By Phyllida Oates
This vast upland area has a long history of man’s ancient settlements and early farming, medieval routeways and drovers’ routes, progressing to association with the Great Close Stock Fairs and walled enclosures, much of which is still very evident. At this time of the year we also expect to see active moorland birds and colourful wayside botany,
and we were not disappointed. From our Boss Moor parking we made for Lainger House, up to Know Bank and Park House, the calm and bright day offering us such grand and extensive views.

Cow Close from Boss Moor, June.
Photo Phyllida Oates.
Onward to Lee Gate where is a high standing stone, presumably marking an old route junction, and here we crossed rocky landscape to near Cow Gill Cote, had lunch, then joined Mastiles Lane. At Mastiles Gate we turned south to cross High Long Ridge and join Malham Moor Lane, a newly tarmaced road to plod on for a mile but with the presence of nearby early settlements and field systems. Back on turf to approach Higher Heights, the exposed limestone landscape was almost breathtaking, but as we progressed onto High Moor and Boss Moor we were clearly back on Millstone Grit – completing a circular walk of nine miles in very good company.