Nidderdale Way

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Summary: The Nidderdale Way long distance footpath is a circular walk which explores the valley and uplands of the mid and upper Nidderdale areas. It is a long established route which can be started and finished at any point on the route. The walk can start anywhere, here described from the popular village of Hampshtwaite just north of Harrogate and heading west towards upper Nidderdale by following the River Nidd upstream. This is a good way to start the walk and warm up for the upland stages ahead. From Hampsthwaite the route goes through or passes close to Birstwith, Swarcliffe, Darley, Dacre Banks and Summerbridge before leaving the river and climbing to High Shaw, Abraham Crags and High Crags where there is a good view to Nidderdale from Yorke's Folly. Bewerley follows next and then some mid-upland walking which includes old lead mine workings at Providence and Ashford Side before heading down to cross over to the east side of Gouthwaite Reservoir. Leaving the reservoir side near Ramsgill the walk heads deep into upper Nidderdale via Stean Gorge and Middlesmoor to Scar House Reservoir. This is the furthermost point upstream of the Nidd before heading downstream via the north and east side moors via The Edge to Lofthouse. The route continues south along the valley on paths and trails by the east side of Gouthwaite Reservoir for a second time, this time in the downstream direction of the Niff which is followed closely to Pateley Bridge. Then more low moor paths are followed to the south of Brimham Rocks where one would be wise to detour and see the spectacular rock formations before continuing the Nidderdale Way to Shaw Mills and then to Ripley. A short walk back to Hampsthwaite then completes the stunning Nidderdale Way.