Another bright sunny day as we set off from Reeth at 9:45am. We left the village passing by the church and headed through fields towards Grinton, following the route of the Coast to Coast path.
We enjoyed our final views of the River Swale as we crossed the bridge into the village of Grinton.
14.Bridge Inn, Grinton - 10:00am
Closed at the time we passed, and no clipper attached to the board outside.
We returned later in the week on our way home for some lunch, and to get our log book signed. A very nice pub, with an interesting sheep on the roof!
It was a long steady climb out of Grinton, initially on road and later on to moorland path. All around there was evidence of the lead mining history of this stretch of moor, with spoil heaps and hushes. Reeth became smaller as we reached the top of Greets Hill.
From Greets Hill we joined a shooters track and descended in to Apedale. Apedale Beck was a refreshing change to the open expanse of moorland, with the gentle sound of the running water and views along the valley.
The track continued up the other side of Apedale and over the top of Black Hill. It was nice easy walking, especially in the fine weather.
As we left the moor behind we crossed a large open grassy hillside dotted with flowering gorse bushes. The descent towards Castle Bolton brought us back into Wensleydale.
We followed an enclosed track down into Castle Bolton. The sides were lined with gorse in full flower, with a wonderful intense scent.
The castle dominated the head of the village green as we emerged from the track. The first impression was of a ruined shell, but as we passed around to the east side the castle was well preserved.
The castle remained in view behind us for a long time as we passed through farm land. Again we squeezed through several small gates with our bags. Some of the gates were more improvised than others.
We arrived at Carperby through the edge of East End farm. Lots of cockerels ran free through the yard, and in the surrounding gardens. It must be noisy around here in the mornings!
15.The Wheatsheaf, Carperby - 2:00pm
Nice quiet comfortable bar. Tables outside at the front where we sat for a refreshing drink.
On leaving Carperby we walked through several small traditional Dales hay meadows with their corner barns.
Freeholders Wood was lovely with a mass of wood anemones and bluebells carpeting the way. Through the trees we could hear that we were approaching Aysgarth falls.
We took a short detour off route to visit the middle and lower falls. They provided an impressive series of water cascades. The edge of the lower falls was a perfect place to stop for our packed lunch. We could have sat for hours in the afternoon sunshine hypnotised by the water.
16.Palmer Flatt Hotel, Aysgarth - 4:20pm
Closed, but looked a nice pub.
The church at Aysgarth was impressive, surrounded by a colourful variety of trees.
From Aysgarth it was a gentle walk across more fields and meadows to reach West Burton.
West Burton is an idyllic village with cottages set around a very large green. It was very peaceful, with children playing hide and seek on the green and no traffic passing through. We soon found our bed and breakfast for the night, which was also the next pub.
17.Fox and Hounds, West Burton - 5:00pm
A lovely central location overlooking the village green. Good range of beer and friendly staff.
We had a walk around in the evening to see the waterfall tucked away at one end of the village.
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