If you’re staying at Flowery Dell Lodges, the best things to do include scenic walks along the River Swale, electric bike rides through Swaledale, a relaxing canal cruise in Ripon, indulgent afternoon tea nearby, and unwinding in your private hot tub. It’s the perfect mix of activity and relaxation in the Yorkshire Dales.
Key Takeaways
- Staying at Flowery Dell Lodges gives you direct access to some of the best Yorkshire Dales experiences.
- You can explore Swaledale effortlessly with electric bike hire, even on steep hills.
- Ripon Scenic Cruises is a hidden gem with high impressions but low competition and is worth prioritising.
- There are plenty of dog-friendly and nature-based activities nearby.
- The lodges themselves are part of the experience, especially with private hot tubs and woodland views.
Planning your stay at Flowery Dell Lodges and wondering what to actually do once you arrive?
You’re not alone. Most visitors book for the peaceful setting… then realise they’re surrounded by some of the best experiences North Yorkshire has to offer.
From quiet woodland walks to canal cruises and local food spots, this guide expands on the best things to do whilst staying at Flowery Dell Lodges, so you make the most of every day (without overplanning it).
Here are 5 Things to Do Whilst Staying at Flowery Dell Lodges
1. Explore Swaledale with Electric Bike Hire
Electric bike hire is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to explore the Yorkshire Dales, especially around Swaledale. The hills can be steep, but e-bikes remove the effort while keeping the experience.
With routes starting nearby, you can ride through rolling countryside, quiet lanes, and traditional Yorkshire villages without worrying about fitness levels.
Why it’s worth it:
- Covers more ground than walking
- Ideal for couples and beginners
- Lets you access hidden viewpoints easily
You can hire bikes from the Dales Bike Centre, which is well known locally for its quality equipment and scenic routes.

2. Take a Ripon Scenic Cruise Along the Canal
A Ripon Scenic Cruise offers a slow-paced, relaxing way to experience the area from a completely different perspective. This is a standout activity with growing search interest, yet still relatively under the radar.
The narrowboat cruise takes you along the Ripon Canal, with peaceful countryside views, wildlife sightings, and a calm atmosphere that’s hard to beat.
Why people love it:
- Unique experience compared to walking or driving
- Great for couples and families
- Low effort, high enjoyment
If you’re looking for something different during your stay, this is one of the best options nearby.
2. Ripon Scenic Cruises Take a leisurely cruise down Ripon Canal
Home – Ripon Scenic Cruises – Narrowboat Cruises on the Ripon Canal (ripon-scenic-cruises.co.uk)
3. Walks from your Doorstep – Lots of scenic walks via woods and the River Swale
Round Howe & Billy Bank Woods trail | Yorks | National Trust
4. Sample a Yorkshire Afternoon Tea – Better than Bettys of Harrogate
Robineau of Darlington – Fantastic Patisserie
Robineau Patisserie | The Home of Wedding Cakes, Birthday Cakes & Chocolate Selections
5. De Stress & Relax in your own Private Hot Tub @ Flowery Dell Lodges with fantastic woodland views of the Yorkshire Dales

