Thwaite - Kisdon circular

Thwaite - Kisdon 4 miles circular.

Setting off from Westholme in the pretty hamlet of Thwaite, we headed out through the fields alongside the beck heading towards Keld.

Passing some of the barns that Swaledale is renowned for, the path took us to Angram and then down through a field back down to the beck. Taking care to keep our distance as we passed a herd of cows laying in the corner of the field, we crossed the beck and then began a challenging climb up and across a grassy slope. A short path took us to the main track. From here, we turned right and headed up the steep track up the western slopes of Kisdon.

The track then becomes a grass trodden path and affords some superb long distance views of hills such as Wild Boar Fell and Nine Standards Rigg.

After crossing through a few fields and approaching the summit we reached the main dry stone wall that splits the top of Kisdon in two. Here, we deviated from the main path and turned right after the gate, heading towards the south face of Kisdon. Keeping the wall to our right we proceeded along the grassy top until we terrain slowly rolled over to reveal the most spectacular view!

We were right on the edge of the mountain overlooking Thwaite with stunning views of Buttertubs Pass and Great Shunner Fell. When we set off the weather was quite cool. Well, on the summit the wind had well and truly picked up, it was wild up there!! Still, we managed to perch ourselves on the edge and enjoy our sandwiches and snacks, while sitting in wonder at the beautiful view.

Re-joining the main path down the Eastern side of the hill, this path was very steep but again we were treated to amazing far reaching views looking over Muker and the Meadows as well as Swaledale.

A quick turn right took us on the rugged hillside trail that requires decent balance and concentration. A short walk through the farmer's fields and back in to the hamlet, we finished off the walk with a lovely coffee in Kearton's Tea Room.

A challenging and very rewarding short 4 miles trek. Very easy and steady in parts with a short stretches of steep hills to test your stamina.

Arguably, the best views in the Yorkshire Dales makes it well worth the effort!