Ahead of changes to lockdown rules in England next week, the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority has updated its guidance for visitors and residents.

Neil Heseltine, Chair of the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority said: “From Monday March 29th everyone should follow the Government guidance to stay local, minimise travel and not to stay overnight.

“We’re already looking forward to April 12^th when we can all travel more freely, with local hospitality back open and visitors welcome to come and stay. In the meantime, we’re asking everyone to stay local and to minimise travel to help keep themselves and our local communities safe so we can move out of lockdown in a planned and considered manner.

“We are all too aware of how difficult the past year has been for everyone, but we can see real light at the end of the tunnel. However, we need to show patience and respect for others so we can all enjoy what I hope will be a wonderful summer.

“For the moment the vast majority of local businesses remain closed, including cafés, restaurants, pubs, and many local shops. So, from next week onwards we would ask everyone to:

Respect the Land – Exercise within your limitations to keep pressure off local resources, and know the countryside code (you can download it here).

Respect the Community – We recognise that many in the local community are amongst some of the most vulnerable groups of people. While walking, please keep a safe distance from homes, schools, and farms.

Respect each Other – Stay two metres apart, keep within your family/household groups, and avoid gathering in Dales towns and villages. Finally, be kind and respect one another – whether visitor or local. 

The National Park Authority ranger service will continue to support North Yorkshire and Cumbria Police across the National Park this weekend to help keep everyone safe as National Lockdown restrictions remain in place.   

The latest COVID-19 guidance for people living and working in the National Park is updated regularly here: https://www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/category/covid-19/