Walking through History
The Yorkshire Dales has a fascinating history; both in the landscape that has been created and the people who have worked it through the ages. Although it is fair to say that any walk in the Yorkshire Dales inevitably includes examples of the fascinating geology of the area I have selected the more striking examples of the physical effects of millenniums of upheavel to place in the category. However it is the energies and graft of those who have made a living out of this harsh landscape which make its history so fascinating and I have included many walks which travel through the splendid castles and abbeys of the area but also the ancient mine workings which scatter the landscape, making a particular mark in Swaledale and which so dominated peoples lives in the last 500 or so years.
Bolton Abbey
D070- Remains of Bolton Abbey
- Attractive riverside path
- Plenty of sitting and quieter areas
The Ancient Castles of Mallerstang
D064- Ancient ruins in the valley
- Quiet & peaceful riverside
- Take some time in Kirkby Stephen
Featured in Countryfile Magazine Sept 2011
A Circuit of Stock’s Reservoir
D034- Great variety of birds, flora and scenery
- History of the dam building
- Good and well signposted paths
Witches of Pendle…Hill
D036- Hill of historical significance
- Far reaching views
- A good scramble up the dry gills
History in Gunnerside Gill
D019- An industrial history lesson
- Regenerated woodland
- Gunnerside is a fine village
Penhill Beacon from West Witton
D028- Spectacular situation of Penhill Beacon
- Old lead mines below Penhill Scar
- Views over to Castle Bolton
The Lands of Castle Bolton
D044- A beautifully preserved castle
- Excellent views of Wensleydale
- Visit the village of Redmire
Upper Dentdale
D065- An engineering spectacular
- Views down Garsdale and Dentdale
- Circular from a station or a pub
Discovering the Upper Nidd
D029- A glorious open landscape
- Plenty of wildlife throughout
- Understand the nature of reservoirs
Ingleborough and Gaping Gill
D014- The finest route up Ingleborough
- Explore Gaping Gill and Trow Gill
- Relaxed descent with good views
