A Moorland Walk From Thornton Rust in Wensleydale

On a cold January day, clear and sunny, the ground still hard from the low temperatures we’ve been having, we set off from Thornton Rust in Wensleydale to find Gayle Ing. Gayle Ing is a remote farmhouse, found in a sunny dip with trees to shelter it from the elements. The house was once a family home, now neglected and more or less derelict, perhaps someone some day will come and bring it the love it needs to bring it back to life.

New ground for me for part of the way, with glimpses of Addlebrough as we made our way over the moor. About four miles on moorland with terrific views down to the North York Moors and across Wensleydale. Come prepared though, you never know what the weather will do, best to be prepared for anything. Plan your route beforehand, take the map, GPS and compass, wear plenty of layers, good stout footwear and walking sticks if you feel the need.

Remember this walk is more or less on moorland all the way which can be tricky at times so please go prepared. The footpaths in places are not visible but you are on open access land which means to stray from the official path is not a problem but be aware at all times of exactly where you are. Your GPS will help and if planned with OS Maps or the like will pinpoint the path and your position.

Park in Thornton Rust, there is a little lane opposite the village hall which leads to the car park. OS X (Eastings) 397209 OS Y (Northings) 488745. Before you start your walk you may like to have a look at the interpretation board explaining this area and what it was used for in the past. Walk over the stream, there are stepping stones, but be careful whether you ford the stream or use the stepping stones, both can be slippy. Ignore the track on the right and take the first footpath off to the left after a few yards, south east. Follow on through a couple of fields until there is a junction of footpaths. Through and walk more or less in a southerly direction keeping to the wall side. Up hills, down hills, over a bridge, over streams with no bridge, along the flat, keep going and eventually you will see the trees in front of you and hidden amongst is Gayle Ing. OS X (Eastings) 396844 OS Y (Northings) 486329.

We paused here to have lunch and take in the views and then set off east, soon changing to north east over Haw Head. Eventually you will come to another junction of paths and tracks but continue down Flout Moor Lane. Keep a watch out for a plaque on the wall and the right hand side for Castle Dykes, it is just a mound now but have a little explore if you wish. Continue along Flout Moor Lane to OS X (Eastings) 398491 OS Y (Northings) 487582. Through here and walk north west through stiles to arrive back at the first junction of paths on your walk OS X (Eastings) 397348 OS Y Northings) 488525 and then back to the car park.

We have two beautiful, spacious cottages in Thornton Rust, West Cottage to sleep five plus one small dog and The Bield to sleep six plus up to two dogs and of course all our other cottages are well within travelling distance of Thornton Rust. Do call me Nadine or my daughter Joanne on 01969 663559 to book over the telephone and for friendly help and advice or book online on our website if you prefer. Hear from you quite soon!