Paths improved through Bolton Abbey Estate

Footpaths through the Bolton Abbey Estate have been improved over the winter months, particularly the high level paths between the Priory and Pickles Beck. This section of the Dales Way is a permissive path.

An interesting experiment is entering its second year along the riverside public footpath between Pickles Beck and the Cavendish Pavilion. A sign dated 1st February 2013 reads: “It has become impracticable to use this field for agricultural purposes because cattle, visitors and dogs do not mix well. Therefore the field will be left as it is to see what would happen if farming were to decrease or even disappear from the Dales and it will be useful to hear of your reaction to what you see over the coming two years.”

There has also been resurfacing work on the section between the Cavendish Pavilion and the Strid, with both high level and low level routes available. These too are permissive paths, courtesy of the Estate.

This whole section makes for a delightful and easy walk, even in the midst of winter, and is an early highlight of the Dales Way.

See the Bolton Abbey Estate website here.

A Taste of the Dales Way

Our DVD has recently been brought right up to date. It now has 517 images and lasts 44 minutes.
It includes the proposed Watershed Alternative over Cam Fell and Great Knoutberry down to Lea Yeat. This DVD will enable you and your party get a glimpse of what lies ahead along the Dales Way footpath and add to your expectations for the trip. After your adventure another viewing will rekindle the memories.
You can order the DVD from our website here.

Moresdale Hall footpath

Moresdale Hall path.

 

 Dales Way committee members and Cumberland County Council Rangers inspect the exceptionally muddy section of the footpath passing Moresdale Hall in June 2012.

 Early this year, CCC contractors have performed some exploratory work on the path to the west of Moresdale Hall, in an attempt to sort out the drainage on that permanently boggy section.

 They have cleaned out the ditch to the south (uphill) side of the path, and discovered a blocked drain in the vicinity of the kissing gate.  A pipe has been installed under the path, which appears to be stopping the water getting to the gate area.  Further drainage work (pipe installation) has been done in the area. Hopefully, given some dry weather, the footpath will be much improved when the walking season begins.

 They have also cut back the vegetation along that section of the route, which will let some light and air in, which will help.   

Alex. Footpaths

6th February 2014