.png)
Join me as I explore a new walking book I recently picked up.
"Short, scenic walks in Ribblesdale"
20 different walks all within a few miles drive from Meadow Falls.
The Forecast wasn't great, but that all adds to the adventure! Laura and Deevo dog joined me exploring the picturesque and ancient hamlet of Thorns Gill.
Parking - Gearstones lodge (SD 77998 79995)
Opposite Gearstones lodge is a nice little layby, perfect for this trip. So with my trusty new walking book, "Short, Scenic Walks in Ribblesdale," we set off on this 4 3/4-mile circular route.
From a hand-gate use the left hand wall
We always go a little off piste, but we weren't expecting it to be so soon. The directions suggested this gate which seemed a little too tied up and we spotted a stile just a few meters along which seemed like a better option. Until the ladder on the other side was revealed, oh well it didn't seem to bother Deevo dog and we quickly traced back to the left hand wall.
Thorns Gill: Packhorse bridge
The charming historic bridge was surprisingly close to the start of the walk with ancient stones and tranquil river. A perfect spot for a couple of pictures (if you're brave enough to sit on the top) We had a good look at the river to check for wild swimming spots.
https://www.facebook.com/thedalesdipper – for wild swimming advice
Hide and seek
We rose out up to the left and found an array of boulders perfect for hide and seek (not just for the kids) then headed off to find Thorns. Where a real highlight of the walk was undoubtedly this abandoned hamlet. As we wandered through the ruins of stone barns and cottages, we couldn't help but imagine the lives of those who once called this place home. The peaceful solitude of the place was truly enchanting.
3 peaks
Squeeze through the slim gate and head up to the brow of Back hools hill, where we were rewarded with panoramic views of the Three Peaks.
Then the weather took a turn for the worse, and the once clear skies became overcast. Despite the rain, the adventure continued, and we forged ahead, navigating through soggy bogs and muddy paths. We spotted an old crumbling Limekiln in the lower path and ahead we could see Nether lodge a newer farming hamlet often passed on the Yorkshire 3 peaks challenge.
Carry on regardless
As we descended towards the River Ribble, the landscape transformed once again for thankfully for firmer ground. We found Ingham Lodge, a magnificent farmhouse dating back to 1667. The walk concluded with a peaceful stroll through the picturesque village of Gauber, where I couldn't resist exploring the wildflower-filled meadows. We will definitely return here on a dried summer day to see the wild orchids. There's a great information board and sound box to explore.
Then we followed back across fields to the starting point, passing a lovely hut with a plaque "In memory of Barry, who loved these hills" well I couldn't agree more, we love these hills too.
Back home to reflect
After conquering the giant ladder stile again and drying out, we have agreed this is a route we will definitely return to in the summer. We really enjoyed the different challenges and scenery, however we both worn walking shoes, proper walking boots are advised!!!
Commenti