Hawes New Year's Day Walk

Hawes New Year's Day Walk

There are few better ways to greet a new year than with a brisk walk above Hawes. This 10.3 km route starts and finishes in the heart of Hawes - the highest market town in England and the natural centre of Upper Wensleydale - giving you some proper fellside perspective before you earn your pie and a pint.

The route climbs steadily out of the town onto the open fell above, where the views open up across the broad, flat floor of Wensleydale. On a clear January day you might see snow on the higher fells of Buttertubs Pass and the faint outline of Ingleborough to the south-west.

The middle section crosses rougher pasture and moorland edge on good bridleway tracks, with the occasional gate and stile to keep you alert. In wet or frosty conditions the paths can be slippery, and the higher ground can hold snow well into late winter.

The descent back towards Hawes passes above the Wensleydale Creamery - the only remaining producer of genuine Wensleydale cheese in the dale. If the shop is open, it would be rude not to pick up a wedge for New Year's lunch.

The town rewards those who linger. Beyond the creamery, Hawes has the excellent Dales Countryside Museum, a National Park Visitor Centre, and enough independent cafes and pubs to keep any walking party happy long after the boots come off.

Key Facts

• Distance: 10.3 km (6.4 miles)
• Ascent: 176 m
• Terrain: Town paths, farm track, moorland edge
• Start/Finish: Gayle Lane Car Park, Hawes (DL8 3RQ)