How Stean Gorge in Yorkshire benefitting from Britain's 'staycation' boom

Nidderdale’s How Stean Gorge, formed in the last Ice Age, features steep chasms and rivers with fossils frozen in its limestone.

It is designated a triple Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Stan Beer, a retired paramedic, bought the gorge in 2007 with wife and former nurse Anne, having been a volunteer at the Gorge since the 1970s.

The gorge’s adventure facilities, with scrambling, caving, canoeing and a high wire, as well as cafe and campsite, have become a popular visitor attraction in the region.

It has recently expanded and increased its main camp site from ten to 20 pitches and is expecting a ‘record year’ for visitors.

Mr Beer said: “We’re set to have our best year yet. The phone has been ringing off the hook, and bookings have increased two-fold.

“We’ve pro-actively moved facilities, built new ones, and employed new staff to meet the public’s demand for outdoor adventure.”

One of the attraction’s additions last year was a glass-panelled bistro over an 80ft gorge, which can seat 70 diners.