9.26 miles.
Explorer Map OL26, - North York Moors, Western Area
Although this walk was made in wintry conditions, it would
be suitable at any time of the year.
Much of the walk uses minor roads, Forestry Commission tracks, and the
Cleveland Way footpath. However, there is one section that crosses moorland
where the footpath may not be all that well defined, and walkers are
advised that being able to navigate on this section is fairly neccessary,
- especially in poor weather.
There is a modest ascent up to Barker's Crags, and a fairly steep descent
down from Carlton Moor.
If you are happy with your map reading, this is a walk that can be recommended
for most levels of ability.
For a Memory Map overlay of the walk described, please select the above
link.
(Overlay made with Version 4 of Memory Map)
Start from the small parking area outside Swainby's public
toilets (NZ47614 02118).
Head South Eastwards through Swainby along the road, keeping right at
the junction with the road to Scugdale.
Where the road turns sharp right at Caolmire Lane, continue straight
ahead up the farm / Forestry Commission track.
At NZ481 008 the Cleveland Way footpath leaves this track on your left.
You can continue along the Cleveland Way footpath to Harfa Bank Farm.
However, it is probably a better idea to continue on the Forestry Commission
track itself which will take you all the way to Harfa Bank Farm.
From Harfa Bank Farm, continue along the darm track in a North Easterly
/ Easterly direction until you reach the Scugdale road.
Here turn right, and continue past Raikes Farm to Scugdale Hall.
Just past Scugdale Hall, a bridleway takes you uphill to Barker's Crags.
From here, take to footpath Northwards to Brian's Pond and continue
Northwards, - now on well defined tracks, across Bilsdale West Moor.
Past the Gliding Club, you can cross to rejoin the Cleveland Way footpath,
but now heading Southwards and Westwards.
Follow the Cleveland Way footpath, - well defined all the way, until
you descend through Live Moor Plantation (at Swine Bank) to eventually
rejoin the Scugdale Road again at Huthwaite Green. Follow the road all
the way back to Swainby.