Hay Meadows at Muker

• Visit beautiful Hay Meadows
• Muker is a traditional Dales village
• Walk up the Upper Swale

The Hay Meadows at Muker are probably the most dramatic example of flower rich fields in the country and are a bit of an unsung national treasure. Wild flowers in this concentration are a rarity in this country and are the result of years of management from the local Dales farmers who cut the fields back at the end of June (usually) to provide fodder for their livestock during the winter. Encouraged by a number of local conservation groups such as the National Park and specifically the Yorkshire Dales Millenium Trust who work closely with the farmers involved, these fields are becoming more and more spectacular each year. The 12 fields at Muker offer a wide range of wild flowers which include cat’s ear, wood crane’s bill, Lady’s mantle, pignut and the lovely melancholy thistle. Six of the fields have flagged paths, some are inaccessible but viewable whilst the first two are suitable for wheelchairs or pushchair visitors. From the fields I would suggest crossing the Upper Swale at the obvious footbridge, walking up the lovely valley before doubling back past the bridge for 1/2 a mile and then returning to Muker from the east.

Recommend: Visit the YDMT website (www.ydmt.org ) for a full and professional understanding of the Hay Meadows of the Dales.

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© Crown copyright 2010 Ordnance Survey. Image produced from the Ordnance Survey Get-a-map service. Image reproduced with kind permission of Ordnance Survey and Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland.

OS Map:	O/S 1.25,000. OL30 Yorkshire Dales Northern & Central Areas
Start Point:	910979 which gives you a chance to walk through this traditional Dales village. There is a car park at Muker.
Terrain:	Stick to the paving for the 6 fields of Hay Meadows - thereafter there is a path next to the river.
Eating & Drinking:	Muker has a great tea shop and a fine pub, the Farmer's Arms - ideal.
Similar Walks Nearby:	Kisdon Fell Circular Riverside at Reeth Discovering Arkengarthdale
Places to Stay: