Lower Dales Three Hostel Walk

Kettlewell YH to Linton YH
11 miles (17.5km)

This route follows the Dales Way between Kettlewell and Grassington.

It commences by walking through a series of small fields which preserve some of the ancient strip boundaries of the former open field system of Kettlewell. After a short distance back on a quiet lane the route climbs out of the valley where a stretch of fine open moorland with good views follows till it descends into Grassington. This attractive old town makes an ideal lunch stop as it has plenty of places for refreshment. Beyond Grassington the route then follows a picturesque stretch of the River Wharfe for about two miles before crossing the river and heading across fields to the B6160. A lane continues into Thorpe. Just beyond the village the route follows a lane before a path cuts across fields to descend into Linton close to the Youth Hostel.

Linton YH to Malham YH
10 miles (16km)

From Linton the route first follows a leafy track before heading across fields and the B6265 to reach Skirethorns. After walking through the village the road is left for Wood Nook Caravan Site heading for the ruins of Height Laithe Farm. The route starts to climb up onto the moors and continues on past the Hamlet of Bordley where it heads north to join Mastiles Lane. This is an old unpaved drover's road crossing the moors. At this point it is possible to branch off and head straight to Malham which is useful if weather is poor. It proceeds down Hawthorns Lane via Lee Gate Farm. Otherwise continue along Mastiles Lane to Malham Tam and then head south for Malham via Malham Cove. The last two miles is undoubtedly the most interesting of this day's route and ends with a spectacular descent into Malham Cove.

Malham YH to Kettlewell YH
11 miles (17.5km)

Given good weather this is a full day of impressive scenery. After first passing Janet's Foss the route proceeds to Gordale Scar a stiff climb but not as hard as it looks. For those not wishing to risk it an alternate easy route is shown. On reaching Malham Tarn the route then follows Monks Road crossing some fine open moorland before descending into the attractive village of Almsciff where a pub and cafe can be found. From here a path climbs back onto the moors before a scenic descent into Wharfedale and Kettlewell.