Walks Around Gunnerside

by Keven Shevels
The small village of Gunnerside lies in the heart of Swaledale, which is regarded by many as the most stunning of the Yorkshire Dales. Originally settled by the Vikings in the dark years following the end of the Roman occupation, Gunnerside has seen many changes over the millennia but nowadays it is perhaps best known for being one of the traditional, stone built little villages that inhabit these rugged dales. However, step away from the well-worn tourist trail to discover the country surrounding it and you will find a rich and varied heritage lying hidden amongst the fields and moors of this landscape.

In this series of eight walks starting from the village, the author explores the countryside surrounding it and the legacy that a hard and stern history has left behind. The walks include a mix of different types and distances, so within this selection you will find river bank and field path walks, moorland walks and even one that has a section visiting the high, boggy watershed between Swaledale and Wensleydale.

Each walk chapter begins with a short description of the route plus practical data including distance, ascent, terrain, time, start point with grid reference and OS Explorer map sheet number. The route descriptions are clear and comprehensive with grid references given for major navigation points. Each walk has also been assigned a Ferguson Grading System rating and the book gives details of this system and how to interpret the grades. The book includes an informative introduction to the area and is illustrated with colour photographs. There are only very simple outline sketch maps and we would recommend carrying the relevant OS Explorer map (OL31 or 307) and a compass on these walks.

The walk locations are:
Dubbing Garth Lane & Gunnerside Bottoms - 4.5 miles
Old Gang Circular - 11.1 miles
Smarber & Rowleth Wood - 3.8 miles
Swinner Gill - 9.2 miles
Brandy Bottle Incline & Friarfold Rake - 7.9 miles
Standard & Brownsey Moor - 7.4 miles
Muker Circular - 6.6 miles
Summer Lodge & the watershed - 9.5 miles

ISBN 9781905444434 Pages 96 (2011) 148mm x 210mm