The magnificent landscape of Swaledale is a composite picture comprising many features; but there are two which make it what it is – the walled field enclosures and the iconic field barn.
This walk originates from Bruce Stainby’s involvement with the National Park’s Project “Every Barn Tells a Story”. It figured in last year’s Richmond Festival programme and seemed worth a return visit as a SOC walk.
I don’t like the name “Smardale”; it seems to me to be too harsh in describing what is a beautiful dale. This walk of c.9.5 miles starts in Ravenstonedale, takes in the nature reserve that extends up the dale and then cuts back down Smardale Gill to return to the start point. (see map below).
I enjoyed Bruce’s walk on Sunday 27th. January. So much so that I said I would write a little report about it. So here goes.
I’ve decided that I need to walk longer distances so I opted for Bruce’s 10-12 miles around Masham to start off with. I wasn’t going to be put off by 50 mph wind ( perhaps I exaggerate slightly ) and joined Bruce, Peter and Brian in Masham market place on a very windy, yet bright Sunday morning.
