Lovely circular walk from Appersett, above Hawes in Wensleydale, into Cotterdale

A lovely circular walk from Appersett, above Hawes in Wensleydale, into Cotterdale, walking a short distance on the Pennine Way. About seven miles with one quite steep climb which has such lovely views it would be a shame not to stop to enjoy on the way up. You might even catch a glimpse of the Settle Carlisle train going past in the distance. First time we walked up here we even heard the train tooting, very exciting!

As always please do plan your route beforehand and take your map and GPS to help you on your way. Wear appropriate clothing, footwear and take plenty to drink and snacks.

Park on the green in Appersett and set off on the A684 in a westerly direction then over the bridge over Widdale Beck and take the second footpath on your left. Skirt down the side the field to New Bridge, OS Eastings 385767 OS Northings 490959, do not go over the bridge. At the bridge turn to follow the footpath along the River Ure. Through fields, a little wood, follow the path which is quite well walked to come out eventually at Mossdale Head. Through the farm yard, look out for little viaduct for the disused railway and the pretty waterfall behind, over Mossdale Gill and then through the gate on your left to follow the footpath over rough pasture to Thwaite Bridge. Cross the road, over Thwaite Bridge and take the footpath in front of you through the wood, OS Eastings 382617 OS Northings 492301.

Now we start to climb, head for the corner of the wood in a north easterly direction. Keep going, following the path, there are stiles to follow, through the little plantation, down to the road, over the road, through the stile gate and along to Cotterdale hamlet. Over the bridge in the hamlet and come back along the side Cotterdale Beck a little way then cut off across the fields to Rash Brows. Follow this path, past Kempera Folds to join with the Pennine Way. Down the track, through a large metal gate and look out for the next finger post on your right, OS Eastings 385889 OS Northings  491918. Through the gate here and follow the path down and up and down back to the A684 and along the road to New Bridge. Over the bridge, back onto footpath you started on and return to your vehicle at Appersett.

In need of sustenance? Plenty of places in Hawes to explore and enjoy.

If you’d like to stay in one our beautiful holiday cottages in Wensleydale or indeed any of the other dales we cover in the glorious Yorkshire Dales, please do contact me Nadine or my daughter Joanne on 01969 663559 for friendly help and advice or of course you can book online if you prefer. See  you soon!