Wensley to Middleham in a Circular Manner

We thought it was time to walk from Wensley Bridge again so on a very pleasant winter’s day we set off to walk about nine miles, walking east then west then east again. No long hills, wonderful views, and what seemed to be plenty of walking along by the side of the River Ure.

Park in the big lay-by by the bridge on the west side of Wensley or if no space by the hall gates just off to the left after the bus stop if coming from the lay-by into Wensley. Or of course you can catch the Little White Bus to Wensley. Nine miles is quite a hike so be sure to take plenty to drink and eat, wear appropriate clothing and footwear, always be prepared, and most important plan your route beforehand, take GPS, compass and map.

From Wensley set off from the west side of the village and the west side of the bridge over the River Ure on the A684 or just opposite the lay-by. There is gate leading onto the path, take this and walk along the river bank following the path to leave the river at Grid Ref: SE 11044 88873. Once onto the track turn left and walk along a little way and  just where the track and the river meet there is a path on the right. Take this and walk up the steep bank to the way through into open fields. Again follow the path uphill to a little wood, through here and continue on veering off to the left a little towards a gate with footpath sign, continue to follow the path until you come out on Park Lane in Middleham and a stables. Turn left and continue along the road, through the metal barrier and onward to the village centre.

Once out to the main road to Coverdale, Coverdale Lane, cross over, make your way to the castle, turn left, pass the castle and turn immediately right onto a track, the Six Dales Trail. Follow just for a few yards to pass the castle and take the footpath to take you west. Keep going through the fields to bring you out onto the road again. Cross the road to reach the gallops and continue to head west across the gallops and Middleham Low Moor. At Naylor’s Hill, Grid Ref: SE 0966387408, head downhill off the gallops to walk through gorse bushes to a stile. I have to admit I missed this and wasn’t concentrating on the way but no matter, this time, we just walked onto the road and turned right on the road. If you have found the path through the gorse you’ll have walked downhill through a pretty little wood out onto the road.  From here cross the road and take the footpath opposite and head down to the house. From here you get a wonderful view of Mount Tower, this is not on the path though. Continue on past the house, carefully following the path across the fields then start to head down hill to West Witton. A well walked path will take you to the village and the A684 again. Cross the road and take the single track road onto Back Lane. Again follow gradually beginning to walk east, across the fields to come out at Lord’s Bridge. Cross over into arable land, walk along the side of the field a little way and then descend into the wood. Wonderful through here, walking by the river again and lots of wild flowers to enjoy. All sorts can be going on on the river a lovely walk which will eventually bring you out to just where you started from!

Do come and stay in one of our beautiful Country Hideaways holiday cottages and enjoy this walk. Call me, Nadine, or my daughter Joanne, on 01969 663559 to book over the telephone and for friendly help and advice or, of course, please do book online if you prefer.

As always, we are so looking forward to welcoming you! Hear from you quite soon!