Walking routes from Garsdale and the surrounding area
From gentle strolls to challenging fell walks
A pleasant walk is to Hardraw Force in Hardraw. The walk begins behind the Green Dragon and there is a small charge to enter the waterfall walk.
Travelling towards Hawes there is a parking area for a short walk to Cotter Force, which has a good flat pathway beside the river leading to the waterfalls.
A longer waterfall walk is to Cautley Spout in Cautley. This walk starts by the Cross Keys Temperance pub and the path crossing the river.
For a walk from Garsdale village, follow the bridleway beside Dandra Garth through the woods and gate and this will take you to the pathway which, eventually, would lead to Cowgill, Dent. The ground can be boggy if it has been raining so caution is needed and good boots, but the views from here are fantastic.
Another walk is following the pathway behind the old Moorcock pub, now tearooms. Once you have crossed the bridge follow the path up the hillside and at the top is the Pennine Bridleway. Take left to head in the Kirkby Stephen direction and right is in the Cotter Force direction. Both are great walks with lovely scenery and often grouse can be heard, and sometimes seen, in the heather.
There are a number of marked footpaths in Garsdale so guests can take a walk directly from the cottage without needing their car.
For the adventurous, there is a pathway across the moors to Dent. This would start following the pathway by Dandra Garth.
There are also walks around nearby Grisedale and behind the old Moorcock pub there is a pathway leading to the Pennine Bridleway with walks in the direction of Kirkby Stephen and the opposite direction towards Cotter Force.
For those who like a challenge, the Coast to Coast walk passes through Kirkby Stephen. A short drive from The Old Cart House would allow you, at least, a sample trek along this iconic path.
The Pennine Way passes through Hawes, Muker and Keld which, all, in their own way are well worth a visit. A 15 minute drive to Hawes.
A long distance footpath running from Ilkley to Bowness-on-Windermere, passing through the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
Best to plan your route in advance. Carry water, food, and a map. Make sure your phone is charged. If walking alone, tell someone your plans.
Good walking shoes, a stick if you use one, and layers for changeable weather.
Garsdale and the surrounding area is sheep farming country - dogs must be kept on leads and gates closed.
There's no street lighting, so in winter it gets dark early. Bring a torch. Try to walk on the right hand side of the road so you can see oncoming vehicles and they can see you.
Garsdale does not have an organisation that does guided walks but please talk to the holiday let owners for information on the routes of those local walks that suit your needs.