Crayke: In Search of the Foss - 5.5 miles

Crayke is in the Hambleton district of North Yorkshire and sits a couple of miles east of Easingwold. The source of the river Foss is very close to our route as its source is just above Oulston reservoir. We will see the infant Foss in a couple of places and in particular when we stop for our morning break. It was very pleasant sat there listening to the babbling Foss as it flowed by on its way to meeting up with the Ouse in York.

Country lanes & tracks, a lot of field walking and a little ascent although nothing of particular note to mention. There a few stiles to climb over. There could possibly be boggy areas particularly if there has been recent rain.

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: £2. No dogs please. This is a morning walk so you only need to bring snacks/drink with you.

Parking/Meeting point: we have permission to use the lower level only of the pub car park, providing you purchase a drink afterwards, otherwise please park on the roadside. When driving into the car park, head for the lower section, leaving the upper section free for the pub’s customers.
The Durham Ox pub, West Way, Crayke, YO61 4TE.

Background info
“Crayke is a characterful village set on and around the landmark knoll of Castle Hill, on which stands its church. Crayke was given by Egfrid, King of Northumberland, to St Cuthbert of Lindisfarne in AD685 with the aim of founding one of the earliest monasteries in northern England. The present St Cuthberts church dates from the 15th century. Either side of it are red-bricked Crayke Hall and stone-walled Crayke Castle, an imposing house again on the site of a far older building that hosted 13th and 14th century kings. Descending to the Durham Ox pub at the junction is Church Hill, with part timber-framed Tudor Cottage standing down to the right”.

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 remain 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.