Cracoe and Linton (7 Miles)

Starting in the village of Cracoe this gentle walk through the dales takes in the beautiful village of Linton and the Linton Falls before circling back to the start point at the foot of the Cracoe Fell.

After an initial climb this relatively flat 7 mile route (with a total climb of 610 ft) is suitable for all walkers with good paths and good signage throughout.

THE WALK

After parking at the large lay-by on the B6265 (suggested parking) the start point, Swinden Lane, is just a short walk away in the village of Cracoe. The lane takes you northwards zig zagging under a railway and up into open countryside. On the way there are several farms and outbuildings that are typical of the area. As you climb, Swinden Lane gives way to a path and Swinden Quarry comes into view on the horizon.

The quarry is a huge but hidden well in the landscape. At the top of the hill is an abandoned farm building which enjoys stunning views across the fell. The path continues down the hill and over a small ravine and ford. Once over the ford head west down a farm track towards Tarns Lane.

Crossing Tarns Lane and after 3/4 of a mile the path takes you into the village of Linton. Linton is a picturesque dales village with a Pub, 14th Century bridge and an impressive Almshouse. We were happy to spend sometime exploring this small village and trying to capture some of its beauty with our cameras. The almshouse is now a complex of flats but the original chapel has been retained and is open to visitors.

After a thorougher explore and several photo opportunities we head off to Linton Falls a quarter of a mile downhill from the village itself.

Linton Falls was first built in 1909 but later abandoned in 1948. In 2012 it was restored by the construction of a hydroelectric plant. Again the falls are an excellent photo opportunity and a good rest point on the banks of the river Wharfe. The market town of Grassington is just a 15 minute walk away although we decided not to visit this time.

From Linton Falls you head back to Linton to cross the beck via one of the three bridges and pick up the path back towards Cracoe. This part of the route is relatively flat and crosses farmland following the Linton and Crook becks. The path provides excellent views of the first half of this walk. The route takes you through the Threpland campsite and you are now on the home straight. Once through the campsite you join the 688 cycle route that takes you into Cracoe itself and back towards your start-point.

Having spent sometime in this area several years ago we are keen to explore and revisit more of what this part of the dales can offer.