Hawes to Gayle and on to Burtersett in the glorious Yorkshire Dales

On a beautiful winter’s day, with just a sprinkling of snow, we set off from Hawes in Wensleydale for a circular walk about three and a half miles long. The views were just stunning of Upper Wensleydale towards Cotterdale, to the south Wether Fell and across to Askrigg and Lower Wensleydale in the east. We didn’t climb very high but our views were still panoramic.

This maybe just a short walk but please do wear suitable clothing and footwear, prepare your route and always pack drinks and snacks. Please be aware for those of you with dogs there are quite a lot of stiles on this walk. There is parking in the Dales Countryside Museum carpark, please note there is a charge, or street park where you can.

From the Dales Countryside Museum make your way out onto the A684 and walk into Hawes along the one way system, doesn’t matter which side but the direction from Leyburn into Hawes market place goes along the cobbles and past St Margaret’s Church and some interesting little shops. Continue through the town and turn to your left immediately to the left of the toilets. There are steps here to take you up eventually to a field and across to the Wensleydale Creamery. Come out onto the road again, which is the road to Gayle. Turn left and follow the road, over the bridge over Gayle Beck, looking left to view Gayle Mill if you wish. Start to swing right after the bridge, Kettlewell 15 Miles, and on the left there is a little lane going off behind the first row of houses, take this, it’s just a loop back round to the road but I felt it was interesting enough not to miss. (Or walk along the road by Gayle Beck, very pretty.) Once out on the road again make your way up the hill and look out for a stile on your left. Through here and make your way up the hill at the second stile, three in all, turn left, east and keep going along this level to Burtersett, approaching along Shaws Lane OS Grid Ref: SD 89006  89185. Walk along the road past cottages and turn left at the junction of New Lane, walk downhill for a few yards and then turn left again at the Methodist Chapel at OS Grid Ref: SD 89050 89305. Walk down through the fields in the direction of Hawes, this is the old miners path with parts still flagged, past the cemetery on your right and to the A684. Follow west, down the road to the Dales Countryside Museum. Lots of places in Hawes for refreshments or call in at Stage 1 Cycles Firebox Cafe from the car park, always cosy.

We have Cartwheel Cottage in Hawes to sleep three plus a small dog or, of course, lots of cottages well with in travelling distance to Hawes. Call me Nadine or my daughter Joanne on 01969 663559 for friendly help and advice and to book over the telephone. Do book online if you would like to though. Hear from you soon!