(12th February 2012 – 15 miles)
The weather was no different: snow hadn’t melted, cloud and mist hadn’t lifted, the sun wasn’t shining and it was still very cold.
But Wharfedale was still very beautiful, in a bleak kind of way. After another fat-soaked breakfast (and a fruit salad that I wanted to pour into my rucksack and take away with me), I set off on my second day along the river.
Almost immediately, I had to stop and fish out my Yaktrax again. My boots couldn’t get a grip on the polished ice. I used my Yaktrax several more times during the day.
The riverside path would normally be busy but the ice made it unsafe for long stretches and I barely saw a soul.
I arrived in and passed through Grassington without stopping. The DW leaves the river just beyond the town as local landowners and fishermen opposed granting a right-of-way along the riverbank – thanks, guys. Instead, the route climbs quite steeply onto limestone.
These few miles away from the Wharfe and high up above the valley, are a highlight of the Dales Way – thanks, guys.
As I scrunched through icy snow
(followed by THIS man)
I was captivated by the views
and scenery all around me.
Unlike the Coast to Coast (which I walked in March 2013), the DW is well signed … though you’ll still need a guide-book. (But this signpost is wrong – the distance between Grassington and Kettlewell is six and a half miles. A part of me, with bobble hat and nasal whiny voice, simply had to tell you that).
I eked out this section as much as I could;
stopping regularly, stretching out time and then slowly walking on again.
I have rarely seen a more lovely,
breathtaking landscape.
Today alone was vindication for travelling up to Yorkshire in February, in snow, to walk an 80-mile path.
When the path finally began its descent back to the river, disappointment slowed me down even more. I didn’t want to leave that high, brittle landscape … but a marvellous steak and ale pie at The Racehorses Hotel in Kettlewell was good compensation.
After lunch, I rejoined the Wharfe for the last few miles of the day. Buckden (usually considered a natural end to day 2) used to have three pubs, but the last of these had closed shortly before my trip. (The Buck Inn has reopened since I passed through). With nowhere to sleep in Buckden, I had a further mile’s traipse, up the road to Cray and my bed.
The White Lion is an old, unspoilt pub but it was comparatively pricey at £57.50. (It has changed hands and been refurbished since my stay). And whilst my room was OK, the landlord seemed reluctant to heat it. When I rested on my bed on arrival, the room was so cold, I needed to get under the covers. Maybe it was a ploy to lure me from my room to sit in the bar, by the fire, supping his beer.
If it was, it worked. Damn him.
There seem to have been . . . developments at the White Lion.
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Hi Tili, that sounds ominous. Or is it good? D
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Hrm, there was meant to be a link. Sorry. I went to book online and they certainly have done a lot of renovations. It looks very different from the snug refuge that I remember. I’ll reserve judgement ’til I get back, perhaps.
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Had a quick look and yes – it’s had quite a makeover since I stayed there. Let me know what it’s like and most importantly, whether they heat the rooms. Mine was freezing. D
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Hi Julie, thanks. A glass of mulled wine would’ve been good. D
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Lovely photographs and descriptions, I feel I am on this journey with you, except with very dry feet and a glass of wine in hand whilst I read. The scenery is spectacular.
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