Limestone Scenery from Conistone

• Limestone and gritstone scenery in a moorland setting
• Easy walking on excellent grassy paths
• Explore spectacular Conistone Dib

Much of the pleasure of walking in the southern Dales is the excellence of many of the paths. Above Conistone the gradients are not steep and it is easy to stride out whilst taking in the views as you walk. The limestone scenery dominates the scene with a particularly impressive pavement to be found to the south just after the Dib. I recommend starting the walk by entering the narrow limestone gorge of Conistone Dib, a spectacular dry and rocky valley surrounded by limestone scars, an unusual spot which is unique in the Dales and I can only liken to the Olgas in Australia. Ending the walk past the radio mast may seem disappointing but is compensated by the views across to Kilnsey Crag and the memory of the surprisingly symmetrical shape of the Conistone Pie which dominates the return 1.5 miles of the Dales Way. Above Capplestone Gate there remains some evidence of the lead mining that occurred in the 19th century whilst ancient arable fields can be seen above the village.  The church in Conistone is reputed to be the oldest building in the entire Craven area – well worth an explore.

Recommend: The O/S pillar at Capplestone Gate has wonderful views for a picnic spot.

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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. OL2 Yorkshire Dales Southern & Western Areas
Start Point:	980675. No parking in the village but there should be space near the bridge over the Wharfe on the minor road.
Terrain:	Aside from the rocky path up the Dib the walking is easy on wide grassy paths or bridleways.
Eating & Drinking:	The Tennants Arms over the main road is an obvious choice but the coffee shop at Kilnsey Park has some interesting snippets of the area.
Similar Walks Nearby:	Bordley under Malham Moor Arncliffe & Kettlewell Circular In Sight of Simons Seat
Places to Stay: