Walking from Askrigg in Wensleydale in a circular manner!

What a beautiful, clear autumn day to walk from Askrigg, mid Wensleydale with our walking group, in the glorious Yorkshire Dales, a comfortable walk of about four and a half miles and mostly easy terraine.

Park in Askrigg near the church, or even better, in the car park as you leave the village towards Carperby. Set off from the cross and take the lane behind the church, West End, to Whitfield Gill. Take the stile into the field at the bottom the lane and walk along the stone flags to the old mill buildings, over a bridge and wander through the woods, taking care to watch for the tree roots underfoot, to the sign post giving three options. Follow the footpath to Helm, walking through fields with wonderful views of Whether Fell, Addlebrough and just amazingly breath taking countryside, in fact the views never stop, a little different on every turn of the head.

Proceed along Skellgill Lane and follow to the end turning down the stony track through Spen Top and continue to Wyrams and eventually to the road. Turn right into Yorescott, down through fields then cross over the road from Breaconbar to Bainbridge and take the footpath through the pillars of the old railway line and enjoy the little stone arched bridge. Again walk to the road, following a well defined path, cross the road to take the footpath to Askrigg. This will eventually bring you back to West End, cut down the field on the right hand side, or if desperate for a ‘cuppa’ keep to the road to go back to the market cross, to take the longer route and come out into the church yard. If the church is open do call in for a look, a grade 1 listed building, dating back to the 15th century.

On returning, enjoy homemade fare in either The Bake-Well or Sykes or make your way to one of the three pubs found on the main street. As always, please take your map, the above are only cursory instructions, organise your walk before setting off and wear appropriate footwear and clothing. Enjoy!