can enjoy countryside walks, local history, and a peaceful stay in charming guesthouses or nearby farm cottages. The village has a beautiful church and a couple of traditional pubs offering hearty meals and local ales. To get here, take the A61 north of Harrogate and follow the signs from Ripley. It’s best accessed by car, although Knaresborough train station is not too far off. For those seeking a break from noise and traffic, Bishop Monkton is one of the quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes and simple pleasures.
16. Slaidburn
Slaidburn, located in the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is technically in Lancashire but sits just on the edge of North Yorkshire. It’s a haven for nature lovers and one of the most undisturbed spots in the region. The village features a 15th-century church, a lovely inn, and quiet cottages available for stay. The surrounding landscape of moors, rivers, and wooded valleys makes it ideal for peaceful walking and cycling. Life in Slaidburn moves at a slow, calming pace. Accommodation here is designed for comfort and tranquillity, with many options offering views over the fells. Reaching Slaidburn involves a scenic drive through the countryside, particularly via the B6478 from Clitheroe. Though it’s remote, the village’s natural setting more than rewards the effort of getting there. Slaidburn remains one of the quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes in complete harmony with nature.
17. Littlethorpe
Littlethorpe is a tiny hamlet near Ripon that offers an authentic countryside retreat. It’s largely unknown to tourists, which keeps the noise and traffic to a minimum. Surrounded by farms and green fields, the area is popular with walkers and cyclists seeking a base away from busy towns. The River Ure flows nearby, adding to the sense of calm, and the historic city of Ripon is just a short drive away if you want to explore without losing your rural base. Accommodation includes self-catering cottages and welcoming B\&Bs with views across the fields. To reach Littlethorpe, take the A61 to Ripon and follow signs south towards the village. Public transport is limited, so arriving by car is best. Littlethorpe is among the quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes, offering a truly laid-back rural experience with easy access to the attractions of North Yorkshire.
18. Huggate
Huggate is a small village in the Yorkshire Wolds, known for its remote location and sweeping views over rolling farmland. It is one of the highest villages in the Wolds and offers peace and solitude in abundance. Surrounded by open fields and footpaths, Huggate is ideal for walking, especially along the Wolds Way trail. The village has a traditional pub, some holiday cottages, and a small church that completes its timeless feel. It’s quiet throughout the year, with little traffic and few tourists, making it a great spot for digital detox and rural relaxation. To get here, drive from Pocklington or Driffield, taking the B1246 and following signs for Huggate. There’s no train station nearby, so it’s best accessed by car. If you’re looking for one of the quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes, Huggate offers unspoilt scenery and total tranquillity.
19. Snape
Snape is a hidden gem in Lower Wensleydale, just south of Bedale. This sleepy village centres around Snape Castle, once home to Catherine Parr, and offers an appealing mix of history and countryside calm. Its quiet lanes, scenic walks, and lack of commercial tourism make it ideal for a restful getaway. The community is small, with a traditional village green, a pub, and charming cottages available for short stays. The surrounding countryside is gently rolling and beautiful in every season. Snape is best reached via the A1, taking the Bedale exit, and driving west towards Masham. From there, signs will guide you to Snape. If arriving by train, the nearest station is Northallerton, followed by a taxi ride. Snape is truly one of the quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes, especially for those who appreciate historic charm and a strong sense of local heritage.
20. Terrington
Terrington is a peaceful village tucked into the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. With traditional stone cottages, leafy lanes, and outstanding countryside views, it’s a hidden haven for those seeking serenity. The village has a well-known art centre and tea room but is otherwise free of crowds. A variety of walking trails surround the village, and its proximity to Castle Howard adds a cultural touch to your quiet stay. Visitors can book into self-catering holiday homes or quaint inns with garden views and bird song in the mornings. Terrington is best reached by car from York, following the B1363 north and turning off toward Sheriff Hutton. Though remote, it’s not far from larger towns if needed. The relaxed rhythm of life and surrounding natural beauty make Terrington one of the quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes from city stress.
21. Hawnby
Hawnby is a secluded village nestled deep within the North York Moors National Park. Set on a hillside, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, forests, and open moorland. This tiny village has just a handful of stone cottages, a historic church, and a country inn known for its peaceful rooms and hearty meals. Hawnby is ideal for walking holidays or romantic countryside breaks. Its remote location means there’s little phone signal, adding to the feeling of true escape. The River Rye winds gently through the valley below, offering tranquil riverside walks. The village is accessed via narrow lanes off the B1257 between Helmsley and Stokesley, making the journey part of the adventure. While remote, this spot is a treasure for anyone seeking one of the quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes. It’s perfect for slowing down and reconnecting with nature.
22. Rosedale Abbey
Rosedale Abbey sits in the heart of the North York Moors and is surrounded by sweeping moorland and lush valleys. Despite the name, there’s no longer an abbey here, but the peaceful setting and beautiful ruins attract those who prefer tranquillity to tourist crowds. With cosy cottages, friendly B\&Bs, and a few tea rooms, it’s easy to enjoy the slow rhythm of this picturesque spot. Rosedale Abbey is a starting point for many scenic walks and cycle routes, including routes that trace the village’s ironstone mining history. It’s accessed via winding lanes from Pickering or Castleton, offering stunning views along the drive. Though you won’t find shops or nightlife here, the isolation is its main charm. For nature lovers and those seeking deep stillness, Rosedale Abbey ranks high among the quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes in a wild yet gentle landscape.
23. Westow
Westow is a quiet and unassuming village near Malton in North Yorkshire. It offers a calming rural setting ideal for a digital detox or writers’ retreat. With tree-lined streets, stone cottages, and a traditional pub, the village has a timeless quality. It’s also close to the Howardian Hills and North York Moors, offering excellent access to walks and countryside drives. Accommodation options include converted barns and holiday cottages, perfect for those wanting to cook their own meals and enjoy slow, country mornings. Getting to Westow is easiest by car via the A64, turning off near Malton and heading south. It’s also accessible via bus from Malton for those not driving. Westow is a place for watching sunsets over fields and hearing nothing but birds and the wind in the trees. It deserves its reputation as one of the quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes.
24. Thixendale
Thixendale is a remote village tucked deep in the Yorkshire Wolds, famous for its seclusion and stunning walking routes. The village consists of just a few houses, a small church, and a pub that opens on limited days, reinforcing its truly tranquil nature. Surrounded by rolling chalk valleys, the landscape is unlike anywhere else in Yorkshire. It’s particularly loved by walkers following the Yorkshire Wolds Way. There’s very little modern development here, and mobile signal is patchy, so it’s ideal for those looking to fully switch off. To reach Thixendale, drive from Malton or York, taking rural roads through Fridaythorpe or Wharram-le-Street. It’s not on any train line or major bus route, so a car is necessary. Thixendale is one of the quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes, offering total isolation, stunning scenery, and a rare sense of stillness that lingers long after you leave.
25. Muker
Muker lies in upper Swaledale and is one of the most peaceful and beautiful villages in the Yorkshire Dales. Known for its surrounding wildflower meadows in spring and dry stone walls that weave across the hills, Muker is an artist’s dream. The village itself is small, with a tearoom, a traditional pub, and a few holiday cottages, but the focus is really on the surrounding landscape. It’s perfect for walking, photography, or simply soaking up the calm. Trails from the village lead into the hills and past the River Swale, offering breathtaking views. Getting to Muker involves driving through the Dales, usually via the B6270 from Richmond or Hawes. Public transport is limited, so a car is best. Muker stands as one of the quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes, especially for those who find joy in nature, silence, and unspoilt views.
7 Reasons Why They are the Quietest Places to Stay in Yorkshire for Peaceful Escapes
1. Limited tourist traffic
Most of these villages and hamlets are tucked away from major roads and tourist routes, meaning they experience far less footfall than more popular destinations. This contributes to a genuinely quiet and relaxed atmosphere.
2. Remote countryside settings
Many of the places listed are nestled deep within the countryside, surrounded by rolling hills, farmland, or moorland. Their remoteness ensures little outside noise and very few disturbances.
3. Low population density
These villages often have only a handful of residents and a strong sense of community. With fewer people around, visitors can enjoy a slow-paced experience without crowds or busy streets.
4. Restricted commercial activity
Unlike towns or cities, these areas have minimal shops, no chain businesses, and often just one or two local pubs or tearooms, reducing noise and promoting a calm, simple lifestyle.
5. Nature-focused environments
The emphasis on nature and scenic beauty means activities are more about walking, birdwatching, and exploring rather than nightlife or large events. This naturally results in quieter surroundings.
6. Historical preservation
Many of these places have remained unchanged for centuries, preserving their original charm and avoiding overdevelopment. This helps maintain their calm and undisturbed character.
7. Strong local conservation policies
Local councils and communities often take active steps to protect the tranquillity of their villages by limiting new developments, discouraging mass tourism, and protecting natural habitats.
7 Benefits of Visiting Those Quietest Places to Stay in Yorkshire for Peaceful Escapes
1. Improved mental well-being
Spending time in serene environments can help reduce stress, clear your mind, and promote emotional calm. The peaceful surroundings provide a retreat from everyday pressures.
2. Better sleep quality
The absence of noise and light pollution in these remote areas contributes to better rest and deeper sleep, making your stay more rejuvenating.
3. Opportunity for true relaxation
Without the hustle and bustle of urban life, you can slow down, read a book, take long countryside walks, or simply sit back and enjoy the view.
4. Deeper connection with nature
The quietness enhances the sound of birds, rustling leaves, and flowing streams, helping visitors feel more in tune with the natural world.
5. Quality time with loved ones
These places are perfect for romantic getaways or peaceful family breaks. The quiet encourages meaningful conversations and shared moments without distractions.
6. Exploration at your own pace
There’s no rush in these villages. You can explore local trails, visit heritage sites, and enjoy the scenery without feeling crowded or hurried.
7. Support for local communities
By choosing to stay in lesser-known areas, you’re helping sustain small businesses, local pubs, and accommodation providers who depend on tourism but without overwhelming the community.
Conclusion
The quietest places to stay in Yorkshire for peaceful escapes offer a unique opportunity to reconnect with both nature and yourself. Far from the crowded tourist spots, these tranquil retreats provide serenity, charm, and a slower pace of life that so many modern travellers crave. Whether you’re walking through heather-covered moorlands, sipping tea in a stone cottage garden, or stargazing under a pitch-black sky, these hidden gems deliver true peace and quiet. Choosing to stay in these Yorkshire havens is not just about rest; it’s about restoration, simplicity, and the timeless beauty of rural England. For anyone seeking calm over chaos, these villages are a perfect escape.