Circular Walk from Leyburn, along The Shawl, over Lords Bridge and back to Leyburn in the glorious Yorkshire Dales

Well, I suppose that just about sums it up, the title that is but what a really lovely walk. Start from Leyburn and follow the sign for The Shawl from Commercial Square. Follow the path along the side the children’s playing field, on through the wood, beware of the exposed tree roots, I nearly came a cropper!

Keep going, ignore a footpath descending on the left following the way marker on the high path, keep going until you eventually go down hill to open fields. Traverse across diagonally to the right, you can see the stile in front of you and then again through the next field diagonally right aiming for the edge of the fence. You’ll see a gate in front of you when you get to this point. Through the gate and follow the track to the farm yard. Turn left here, do not go towards the pretty barn, follow on for a few yards then veer off to the right along a grassy track down the hill. You’ll eventually come to the old mill buildings. Wind round to the right again until you reach the road.

Cross over here and through the field opposite, cross over the railway line, don’t forget to look both ways carefully and continue across the field to the road. Turn right on to the road, this is heading in the direction of Redmire, follow for a few yards to the next bend and take the track off to the left. Continue on down here, look out for Bolton Hall on your left but keep going and you will see Lords Bridge in front of you. Over the bridge and the first stile on the left is the one that you need. Through here, follow the well worn path east to Wensley Bridge. Cross over the road, turn right past the church, down over a little bridge and turning left following the way marker up the steep hill. Watch out for a footpath sign on the right to take you into the fields. Continue on here keeping to the lower footpath. You’ll maybe need your map for this bit but after quite a few fields you’ll come to Low Wood Lane, left up the hill which will bring you out nearly in Leyburn.

About eight miles, easy going, sensational views and well worth venturing along this route. Take a picnic and find a spot on The Shawl to rejoice in the view. Call at the Three Horse Shoes in Wensley for lunch, don’t forget to have a peak in the White Rose Candles, www.yorkshirenet.co.uk/craftgde/whiterosecandles, here too but most of all enjoy!

We don’t have cottages actually in Leyburn but most are just a short drive to take you there. Book on line or call us, Nadine and Joanne, on 01969 663559 for availability and for friendly help and advice. We always look forward to hearing from you!