This popular local classic walk takes in some of Nidderdale’s most popular landmarks.   The walk passes through fishpond wood in the village of Bewerley.  This popular walking spot was landscaped to create a small quiet lake amid woods that see stunning displays of blue bells and wild garlic in spring.

The route then climbs the side of Nidderdale through the ancient woods of Middle Tongue to reach the moors and finally at the top of the climb, Yorke’s Folly.

This local landmark, colloquially referred to as Two Stoops was a folly built by the Yorke Family, wealthy landowners in the 18th century.  These two pillars can be seen on the skyline from much of the surrounding valley.  The route then crosses the moors and traverses the cliff top path along Guise Cliff.

Caution: Care should be taken with dogs and small children along this section of the path as crevices and the cliff edge come close to the path at times.  An Alternate route has recently been waymarked (part of the Nidderdale Way), with signposting that leaves the wall and cuts across the moor for those who prefer to avoid the cliff section.  The paths reconverge at the transmission mast.

Once you reach the transition mast at the far end the descent begins through the woods.  Here you can pause at the eerily still Guise Cliff tarn, before continuing down through the woods until you emerge onto a track and from there follow the lane back to Bewerley and complete the walk.

Nearest town: Pateley Bridge.   Length: 5 miles (8.5km) or    Time (approx): 3 hours.   Difficulty: Moderate

View the Route Map & Description