West Witton to West Witton in Wensleydale, the Yorkshire Dales, in a circular manner

On a warm humid morning we set off from West Witton for a low level walk in Wensleydale, a perfect route for the day. Through fields of long wet grass, fun but wet and the inside of our boots were soon soddened. It didn’t seem to matter, we were comfortable, warm if wet and enjoying the walk.

I suppose we have walked the footpaths many times but perhaps not quite in this way which always gives a different perspective. A walk of just over six miles, no long hills and very pleasant indeed. Do please plan your route beforehand, wear appropriate clothing and footwear, take a map with you or your GPS facility and most of all, enjoy!

We parked in the big lay-by on the east side of West Witton and set off along the A684, through the village in a westerly direction, past the Fox and Hounds, the village store and the Wensleydale Heifer. After the Wensleydale Heifer a few yards further on, on the right, you will see a finger post off to the right, follow this along a narrow little snicket which brings you out into open pasture. Follow the well worn path to the track on the west side of the field then turn right on the track. Follow the path down until you come to open fields again, through two fields and at the end of the second at the metal gate, through here there is a concrete track, turn right into the field adjacent.

Here though you can leave the path for a little while and go up the Fairhurst’s at Berry’s café and enjoy their homemade cakes etc, but it is up to you.

Once at the gate on the right, again follow the way, and again into the corner of the field, please do refer to your map, to a gated stile. This will take you down to Redmire Force, well worth a pause here. Onward on the well worn path, up a short steep path from the waterfall, again into open fields and carry on until you come to the stepping stones in the River Ure. Time for a photo opportunity perhaps? From here we went into the next field and kept to our left, walking by the wall side. You will soon come to an over grown track, (this was where we got soaked with the long grass!) eventually coming out onto the A684. Very carefully now turn left up the hill, round the bend, and walk to the next finger post on the right. Through here and walk straight on through the field, up a stony track, into the next field. Here you can explore the Templars Chapel for a little while if you wish. Carry on up hill to the next metal gate, through here, onward to the concrete road. Turn right. Walk on here for a little way then follow the finger post away from the concrete road on the left and up another short steep bit, to the next metal gate. Through here, across the field, taking the lower gate way then look for a stile on your right, you can easily miss it, over here and follow the path back to West Witton. Once back onto the road at Chantry go down hill to the A684, turn right, then back down the village to your vehicle.

We have lovely Country Hideaways holiday cottages nearby, do call us on 01969 663559 to book or, of course, book online if you wish. Joanne and I very much look forward to hearing from you, any help or advice just ask!