Starting point: Pay and display car park in Kettlewell.
Description: I've done this walk many times but never tire of it. The views are some of the best in the Yorkshire Dales. Easy to follow directions.
The walk: From the car park turn left into the village, over the bridge spanning the beck and turn right at the Bluebell Hotel up the Leyburn - Coverdale road. At the T junction, by the village store, turn left past the YHA and then turn right to enter a walled track. The track turns left with the wall and passes along a path through meadows all the way to Starbotton.
Just before the cluster of buildings that make up Starbotton, the path dips left a gate to emerge in the village. Here, I would recommend a stroll round the village and a rest break at the Fox and Hounds.
After taking refreshment, return to where you entered the village and take the walled track opposite down to the Wharfe. (signposted Kettlewell and Buckden).
Cross the river over the footbridge, carry straight on up the hill along a narrow path between walls. The path swings left, past a barn, to begin the climb through a wood. The climb is quite steep but you will be rewarded by the magnificent views when you emerge from the wood.
The track passes through several gates heading towards farm buildings. Just before reaching the farm buildings go right through a gap in the wall up to a gate. Go through the gate and then left between the buildings, then right with the wall on your left.
Now keep on by the wall with the spoil heaps of the old mine on your right and start the easy descent along the access track to Kettlewell.
To extend the walk, cross the road and take the path at the far side of the bridge (signposted Lover's Lane, Stepping Stones). Follow the path as far as the stepping stones, cross, and return on the opposte bank. Note: There are 2 ladder stiles, which may be difficult for dogs.
The pubs: The Fox and Hounds, Starbotton. Cosy Inn at the halfway point of the walk. Rebuilt in 1834. Fascinating display of jugs hanging from the ceiling. Two cask ales on the bar - Timothy Taylor's Landlord and my choice, a new one to me, Butter Tubs from The Yorkshire Dales Brewing Co. based in Askrigg, North Yorkshire.
The Racehorses Hotel, Kettlewell. Seated riverside terrace at the rear. Three Timothy Taylor's ales on the bar. I chose the very respectable Ram Tam.
Upper Wharfedale
One of many 17th century cottages clustered
around Starbotton
Footbridge over the River Wharfe at Starbotton
Looking back at Starbotton with Buckden Pike
in the background
Looking down on the meandering River Wharfe
Stepping stones on the extension walk
The Fox and Hounds, Starbotton
Racehorses Hotel, Kettlewell
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