Walk 1254 - printer friendly version

Yockenthwaite & Hubberholme Walk

Author - Lou Johnson

Length - 8.0 miles / 13 km

Ascent - 560 feet / 170 metres

Grade - moderate

Start - OS grid reference SD942773
Lat 54.191431 + Long -2.0903861
Postcode BD23 5JA (approx. location only)

This Yorkshire Dales walk combines an outward leg along a limestone escarpment to Yockenthwaite with a return route alongside the River Wharfe via Hubberholme using the Dales Way. Taking in the head of Wharfedale and lower Langstrothdale it provides the walker with plenty of interest and some fine 'Dales' scenery. On those days when Buckden Pike is clothed in cloud this walk provides a wonderful substitute despite its relatively low level.

The start is the large carpark in Buckden (Grid ref. SD942773). After parking take the northern exit and follow the track rising through Rakes Wood to join Buckden Rake. This is followed north to Cray High Bridge where the road is joined. Turn left and descend along the road and just before the Inn (grid ref. 942792) turn right following the signed path to Scar House that runs west.

The next section is delightful with grass underfoot and superb views down Wharfedale. Note the cairn to the right of the path (Grid ref. 929788) from where the definitive view down Wharfedale can be enjoyed. The going remains easy as you approach Scar House from where it is possible to shorten the route by descending directly to Hubberholme.

However we leave Scar House and continue on the high level path passing through a short section of deciduous woodland to cross a number of small fields. The path then descends to Yockenthwaite where a fine bridge spans the River Wharfe. Just before reaching the river turn left along the Dales Way. The path is good, the views excellent and progress fast as you head downstream to Hubberholme.

The church tower comes into view before the rather squat but picturesque church can be fully enjoyed. A visit is recommended before crossing the Wharfe and following the road towards Buckden. It is a pity that the Dales Way does not cross the fields on this section as the road is quite narrow and can be busy at peak times. However the road walking is short lived and you turn left along a signed path to rejoin the river bank for the final section back to Buckden.

Note :- The photos for this walk description were taken during early June when the wildflower meadows are near their best. Even a non-botanist will soon realise that there are more than a dozen types of wild flowers. With encouragement from the National Park Authority and other interested parties the superb displays of wild flowers have become more widespread as farmers delay harvesting their hay meadows.

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