The Druid’s Temple Walk: Stone, Story & Moorland (6 Miles)

The Druid’s Temple Walk: Stone, Story & Moorland
Length: 6 miles - Time: 3 hours - Difficulty: Moderate/Challenging

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Join us for a moderately challenging circular walk of around 6 miles through woodland, moorland and open countryside, leading to the atmospheric Druids Temple. This walk combines varied scenery with one of the most intriguing follies in the Yorkshire Dales area.

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Starting near Fearby, we’ll follow a mix of tracks, lanes and woodland paths through the area around Swinton Bivouac, gradually making our way towards the temple.

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The route includes some steep slopes and uneven ground, with sections that can be muddy or boggy, particularly after wet weather, so sturdy footwear is essential.

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Along the way, there will be a short history talk covering the background of the Druid’s Temple. Built in the late 18th century by William Danby of the Swinton Estate, the structure is a dramatic folly inspired by the Romantic fascination with Druidism. Its circular arrangement of tall stones, archways, altar and tomb gives it a powerful presence in the landscape and has inspired myths and stories ever since.

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At around the halfway point, we’ll reach the Druid’s Temple itself, where there will be time to explore, take photos and soak up the atmosphere. We’ll also stop at a nearby café for refreshments before continuing the return route.

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This walk is ideal for those looking for a longer, more adventurous day out, with a mix of history, legend and striking scenery.

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THE IMPORTANT BIT:
As daring adults, let’s embrace our adventurous spirits! Your safety and that of your fellow explorers are in your capable hands. When you RSVP for this trail, you accept that you remain responsible for your own safety at all times.

TIMINGS: This is a moderate to challenging circular walk of approximately 6 miles. Please allow several hours to include the walk itself, a short history talk and time at the Druid’s Temple.

Toilet and café stop: After visiting the Temple, we will stop at the Swinton Bivouac Café on the Swinton Estate, where there are refreshments, cakes and meals available, as well as toilets.

DIRECTIONS:
Parking is at the Village Hall in Fearby. A small contribution of £1 is requested via the honesty box. Fearby is located around 2.5 miles west of Masham. As you approach the village, the Village Hall is on the right, just beyond the Black Swan.

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PRE-APPROVED DOGS: We only allow calm, well-controlled dogs that are used to group walks and can remain on a lead at all times. All dogs need to be pre-approved by the hosts of the event - please do not bring a dog unless you have checked with us first.

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This event is FREE. However, we will be collecting optional donations for Mind, the charity supported by our Adventure Group.

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We look forward to seeing you at The Druids Temple!
Gina, Gerry, Mike & Sue

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Photo Disclaimer: Please be aware that photos may be taken by both organisers and attendees during events. These images might be shared on our Meetup event page. While we do our best to respect individual preferences, we cannot control what other attendees may capture or share.