Jackdaw Hole

A modest cave entrance tucked into the limestone above Settle, Jackdaw Hole is the sort of spot that rewards a bit of scrambling about but won't eat up your whole afternoon. The opening itself is fairly unassuming - you'll spot it on the hillside if you know where to look - but it's a genuine bit of geological interest rather than a tourist trap with a gift shop.

The cave system doesn't go deep, so this is more about the walk to get there and the views across Ribblesdale than anything subterranean. On a clear day you're looking straight out over proper Yorkshire countryside, which frankly beats being underground in a damp tunnel. It takes maybe half an hour to scramble up from Settle itself, depending on your fitness and how many times you stop to look back at where you've come from.

Walkers will get the most from this - it's a natural addition to a longer hike around the area rather than a destination in itself. Kids might find the cave bit interesting for five minutes, but they'll get more enjoyment from the walk and the scramble than from the actual hole. A few hours' visit maximum, ideally combining it with other limestone country walks nearby.

Free to access, and it's only a short drive or walk from Settle's facilities. If you're camped at Ribblesdale Pods or Philpin Farm, you're perfectly placed to add this to your itinerary without overthinking it. Go on a dry day - the approach gets boggy otherwise.