Short Walks in the Yorkshire Dales
The walks included on the site are all around 6 miles in length and should be possible to be covered in around 2.5 to 3 hours by a reasonably fit person. All are circular and can be followed in conjunction with one of the recommended drives, so it should be possible to complete a drive and a walk within a full day (with the exception of the Tour De France Route drive which is longer ).
The directions are hopefully self explanatory, but in places footpath signs and waymarking may not be as obvious as in some countries, so an ordnance survey map may be a worthwhile investment.
All the walks cover a range of scenery so expect hills, some rough terrain and the need to cross walls and boundaries by a variety of stiles, some of which may involve climbing or fitting through narrow gaps.
You’ll often be walking in isolated areas, so take the normal precautions- note the weather and tell someone where you’re planning to go, especially if walking alone.
You will use public footpaths which cross farm property. Stick to the path and leave gates in the same position you found them. You are likely to encounter farm animals. Dogs should be kept on a leash when on farm lands or anywhere sheep are present. Sheep will ignore you but cows can be a problem if they have young calves, especially if you have a dog with you. Always try and keep an exit route open in case cows approach you aggressively. If you have a dog, and are chased by cows, let the dog off its leash -the cows will generally pursue the dog while you exit the field by the nearest escape route.
For some unique photographic perspectives of the Dales and villages covered in these walks, have a look at our sister website- Yorkshire-Photography.com.
