Easy Going Circular Walk From Middleham

It’s seemed a while since we’ve done a circular walk from Middleham in Wensleydale in Yorkshire Dales so it was map out and a route planned, not too far, about six miles but far enough. Our circular walk takes us into lower Coverdale, over the River Cover to East Witton returning via the fields from Cover Bridge. The ground is quite wet at the moment and we felt it prudent to walk more on tracks and quiet roads than footpaths over the fields. In the event we did both and we survived, as you do!

Please do plan your route, wear appropriate clothing and footwear and take a map, GPS and compass always in your knapsack. Plenty to drink and snacks to keep those energy levels going.

Park in Middleham for the starting point of this circular walk, anywhere in the square or on the upper cobbles and set off in the direction of the gallops and Coverham, south west, walking along the road. There is a footpath behind the castle but as mentioned we were doing it differently on this occasion. There are always racehorses coming or going to the gallops, such beautiful animals, a pleasure to gaze upon and the riders are forever chatty with a cheery ‘Good Morning!’ Keep going, leave the houses and high walls and continue to the gallops, keeping to the left pass the driveway to Manor House Farm and on to the end of the wall on the left, then take the path here on the left downhill towards the river, south, SE 11726 87058. Continue downhill to Hullo Bridge, great place for swimming here in the summer, over the bridge and you have three choices. We took the path to the right, an ancient track now overgrown but it served our purpose, follow to the road in the direction of Braithwaite Hall. Once onto the road turn left and continue along to East Witton. Very little traffic on here I think we met one car, look out for wren’s nests in the bare hedgerows as in the photo here, always fascinating, when the leaves appear they are totally hidden. Lovely views down to the North York Moors, across to Middleham and further into Coverdale , easy walking too.

Once in East Witton, perhaps it’s time to pause a while on one of the benches and take in the vastness of the village green, the pretty cottages and the views of course. Then onwards looking out for the little Methodist Chapel on the left and take the footpath which is to the left of the building. It can be a bit muddy on here so take care.  Continue on down through the fields over a couple of streams to Cover Bridge. Over the bridge, past the pub and immediately after the bungalow on the left go through the stile on the left. A well worn footpath along here by the River Cover, very pretty with wild flowers but not for us in winter but still interesting none the less. You can marvel at how the water has eroded the river banks, such force when in full flood. When you reach Straight Lane, SE 13735 86717, ascend up the hill, north, on the footpath and continue along, through onto a track. You can either take the footpath to the left past Chapel Fields and past the cricket ground coming out behind Middleham Castle. Or as we did, walk to the road and walk up the footpath by the side of the road back into Middleham and your vehicle.

A lovely, easy, circular walk from Middleham, too good to miss. We have pretty Briar Cottage, sleeps four plus one small dog welcome, and overlooks the castle ramparts in Middleham and of course all of our other cottages are well within striking distance of Middleham. Call me Nadine or my daughter Joanne on 01969 663559 to book your chosen cottage over the telephone and for friendly help and advice or do book online on our website if you prefer.

Love to hear from you quite soon!