Dacre Pasture near Harrogate

A walk over Dacre Pasture near Harrogate is a long day exploring a rarely walked area. A mix of lanes, tracks and footpaths pass through a landscape of moors, farmland and a reservoir.

The Walk

The large expanse of countryside near Harrogate had been asked to be explored for a number of years. A hot summer’s day encouraged me to head off on a long day which linked Thruscross Reservoir and the River Nidd south of Pateley Bridge. It is cracking countryside. Although it is mainly farmland there are hidden hamlets, sections of woodland, a great section of riverside walking, isolated farmsteads and a partial circuit of Thruscross Reservoir.

I would not wish to shorten the walk in any way so leave a full day for the walk. A personal favourite is the hidden away village of Thornthwaite, tucked away in a steep valley. Look for the lovely packhorse bridge which may have been built by the months of Fountain’s Abbey in the 15th century. However striding out over the higher farm lands was also enjoyable. Once you set your mind to a full day’s walking the mind relaxes and the pleasure is increased. The contrast with a previous day climbing Blencathra in the Lakes was immense but that is the joy of walking in the North of England.

Recommend

This is a walk that is impossible to follow without the use of a good map. The countryside can be confusing. If you use your phone or a gps make sure you have a spare battery.

Navigation Tips on Dacre Pasture near Harrogate

The footpaths around here are rarely walked and therefore difficult to follow in places. On a few occasions it may be easier to take a compass bearing. Alternatively look at the angle and shapes of the dry stonewalls. In addition estimate where the stile through the next wall is.