jurgentischler

[jurgentischler]

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Toot and Ploot, my bluetits being very active

[jurgentischler]

Ilkley Moor is home to an estimated 300-400 carved stones, the majority of which are home to numerous carvings of cup and rings and petroglyphs, over the years some of the stones have been lost to quarrying whilst others are still waiting to be discovered, as they lay, unearthed and covered in moss and soil, as they have done for thousands of years. Surviving examples of rock art in the British Isles are believed to represent only a small sample of that which had been produced in the Neolithic and Bronze Ages. Many examples of petroglyphs would have eroded away, thereby being lost to contemporary scholarship. In other examples, images might have been painted onto rock, or marked onto less permanent surfaces, such as wood, livestock or the human body, thereby also failing to survive into the present.

This walk I’ve devised is both short and interesting, it only covers a distance between 2 and 3 miles on roughly the western side of the moor. It’s certainly not a difficult walk and there are easily followed footpaths between the carved stones, the terrain is outstanding and, other than the stones, it’s full of surprises, I’ve seen wild deer, dead sheep and even a brand new shovel and pick axe which seemed to have been abandoned.

The route is a horseshoe which starts and finishes on Keighley Road, adjacent to the footpath for Silver Wells, where, the tarmacked road surface terminates and it becomes a track, there is available car parking for about 4 cars with roadside parking available if necessary.

The first stretch of the walk in a south-easterly direction leads to the first find of the day, and, what I can only describe as the least interesting of any of the day’s discoveries, it’s both unnamed and easily missed, it was only a stroke of luck that I noticed it, plus the fact that it stands on the footpath I was following. The stones are notoriously difficult to find, and, without a 10 figure grid reference reading on the GPS, well, such as this one, would be virtually impossible.

Unnamed stone 1 – GR 11006 45642

On this unnamed stone, I could see maybe six cups and no rings, whether this was due to weathering and erosion or there were no rings cut, I don’t know, but, a find is a find, and this was a great start to the day. It’s fair to say, due to the stone lacking as much interest as many of the others in regards to its surface, that may be the reason it has no name and remains nothing more than a chronological number on the moor’s finds list, but, this really is the least interesting on the route, they really do improve with quality as progress is made.

Barmishaw Stone – GR 11193 46417

Following the route and GPS leads to the second stone and, in my opinion, one of the best I’ve ever discovered, the Barmishaw Stone which, due to the winter terrain, was so much easier to find than it was initially when I discovered it during the summer, then, it stood hidden and surrounded by deep and thick ferns, when, although it stands close to an ancient track, it remained completely hidden to view. This stone is home to some of Ilkley Moor’s speciality carvings, ladders, which consist of parallel grooves linked by perpendicular ‘rungs’, which, so far are unique to this and the Panorama Stone. As with many of the moor’s carvings, these seem somewhat difficult to see, (weather depending), but if my research is correct, there are 6 in ladder form and 24 cups, 9 of which have rings.

About half a kilometer away, heading WNW, was the next port of call, the Willy Hall Stone, which, is situated in Willy Hall’s Wood, who was Willy Hall? Whoever he was, the location which bears his name is believed to have once been a very sacred spot, and, it’s easy to see why whilst you’re there. The stone is on a mound which is surrounded by 2 streams which drain off Green Gates and rejoin one another at the bottom of the mound at Willy Hall’s Spout. The stream then takes route into Ilkley, under Brooke Street where it joins the River Wharfe near the bridge close to where the Roman fort of Olicana once stood.

Willy Hall Stone – GR 11584 46592. The bright sunshine and dryness of the day, ensured the difficulty in capturing many of the carvings, they are often difficult to see on certain stones in dry weather, especially the eroded ones, damp weather or early morning after a coating of dew gives them more enhancement, as is seen here, on the complete photo of the WH stone, hardly any of the carvings are visible.

Unexpected and random find on my approach to the Willy Hall Stone.

As I was close to the Willy Hall, I met a hiker, he was doing a horseshoe route and heading back to his destination, (the Cow and Calf pub being his half way point and return), we had a little chat, he was telling me, how, he’d forgotten his compass but felt comfortable with his map, knowing where north was, and, with his experience, he felt comfortable following his route. He told me he was on the Millenium Way, sadly, he wasn’t, he was on a track about 100 yards above it. I’m not criticising him at all, he wasn’t far from where he thought he was, he wasn’t lost and he was heading in the right direction. But, he told me he was ‘old school’ and confident with nothing more than his map. I didn’t challenge him, nor did I criticise him, but, I don’t agree with his thinking. I’m a believer of using every piece of modern technology which exists. Finding these stones without a 10 figure GPS reading would, with some of them, be virtually impossible, plus, I know exactly where I am in any weather or condition, and, as yet, I have found every single stone and carving I’ve been looking for, in my opinion, if the technology is available, use it, not only do you know exactly where you are, in ANY weather condition, but so do the Mountain Rescue, should you need to contact them, (so long as you have a phone signal), modern technology is a life saver.

Pepperpot Stone – GR 11812 46549 

After discovering the Willy Hall Stone, realising I had walked past in on numerous previous occasions, and, like many others, being completely unaware of the wonderful carvings adorned upon it, I took a south-westerly route in search of the illusive Pitchfork Stone. My route was nothing more than a short horseshoe, starting and finishing at the same point, although there were other carved stones within the area, I hadn’t included them, it was simply a basic route I’d devised with some interesting features along it. Finding the Pepperpot was a first, I’d only read about it and never seen it. It’s only a few yards from another ancient trackway and another wonderful discovery. On display are an estimated 50 cups on its upper part with another 17 on its lower  part, well, how many more lay beneath the moss which covers over a third of the stone which is covered in moss, it needs removing, regardless of some may disagree, I’m a great believer the removal of the moss will reveal more, and, the acidic soil erodes any potential carvings at a faster rate than exposure to daylight and weathering does, it makes sense to remove the moss. Once at the wonderful stone, there’s very little dispute to why it received the name it has.

  This didn’t stretch my imagination too far, nor did I consider any of the carving theories, it didn’t appear to be a grave marker or burial mound, a navigational aid, a boundary stone or any of the others, let alone a star constellation or an image of a UFO, to me, this seemed nothing more that decorative, Neolithic graffiti, then again, what do I know?

For the sake of practice, I took a map and compass bearing for the next stone, the Pitchfork. on the horizon, a stone seemed prominent, it matched the bearing, so, towards it I headed, on what seemed, the longest empty stretch of my route. I didn’t stay on the footpath which ran adjacent to some wonderful woodland for long, I headed into the wild moorland in the direction of the prominent stone, believing, in my own ability that I would easily find the Pitchfork, not that I had any idea of what it looked like. The south-westerly hike gave me plenty of time to ponder over the 2 roe deer I’d seen earlier, those wonderful animals roaming free on the open moorland, pure eye candy, unlike the decomposing sheep I’d seen earlier, (I’d have taken its skull as an ornament had it not been full of brain tissue).

The Pitchfork is situated on the brow of the hill, an exposed area, close to a footpath but on the wild and windy moorland, it certainly wasn’t the large and prominent, isolated rock I’d imagined it to be on my compass bearing, far from it, it was hidden and very difficult to find, but, eventually, find it I did, I was stood on the stone before I saw the carving, this one is a tester for anybody to find, the buzz of finding it was a pure highlight, and, it stands on an alignment with other unmarked stones, another puzzle for potential explanations to their meanings?

   Correct grid reference but not the Pitchfork Stone – GR 11495 46039 ??

  Standing on the alleged Pitchfork and viewing west, are 3 stones which are in the same alignment, shame it isn’t the Pitchfork?

    The above photo was taken at the GR reference I had found, the cup and ring carving is absolutely wonderful, but, I did question why on earth it took the name Pitchfork, I questioned it, but, left it there. It really is a wonderful cup and ring carving, an absolute gem, but, having since researched the stone for information regarding it, I discovered that this stone, isn’t the Pitchfork as I’d previously being led to believe, it’s a wonderful stone and carving but not the one I’d come in search of.

  The real Pitchfork Stone, (the picture isn’t mine. I discovered it on-line whilst researching), clearly defines why it’s named such, but, the one I found and believed to be the Pitchfork, is another of which I don’t know the name of, I guess I’ll have to return and find this one, never mind, its great fun searching for them, even if they aren’t logged correctly.

Having believed I’d found the Pitchfork, I headed towards my next one, one of the moor’s most famous and visited, it even has a bench for tired walkers located close to it.

The Badger Stone – GR 1107 4605

This is probably one of the most impressive carved stones on the entire moor, this photograph wasn’t mine, the daylight made mine worthless by comparison, so, I have used this as a replacement, a far superior one. Over a metre high and 3 metres in length, it has over 95 cups, rings, interlinking grooves and gutters, and, an incomplete swastika.

      An incomplete Swastika on the Badger Stone

  It’s worth bearing in mind, the swastika, as it’s remembered today, was a negative symbol corrupted by Hitler in the 1930’s and since then has been revered. Sadly, it will never be seen as anything other, but, prior to that dark period in the 20th century, it had a positive meaning and in some parts of the world, it still has. This carving predates Nazism by a few thousand years, so, it should be respected, as all the other carvings, as nothing other than it was intended, a symbol of good fortune and hope for all.

There was more than a touch of irony as I headed for my 7th stone after leaving this wonderful piece of rock art, the weather was changing for the worse, a black cloud was heading over from the east, the temperature was dropping and I could sense rain wasn’t far behind. The Neb Stone was my next destination, a welcome descent from the bleak and windy plateau I’d been covering for the previous hour.

  Neb Stone – GR 1039 4639

  The Neb Stone is more of a landmark stone than any other, although there are a few possible cup carvings on its surface, maybe the Neolithic inhabitants deemed it unworthy of their handy carving, we’ll never know, but, like many others surrounding it, this prominent stone is both interesting and worthy of a visit. As I approached the Neb, whilst crossing the tracked part of Keighley Road, there were 2 female German tourists heading down the road towards Ilkley, we said hello and they asked if they were on the correct road for the town, I told them they were and, after observing their shoes and clothing, encouraged them to make haste their descent into town, the rain was very soon to dominate the day, and, they certainly weren’t prepared for it, like anywhere in the hills and fells, even on a warm day, it’s essential to prepare for a change in the weather, at the very least, some waterproof clothing, sturdy shoes or boots and, no denim jeans, these two weren’t prepared and, unless they hurried, would feel the full force of the oncoming storm.

My final stone, and my 8th of the day was a particular friend of mine, not only am I responsible for removing the moss both from its surface and around its edges, which revealed more hidden and buried carvings, it was the last place I spent some time with Wendy before her sudden death, she was my former partner, my son’s mother and without doubt, my best friend. She joined me on my last visit and helped me finalize the cleaning of the stone, so too did she find what I believe to be a stone axe head, something I still need to be checked out by the experts, she was in her element in a pair of hiking boots and up to her knees in a muddy field, she was a legend and she is deeply missed.

  The Weary Stone – GR 10615 46588

Located on Weary Stone Hill, this stone demands views over the Wharfe valley towards Bolton Abbey and Great Whernside. Prior to it being cleaned and having the surface moss removed, more than half of the surface was buried by it, there were 12 cups and some rings visible, since it’s cleaning, there are now at least 4 more cups clearly seen. Removal of the peat moss not only reveals the hidden carvings, it prolongs their lifespan, it appears that the soil and moss erode the stone at a faster rate than being exposed to the elements would.

So, having completed this horseshoe walk at the wonderful Weary Stone, the circular walk was now completed with only a hundred yards to go to  the car. It’s not a difficult walk with only one ascent, the difficulty is finding the appropriate and correct stones, one of which failed me as I had an incorrect grid reference number. Still good fun and a wonderful way to spend a full afternoon, I recommend it to anyone, don’t forget the correct clothing, map and GPS.

Dedicated to Wendy Joanne Barnes – 1/12/1966 – 25/11/2017

              The Ilkley Moor Petroglyph Walk – 8 Interesting Stones in one short route Ilkley Moor is home to an estimated 300-400 carved stones, the majority of which are home to numerous carvings of cup and rings and petroglyphs, over the years some of the stones have been lost to quarrying whilst others are still waiting to be discovered, as they lay, unearthed and covered in moss and soil, as they have done for thousands of years. 

[jurgentischler]

This was a walk with a difference, unlike any other, navigation was as basic as any, the distance wasn’t in any way challenging, and, as for isolation, that too was a complete no, but, as for escapism, they certainly don’t come any better. The music I selected for the blog was historically inaccurate, but, the sound, the mood, the language, the aura it creates, well, from my point of view, was perfect. (Then again, we are in the land of Trolls, paganism, sacrifice and neolithic carved stone symbols, an area so spiritual, the most heathen of pagans can taste it, Stonehenge eat your heart out, so, there is a connection to the wonderful Swedish folk song and from my location, only a few miles north stands an isolated, hidden and secretive valley, Trollers Ghyll, thus, any time difference the historians of whichever ology, choose to curse me with, I challenge them to do it).

What are Cup and Ring carvings? – They are basically symbols (petroglyphs) which have been carved into rocks. Although they appear in other countries, in Britain they are found mainly in the north and Scotland. They are believed to be between 4000 and 5000 years old which places them in the same time period as the construction of Stonehenge, the Neolithic and Bronze Age period.

Wonderful example of cups, cup and ring and channels, carved stone, Ilkley Moor

What to look for:- Cupmarks, these are hollows cut into the surfaces of rocks which can be singular or in groups. Cup and Ring Marks, A central singular cup surrounded by singular or multiple rings. Cups, Rings and Channels, These can be cups and rings with ladders or channel joining them together.

These 3 are the most common in Britain although there are many more designs such as, spiral chambers, cups in rosette patterns, chevron channels, ladders, grid and curl like motifs. After close examination of uneroded carvings, it was deducted that the carvings were pecked into the stone using tools with about a 5mm point with metal, flint or deer antler been the most likely tool used. The only real facts about the carvings meanings are, and will probably remain the only known facts, are, there is no clear picture of their real purpose. There are some clues:- * The carvings are situated close to or incorporated within burial mounds and cairns, there may be a link with burial practices, ancestral connections or the after life. * They are also found on standing stones and close to stone circles, locations believed to have both ritual and religious purposes. * They frequently appear on outcrop rock where there is an uninterupted view over the surrounding terrain, indicating, their locations had been specifically chosen, bearing in mind, at this period of time, most of the terrain was heavily wooded.

This outing was the first of three on this, an area I consider, one of the least understood and most metaphysical locations on the planet. I’m not alone thinking that, I know two people whose ashes are scattered on the moor, both parents of friends who, for whatever reason, asked for their remains to be shed there, so, it makes me wonder, how many others have done the same, what is the attraction and why?

Located in Panorama Woods, Opposite St. Margarets’ Church, Queens’ Road, Ilkley (GR SE 11475 47288) – The Panorama Stones

The route was simplicity itself, nothing technical or difficult, about 6km in total with a return journey being the reverse of the outward, on a very well-defined, ancient footpath, there are many testing and far more difficult walks in the area, but, on this occasion, that wasn’t the purpose of my visit. I’d come in search of neolithic stone carvings and there became the challenge, finding them. On this occasion, they were all adjacent to the footpath, for reasons I will explain later, but, they’re not all obvious, and, if I was a gambling man, I’d place good money that the majority of walkers are oblivious to the carvings and stroll past unaware of their existence, just as I used to.

From the church I followed the road west for a couple of minutes till I saw the entrance to the moor at Hetchell Ghyll, ascending this overgrown, wild and picturesque ghyll to the, westerly bound, required footpath is a pleasure in itself.

Originally, The Panorama Stones were located half a mile away, on the moorland edge, in the woodland at the rear of the small Intake reservoir, but, they had to be moved to be saved, as 19th century development in their surroundings would have vandalised and destroyed them. Fortunately, in 1890, a Dr. Fletcher Little, purchased them for £10 and, in 1892, in order to save them, had them moved from their natural location to the present one, sadly, during their transportation, the largest stone was broken in two places, fortunately, better them broken and saved, than lost forever. Still, over the years, the combination of weather and vandalism have taken their toll and the carvings are now quite difficult to discern. In total there are 25 cups on the Panorama, 16 surrounded by between 1 and 5 rings, some incomplete, some linked by ladders and parallel grooves joined by perpendicular lines, the ladders are believed to be unique to this and the Barmishaw stone. The smaller stone has about 40 cups with 3 incomplete or eroded rings and some linking grooves. The smallest stone has 12 cups, one of which may have been a partial ring and stone.

Hetchell Ghyll and the ascent from Queens Road to Woodhouse Ridge and the wonderful, carve riddled, required footpath.

Emerging from the woods onto the westward bound footpath, which is also part of the long distance routes of the Millenium Way and the relatively new Dales High Way, it’s like leaving a jungle for a bleak moonscape, maybe an unfair comparison, but the change really is that immediate and instant, there’s no gradual gradient. Bear right, and onward, the second and probably, the most famous stone carving on Ilkley Moor, the world-famous Swastika Stone.

Left to Right:- The fenced and protected Swastika Stone from its high vantage point overlooking Lower Wharfedale, then, the original 4000-5000 year old and severely worn and weathered stone above the Victorian duplicate carved beneath. GR SE 09557 49697.

By far the most famous carved rock in the moor and, still the most mysterious in age, origin and understanding. Completely unique to the British Isles but almost identical to the Camonica Rose in Val Camonica, (Bresica, Italy), which suggests to some, there may be a connection to Roman troops situated at the outpost in Ilkley, which, would cancel the believed date of the original carving. There are enough suggestions to its meaning to drive anybody to the verge of insanity, the bottom line was, and remains, nobody knows. There are 9 cups within and around the 4 curves, with an additional and random curve to the top right with its own cup within. (Well, I’m going to start to add all the random and wild suggestions to their representation, instead, I’m going to offer my own, the 9 cups are there to represent the 9 worlds of Viking Norse mythology with the 10th and outside one representing an expanding outlook! It was carved by the maverick, Soren the Norse as he roamed these lands in search of wild boar and continued his never ending battles against the Trolls from their homeland a few miles away close to Appletreewick, let’s face it, during winter, these parts certainly have the feel of Nifhelm). One there for the many ….ologists to contend with.

Only a few yards away, on the opposite side of the footpath, laid there like dormant stone coffin lids are 2 fallen stone gateposts, not that their carved structures would immediately strike the average passer-by to their original purpose, that is, if the average passer-by should actually observe them, I never had, and, I’m quite a fine representative of the average passer by, one of the gateposts plays host to 2 cup carvings. In my humble

One of 2 gateposts close to each other, this one containing 2 cup carvings, I wonder if they were overturned, would they reveal more?

opinion, these are more confusing than any other carving I’d yet discovered, there is no visible evidence to why the stones are there, there is no visible boundary for the posts to represent, nor are there any visible signs to where they formally stood, but, the carved cups are very visible within one of them.

The 2 cup carvings are clearly visible although any sign of surrounding rings has either eroded away or never existed.

Onward and westerly I continued, next stop, the Anvil Stone, this one, did cause a little self-inflicted confusion. The GPS I was using, is, in my opinion, the best thing since sliced bread, but, it does have a single fault, man, or in my case, me! As long as the GR number is correctly added, it will find a needle in a haystack, or in this case, any stone required, the thing is, you have to ensure the figures added are correct, one error and you could be miles away, and, in this instance, I placed 03 where I should have inserted 30, and, I was about 100 yards out, on a hillside with hundreds of stones scattered around, but, after appearing a complete eccentric loonatic to the young couple sat above me on the hillside, I eventually found the temporarily illusive stone.

The Anvil Stone (SE 0928 4700), no prizes for guessing how it gained its name. It’s a triangular flat slab which perches on the top of other rocks with its point facing north-east. Like others, it’s sat close to the track following the northern edge of Rombald’s Moor above the River Wharfe.

No question about it, cup and rings on the top of the Anvil Stone

I climbed onto it and looked carefully for any carvings, and, although there were many indents into the surface, if they were originally cups, or cup and rings, then in this case, time, weather and erosion had delivered a particularly harsh blow upon them and it was particularly difficult for me, with my untrained eye, to decipher if they were or had been natural or man-made. Still, a magnificent stone with, space beneath for shelter or, as has been suggested, burial.

Continuing along the footpath, for maybe another couple of hundred yards, I wasn’t counting my footsteps, delivered me to the next famous stone on my journey, The Sepulchre Stone, (SE 0907 4700). Easily recognised by its unusual shape and strata, plus, it’s smaller adjoining stone, this too is home to carvings and a potential shelter beneath, and, as the name suggests, a possible ancient grave, so too does it dominate a prominent view over the valley below.

The local Trolls named this Soren’s Stone, after their leader, made a solo bid to kill Soren the Norse, King Troll had single-handedly pursued Soren close to this spot, when, after realising the rest of the Trolls had given up the chase, and, it was a one to one, Soren hurled this stone at the defiant Troll, landing it directly on top of it, so, the King of the Trolls remains, to this day, buried beneath, is there a man brave enough to raise the stone and confirm this story, knowing full well, King Troll’s have been known to rise from the dead with the first hint of daylight, well, I for one, have no intention of finding out!

There’s no disputing I wasn’t feeling very pleased with myself, the route took no working out, but the stones, well, they aren’t sign posted so it’s still a pleasant feeling individually identifying them.

Unusual and unknown (to me), stone, a distinct cup on the surface and a strange seat like structure to its front. I’ve decided, once Soren the Norse, the maverick wanderer, wild boar hunter and Troll destroyer, used this spot to rest and dine after a day’s hunting and, of course, he could keep an eye out over the valley for any trespassing Trolls should they venture from their hidden valley close to Appletreewick.

Five done, (including the gate post), two to do, that meant, continuing along to the Noon Stone and the famous and prominent Doubler Stones, they all seem to have unusual and interesting names, who named them and why were the selected names chosen? Maybe I’d find an answer for the next one, the Noon Stone, another few hundred yards along the track to find it.

The Noon Stone from each compass point, and, a view of the cupped summit, it’s a natural stone and mentioned in Paul Bennetts ‘Old Stones of Elmet. Initially described as the Noon Stone in 1579. It’s been suggested that it may have been used for some form of time keeping, or, as it’s been described as the stone over which the noon-day sun appears. I wonder how well it keeps the time?

The day had been wonderful, not a great distance covered, but, slow due to the interest and discoveries, now came a little more effort, the footpath needed maybe another mile completing prior to reaching my final destination, there was a left turn at the junction known as Windgate Nick prior to about half a mile’s walk to the famous Doublers’.

The Doubler Stones are 2 naturally shaped rocks on the western edge of Rombalds’ Moor above Silsden. Their peculiar shapes are due to the top stone been gritstone standing above the softer and easier eroded sandstone. Both tops have cup carvings with the eastern one has 2 whilst the western one has several cups and 3 deep basins with grooves.

The western Doubler stone with its 3 deep basins and grooves

So, after spending half an hour or so climbing around and on top of the unusual and quite incredible Doublers, it was time to return on my outward route back to the car. My canine companion, the never tiring Mountain Meg, didn’t seem to mind which way we went, so, after a little self appraisal at achieving my target on the first attempt, the hour or so return walk to the car began. Another successful day in the hills.

Rock Art and the Ilkley Style – Part 1 This was a walk with a difference, unlike any other, navigation was as basic as any, the distance wasn't in any way challenging, and, as for isolation, that too was a complete no, but, as for escapism, they certainly don't come any better.

[jurgentischler]

  Having just watched one of the best documentaries I have ever seen, an hour-long, brilliantly filmed testimony to one of the Lake Districts finest, Blencathra and Sharp Edge, the memories of my visit there 30+ years ago came flooding back, we climbed it in bad weather, low cloud, mist and drizzle, we scrambled the ridge and at one point, I lifted myself up one of the rugged rocks, pulled myself up and almost over the shiny, slippy rock, as my head and shoulders ascended the edge, the view awaiting me was, to say the least, very memorable, a sheer drop of maybe 500 feet below me to Scales Tarn, I can still feel that absorbing breath of shock which immediately absorbed me, one of the most memorable breaths of my life. The point I’m eventually and gradually making is quite simply, that such a wonderful documentary will guarantee an over population of Blencathra (Saddleback to the purists), and, for me, the Lake District is and always has been, over populated, the beauty of the entire region guarantees it. This mass of people, for me, defeats the object of the challenge and the solo trip.Navigational is made easy when you can ask for guidance and directions, check with others of your location, where to aim for if you feel lost and isolated, how to react if you do become lost, these skills are vital to learn for yourself, that’s why, I choose quieter locations, new to me, and, often, in poor weather, that way, each outing I take, my skills improve, and that’s my target; you never know, one day I may master it!

So, why Hell Ghyll, simple, until recently I’d never heard of it, and, it’s located in an area I’m unfamiliar with, on a route I’d never walked, and, as it happened, on a day of cloud and mist, more challenging to navigate and free from people! Basically, with a name like that, the attraction was instant!

The route was roughly a 7 mile horseshoe with the wonderful looking pub at its start and finish, not that I’d have the opportunity to sample its fine ales, my visit was a day one and, from what I could see, there were no facilities for camping, (I may be wrong on that one, I hope so, the location is wonderful for various alternative walking, so, outside a pub, would be a marvellous spot to pitch a tent for a couple of days).

From the pub the route took me about a mile, via a footpath and Cobbles Hill to join the The High Way footpath, a gradual ascent, but not over difficult, even for these old and weary legs, a trek and a tremendous introduction to what would become a wonderful day in Wensleydale.

In February, in the Yorkshire Dales, usually, there are 2 kinds of weather, rain, or, it’s about to start raining, it suits me fine, I’m prepared for it, and, it virtually guarantees the hills and dales, if only for a few hours, belong to me, and only me. Lost in this world of silent contemplation I can forget about everything and any issues or problems that may be on my mind.

People put time recommendations on routes such as these, I think this one had a 3 hour time attached to it, who decides such times? Why are they suggested, if a walk such as this takes me 10 hours, I’m happy with it, I try not to look at my watch if possible, watching the clock instead of the scenery simply defeats the purpose of being there.

After ascending to a footpath/bridleway marked on the map as The High Way I became slightly confused was this part of the relatively recently formed Dales High Way, or not? I didn’t know this newly formed route, even if it has been included on OS maps since March 1914, it turned out it wasn’t part of the new long distance trail and this High Way outdated the road in the valley below. The High Way footpath/bridleway was my route for the next couple of miles, it was a delight to follow, littered with the ghostly remains of farm buildings, lime kilns and fast flowing streams descending down the hill-side into the early stages of the River Ure. An easy NWN route to follow which took me towards my next destination, Hell Ghyll Bridge.

Had I been there a few days earlier, the sound of the trains running along the Settle-Carlisle railway line in the valley below, would have been powered by steam engines, as, during the previous weekend, as part of the celebrations of the reopening of the line after a landslip, steam engines were used in celebration for the reopening of this famously scenic rail journey.

The mist covered moorland to my right, Abbotside Common, is home to the black grouse and there are warning signs to protect them along the route, it mention’s how dog’s must be kept on a lead which, isn’t a bad thing, although, I’d covered half the track with my canine companion before I saw any such signpost, not that Mountain Meg, has the heart or the temperament to harm or catch anything, respecting the rules isn’t unreasonable.

An old, long time abandoned and forgotten Like Kiln

The weather had been unfavourable all day, and, as the hours progressed, it gradually deteriorated, there was no heavy rain, it was simply becoming mistier, wetter and heavier in dull, grey cloud. It didn’t deter my day, it simply spoiled the views of this magnificent valley and the surrounding terrain.

THE HIGH DALES WAY was conceived in 2007 by husband and wife, Tony and Chris Grogan. It’s a 90 mile route across the high points of the Yorkshire Dales. It starts in Saltaire and finishes in Appleby with a return journey via the Settle-Carlisle railway line.

Of all the tracks I’d covered over the years, this particular stretch of the High Way was truly dynamic, it was littered with history and fascination, it had fast flowing ghylls descending into the valley and River Ure below, shake holes, abandoned farm houses, buildings and lime kilns, all the evidence of a once well worked location, fed on harsh surroundings and tough physical labour, a place without modern comforts or luxury, isolated and exposed to the wild elements, if only these structures could tell their tails, stories of long harsh winters with little or restricted means of communication to the outside world, an amazing couple of miles hiking, truly exhilarating. Now, the only residents are the ghosts of those long gone hardy folk, and, when the weather permits, the only residents are the sheep, as they graze and maintain their wild and rugged lifestyle, in their wonderful, exposed, and outstanding surroundings.

High Hall, formerly an inn called the Highway House, on a well-used route through the mountains – well used, not only by nobility, but also by drovers, tradespeople, and highwaymen, too. And Mary Queen of Scots is said to have passed along it in 1568, on her way from Carlisle to imprisonment in Bolton Castle.

Dating from 1825 Hell Ghyll Bridge is a single arch span which replaced an earlier structure. It has a particular stone housed within one of its parapets which is believed to be an original boundary stone between the two traditional counties of the West Riding of Yorkshire and Westmorland, the real counties. I always choose to ignore the ludicrous boundary changes introduced in 1974. Unlike the previous streams I’d passed en route, which, had been tributaries for the River Ure, Hell Ghyll beck flows into the River Eden, which later flows into the Solway Firth, unlike the Ure which eventually flows into the North Sea, by any standards, a true boundary.

Grade 2 listed, Hell Ghyll Bridge – The county boundary between the West Riding of Yorkshire and Westmorland

This was my choice of destination for the day, Hell Ghyll Force and Hell Ghyll Bridge, and, neither was a disappointment. It was another wonderful discovery on my hidden gems of the Dales learning curve, another notch in the bed head.

Descending from the bridge, down the beck, to Hell Ghyll Force was in itself a real pleasure, the famous waterfall was soon to be in view. With a drop of 9.75 metres, it’s the highest waterfall on the River Eden and, the pool below, is popular with swimmers who brave the chilling waters for a dip, I can’t imagine it been a popular choice at this time of year, February in the Yorkshire Dales isn’t an ideal time for skinny dipping in the many ponds or running waters.

Hell Ghyll Force – River Eden

Once I’d totally absorbed the beauty of my surroundings, fully appreciated the natural features of this wonderful landscape, I finally decided it was time for a break, this was the half way point of my intended route, and, time for some food and coffee, for all the modern kit for food and drink preparation, for a day’s walk, sandwiches and a flask of coffee, the traditional method, still remain the best. I’d settled down, tucked into the food, half of which I shared with Mountain Meg, certain facial expressions, even on a dog, play on your guilt, regardless of the circumstances.

The Postman Always Rings Once, mailbox’s at the base of Hell Ghyll for homes further up

It was whilst we were dining that I heard a train, and, a very close one, I stood and surveyed the surroundings. The famous Settle-Carlisle railway line, much to my surprise, ran only yards away from the waterfall, clearly visible from the train and passengers. Once the break was completed, it was time to continue on the second half of my route and a completely different terrain. I intended to cross the railway line and the road. It was to take me over marshy and boggy moorland up to Grisedale Common, returning to the pub and my parked car.

Printing error – A single sign should replace both – Welcome to the West Riding of Yorkshire

Printing error – The sign should read, Welcome to Westmorland

Once I’d crossed the road and passed the despicable modern county boundary signs, I ventured into the really wild terrain. The route was to follow a track across open moorland to ascend Grisedale Common prior to descending back to the haunted Moorcock Inn. It was later in the afternoon than I’d intended, the cloud had capped the surrounding summits, the mist had turned into light rain and drizzle and, the real issue, the marshy land under my feet became an issue. No longer did my journey feel like fun, each step through marsh and bog takes twice or even three times the effort required to walk on solid ground, so, after about ten minutes of slogging through bog, I decided it was time to bail out and take the easier option.

Shotlock Tunnel, Settle-Carlisle line

Taking a short cut back to the road, I must confess, I committed one of the original sins and climbed over a dry stone wall, where, after stumbling my way to the top, I slipped, fell back into the field into the marshy ground below, I was saturated and still on the wrong side of the wall, there was no damage to the wall, and, had I caused any, I would have repaired it immediately, but now, to add insult to injury, I was drenched, at least three miles from my car and far from comfortable.

Lunds Viaduct with its distinct 5 arches, Settle-Carlisle line

I don’t think Meg was too disappointed to be following the road back to the car, it was definitely the easier option, especially with  the deteriorating weather, ascending the moor wouldn’t have been a pleasure at that time of day, even if I had have been dry. So, follow the road we did, and, eventually, returned to the Moorcock Inn and the car. I’d achieved the main target of the day, that being discovering Hell Ghyll, so it was almost job done.

GO STRAIGHT TO HELL BOYS – GO STRAIGHT TO HELL GHYLL Having just watched one of the best documentaries I have ever seen, an hour-long, brilliantly filmed testimony to one of the Lake Districts finest, Blencathra and Sharp Edge, the memories of my visit there 30+ years ago came flooding back, we climbed it in bad weather, low cloud, mist and drizzle, we scrambled the ridge and at one point, I lifted myself up one of the rugged rocks, pulled myself up and almost over the shiny, slippy rock, as my head and shoulders ascended the edge, the view awaiting me was, to say the least, very memorable, a sheer drop of maybe 500 feet below me to Scales Tarn, I can still feel that absorbing breath of shock which immediately absorbed me, one of the most memorable breaths of my life.

[jurgentischler]

GO STRAIGHT TO HELL BOY – STRAIGHT TO HELL GHYLL

[jurgentischler]

"And I Bring You FIRE"- A pyromaniacs dream come true

“And I Bring You FIRE”- A pyromaniacs dream come true

OK, call me a whimp, but, solo wild camping in winter doesn’t deter me, I love been out sin the snow and ice, it’s the 8 hours of daylight that’s the disincentive, the thought of the isolation, in sub-zero temperatures is one thing, the thought of having to spend up to 16 hours of it in total darkness, simply doesn’t have the appeal…

[jurgentischler]

Two locations what I can only describe as been totally off my usual beaten track, but, in the same breath, two locations with an interesting history and unusual attractions, the fact that they both stand about a fifteen minute drive from my home, and I’m very familiar with both villages, and, numerous villagers, proved sufficient enough for me to spend a dull autumn Saturday afternoon investigating for myself. Not that the Bardsey pub, The Bingley Arms, needed a great deal of investigation, over the years, I’ve spent many an hour or two investigating the fine ales on offer in there!

Allegedly, the oldest pub in England

Both villages stand within an invisible line on the map known as ‘The Golden Triangle’, the reason being, the area within it’s borders, North Leeds, York and Wetherby, are said to be amongst some of the wealthiest in the UK, two streets in Scarcroft, Ling Lane and Bracken Park are the most expensive in Leeds, and probably, the rest of Yorkshire. Needless to say, on this occasion, my visit wasn’t to hunt for a new home, I’ll leave that for another day, it was a far less expensive visit, that been to follow a walking route which would lead me to the alleged oldest pub in England and an ‘off the road’, hidden and almost unknown, Roman Hill Fort.

All Hallows Church, Bardsey, dates from the 9th century and contains one of the best surviving Saxon buildings in the county.

The route was relatively short, about 3 miles, maximum 4, with a section of it following an undisputed old roman road. Starting at The Bingley Arms in Bardsey, joining the A58 for about 100 yards, southerly, prior to crossing the road and entering Hetchell Woods and following the footpath to Pompocali Roman Fort, then, heading back on the horseshoe route into Bardsey via Scarcroft.

Now, let’s not dwell on me been some kind of local history buff or expert, I’m definitely not, I have a strong interest in my local surroundings and the historical value they contain, but, that’s where it ends; but, it really did come as a surprise that I’d never previously heard of this Roman Fort a few miles up the road from my home with a very Italian name of Pompacali, up Pomay? Nor am I a closet police detective, but, Pompacali does have a very Italian ring to it, and, not a particularly Roman one, but, that’s only my very amateur opinion, regardless, this one had to be seen.

Hetchell Wood, to me, is the epitome of how a woodland should be, dense, limited sunlight, a variety of trees and vegetation, boggy in parts, steep and flooded areas, and, almost teaming in wildlife, overgrown with broken trees and moss covered rocks and branches littering and decomposing en masse. Perfect escapism.

Dismantled railway bridge, Hetchell Woods, Bardsey

Not only does this magnificent woodland subscribe to all of the aforesaid, further hidden gems are simply awaiting discovery. There used to be a railway line running through the area on the Leeds – Wetherby line, this ran through many of the local villages, including Scarcroft, Thorner, Bardsey and Linton but, in 1963 during the Beeching cuts, this line, like so many others, was closed, leaving only the haunting remains of stone bridges and cuts in the ground where the trains once ran.

Where the ford crosses the Roman road, Hetchell Woods

Whilst I was hovering around the first impressive visual evidence of the former railway I’d encountered, I had the pleasure of meeting a really friendly local man who, like myself, was walking his dogs, we started chatting about the terrain and its history, where, very enthusiastically, he asked me to follow him to witness for myself, the Roman remains of the potential, seemingly anonymous, hill fort.

To discover this outstanding, obviously man-made landscape came as an exciting and wonderful surprise, the Pompocali Roman Fort. Breathtaking as it appeared, a Roman fort remains, at least in my amateur mind, remains disputable. There’s no denying it’s lacking any strategic location and a superb defensive quality, there’s quite a strangely romantic aura in the surroundings, not excluding the very prominent Roman road leading to and from the location. The problem is, sites such as this, throughout Britain, are listed and recognised by English Heritage, they are, to a certain degree, protected and appear in the history books and, latter-day, social media sites, this doesn’t. To me, the mounds appeared somewhat random and none uniformed, there was no stonework anywhere, no evidence there had ever been any. I’m not convinced. The minor roman road running alongside the site may be, as some suggest, been used for transporting the granite from nearby quarrying, and, the numerous mounds been the resulting spoils from the digging, to me, that sounds more feasible, maybe it’s a job for Tony Robinson and the Time Team?

Scarcroft corn grinding mill, built 1810

Following the footpath of the Leeds Way, it wasn’t long before I’d discovered another fascinating ruin, this been of a former corn grinding mill, from its appearance and rather diminished remains, it appeared that a more recent form of quarrying had occurred and most of it had been recycled, but, this too, must have had an important role in its day, especially for the local farming community.

Onward, returning towards the affluent neighboring village of Scarcroft, I continued. The local and surrounding roads I’m very familiar with, I drive around them on  a weekly basis, but, taking time to leave them and venture ‘off the beaten track’, (literally), can be both rewarding and gratifying, it takes such little effort to discover so much.

Disused railway bridge, Scarcroft

My destination was now the New Inn, the only pub or amenity in this ridiculously over priced suburb/village. The pub is located on the A58 Wetherby Road and was constructed in 1852, for a while, a few years ago, its name was changed to the Bracken Fox, then, in 2011, it reverted back to its original name of the New Inn, I’m guessing, but it was originally a staging post for horse-drawn traffic using the roads as. The present building is a 1930s roadhouse which stands on the site of the original one. So too does it seem too coincidental that it’s located on a cross roads junction, opposite the old toll house. The Toll Bar House, (pictured below), was used between 1826 and 1876 when a toll system was in place between Wetherby and Leeds.

The pub is close to an area known locally as Wayside, I’m sure there is an interesting history to this part of the suburbs of Bardsey and Scarcroft, but, sadly I’m unaware of any of it, the two streets standing there is Wayside Crescent and Wayside Mount, the latter been situated on a bridleway, and, my return route to Bardsey cum Rigton and the Bingley Arms, my starting point. Another pair of local streets where the house prices defy logic.

Billys Path

Following the bridleway back towards Bardsey it took me down a footpath which reminded me of an old friend of mine who, very sadly, passed away a while ago, Billy Gilmore, a larger than life local character and former police officer. He was almost of celebrity status within the area, to such an extent, that, on news of his death, the local newspaper, featured a full-page article about him. I think this footpath was his short-cut home after his very frequent visits to his local, The Bingley Arms, even if it wasn’t, in Billy’s memory, it deserves the title I have given it. A little story between Billy and myself was, many years ago, whist sharing a pint with him in another pub a few miles away at Moortown Corner. The long gone Chained Bull, in the days when 10.30pm was the Sunday closing time, I complained to him how I was frustrated at having to go home at such an unearthly hour, he asked me if I wanted to go elsewhere for a while and another drink, needless to say, he took me across the city to a sports club, where, at 5am on Monday morning, we finally left and headed back across the city, home, I failed to make it to work that day, RIP Billy.

Descending Billys Path back into Bardsey with the prominent All Hallows church tower within clear view. The church is believed to be the first Saxon towered church in England.

Bardsey cum Rigton, my starting and termination point for this enlightening little blog of mine, for a village of its relatively small size, has more than one claim to fame. A sports club with a cricket and football team. Its mentioned in the 1086 Domesday Book as “Berdesei” and “Bereleseie”. A motte and bailey castle dating back to post 1066, and, the birthplace of playwright and poet William Congreave – (Hell hath no wrath like a woman scorned, twas WC and not Shakespeare who gave us this much used and very true line of phrase). Lastly, and not least, the famous Bingley Arms. Originally named The Priests Inn. It proudly claims to be the oldest pub in Britain, with a history dating back to between AD 905 and AD 953, and says that it served as a safe house for persecuted Catholic priests, and also as a courthouse from around AD 1000 from which offenders were taken to the pillory across the road. 

Within the chimney, in the main part of the building, stand secretly hidden are two priest holes dating back to 1539AD. Here Catholic priests hid for safety following the Dissolution of the Monasteries by King Henry VIII.  Priest holes are not rare, but it’s uncommon to find two in the same location. During alterations to the building in the 1700s a wonderful stone inglenook fireplace was discovered. It takes pride of place in the tap-room next to a fully-functioning Dutch oven for bread production – one of the few to still be in its original position in the country.

In 1780 the Inn was renamed, the Bingley Arms, after it was taken over by Lord Bingley. With such a rich history it’s no wonder that its had its fair share of ghostly occurences over the years. Objects have moved or disappeared, pans of water have boiled on stoves whilst switched off and candles have ignited on their own. Several ghosts have also been spotted at the pub. A cavalier, known as a practical joker with a great sense of humour, has been seen by staff dressed in fine clothes with a large hat, a young girl is said to have been responsible for strange activity and a mysterious dog has been seen walking around by visitors.

I was once talking to a resident who lives on the hill which looks down onto the village, he claimed, that during constructing an extension to his house, and digging the new foundations, they discovered brickwork which turned out to be part of an escape tunnel, leading from the pub to the top of the village.

The old village shop, in all the years I’ve driven past, I’ve never known it open, but, who knows, one day it may make a come back.

No, not an average outing to the dales, fells and moors of northern England, no wild camping or navigating through wild wilderness and terrain, but, a couple of hours walking and discovering hidden gems only a few minutes drive from my own home, I may live in north Leeds, but, surprisingly, just beyond the fringes of the ‘Golden Triangle’, that may be something I can live with. Regardless, a wonderful Saturday afternoon.

Roman Forts and Priest Hole Escape Routes – Bardsey and Scarcroft Two locations what I can only describe as been totally off my usual beaten track, but, in the same breath, two locations with an interesting history and unusual attractions, the fact that they both stand about a fifteen minute drive from my home, and I'm very familiar with both villages, and, numerous villagers, proved sufficient enough for me to spend a dull autumn Saturday afternoon investigating for myself.

[jurgentischler]

I’ll start this blog with a viewpoint regarding geography and county boundaries. The Howgill Fells are a small group of about 40 hills situated in the north of England. They sit  almost triangularly between the towns of Sedbergh, Kirkby Stephen and Tebay, almost divided in half with northern and southern sections. The northern half sitting in the county of Westmorland and the southern half sitting in the West Riding of Yorkshire’s Sedbergh District. Although I was born in the  Claro District it was a real pleasure to visit the Sedbergh District,  so, if these named locations are relevant on my birth certificate, they are still very relevant to me. 1974 boundary changes introduced by suited bureaucrats sat behind desks in Civic Halls, to me, have no meaning or value, the Vikings gave us the Ridings, (Thridings  = third) and, if they were good enough for them, they’re certainly good enough for me.

Sedbergh sits at the convergence of four rivers, the Rawthey, Clough, Dee and Lune, a beautiful dales town that even features in the Domesday Book. This was my first visit and I was very impressed with the comfortable feel of this historic old market town,  other than it had a famous public school, (where, incidentally, a distant relative of mine (very distant), has only recently left), I knew very little else about it. Dwarved by the mighty Howgills it was very popular with the legendary lakeland author Alfred Wainwright and his works include some of its many surrounding fells. An historic town, Sedbergh has been a thriving community for hundreds of years, with a market dating from the 13th Century. The town was a staging point for commercial routes across the Pennines. Dating from Saxon times, it still displays clear reminders of the influence of the subsequent Saxons, Vikings and Normans. The town has immense character including cobbled streets and historic houses, with the hallmarks of the old knitting and woollen trades which made the area such a thriving community.

The most difficult point of any walk is finding the starting point, this one was no different, the instructions I was following stated:- “The start is the pay and display car park in Sedbergh (Grid ref SD659921) near the Tourist Information Centre. Leave the car park and walk east along Main Street to join Long Lane. Not far after the junction with Castlehaw Lane on your left take the signed footpath left (Grid ref. SD661921). This leads past a housing development on your right to join a lane – Thorns Lane. Continue ahead on this lane to Underbank (Grid ref. SD667925). Here take the footpath on your right that leads across fields passing below Stone Hall to bring you to Hollin Hill, which is passed on your left.

The onward path is generally easy to follow and you soon arrive at Ellerthwaite where you join a tarmac lane. Go left (east) along the lane which becomes a green lane after passing Thursgill. This is a beautiful section of the walk with the River Rawthey below on your right and pleasant views ahead. Hobdale Beck with its waterfalls adds interest as the green lane undulates towards Cautley.” Pure simplicity :-)

 I did the usual crossing of farmland in the wrong direction in search of the illusive gate to the hidden entrance to the unmistakable footpath to the required route, this included a small farmers field which had chickens, 2 emus, goats and some sheep in it, another which contained a lovely wooden bridge which was unfortunately inaccessible from one end, although the latter one, had a lovely old lady in the garden who pointed me in the direction of the official stile which led onto the required route, at last!

The last time I’d come close to this ‘neck of the woods’ was at least 20 years earlier when a couple of friends and myself did Wild Boar Fell, a nearby summit but not listed as been in the Howgills, So this one, a ten mile horseshoe with what’s believed to be the highest waterfall in England at its half way point, did, possess a wonderful and magnetic charm for yours truly. Anyway, having directed myself through the wonderful maze of Sedbergh and finally discovered my route to the required destination of the first half of my walk, which runs parallel to the River Rawthey to Cautley. A beautiful section of the walk which totally outweighed the frustration of its discovery.

This section of the walk is gentle and scenic, the waterfalls and streams which gently flow into it ensure the requirement of carrying extra water unnecessary, there’s a constant source to top up your water bottle, (once you’ve added the purification tablets), it was like the calm before the storm, in fact, it was too gentle, almost deceptive, but, a more superior way to spend a warm and clear Friday evening I couldn’t imagine.

On arriving at Cautley Beck, everything changes, it’s as though a spiritual message descends upon you, it’s telling you how the easy part’s done, more effort required from this point onwards, the feeling of the isolation within the expanse of the wilderness takes its grip, there’s a whole new terrain awaiting you, one  where you feel alone and without assistance, you are the master of your own destiny, there’s a sense of fresh and independent challenge, an inspirational feeling, it’s you and the fells, waterfalls, wild and deep, rocky crags and gulleys’, they’re unforgiving, you slip up and you’re in trouble, very serious trouble, with little chance of assistance, there lay the almost perverse attraction, the challenge.

Cautley Spout is the highest cascading waterfall in England, it’s a broken drop of waterfalls which tumbles a total 650 feet (198m). Gaping Gill on Ingleborough falls a greater distance but that descends into a pothole, and, Hardraw Force has a greater unbroken fall above ground, but Cautley Spout, from a viewpoint, really does take some beating as it proudly stands, dominating the head of a wild and bleak glacial valley, after it’s worked its way down through the high plateau above, The Calf. This fall is one of the few cascade falls in England; most are either tiered or plunge falls.

Coonthard Brow

I always read the local information and description signs wherever I find them, and, the one at the base of the valley made particularly interesting reading, and not really one for the feint hearted, especially on  an early evening, alone, with the intention of camping up there. It tells of the Iron Age footpath, which, archaeologists discovered and how it, without an understanding or explanation, simply terminates close to the waterfall base. What did these ancient people do there, was it ritual, spiritual, sacrificial, they don’t know, and, believe it or not, nor do I, but I do know it added a little eeriness to my expectations. As I continued up the valley I could feel the terrain closing in on me, entrapping me in a gargantuan funnel, the contours on the map told me the terrain was soon to become steeper, much steeper, and, I’d decided to ascend as much of it as I could prior to losing daylight. It was then, as I approached the waterfall itself, I could see horses, some sheep and two horses, I’d already seen their hoof prints in the mud, but, I never expected to see them alone, without riders or owners. They had no harnesses or anything, they were simply grazing with the sheep, who owned them, were they owned, I didn’t know. There are tales of wild horses roaming freely around the Howgills, it seems a difficult thing to believe on a tiny island where every square inch is owned by somebody or something bigger?

Cautley Spout Tongue, it looks reasonably level in the photo, it wasn’t, and once again, very little sleep was the call of the windy night

Because I’d eaten late, had little sleep and I knew the task involved of the sheer and steep ascent ahead of me, I decided to have breakfast when I’d climbed the awaiting and daunting terrain. Although my location was in the shadow of the surrounding hillsides, the glorious morning sun was working its way round to emblazen down on me, a more encouraging sign I couldn’t have wished for, that, and having the entire valley to myself, this was my Valhalla.

Having packed away all my kit, (I still need to reduce the weight of the backpack, even with what I consider the bare necessities, it still greatly weighs me down), I mentally prepared myself for what I knew to be the most physically demanding part of my route.

It’s either an age thing or a fitness thing or a combination of the two, but, ascending this magnificently steep waterfall, even on a well stepped and rocky footpath, it was as strenous and difficult as I’d expected, rewarding, but, very hard on these old legs. As I took one of too many rests to mention, the views were outstanding, Wild Boar Fell was visible in the distance, so too were other surrounding summits of which I knew nothing of, although, another early morning walker who I’d surprisingly met, told me he was heading for Yarlside, which, I discovered was close to where we were and it stood in the old neighbouring county of Westmorland, fantastic how I was bascially on the border of those traditional wonderful county borders of the West Riding and Westmorland.

Reconstructed sheepfold, Force Ghyll Beck

Having ascended the waterfall and upwardly continued, a route  I beleived to be Force Ghyll Beck, I stopped for my boil in the bag breakfast, a hot coffee and another early morning break, all were welcoming. My exact location I didn’t know, if I maintained the route and track, following its easterly direction, I would join the Dales High Way footpath and the return route to Sedbergh, something I was sure of.

Not sure what its name was, I was too aching to care, but, it was a serious trek and it brought me out where I needed to be

There it was, the Dales High Way footpath, the ghyll I’d previously followed, after the climb to the top of Cautley Spout, for that time of the day, after very little sleep, had severely drained me, but, its incredible after such a little navigational success, you can forget the aches and pains required to achieve it, and that’s exactly what happened. I was at the summit of the Howgills, with clear views, blue sky and a scenery the camera sometimes fails to complement.

The Lake District was clearly in view, the Yorkshire Dales were clearly in view, the surrounding Howgills were clearly in view, even the M6 motorway was clearly in view, Howgill summits I still knew nothing of, not even their names; something to be addressed at a later date.

Joining the Calf on the Dales High Way

Cairn on Calders

The descent was still another 5 miles to until I reached Sedbergh, the Saturday morning weather was bringing people out en masse, fell runners, walkers and even cyclists, unlike me, some really were ‘running up that hill’. What was in store for me, a wonderful high altitude footpath returning to my destination, what had I done, another amazing night on the fells with incredible scenery I’d once again, earned, and, rewards I’d never forget. The Howgills, the amazing, incredible, often ignored Howgills will be revisited and walked and studied in greater detail very soon, as for now, home James, and don’t spare the horses, even the wild, or, not so wild ones I’d seen earlier.

Sedbergh – Cautley Spout – The Calf – Calders – Sedbergh. The Howgills I'll start this blog with a viewpoint regarding geography and county boundaries. The Howgill Fells…

[jurgentischler]

The Hole of Horcum is located on the North York Moors, (not the North Yorks or the North Yorkshire Moors, as some suggest, they don’t exist), in the Tabular Hills, (an east west line of distinct hills running from Scarborough in the east to the Black Hambleton hills in the west). It stands within a section of a valley known as the Levisham Beck, upstream of two local hidden villages, Levisham and Lockston, both of which pre-date the domesday book.

Levisham village with my starting point to the right of the Horseshoe Inn which stands at the top/centre of the village

There are two suggested starting points for this walk, one being Levisham, where, it starts and concludes at the village pub, and the second being the viewing point at Saltergate on the busy A169. Needless to say where my decision lay, even if I have ‘been on the wagon’ for almost a year. To me, a walk like this deserves such a scenic English village as it’s first and last port o’ call.

Early into the walk

There are two theories regarding the formation of this 400 feet deep and 3/4 mile wide unusual hollow in the ground.  One claims how the gorge was created by a natural process known as ‘spring sapping’, a process where the water which has welled up from the hillsides, gradually undermines the slopes, slowly eroding the rocks, and, over thousands of years, gradually forming the valley as it slowly, both widens and deepens into this huge and deep cauldron, a process continuing to present day.

The second, and in my opinion, disguarding all this geological nonsense regarding it’s creation derives from a Saxon giant known as Wade, who, by today’s standards may have been considered to have anger management issues. He was certainly famous and legendary, as, he features in, amongst others, the works of both Chaucer and Thomas Malory. I’m not sure if he was a local giant or simply travelling through the area, either way, he was with his wife, and, I’m not too sure what really happened, nobody ever understands what really happens with couples behind closed doors, it depends who tells their story first, either way, it’s fair to say they had a row, it could have been after a session on the mead? But, it resulted in Wade hurling a huge mound of mud at his estranged wife, and, probably due to the over consumption of mead, and, fortunately for her, his shot missed her and landed on the location of Hocum Hole, thus creating the aforesaid hole in the ground, and, that’s the version of it’s creation I trust to be the truth.

Levisham Moor and rainbow

I think Wade named it too, who else could have given us a location which is said to be the tenth rudest place name in Britain, a true Saxon sense of humor.

The opening 3 miles of the walk is relatively easy, clearly defined and quite bleak regarding viewpoints and landmarks, but, looks can be deceiving as I’ll explain later, the history of the landscape is both interesting and historic. The return route is taken after accessing a wooden gate at the Saltergate junction with the A169 close to the viewpoint and car park on the roadside. Then, descending the footpath down into the Hole and gorge below, prior to following Liversham Beck back to the village, en route, there’s an alternative choice of route, one avoiding the difficult woodland walk and taking a route known as ‘The Griff’, or, the one I followed through the woodland.

The Saltergate end and turning point of the footpath, starting the quite steep descent into Horcum Hole. The A 169 in the background

Crossing the moor I soon discovered I was far from been alone, it’s a popular walk, easily accessible from the main road and enjoyed by many who appeared to have taken a chance as they drove by and decided to venture along the walk. For a while, after seeing these people, I felt somewhat overdressed and over prepared. Only a few other walkers seemed correctly kitted out for the outdoor weather and elements. People in jeans, training shoes, shorts, thin jackets, etc, carrying nothing for inclement weather, it seemed so strange to me, but, after a little thought, it was their lookout, even, if been realistic, the terrain wasn’t particularly dangerous or too far from help, but, my personal experience derives from the boy scout motto, be prepared, and, I do try to be.

On first sight the open moor seems quite bleak and featureless, it’s deceiving. It’s full of history and archaeological remains, from bronze age burrows, iron age boundary dykes, mounds, ditches, banks and ridges, evidence of burial sites, fortified farmsteads, enclosures and field systems are all evidence of a once populated area, although, from the footpath, none of them are particularly easy to see.

Walking through Horcum Hole towards Levisham Beck was a wonderful experience, yet another Yorkshire gem, a superb walk and another adventure. I was also testing out 3 new pieces of kit, some new walking shoes, new Fjallraven zip off trousers (they weren’t zipped off on that day) and, my own hand made leather water bottle/fire starter containers. All 3 items proved valuable and durable.

The valley eventually became wet and muddy, as I approached the dense woodland approaching the final mile stretch of the walk, I really did underestimate the difficulty of progressing through it, a magnificent summer location for a tarp and hammock, but, still a rude awakening through very wet woodland with a very narrow footpath through a steep terrain.

The famouse Saltersgate Inn on the A169. I visited this on numerous occasions over the years. Allegedly the open fire was never extinguished due to it covering the grave of a murdered excise officer who disturbed local smugglers distributing their booty. Sadly, it closed down and became derelict, on a happy note, it is now being renovated and restored to its former glory, some good news for the area.

Emerging at the bottom of Leversham came as quite a relief, the last mile had been quite difficult and a real sting at the end of the walk. There too was the benefit of being in the quiet and sedate village, the Horseshoe Inn has a splendid reputation for fine ales and good food, a temptation I’m sure many would benefit from after a few hours in the open air, sadly for me, I wasn’t to benefit from such a delight, it was time for my homeward journey. How did I rate the walk in this wonderful part of North Yorkshire, on the North York Moors in the old North Riding, a reet good ‘un.

The Hole of Horcum – ‘The Devil’s Punchbowl’ – North York Moors The Hole of Horcum is located on the North York Moors, (not the North Yorks or the North Yorkshire Moors, as some suggest, they don't exist), …

[jurgentischler]

(via https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0SbgDml7xA)