Having had to cancel this walk in February as a result of Hebden Suspension Bridge being closed due to damage when Jo H and I tried to complete our first recce, it was good to be able to subsequently complete a full recce and after additional repairs to the bridge, complete this walk on 20th April. My thanks go Phil Richards, Area Ranger for Wharfedale at the Yorkshire Dales National Park who kept me advised of the progress of all the repairs.
At 10am on Saturday 20th April, having received apologies from four UWFS members for not being available to complete the walk three of us set off from the YDNP carpark and headed for Linton Falls which was in full flow. Having crossed the bridge over the river Wharfe we progressed in the direction of Linton Church and thereafter followed the lower footpath towards the river before ascending to the Threshfield to Burnsall road. After crossing the road the footpath towards Thorpe was clearly visible and we progressed through very green fields, several being full of sheep and very young lambs. On entering Thorpe Lane we headed directly to the hamlet where we enjoyed our coffee/tea break in the picnic area in the centre. Thereafter walking a short distance along the road before joining the footpath to Burnsall. Again many young lambs were visible along with their Mums as we crossed the fields. At Burnsall a 12K Trail Race was in progress and the riverside car park was being well utilised. We lunched by the river before heading back along the Dales Way to Grassington.
Many wild flowers were seen along the footpaths and roadsides.
Bird sightings included: Goosander, Oystercatchers, Pied Wagtail, Chaffinch,
Lapwing, Coot, Robin, Blackbird, Jackdaw, Mallards, White Geese and several
more..
Words and Photos by Ann S
Contents created by Keith P

Sheep and Lambs
