10.7 miles.
Explorer Map OL30, - Yorkshire Dales (North)
A high moorland walk. However, with the walk using
very well defined footpaths it is a safe walk in all but the worst
of weathers. There are no navigational problems, and the paths are
all clear and easy to follow.
The walk crosses high upland country, so that you have to be aware
of conditions and wear appropriate clothing.
There are some superb views, and in the summer the walk is particularly
rewarding with the wild flowers in the meadows, and the curlews and
skylarks to be seen on the moors.
There are hills to climb,and to come down from, but there are no specially
steep gradients.
If you want to see a bit of wild country, this walk can be thoroughly
recommended.
For a Memory Map overlay of the walk described, please select the above
link.
(Overlay made with Version 5 of Memory
Map)
Start from the car park in Keld, NY892 012. The car park
has an honesty box, and can be thoroughly recommended for the amenities
provided (toilets, showers) for campers.
Head East down the track to East Gill Force, and cross the River Swale
by the footbridge.
On the other side of the river, simply follow the finger posts that
direct you onto the Pennine Way footpath.
The footpath runs Northwards for about 4 miles to the Tan Hill Inn,
and is clear and well defined.
At the Tan Hill Inn, turn Westwards along the minor road, and at the
junction with the minor road to Keld head Sothwards for a couple of
hundred yards.
A footpath is finger posted on your right, leading across rough pasture
to the Stonesdale Beck. The path is reasonably obvious to follow.
Cross the Stonesdale Beck on a small stone footbridge, just past a ruined
sheep fold.
Head up the hill with Tongue Sike on your right until you come to another
finger post.
Here you are directed up a broad grassy track that crosses Thomas Gill
Rigg and continues for the next two miles or so.
When you come to a fence, with a stile, the descent to Ravenseat Farm
is seen.
Continue on the footpath to Ravenseat Farm, and at the farm, take the
finger posted footpath beside the River Swale back to Keld.
A slight variation may be chosen when the footpath arrives at Low Bridge.
Here, if the weather is bad, you may chosse to cross the bridge and
simply follow the road back to Keld.