Friends of DalesRail | Past Events

16 January	Ingleton, Yorkshire Dales
20 February	Kirkbymoorside, North York Moors
20 March	Wortley, South Yorkshire
17 April	Hornby, Lune Valley, Lancashire
15 May	Sewerby, near Bridlington, East Yorkshire
19 June	Coniston, Lake District
17 July	Leek, Staffordshire
14 August	Sutton Bank, North York Moors
18 September	Bakewell, Derbyshire
9 October	How Stean, Nidderdale
20 November	Stalybridge, Tameside, Greater Manchester
18 December	Ripon, North Yorkshire

This is a flat, pleasant circular walk from the ancient market place of Ripon. Passing along Kirkgate brings us to the front and West door of the cathedral. A decent down another old street brings us shortly to the canal basin and towpath of the canal. We walk along the towpath for a couple of miles, passing the racecourse over to our left. Shortly after crossing the canal and after it joins thew river Ure, we leave the river bank and proceed along field paths and muddy tracks to the prosperous village of Bishop Monkton where we can have lunch in the grounds of St. Johns Church. We leave the village through the Caravan Park to join a myriad of muddy field paths taking us to the outskirts of Burton Leonard…we leave here almost before we arrive!! Heading north through a series of muddy fields eventually arriving at Wormald Green…Things now improve a little and we join a couple of tracks taking us to Markenfield Hall, a beautiful, moated and fortified manor house dating from 1342. We now join the 'Ripon Rowel' and follow it to Quarry Moor, the site of the first Race Course, now a dog walkers paradise and all that entails, tread carefully!! We now follow above the River Skell and make our way back into Ripon.

This is a walk for what ever the weather throws at us! We set off from South Stainley and follow the Ripon Rowel, passing Stainley Hall, walking through a nature reserve where lots of sensible pheasants were hiding to avoid shoot we encountered on our recce. We pass through the beautiful villages of Burton Leonard and Bishop Monkton and on to the canal which we follow into Ripon. This walk is along very narrow country lanes and a few muddy fields with not a hill in sight! There is plenty to see along the way and absolutely no bogs! Do visit the Cathedral…..will be decorated for Christmas.

Setting off from the market square we head down to the river and walk alongside before heading into open countryside. A combination of road walking and when recced in mist and drizzle, wet and muddy fields, this is a very level walk, no hills and just a couple of stiles!!

Arriving at South Stainley by the long route a small, select group set off to conquer the flatlands of North Yorkshire. Although the temperature must have been close to freezing the sky was blue, the sun was shining and the ground was frosty hard. Our first goal was a diversion to a nature reserve set in some impressive limestone cliffs. Burton Leonard, an oasis amid green fields and free range egg farms, was our next port of call. Over the fields to Bishop Monkton, encountering nature in the raw on the way - a rabbit felled by a wily weasel. We also encountered the 'A' party steaming in the opposite direction but we let them go. A quiet lunch by the stream and a cup of coffee in the pub gave us the strength to reach the River Ure with its enthusiastic but apparently unsuccessful fishermen. A final stroll along the Ripon canal brought us to the cathedral and then the delights of Wetherspoons. Thanks to Diane T and Penny L for their leading/backing up skills and local knowledge.

This is a linear walk starting from just beyond Holmfirth on the A 635, shortly joining the Pennine Way to cross Black Hill then veering right towards Chew Reservoir before following a path to the pastures above Hollingworth with good views across the Peak District and also to Manchester. The path then follows more reservoirs before reaching Stalybridge. Quite muddy/boggy in parts, not too much climbing as we start off from a fairly high position but there is some ascent between lunch and tea stop.

We set off from The Coach and Horses and make our way across fields to the cairn on Hollingworth Moor enjoying wide sweeping views all the way (399 metres). From here we make our way down to the two Swinehead reservoirs and contour round Harridge Moor, looking up at Harridge Pike, and into Brushes valley, passing Walkerwood reservoir. As we swing the corner round Wild Bank we again have great distance 360 views across to Dove Stones and to right round Harthead Pike. Next, we cut across the fields to Brushes and down to Millbrook and the canal, which we follow into Stalybridge……and Wetherspoons!! Lots of beautiful horses and mud and squelchy leaves.

Starting from the Brushes Valley entrance to Stalybridge Country Park, the route climbs steadily through woodland to Walkerwood Reservoir for an early coffee stop (no cafe today, sorry!). Following the reservoir access track we continue up to Higher Swineshaw Reservoir and then take a moorland path around Harridge Pike before dropping to Carrbrook to join the Pennine Bridleway. Passing beneath Buckton Moor quarry, we drop to Mossley from where we follow a relatively flat route back to Stalybridge via the River Tame, Huddersfield Narrow Canal and an old railway. The canal towpath passes through a short tunnel for which a headtorch or handtorch could be useful.

Today we start at Wath and follow the Nidderdale Way along the side of Gouthwaite Reservoir to Bouthwaite before making our way to Lofthouse. We ascend on the Nidderdale Way heading north before leaving this track to climb (and yomp) to Dale Edge and Masham Moor. Weather permitting, there are wonderful views as we turn east and walk a good track before joining the Nidderdale Way to reach Scar House Reservoir. Our route to How Stean descends over fields and along the river. Total ascent in the region of 2450 ft.

We leave the coach near the Middlesmoor/Howstean road junction and make our way to Lofthouse. We then join the Nidderdale Way which we follow for about 4.5 miles, gaining height as we go to reach Dale Edge. It is then relatively flat for about 3 miles. We descend steeply from the shooting hut and cross the Nidderdale Way. We climb up again to Middlesmoor before making our way to Howstean and refreshments. Note that there will be a short walk (about 10 minutes, downhill) on leaving Howstean to rejoin the coach.

We start in Pateley Bridge with the usual coffee stop. All our walk today is on the Nidderdale Way. We bypass Wath, along the side of Gouthwaite Reservoir, then cross the river to Ramsgill. From here we climb gently to get some stunning views over Nidderdale, before reaching the hamlet of Stean and a short walk down a quiet lane to How Stean café and the Gorge. Most paths are very good, with more gates than stiles.

The outlook was not auspicious. In fact there was very little outlook as we descended from the coach geared up in our waterproofs. However, in true DalesRail style we just got on with it. The views would have been wonderful and even through the driving rain looked pretty spectacular. We decided that a visit to Scar House Reservoir might be more suitable than a scramble to the rather scary-sounding Shooting House. Luckily a dry enclosure awaited us and we savoured the views in comparative comfort. On the way back we were rewarded with glimpses of the sun and what might have been. The climb up to Middlesmoor was well worth the effort and we were able to browse in the churchyard and reflect on the stunning views laid out before us. Back down to How Stean to sample the various refreshments and compare our experiences of the day with everyone else. Many thanks to Leonie and Trish for guiding us there and back safely.

Although this strenuous walk is long, there are no long climbs. There are a few 'sharp' uphill sections but these are quickly climbed. From Bakewell we head north and then west to Wardlow with pretty views of the Peak District. Leaving Wardlow we descend into Tansley Dale and then into Tideswell. Following paths and a minor road we then follow the Monsal trail to Monsal Head. We pass the Congregational Church at Little Longstone, take minor paths and Monsal Trail again back to Bakewell.

This walk starts on the water meadows of the River Derwent, south of Baslow and finishes on the water meadows of the River Wye, south of Bakewell. In between we follow the Derwent Valley Heritage Way through Chatsworth Park, past the house, cross the Derwent twice more, climb up top 293m, walk through woods and fields, pass an Outlet Shopping Centre and walk over the end of a disused railway tunnel.

We start with a gentle riverside stroll before aiming upwards to the Monsal Trail - watch out for the cyclists! We leave the Trail at Little Longstone and on to our lunch stop at Monsal Head. Our return leg takes us through open countryside to the lovely village of Ashford-in-the-Water before another short riverside stretch and the 'sting in the tail', a short steady climb through Endcliff Wood, eventually dropping back down into Bakewell.

We got the inspiration for this walk from a circular we did earlier on in the year from Wass taking in the historic sites of the area. However we have changed it in order to take into account the constraints of the coach and to cut out some roads. So you have been warned it is a typical Sherborne walk, we did not have to use the secateurs (but we had taken them!). When we first did part of this walk and on the recee the views were absolutely glorious and we cannot even promise any mud. There is not even any yomping; the whole route is on marked paths (even if they are rarely used!) For you old timers who did our Rosedale Abbey to Castleton Walk the weather was nearly as hot as that on the recee, but luckily no thunderstorm.
We do start off by going down hill, but we also finish by going down hill. On the way we will overlook Amplethorpe.(where sorrel "ampre" grows by the ford, you will all know about the Benedictine monastery founded in 1803, followed by the school.) Before descending to near Bylands Abbey ( Cistercian) before heading due north almost to Rievaulx along the possible old route of the monks between the two abbeys. We have views of the temple on The Terrace. We then have a long steady climb up to the edge on The Cleveland Way. Then we descend to Gormire Lake, ( glacial, formed by trapped melt water) hoping not to be there at midnight as you might see 2 ghosts, one of a knight grooming his horse because the horse bolted or one of a past abbot appearing as the devil, who challenged a knight to gallop the edge at midnight. The final leg is to a typical country pub at Sutton -under-Whitestonecliffe. It was very quiet there, when we were there on a Sunday, so places like these are ones we could do with helping to make sure they remain open. Climbing 783m approx 2500ft.

We have dusted off a route which we have led before but, since that was a decade ago, we are unapologetic.
This circuit, in the south western corner of the North York moors National Park, offers some marvellous views and visits some interesting features. Points of interest include gliders, the Kilburn White Horse, Kilburn Village with the Robert Thompson workshop, Byland Abbey, and Scotch corner (not the one on the A1) with a small memorial chapel. The walk is on field paths, tracks and minor roads. Refreshments should be available at the Hambleton Inn, just off the route about half a mile from the end of the walk, and at the Visitor Centre Café.

From the coffee shop at Sutton Bank, we head towards the airfield and the White Horse. We then head north towards Hambleton and possible lunch at Cold Kirby. After which we turn west to join the Cleveland Way back to the visitors centre.

Today we start about 2 miles north of Leek on the A53 and head west towards Tittesworth Reservoir before heading north to Middle Hulme. Turning east we pass through Upper Hulme then north uphill to the trig point on The Roaches. Weather permitting, there are extensive views an all directions. After loosing some height the route then takes us back up hill by a more gradual rise to the ridge along Black Forest, on to Hanging Stone and down to Danebridge. The return route involves some "downs and ups" on minor roads and reasonable tracks via Gun and Fould. A final short ascent takes us along the back of north Leek. Total ascent in the region of 2100ft. Expect some mud!!

We set off from the Winking Man and after a short country lane walk into buttercup meadows following Black Brook, making our way to Roach End. From here we enter Back Woods and head for the awesome Luds Church (well it is Sunday!) This incredible rock chasm is believed to be the scene of the encounter between Gawain and the Green Knight…look for the Green Knight's profile in the rock. The Lollards held illegal sevices hidden in here in the 15thC. Sunlight only illuminates the chasm on midsummer's day. Next we encounter Castle rocks as we continue through the woods. There maybe an option to visit Hanging Rock. With wonderful distance views and the Roaches towering above us we make our way to Meerbrook via farms and meadows then into Black Hills woods and along a ridge into Leek, arriving at the leisure centre……..should be a great day

Additional info: Leek has two boarded up pubs and another one for sale. The two in the centre are pretty grim……but on Derby Street we found the following:

Tea shop: The Coffee Beans open until 5pm…but will stay open till 5.30
Home made cakes etc

The coach will depart from behind the bus station (well signed) where there is coach parking

The walk begins close to Shawtop on the road at the back of The Roaches and after half an hour arrives at the coffee stop at Paddock Farm. From there head for Windygates Farm and the remainder of the walk on fields and lanes (maybe a couple of muddy fields! before joining the road at Middle Hulme). If needed, we can shelter from any poor weather at lunchtime, at Tittlesworth Reservoir, before continuing along the western edge of the reservoir leading to North Hillswood and South Hillswood. The Staffordshire Moorlands Walk path past Horsecroft Farm brings us into Leek.

Horizontal rain met us as we stumbled from the bus at the Winking Man - no wonder he was winking! We flowed through meadows to Black Brook, carefully avoiding a dunking as we negotiated a precipitous stile. All haste was then made to the woods and comparative shelter. Here we explored the wonder that is Lud's church as we plunged into the rock chasm that allegedly concealed the Lollards and Sir Gawain and the Green Knight - but not at the same time! Lunch was taken at 'the castle'in a brief dry moment before we left the woods to wander the fields and pathways leading to Meerbrook. Small village though it is, a Flower Festival was in full swing and the roads resembled London in the rush hour. We did not stay long. Back to the woods again, narrowly avoiding a protective bull and then, as we emerged, we saw the promised view of the dreaming spires of Leek and hastened to explore its refreshment facilities. Thank you, Diane T. and Angela for a good walk led under difficult circumstances.

A classic lakeland round starting from Coniston village. We head up a wide track towards the copper mines, taking the same upland route as the 'B' party to Tilberthwaite Gill. Our summit is Wetherlaw followed by Swirl Howe, Brim Fell and Coniston Old Man. A steep descent brings us down to the Sun Inn or other hostelries of your choice. The views from the tops are fantastic in good weather. About 4,000 feet of ups and downs on good rocky paths.

A varied walk of 11 miles. We climb steadily west out of Coniston soon reaching the highest point of our walk. Onwards and down Tilberthwaite Gill which drops away dramatically beside the path, with one tricky rock step to negotiate.
Past Tilberthwaite hamlet we reach the grassy slopes of Holm Fell. After lunch we find a good path which becomes tarmac for 1/2 a mile and then have more good paths past the tarns and through the woods of Tarn Hows. Finally we return to the village through woods and meadows. Total ascent and descent, 2300 feet.

Please note the C walk will not be starting with coffee in a cafe, due to the length of the coach journey, so please bring extra and we will have coffee en route.

Today we start our walk at the base of the Yewdale fells, heading north to Tilberthwaite before making our way over the Knotts and dropping down into the Langdale Valley for lunch at Slater Bridge. This is a very old pack-horse bridge. Our return is via Hodge Close and Holme Ground around the base of Holme Fell. The final part of the walk is pleasant pastures before joining the Cumbria Way into Coniston for the tea shops and inns which provide refreshments to suit all tastes.

Leaving the teeming rain and the teeming streets of Leeds we set off towards the ever-brightening skies of the Lake District. A bit more teeming at Windermere, where the Great Northern Swim was taking place, and skilful negotiation of the winding road to Coniston and we were there! We stretched our legs well going up to Penny Rigg and then enjoyed ourselves scrambling past Tilberthwaite Gill. Our next objective was Holme Fell which looked fairly inoffensive but entailed some bouncing over blanket bog before we reached the summit. The views were wonderful and sparked some heated discussion as to the location of Bow Fell - the jury is still out. A burst of hot sun was quickly followed by a shower and, quick change artists though we are, it was still hard to keep up. Onwards to Yewdale and Tarn Hows cottage and a pleasant stroll through the woods into Coniston - with a look at the Dog House on the way.
Many thanks to Mark and Yvonne who skilfully adapted the walk to changing circumstances and were still smiling at the end of the day.

Starting from Filey, we walk along the beach, passing Hunmanby and Reighton before climbing up to the cliff top path at Speeton, (for food stop), which we follow to Thornwick Nab and turning inland, passing through Flamborough village to rejoin the cliff path at Beacon Hill and staying on it to the finish at Sewerby Park and the Ship Inn.

Starting at Buckton we take field paths to the coast. For the next few miles there will be lots of activity from the nesting sea birds. We should have time to see their nest sites, so bring your binoculars. The route continues along the coastal path with spectacular views of the cliffs. We pass round Flamborough Head and negotiate several steep inlets but have no fear; the steps are safe and solid. The walk finishes at the Ship Inn, Sewerby, where we can quench our thirsts.

After taking on nourishment at the Copperfields Café, Flamborough, a dead straight mile long road (unavoidable) brings us to North Landing, to pick up the coast path along the magnificent limestone cliffs. See the thousands of sea birds wheeling on and off their nests, clinging to the precipitous cliff faces. As Yvonne says, binoculars will be very useful. We follow this path all the way, with some wonderful cliff formations as we round Flamborough Head. On the last lap, the cliffs are not very visible from above, but Bridlington and the Bay are. There are 2 or 3 deep inlets to negotiate, but these are served with steps, so no scrambling, and finishing in Sewerby, also at the Ship Inn. There is a very nice tea shop not far away. A word of warning - in places the path comes very close to the cliff edge, so please take care - we don't want to fall foul of the Health & Safety zealots!!

Buffeted by a hair-raising wind we reached the coast to the smell of guano and the frantic activity of many birds. Gannets, guillemots, puffins and probably others that I didn't recognise soared gracefully above the cliffs or nestled on impossibly narrow ledges. Others took the sea route or settled on the water. The new platforms created on the cliff edge gave wonderful vantage points and the birds played to their audience with seeming indifference to their presence. However, on with the walk! As well as the birds the cliffs were covered with sea thrift, patches of delicate primroses and the splash of red campion. The sting, as usual, was in the tail as we grappled with the amazingly steep sets of steps, which, although solid, contrived to be at different heights and lengths so that you always felt literally wrong-footed. A cheery note was struck as we sat having our tea and reading about the man who swallowed a toad which ate his heart and killed him. (Is that anatomically possible?) A great day by the seaside, full of interesting sights and sounds. Many thanks to Yvonne, who stepped into the leader's breach and to Penny who did a good job rounding up the wayward ones. Keeping track of everyone was not very easy.

I guess some of the party will have done some of the walk at some time, but I hope that this does not put you off, as if we get a half decent Day, there are many magnificent views. This is a very varied walk with a bit of everything. Although there are no big climbs, we go up (and down) 2,200 feet owing to the several short, sharp river banks we encounter - no, I will NOT be taking a rope! I am afraid we will also have to climb quite a few stiles, but as a reward there is a lovely level finish as we return to Hornby along the banks of the river Lune.

Gently undulating 10 mile walk to include villages of Wray, Wennington, returning along the banks of the River Lune. Opportunities for refreshments in pub or very pleasant tea shops in Hornby and Wray - to be decided on the day according to weather conditions. Depending on the day, this walk will be between 10 and 12 miles.

After a quick coffee stop /scones/cakes (not bacon butties) please. We will head through the village passing the castle and church before we get on to the path following the River Lune, to Melling. From Melling, we climb 50 metres to the mast at Lodge Farm, and a descent to the hamlet of Tatham. Another short climb (about 60 metres) to Tatham Park wood and down towards the village of Wray, before turning towards Hornby. Though there are quite a few stiles, this is a varied walk with stunning views. A shorter time in the café, I hope will give us more time to enjoy.

Acres of blue sky greeted us as we arrived in Hornby and struck out for Wray. Here we enjoyed a drink and admired the exhibition of scarecrows patiently waiting to leap out for the beginning of the festival next Saturday. Refreshed, we turned northwards to walk through undulating countryside with the familiar outline of Ingleborough in the distance. Bluebells and aconites filled the woods and tiny lambs sunbathed by the side of their protective mothers. More and more legs and arms appeared as the sun grew warmer and we relaxed into it. Wennington, with its railway line amid the rolling pastures, seemed a centre of civilisation before we plunged, once more into the serenity of the countryside. Rivers, railways lines and the odd motte and bailey mingled as we made our way back to Hornby where a kind café owner plied us with tea, coffee and cakes and the local pub provided a sunlit garden. A lovely walk in unbelievably warm weather and beautiful countryside. Spring really is just around the corner(?). Many thanks to Jean for leading us so competently and to Penny for being such a reliable backstop.

A strenuous walk, 2,500ft. of ascent. Martin H receed the walk with us and commented on many twists and turns there were, so be prepared for possible back tracking and if we have had some rain, a little mud in the second half. The Sherbornes would not like to disappoint you all. Oh, and giving you all the warnings, and yes, I did fall over in the first 100 or so yards, slippery stones so your health and safety warning. We would, however, say this is a very interesting walk. It is a walk of two halves! We start by going down hill, do not despair, this is so that the undulations towards the end are minimal. We start with some interesting views over the Stocksbridge area and the northern section of the Peak District, and those of you who came on the Bolsterstone walk, starting at Penistone, may recognise parts of the walk from afar. We walk through mixed woodland for the first half, hopefully the birds will be singing and perhaps some flowers out, and glimpsing views as we go. Then, hopefully, just before lunch we will be joining wide views and open skies, passing through agricultural areas, small woods and the prosperous areas of the environs of Barnsley, picking up tracts of the Barnsley Boundary Way. We have contingency plans if the weather should be poor. We have sussed out the local publican, there is also a tea and farm shop, so, hopefully, all tastes are well provided for.

This is a pleasant walk through the countryside to the north-west of Sheffield. Starting and finishing through farmland, the route also passes through attractive woodland and across Wharncliffe Chase, an ancient deer park. Apart from a glutinous stretch across an arable field just before our coffee break, most of the undulating route is on good paths and tracks.

Down from Wortley Village, after tea and toasted teacakes at the Wortley Arms, to the Trans Pennine Trail. Head towards Thurgoland and then up the Black Moor, past Dean Head and Hunshelf Hall to Hunshelf Bank. Down then up to return to Wortley.

It was a bit of a shock to be walking so early in the day after a speedy whizz from Leeds in a minute bus. However, we rallied as usual and set off from the gates of Wortley Hall, former home to the Wortley/Wharncliffe family and now union-owned but available for weddings and other celebrations. Pleasant farmland walking - remarkably dry underfoot - and hidden villages were succeeded by a stiff upward climb and then into the woods! We had been warned not to get lost and, of course, we didn't. We saw no wolves either just some Hebridean(?) sheep eyeing us rather nervously as we ate our sandwiches and debated whether we had seen a nuthatch or a treecreeper. We eventually emerged from our sylvan idyll to bright sunshine and we took the opportunity to do a bit of sunbathing in case it was our last chance. Wharncliffe Chase, an ancient deer park, was our next destination, although the deer seemed to have metamorphosed into clay pigeon shooters who had been serenading us most of the day. A glide down to the valley and up to Wortley brought to an end a very enjoyable day. Many thanks to David and Carola for their expert steering and general conviviality.

An exhilarating walk of 15 miles and 1729 ft of ascent through the Tabular hills on the North York Moors. We pass tumuli, passing through ancient settlements, enclosures and field systems, medieval waymarks and preaching crosses, old monastic sites, a latter day water mill and a cottage with connections to the 2nd World War. All this reflecting 5000 years of history, and given good weather, an excellent walk to boot.

We leave Kirkbymoorside market place, crossing a small bridge before joining a steep sided valley which we follow to Hutton le Hole (bit touristy) for coffee. Leaving here we head for the heather moorland and big skies. Gradually climbing in a NNE direction across Spaunton Moor we should see Ana Cross appear in the far distance on our right. This will be our highest point of the day and lunch stop ('Ana Cross' is a medieval waymark cross which is erected on top of a tumulus). Leaving the cross we descend the moor, passing numerous enclosures and settlements. We quickly pass through the hamlets of Hamley Hagg and Appleton le Moors, taking a brief look at a vandalised medieval preaching cross and a more recently vandalised Church, by the Victorians. Through the quarry and on to Keldholme (once home to a large ecclesiastical community…little trace remains). Over the stile, through the fields and back into Kirkbymoorside for beer, tea or what ever turns you on.

From the start on the A170 we follow field paths to Wombleton and Beadlam before turning north on to Howldale Lane and then East by Nawton Tower. A little further on the views both north and southward are delightful, encompassing the open countryside and benefiting from our slight elevation. We cross Kirk Dale Beck to reach Fadmoor's village green and then through Gillamoor where the church is photogenic. Heading southward on Shepherd's Road through forest leads to our destination. 370 metres of ascent.

Following our "usual" (hopefully) we leave the village through a small estate on the outskirts before reaching fields and stiles, to eventually enter "Robin Hood's Howl" (wood). A few more fields and a bit of road walking leads into Kirkdale Howl. From here we will visit St. Gregory's Minster before commencing our return to Kirkbymoorside. We have a choice of finishes but will discuss these at the time.

Apologies to 'A' walkers for having to put up with me for the second successive trip. I am afraid this walk could easily be over ambitious if we have typical January weather. Leaving the coach at the Falconry Centre, we head for the scars that surround Crummack Dale. After negotiating these edges, we make our way towards Ingleborough to pick up the track that brings us into Ingleton, hopefully with some daylight left. An interesting and varied walk but even on a good day it will be quite tough with 2,700 feet of ascent, some yomping and negotiating limestone pavements which could be slippery.

This is a great walk with terrific views and much variety. We leave Ingleton passing the top of Beezleys and onto Twisleton Hall, making our way up the valley to Braida Garth. Our next port of call is Yordas cave….bring a GOOD TORCH and explore! There was a huge waterfall inside and if we are lucky, icicles…plenty of headroom! We climb up from here to join a long ridge path along Green Laids Scar, passing some impressive open potholes and waterfalls coming down to Tow Scar road (track), passing Cowgill farm and over the fields to Ingleton. Should the day and weather be good we have the option of extending this to Mason Gill. "Curlew Crafts Tea shop will be open until 4.30………and know we are coming!! This is by the steps to the Main Car Park.

This is a pleasant walk over mainly undulating pasture land which, if it hasn't frozen again since the recce, could be rather soft!! Only one hill of any consequence, after passing through the attractive village of Burton in Lonsdale. Given clear weather, there are long vistas, with good views of Ingleborough etc. Unfortunately, due to a planned stream crossing not being viable, there is a little more road walking than we would have liked. Sorry folks!! ( "Emma's Tea Rooms" are expecting us with a selection of toasted tea cakes, bacon sandwiches, etc., coffee and tea.)

Water,water everywhere as we drove past numerous flooded fields to reach Ingleton. We climbed through a landscape transformed by rushing white water spreading around us in its eagerness to reach its destination, the waterfall. And what a sight that was. Luckily the idea of taking us across it was dropped! However, we had to literally pay for our pleasure for a sight of the waterfall in spite of skilful negotiations by our leader. Onward and upwards we swam to Yordas cave. Unfortunately Yordas was underwater and no one had brought a wetsuit. So once more onward and upward through the rain, wind and mist to Green Laids Scar where it was a case of heads down and go. The day was certainly a good one for testing raingear and stream-crossing but not for beautiful views. Cows and sheep loomed out of the gloom like ghosts, shaking their heads in disbelief at these multi-coloured creatures half-swimming along the new rivers. But we reached dry land eventually and were rewarded with plenty of food and drink before returning to the relative desert of Leeds and Bradford. Many thanks to Diane T and Penny who had to think on their feet as rivers appeared where no rivers should have been.