Yorkshire Dales Workshop - March 2024

Capturing the Yorkshire Dales: A Photography Workshop Review

As February turned to March, I was thrilled to host six photographers on a two-day photography tour through the stunning Yorkshire Dales. This picturesque region, known for its breathtaking landscapes and timeless charm, never fails to inspire. We focused on capturing the beauty of Swaledale and Wensleydale, two of the most iconic valleys in the Dales.

A Perfect Base for the Workshop: The Black Bull Hotel in Reeth

Our base for the trip was the delightful Black Bull Hotel in Reeth, a charming village nestled in the heart of Swaledale. This cozy spot offered us hearty meals, comfortable accommodations, and a welcoming atmosphere throughout our stay. A power cut on Saturday evening added a touch of authenticity to our experience as we enjoyed candlelit pints of ale by a roaring fire after a long day of shooting landscapes. This unpretentious pub, with its rustic charm, is the perfect fit for the area, and everyone in the group loved it.

Exploring Swaledale and Wensleydale

After dropping off our bags in Reeth, we ventured to Muker and Gunnerside, where we were treated to expansive vistas of misty meadows below. Initially, we planned to head higher towards Langthwaite and Keld, but the weather had forced road closures. However, the Yorkshire Dales never disappoint, and we found an alternative at Scar House Falls, near the village of Thwaite. This spot offered incredible landscape views, proving that adaptability is essential for landscape photography. Local knowledge and experience are key when you need to adjust plans on the fly.

After refueling with a delicious meal of sausage and mash at the Kings Head Pub in Gunnerside, we headed to Buttertubs Pass. The landscape had transformed into a winter wonderland, covered in snow and ice. Despite the challenging weather, the beauty of the area was awe-inspiring, even if capturing it was a challenge with snow pelting the lens! We braved the elements, determined to photograph the dramatic conditions, before calling it a day.

Day Two: Sunrise and Waterfalls

On day two, we started early with a sunrise session that offered beautiful views back towards Reeth, shrouded in mist. We managed to capture some stunning morning light before returning to the Black Bull for a hearty cooked breakfast.

We then headed into Wensleydale, traveling via the aptly named High Lane. Our first stop was Birkend Farmhouse, where we were rewarded with views back into Swaledale from a high vantage point. It’s a remote, wild part of the Dales that’s incredibly beautiful and perfect for photography.

The remainder of the day was spent photographing the cascading waterfalls of the Yorkshire Dales. From the powerful Hardraw Force to the tranquil West Burton and impressive Cotter Force, each waterfall provided unique challenges and endless opportunities for creating striking images. The day ended with a spectacular sunset as the sun made a brief appearance, casting golden light over the landscape—an ideal way to finish our photography session.

A Fantastic Group and Photography Experience

Throughout the two days, it was wonderful to be accompanied by such a talented and enthusiastic group of photographers. A special thanks to Alex, Margaret, Cliff, Ken, David, and Rob for your excellent company. And thanks to Scott and Joe for joining us on day two. Together, we explored well-known locations and hidden gems in the Yorkshire Dales, sharing our passion for photography and creating lasting memories. Plenty of laughs were had along the way.

The Dales are truly a photographer's paradise, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to experience it with such an inspiring and friendly group.

This workshop was one of my favorites to date, and I can't wait to return later this year. I'll be heading back to the Dales in October 2024, and if you'd like to join me, please don’t hesitate to get in touch!

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