Swathes of purple heather carpet the moors & high fells above Upper Swaledale

‘The purple headed mountain’

‘The river running by’

There are miles of public footpaths to enjoy in Upper Swaledale.  Some snake over the high tops & through the heather moors but there are plenty of easier paths to explore that are less challenging. There are maps, leaflets and walking books at Hillcrest Cottage.  One of my favourite walks in August is across the heather moor from Grinton Youth Hostel (just outside Reeth) to Bolton Castle. The heather here is outstanding and the honey scent intoxicating.  Write up and photos here  https://pryhousefarm.blogspot.com/2023/08/walking-herriot-way.html  Another source of walks is The Keld Resource Centre that organise several guided walks throughout the summer.  For details visithttp://www.keld.org.uk