‘Masham Leaves’

Starting in the village of Masham this three mile walk has various points of interests along the way, including especially commissioned sculptures, named the ‘Masham Leaves’. These are made of local limestone from the old Railway platform, and the project of placing them was a community undertaking. Following public footpaths through open land, woods and riverbanks using the ‘leaves’ as markers this is a beautiful and interesting walk.

Dacre Walls Walk

Dacre is not far from Harrogate itself, in the outlying area around Darley Village. This is a 5½ mile walk that takes in the historic dry stone walls of the area. Probably a walk for more serious walkers, due to its length and location. A real chance to explore the traditional side of the dales and appreciate the agricultural way of life.

Blubberhouses Tree Trail

An informative and attractive walk, the Blubberhouses Tree Trail teaches you about the different types of trees, their age and even why they were planted. It is a varied walk in terms of landscape and takes you around Thruscross reservoir and through local woodland. An advantage of this walk is that it retains its beauty and interest in any season, although autumn being a particularly pretty time.  Quite a good walk for bad days as there are well kept paths.

The Crackpots Mosaic Trail

This is a 6 ½ mile walk around Dallowgill. The focal point of this walk is the series of 22 mosaics that were made as part of a community project to celebrate the area as one of outstanding natural beauty. They depict local scenes as well as flora and fauna, many of which you will be able to see for yourself along the way. Though this is a long walk there is plenty of interest to see on the way and a walker’s pub, The Drovers Inn, half way through, where you can stop for refreshments, the Drovers is not open on Mondays.  A very popular walk, highly recommended by local people, however do not attempt in bad weather.

Brimham Rocks

A great place to go for a casual walk which children and dogs would enjoy as well! With curious rock formations scattered over 50 miles of moorland Brimham is great for climbing, exploring and just wandering around. You set the length and how much you want to do and see, there is a café for refreshments.  There are charges for car parking.

For further information on more walks and all of the above, please visit Harrogate Tourist information office.

Parkrun 

Saturday morning’s free and timed 5km run/jog/walk.  Register online and bring your printed barcode for your result to be emailed or texted to you.  There are three Parkruns around the local area: Harrogate Stray between York Place and Wetherby Road (3 laps but fairly level), Conyngham Hall at Knaresborough (a hilly one!) and the very scenic Fountains Abbey near Ripon.  www.parkrun.org.uk