Summer’s walking and cycling in the Yorkshire Dales

It’s been a breath of fresh air to escape to the Yorkshire Dales after lockdown! Being in nature has such a positive effect on my mental wellbeing. I’ve been restricted to day trips from York so far but it’s amazing how just one day can recharge those creative batteries.

Kettlewell, Arncliffe and Starbotton walk

A 9 mile walk from Kettlewell to Arncliffe & Starbotton in the Yorkshire Dales.

From Kettlewell I crossed the Wharfe bridge, following the path that rises steeply up through a limestone scar. Blessed with a clear day I had stunning views across the Wharfedale valley.

I continued on through Middlemoor Pastures to the top of the ridge. The view opened out to heather in full bloom on Old Cote Little Moor. The perfect spot for an early lunch, with views across Littondale and Blue Sar. The path descends steeply to the River Skirfare though Byre Bank Wood to the village of Arncliffe in Littondale.

I’d met a lovely York couple on the way up, he was 90 and knew all the pathways well. On his recommendation, I changed my route for the day. I’m so glad I did!

I followed a bridleway up to Old Cote Moor and Starbotton. My favourite view of this part of the walk was looking back towards Arncliffe from here. Cowside Beck winds its way between the craggy Yew Cogar Scar on the left and a patchwork of dry stone wall edge fields along West Moor on the right. A road climbs steeply up towards Nab End and onto Malham. It’s a fabulous road and one I’ve cycled down!

From Starbotton I walked along the Dales Way which follows the River Wharfe twists and turns back to Kettlewell.

The 9 mile walk took me 7 ish hours! Lots of stopping for photos and to soak in the views. I loved it so much!

These are my recently completed print inspired by that walk.

Kettlewell, Yorkshire Dales, hand printed linocut print.

Littondale, Yorkshire Dales, hand printed linocut print.

Ingleborough walk

My first trip to the Yorkshire Dales was a 9 mile walk in July. Starting from Ingleton we walked up the bridleway of Fell Lane, towards Crina Bottom farm.

This is the view that really caught my creative eye. From the farm and White Scar’s, the path winds its way up to the Ingleborough summit. I love the colour and texture contrast of the millstone grit against the grass.