Places to See Red Squirrels in Garsdale and the Yorkshire Dales

Garsdale is one of the remaining parts of England where native red squirrels can still be seen in the wild. Coniferous woodland, quiet riverbanks and careful conservation work have helped the local population survive, making the dale a rewarding base for a wildlife-focused holiday.

Red squirrels are wild animals, so sightings can never be guaranteed. However, guests staying at Garsdale Cottages regularly report seeing them beside woodland paths, near the River Clough and, occasionally, from the cottage gardens. Early morning and late afternoon usually provide the best opportunities.

Woodland Near Dandra Garth

The path beside Dandra Garth leads towards woodland used by the local red squirrel population. Move quietly, pause regularly and watch the branches rather than concentrating only on the ground. A flicking tail or movement between neighbouring trees may be the first sign that a squirrel is nearby.

The woodland edge is also home to numerous birds and other mammals. Our guide to wildlife in Garsdale covers some of the other species that may be encountered during a walk through the valley.

Riverbanks Below Roger Pot

Red squirrels have been spotted on the riverbanks opposite Dandra Garth and below Roger Pot. Trees and hedgerows beside the River Clough create natural routes between feeding and nesting areas.

Roger Pot is therefore particularly well placed for visitors hoping to spend time watching wildlife without making a special journey. A patient observer may see squirrels moving between the river corridor, nearby woodland and cottage gardens. Otters, dippers, herons and roe deer also use parts of the surrounding landscape.

Grisedale and Reachey

Reachey in Grisedale is another known location for red squirrel activity. This secluded side valley lies close to Garsdale and contains woodland, old farmsteads and open fell scenery. Its quiet character makes it well suited to slow walks where wildlife watching is part of the day rather than a hurried stop.

Read more about the landscape, history and walking possibilities on our page about Grisedale. Conditions underfoot can vary, particularly following rain, so suitable boots and outdoor clothing are recommended.

Garsdale Head and the Railway Cottages

Red squirrels are regularly reported around the Railway Cottages at Garsdale Head. The mixture of mature trees, railway embankments and nearby woodland provides useful habitat and sheltered routes through the upper dale.

A visit can be combined with time at Garsdale Train Station, one of the more remote stations on the Settle-Carlisle line. The station is also home to the bronze statue of Ruswarp, the loyal Border Collie whose story is closely connected with the campaign to save the railway. You can read the full account on our Ruswarp and the Settle-Carlisle page.

Banks, The Firs and Whitbeck

Banks, The Firs and Whitbeck are among the places where squirrels move through woodland and occasionally cross the road. Warning signs may be present in areas with known activity. Visitors should reduce their speed, remain alert and avoid stopping where a parked vehicle could obstruct local traffic.

Road traffic is a serious danger to red squirrels. Driving carefully through the dale is one of the simplest ways visitors can help protect them.

Other Local Sighting Areas

Red squirrels have also been recorded around Mudbecks, East Littletown, Paradise, Coat Weggs, The Hive, Rackenthwaite, Fold Gill and Nether House. These are small rural places rather than formal visitor attractions, and some surrounding land is privately owned.

Please remain on public paths, close gates, keep dogs under control and avoid entering gardens, farmyards or fields without permission. Our collection of walks in and around Garsdale can help visitors choose suitable routes through the local countryside.

Snaizeholme Red Squirrel Trail Near Hawes

Snaizeholme, near Hawes, provides another opportunity to look for red squirrels during a stay in Garsdale. The woodland is managed as a red squirrel refuge and includes viewing areas where visitors can wait quietly for activity around the trees and feeding stations.

Although sightings remain dependent on the squirrels themselves, the managed habitat makes Snaizeholme a useful addition to a wildlife itinerary. The trip can be combined with a visit to Hawes, the Dales Countryside Museum or the Wensleydale Creamery Visitor Centre.

When to Look for Red Squirrels

Red squirrels are generally most active shortly after dawn and again later in the afternoon. A calm, dry day may make it easier to hear and see movement in the trees. Their coats range from bright orange-red to deep brown, while their pale undersides, bushy tails and small size help distinguish them from grey squirrels. Ear tufts are often particularly noticeable during winter.

Binoculars are useful, even at fairly short distances. Avoid approaching or surrounding a squirrel for a photograph. Watching quietly from one position is less disruptive and often produces a longer sighting.

Protecting Garsdale’s Red Squirrels

Garsdale’s red squirrels survive because suitable habitat is combined with monitoring and practical conservation work. Visitors can support these efforts by driving slowly, taking litter home, keeping dogs under close control and reporting sick or dead squirrels to an appropriate local conservation group.

Grey squirrels can carry squirrelpox without appearing ill, while the same disease is frequently fatal to reds. Visitors should not move squirrel feeders, nest boxes or potentially contaminated equipment between different woodland areas.

Further information about the local population and the work undertaken to protect it can be found on our Red Squirrels in Garsdale page.

Make Wildlife Part of Your Stay

Red squirrel watching can be combined with birdwatching, riverside walks, railway journeys and visits to the geological and historic sites of the Yorkshire Dales. Browse our things to do and bird-watching properties pages for more ideas.

Both Roger Pot and The Old Cart House provide a peaceful base in Garsdale, with local wildlife habitats close at hand. Directions and travel information are available on our Getting Here page, while the local map can help you understand the layout of the dale before setting out.