STOCKDALE (nr. Malham) – 10 miles

NEW WALK !! A good workout this one, dominated by moorland walking over sparse terrain but nevertheless, some grand views en route. Expect some soggy sections and be prepared for changes in the weather. Although no major ascent/descent, it’s a high level walk, given our starting elevation is 1244’. As well as moorland, we traverse gravelly tracks, fields, quiet roads and rocky, uneven paths. This is a walk in a less-frequented part of the Dales, taking in Malhamdale, Stockdale & Ribblesdale: no tourists or day trippers will be encountered !

Several herds of cattle were met on the recce and we also have to cross a rocky stream, which will involve dipping our feet in the water to step across the rocks in the stream but I managed ok on both recce’s !

The walk will be led at a steady pace: not too fast, not too slow. Please be ready to start walking at the advertised time.

Walk fee: £3. No dogs please. Bring packed lunch/drink/snacks with you. No morning break on this walk but lunch-break will be an early one at around 12.15.

Start location: Water Sinks Gate free car park (close to Malham Tarn). Dependent on your direction of travel, one way to get there is to drive through Malham, go over the stone bridge, past the Lister Arms and the Hostel, then take a left turn sp Malham Tarn 3m. This narrow, winding road with passing places is called Malham Rakes. When you finally reach t’top, follow the road around to the left and shortly the car park will appear on your rhs. It’s a gravel-covered cp, a mere stone’s throw from the Tarn.

If you need the loo before the walk, you will need to stop in Malham and either use the facilities in the National Park Centre cp or the PC’s adjacent to the Buck Inn.

After-walk refreshment at the Buck Inn or the Old Barn café in Malham, depending on the weather & people’s preferences.

I have no formal walk leader or first-aid qualifications and the Group does not have insurance. When you RSVP for any walk, you accept that you are responsible for your own safety at all times. You are required to respect the walk leader and be mindful of the safety of others. Please keep to the pace of the group and don’t go off ahead even if you think you know the route.