The fantastic weather on the first Sunday of September was perfect for the planned short, social walk in Nidderdale. The car park in Lofthouse worked well for a 10am start with sufficient spaces available for our four cars. At just under ten miles the route was fairly easy going on decent paths and tracks generally based on the Nidderdale Way but with some minor adjustments.
Despite the glorious weather the paths were very quiet and for most of the day we had the place to ourselves. There were more cars and people around Scar House Reservoir and How Stean Gorge but the heavy summer holiday traffic was pretty well gone.
The miles were easisly covered and in what seemed like no time at all we were enjoying a leisurely lunch at the picnic area at Scar House Reservoir. Only one lunch break on today's walk and unbelievably there was not one Scotch Egg or even a Ginsters pasty in sight.
The next section of the walk was up and over In Moor to Middlesmoor via In Moor Lane. Panoramic views all round and the heat of the afternoon sun was tempered by a light south westerly breeze.
At Middlesmoor we took the path from the church direct to Lofthouse. This kept us clear of the road and, although it was not busy, we could see more traffic and activity in the How Stean Gorge area.
The pace seemed to subconsciously increase as we neared Lofthouse. The Crown was beckoning. The River Nidd was nothing more than a stream so we passed on the opportunity to visit the nearby waterfall and headed straight to the beer garden. Here Rachel was reminded of the crucial need for essential and rapid rehydration after a hot day of walking in the sunshine.
A grand day out and enjoyed by all. Thanks to everyone for coming along and for being such good company. Where next?
Dave M
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