With cheese

A while back now I started following the River Ribble and the last we saw of it at that stage was as it gathered many becks at Ribblehead and then meandered its way south. 

Today we set out for Horton-in-Ribblesdale (via Hawes for coffee, scones and cheese of course). Here at the bridge the river is well established and goes on to flow through the village. Horton-in-Ribbledale was originally a farming village but quarrying for limestone was going on, the stone used for local buildings. With the coming of the railway in 1873 it became easier to send stone wider afield and the village was expanded to accommodate workers and their families. There is still quarrying and huge lorries trundle along the narrow roads all day long. 

However, Horton is now mainly a tourist destination in the National Park and is the official start of the Three Peaks walk. So lots of campsites, B&Bs, cafes, pubs, car parks. The familiar shape of Pen-y-ghent is ever present as you walk through.

We went to see the old church which retains some Norman features - see the splendid Norman door in extras. You may be able to see the deep grooves at the side of the door where archers may have sharpened their arrows. (As they went into church!!)  

Of course we went on to Settle for fish and chips and called at the Courtyard Dairy for more cheese before heading home. 

It turned out to be a much better day than we expected and fairly quiet everywhere. It will be a bit different in a few days - we are staying at home.