Fremington Edge and Arkengarthdale - 2019
This was the first time Shepherds Walks had moved into the Yorkshire Dales for a day walk. As we gathered at Reeth market square on a fine morning with superb views of Swaledale and Arkengarthdale overlooked by the towering Fremington Edge everyone was excited and looking forward to a new and different sort of walk.
Mark welcomed everyone and outlined the route and asked Sue and Tony to be official photographers for the day! We began by crossing the river Swale via a suspension bridge and followed the river towards the picturesque village of Grinton. Then began the steady climb through the hamlet of Fremington on a well defined track to the steep limestone crag that is Fremington Edge. A welcome coffee stop half way up gave Mark the opportunity to talk a little about Swaledale and its lead mining past and this industry’s impact on the countryside we now see. When we reached the summit of “the Edge” there followed a delightful level path for 3 miles or so before dropping down into Arkengarthdale. Over this part of the walk there was constant evidence of lead mining with many spoil heaps and the only disappointing aspect of this stretch was the stiff and chilly breeze.
Fortunately the weather on the return to Reeth was much calmer and warmer and the path which followed the Arkle Beck was simply delightful. The Reeth brass band was even playing as we approached our cars and some of us then enjoyed a wonderful and well deserved ice cream!
The general consensus from our walkers was that this was an area which affords wonderful walking opportunities and the request that Shepherds Walks returns here in 2020.
Mark July 21st 2019
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