- Varied walk along the River Lune
- Explore 3 interesting villages steeped in history
- Much of the walk is along quiet lanes
The Bronte sisters attended the old girl’s school at Casterton and much of their childhood memories must come from this splendid old school and its surrounding countryside. The hills over Barbon certainly look wild enough to satisfy them but in reality the River Lune meanders gently through this pleasant low level valley creating some lovely walking along lanes and over fields. Both Barbon and Casterton are attractive villages (with good pubs) and like Kirkby Lonsdale worth taking a little bit of extra time to fully explore; some of the country houses worth seeking out (if only from a distance) are Barbon Manor, Whelprigg and Casterton Hall to name but three all major land marks on the old railway which passed through this valley.
Recommend: Only attempt this route when river levels are low as the ford at 610813 is impassable and potentially dangerous after rains or in much of winter months, the nearby bridge leads to private land (but could be used in an emergency). Return via Barbon on the footpath which heads south from Underley Grange.
All maps are copyright of Where2Walk © 2020
| OS Map: | O/S 1.25,000. OL2 Yorkshire Dales South & West |
| Start Point: | SD 617782. Devil's Bridge at Kirkby Lonsdale. Park in the road opposite the butty van and head up in to the Holiday Park! |
| Height to Climb: | 166 ms (544 feet) |
| Terrain: | Generally the lanes are quiet and the paths reasonably well sign posted although the walk was a little muddy when I did it. |
| Eating & Drinking: | There are a number of excellent pubs in Kirkby Lonsdale but for character none better than the Barbon Inn and the Pheasant Inn in Casterton |
| Similar Walks Nearby: |
Exploring Kirkby Lonsdale Exploring lovely Barbondale Twisleton Scars near Ingleton The River Lune south of Kirkby Lonsdale |
| Places to Stay: |
Where is the Ford – do not think it is there anymore? Walked over the historic bridge instead – Jan 2016. The farmer owns the bridge and closes it during lambing season when the lambs go out side.
Lovely homemade cakes to be enjoyed at Casterton Golf Course Cafe. Walkers and muddy boots are very welcome.
I walked over the bridge 2 weeks ago and there was no problem, signs etc: I cannot see why anyone would close it but do let me know if you have more up to date information
I understand that the bridge back over the lune from Barbon to Kirkby Lonsdale has no foot path over it. Are ther any issues with using it? It is walk d103.