The next bit of the walk, alongside the railway line, was really tricky as the path ran between two fences and was almost completely overgrown. I got stung by nettles, scratched by brambles and stumbled in holes, so I was glad to reach the safety of a proper track again. It climbed up towards Marley, which is a tiny hamlet with some early 17th century properties - Marley Hall and some farm buildings. The hall itself was set back in gardens and I couldn't get a decent photo. (You get a better view from the train!) The building in the photo below was, I think, originally a farmhouse. They have a lovely wide view across the Aire valley and up towards Keighley.
I struggled to find the path out and back to Bingley, until I spotted this tiny stone bridge and a stile hiding behind a tree! The map wasn't much help as the detail was not clear. Then I saw the yellow waymarker, so that was a relief.
The return leg took me through woodland, mixed species with some coniferous larch. I've decided I don't like walking through larch woods - too stark and forbidding! The narrow path was a little precarious in parts as well, along the edge of a steep slope, so I didn't enjoy the walk back as much as the outward journey - and it was drizzling by then!
Still some interesting things to spot: I love the old stone stiles.
The phantom den builders had been at work here too. These structures seem to be in all our woodlands these days.
Once through the wood, the path joined an ancient route called Altar Lane down into Bingley and back to Ireland Bridge. Some nice views from here - though even better if I'd have climbed further up the lane instead of down, as it takes you to a rocky outcrop known as Druid's Altar. I'd had enough walking for one day, though it is always satisfying to follow a new route successfully by myself.
It is a long time since I have posted but i am glad I came over and found your new blog. I've been scrolling through all your posts that I have missed. You have been on some adventurous walks. Your grand children have grown so. I had to laugh when you said you look better blurry. It was a lovely shot.
ReplyDeleteYour walk description reminded me of of a one day march through the Malayan Cameron Highlands I once had to make. You contended with briars and potholes but at least you met no snakes or aborigines! Whilst wading through a fast river I got told off for using my rifle as a walking stick..."If you can't take a joke you shouldn't have joined", we used to say! The snake was HUGE. He completely ignored us.
ReplyDeleteA lovley walk, in places it does look a bit difficult. Stinging nettles are quite nasty. I'm glad you made it through.
ReplyDeleteThat third shot is my favourite.
ReplyDeleteI would be a bit nervous as a woman alone walking through those woods. Maybe that comes from being a city girl with people around all of the time.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful walk! I love the pictures of the stiles and the little stone footbrideg.
ReplyDeleteA great walk - well done though the nettles. Yes, the old stone stiles and bridges have a special atmosphere, wondering who made them? Interesting debates about the 'roman road' connection in this area. See Journal of Antiquities on 'Uncra Roman Fort'
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