Today’ s Walks
Strenuous Leader: Dag Griffiths Distance: 12 miles
Total Ascent 690m. The first part of the walk takes us to the summit of Ingleborough (720m) via the Ingleborough Show Cave, Trow Gill and Gaping Gill. That’s the major climb over! We then head over Simon Fell which, weather permitting, affords excellent views of the Ribblehead Viaduct, Whernside and the Howgills. Turning south we eventually reach the Three Peaks path, and then head in an easterly direction towards Nick Pot. Turning south we return to Clapham via footpaths and bridleways passing Long Scar, picturesque Crummack Dale and the Norber Erratics (Silurian Sandstone boulders standing atop younger limestone). Please be warned that wet limestone can be very slippery.
Moderate Leader: Jackie Gudgeon Distance: 8.5 miles
From Clapham we follow field paths to Austwick village, then some enclosed bridleways to reach Wharfe. Shortly after this, we reach an attractive spot for lunch by a ford and footbridge. We are now in Crummackdale which we cross to climb up to Crummock and Long Scar. We then turn back towards Clapham passing Ingleborough Cave, following Clapham Beck, a short climb to Clapdale and down a stony track back to Clapham. I will echo Dag’s warning about slippery limestone – please take care.
Leisurely Leader: Derek Lee Distance: approx 7 miles
From Clapham we take a rising track from the north east end of the village to bring us up to Clapdale. We then drop down to follow Clapdale Beck past Ingleborough Cave and up onto Long Lane, which we take southwards to join Thwaite Lane. This good track takes us eastwards to austwick. After passing through the village of Austwick we will return to Clapham via field paths with lovely views over the valley to the south. Mostly walking on good paths and tracks. Please note I have not been able to recce this walk due to picking it up at very short notice!
Easy Leader: Phil Walker Distance: 5.5 miles
A pleasant walk along bridleways and country lanes from Clapham to Austwick, returning to the village via the tunnels and visiting waterfall at the start of the ‘Nature Trail’ to Ingleborough Cave, before returning to Clapham village and access to the delightful cafes and pubs. Beautiful Dales scenery all around.