Circular Walk From Masham about Six Miles

There has been quite a lot of rain in the dales of late but we felt it was long enough since there had been rain in Masham that we could attempt to walk through the fields again and we were so pleased we did. We even found a footpath not walked by me before and you know how exciting that can be! Our walk was just over six miles, easy going, pleasant views, great interest for bird watchers going through Marfield Wetlands and of course there is always the draw of the pubs and café’s in Masham for sustenance at the end. You can park in the market place or down by the Cricket Club but wherever you park make your way to The Avenue on the A6108 and Bank Villa OS Grid Ref: SE 22475 81022.

Please plan your route beforehand and wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Take plenty to drink and snacks. Always take your GPS, compass and map with you.

To the right of Bank Villa walk up the little road and before the Black Sheep buildings you will see a foot path sign pointing off to the right, take this and follow the signs through a few fields until you come to a track, here turn right. Continue on, past the Old Fever Hospital and through the gate in to Marfield Wetlands. Make your way through here, always water birds and others to enjoy, being careful to follow the pathways, coming out on yet another track. Turn left and make your way to the road to Leyburn, A6108, and to Mile House Farm by turning right once on the road. Immediately after the farm take the track to the right of the house and walk along here to Low Spelder Banks. Again continue to follow the signs through here. Out into open fields and after a few yards you need to negotiate a little stream. The first time we walked this way it was a quick hop over but this time there was a bit more water so we walked to the fence over the stream and found a couple of well placed stones there which helped us to get over easily.

Keeping the wood to the right of you continue up hill to the corner of the field. Here you will find a stile, over here and turn left up a little lane, Dawson’s Lane. Make your way carefully along here to the road, cross over the road, to take the road in front of you to Fearby. Once in Fearby look out for a finger post directing you off to the left, south, south, east. Down the field to join another path coming from the west, OS Grid Ref: SE 19779 80890, turn left, east, and follow this path, over a little bridge, and a couple of fields to come out on to the road from Fearby. Turn right, we found daffodils in bloom along here so pretty and unexpected, at the junction of the roads where Micklebury Lane changes from road to track, take the way through a large metal gate immediately in front you over Micklebury Lane. Follow this footpath now, well walked, to come out at Jamesons in Masham. Continue straight on down the road and turn right if parked by the Cricket Ground or turn immediately right at Jamesons if parked in the market place and wend you way back to your vehicle this way.

We have really super cottages in Masham sleeping from two people to six people although all our cottages are well within travelling distance to Masham. Call me, Nadine or my daughter Joanne, on 01969 663559 for friendly help and advice or, of course, do book online if you prefer.

We’re very much looking forward to hearing from you!