(Pathfinder Guide Yorkshire Dales - Walk #3 - 5.5 Miles)
We left Barker Stakes Farm on a very sunny and warm Monday morning, heading the 60 or so miles to the Yorkshire Dales, and our first port of call the village of Grassington. We parked in the large National Trust pay and display car park (£4 all day), and there are toilet facilities and a large tourist information centre here.
Grassington village is very nice, lots of stone buildings, various small shops and a central village square with water pump. (below)
Setting off around 11:30, our walking route took us on through the village and then out onto open dale land with views back over the village.
The temperature was very warm once again, and despite a fairly level walk with just slow inclines we both became hot very quickly stopping for frequent rests. Note my hat which may look a little ridiculous, but it keeps the sun off, and I don`t care (and its a Paramo!)
After a mile or so the terrain changed from open dale to light woodland (Bastow wood) and then Grasswood nature reserve, all a little shaded and temporary relief from the heat of the day.
The wood then drops down to a lane and then down to the banks of the river Wharfe.
The route back to Grassington follows easy paths along and close to the river offering excellent picnic opportunities along the way (very pleasant, even on a hot hot day!). There was even a Heron spotted at one point.
We arrived back in Grassington, back to the car park around 14:50, dumped the rucksacks, then back into Grassington for....... you`ve guessed it.... a well deserved ice cream..and a look around the shops... Nice!! (Highly recommend the Yorkshire ice cream in tubs frmo the mobile ice cream seller)
A very pleasant low level, easy going walk with good views across dale land, then woodland, and a return along the river bank.
Our Walk Score: 7/10
We were pleasantly surprised with this hotel, as we had only booked it a few days prior to the trip from laterooms on a special deal of £60 per night for 2 nights with the 3rd night free (effectively £40 per room/night Including breakfast.. Bargain!)
On arrival a long sweeping drive and signage showing an award of local hotel of the year gave us high expectations. The expectations were met as we were shown to "The Lodge" section of the hotel and our large room with a very large picture window and sweeping views across the countryside. The breakfast the following morning was "to die for" with very high quality hot and cold produce and surprisingly a very quiet dining room.
The hotel had its own leisure facilities including indoor pool, sauna and Gym.
It seems that the hotel is booked solid most weekends for wedding parties, but quieter mid-week, hence the offers. HIGHLY recommended!!
Tip: The hotel restaurant is quite expensive for evening meals, but you are not obliged to eat there. Try local pubs etc......
The end of another tiring day- Sparked out!!
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