Ingleborough and Limestone

We resolved to return to walking more this year and so, as the forecast was for a sunny day, we packed our rucksacks with flask, jam sandwiches and choccy bars and set off to Malham.  We were using a walk in the Malhamdale booklet I bought on a previous visit which meant driving through the village and up the steep, narrow road to the left of the spectacular cove.  Once on the top of the moor, we pulled in after the cattle grid at Langscar Gate, donned our walking boots and took to the Pennine Bridleway Loop.  On the outward route we were afforded long distance views of the Three Peaks. particularly Pen-y-Ghent and Ingleborough.  As we rounded the Scar towards the Jubilee and Victoria Caves, I spotted this outcrop of limestone with Ingleborough in the distance and it had to be blipped.

Tony explored the caves whilst I stayed down below, looking after my crook knee. The combination of my 'serious' walking boots and my walking poles served me well today and, as much of the walk was on good ground I managed the eight and a half miles, just tiring in the last mile or so.

We paused beneath the caves to munch our jam sandwiches and enjoy a cuppa before rounding Attermire Scar and climbing back to the top of the moor which gave us a fabulous view of Malham Tarn, reflecting the deep blue of the sky beneath us.

Back at the car, we were in time to drive to the Farm Shop at Airton for a cuppa.  One look at the Specials Board and we treated ourselves to their locally farmed beef in a rich casserole inside giant Yorkshire Puddings.  A perfect end to a smashing day.

Better on Black!