Grassington to Burnsall Circular

Grassington to Burnsall follows 10.8 km of classic Wharfedale scenery, starting with the dramatic limestone ledges at Linton Falls before joining the Dales Way along the River Wharfe to Burnsall — one of the prettiest villages in the Yorkshire Dales with its five-arched bridge and inviting riverside. The return climbs above the valley via High Lane and field paths through limestone uplands, with sweeping views back down into Wharfedale before descending to Grassington. With 235 metres of elevation gain, this is a properly rewarding circuit that showcases the best of the Dales.

This dog friendly walk is excellent for water-loving dogs, with good swimming access at Burnsall below the bridge and at Loup Scar above the village. The riverside sections offer rich, layered scent on well-drained turf and river-washed limestone. However, livestock density is high through the farmland sections — sheep and cattle graze the lower meadows extensively — so leads are essential through fields and gates must be closed carefully. The Dales Way sections alongside the river allow more relaxed walking, and the two distinct river swimming spots make the farmland leads worthwhile.