Lovely Two Mile Walk From Masham

Having just read a tribute to Michael Moseley I truly agree with what was one of his recommendations that a walk first thing in the morning does you the world of good. It doesn’t have to be for miles and miles but a bit of sunshine, if you’re lucky, fresh air and listening to the birds, if you can, does lift the spirits. Just one such walk could be from Masham. Just a couple of miles, all easy going with glimpses of the River Ure along the way.

Even though it may be a short walk do wear suitable clothing and footwear and check your route beforehand on the map if new to you. I always carry my rucksack with water and snacks, if nothing else it’s good for keeping the bones strong if you carry a bit of a load.

Set off from Masham market place in a northerly direction in the direction of Ripon onto the A6108 or from the large carpark by the cricket field on the north side of the town just off the A6108. Before you get to the bridge over the River Ure and have passed the last cottage on the left on The Avenue take the footpath in front of you to the left of the bridge. Through a hand gate and follow the River Ure looking very serene in the sunshine along a well worn path with markers. Soon a fisherman’s hut comes into view in the distance and you will see a footpath marker in what seems like the middle of the field, head for this and continue up the incline to find another stile just over the brow.

Over the stile immediately turn left into Marfield Wetlands, great excitement here, well a little, as I realised this was a new path for me, continue along. Soon you come to a bird hide where you can watch waterfowl on one of the lakes and other birds visiting the nearby feeders. Continue along through the little wood to come out on the Masham side of the Wetlands. If you want to stroll through the Wetlands then turn right here and have a wander. Once finished exploring make your way back to where you came from, walk through gaps for people and onto a track, pass the couple of dwellings including the Old Fever Hospital, up the slight incline then turn through the next hand gate on your left. After a few yards you have two choices, to take the left hand or the right hand path, I chose the right hand path, whichever it brings you to more or less the same place. Again through a hand gate and then on to the metal gate in front of you. Through here, past the brewery and keep going to the A6108.

Lots of eating places in Masham, have a stroll round the town, Wednesday and Saturday are market days. We have beautiful Country Hideaways cottages in Masham but 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 and to book over the telephone or, of course, do book online if you prefer.

Looking forward to hearing from you quite soon.