Newton Under Roseberry

Chris, John and I met in the car park below Roseberry Topping and set off up Roseberry Lane but once into open ground we turned left and skirted round the peak rather than climbing directly up. Then turning northeast we made our way into Hutton Lowcross woods, descending through them to Hutton Village. After a short road section we re-entered the woods, now ascending towards Hutton Moor. At the forest edge we stopped for a tea break in the relative warmth of a winters day.

Heading across the moor towards Percy Cross Rigg we were passed first by a group of mountain bikers, then by motor cyclists and finally by 4 X 4s all like us out to enjoy the open countryside on a now gloriously sunny December day.

Turning west across Ayton Moor towards Gribdale Gate superb views over Lonsdale and into Kildale opened up and sheltered from the breeze, the warm sun encouraged us to take a long lunch break and enjoy the vista. Conversation drifted to a discussion about the therapeutic and stress relieving properties of walking in the quiet and solitude of the hills especially when good weather and scenery are added. MAGICAL was Chris's verdict. Eventually we tore ourselves away from this super relaxing place and made our way to Gribdale Gate before turning north and following the escarpment until Roseberry Topping came into view. John and I coaxed Chris to attempt the summit and we marvelled at the panorama there (I've been many times before but the views are still great).

Descending by the southern flank and passing by the folly into Newton Wood we made our way down through the trees. I think that this is a much gentler and interesting if longer route than the more direct route down the steep western face. The path through the woods was made a little slippery by the previous night's rain on the covering of fallen leaves but posed no serious problem.

Back at the car park Chris insisted that it was compulsory to go to the pub for a drink so we made our way to The Buck in Ayton to complete the day.

Thanks to Chris and John for helping to make a magical day. Where were the rest of you? You missed a corker.

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	Swaledale Outdoor Club

Newton Under Roseberry

Alan Turner