DAY trippers are being encouraged to choose a greener way to explore the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

The DalesBus 74 service, operated by First Bus from Bradford to Grassington, is running on Saturdays and follows the trail of the River Wharfe and popular Dales Way footpath, providing a starting point for a variety of countryside walks.

Grassington features as the town of Darrowby in Channel 5’s popular remake of classic TV drama All Creatures Great and Small, which is due for a second series later this year and has now put the market town’s locations in the spotlight.

Paul Chattwood of the Dales and Bowland Community Interest Company, which contracts the bus services from First Bus and other operators, said: “This is a great way to get out, relax and enjoy the spectacular scenery and sights of the Yorkshire Dales. It’s also a more sustainable way to travel.

“After months of lockdown and with restrictions on leisure now easing further, being out in the countryside gives people that sense of freedom which is good for mental and physical health.”

The DalesBus 74 route takes in Ilkley, Bolton Bridge, Embsay, Barden Moor and Burnsall on its way to Grassington, stopping nearby to the famous Bolton Abbey ruins and the Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway.

It runs every Saturday, departing from Bradford Interchange Stand 2 at 9.25am, Shipley Market Place at 9.40am, Guiseley White Cross at 9.50am and Ilkley Bus Station at 10.15am, 12.45pm and 3.45pm.

A day return ticket from Bradford to Grassington is £9, with a group ticket for up to two adults and three children available for £15. All tickets are available from the driver. Elderly and disabled bus passes are also valid for free travel.