Watch The Dales

The Dales is a British documentary series that premiered on ITV in 2011. The show follows the lives of people who live and work in the Yorkshire Dales, a picturesque area in Northern England that spans over 680 square miles. The series showcases breathtaking landscapes and countryside while exploring the challenges and realities of daily life in this unique region.

The show is hosted by Adrian Edmondson, a comedian and actor known for his work in television shows such as "The Young Ones" and "Bottom". He is joined by Amanda Owen, a farmer who is also known as the Yorkshire Shepherdess. She is a mother of nine children and runs a farm with her husband near the village of Ravenseat.

Clive Owen, a nature enthusiast and former gamekeeper, is another regular presence on the show. He brings a wealth of knowledge about the wildlife and natural habitats of the area, and his segments often focus on conservation and the environment.

The first episode of The Dales introduces viewers to some of the people who live and work in the area, including local farmers and tradespeople. One segment follows a group of farmers as they gather their sheep for the annual sale, while another focuses on a blacksmith who makes tools and implements for local farmers. These stories give viewers a sense of the challenges and rewards of rural life, and the importance of community in this tightly-knit region.

Throughout the series, viewers are taken on a journey through the four seasons, showcasing the different challenges and rewards that each brings. Episodes highlight the beauty of the Dales in spring, with its lush green landscapes and newborn animals, as well as the harsh realities of winter, when snow and ice can make travel and daily life difficult.

One episode follows Amanda Owen as she prepares for the annual sheep shearing, a grueling task that requires skill and dexterity. She explains how important it is for the welfare of the sheep to shear them before the hot summer months set in, and viewers get an inside look at the hard work and dedication required to run a successful farm.

Other episodes focus on the region's history and cultural significance. A segment on the Swaledale Festival highlights the important role that music and the arts play in bringing communities together, while a visit to Aysgarth Falls showcases the natural beauty of one of the Dales' most popular tourist destinations.

Throughout the series, viewers get to know the people who call the Yorkshire Dales home, and gain a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage of this unique region. The show highlights the importance of preserving this heritage for future generations, and encourages viewers to appreciate the beauty of the natural world.

In short, The Dales is a thoughtful and engaging documentary series that offers a glimpse into the unique lives and culture of the Yorkshire Dales. With stunning vistas, engaging hosts, and a thirst for knowledge, viewers will come away with a renewed appreciation for the natural world and the people who call it home.