The Walks
Important Information.
Before setting out on the Lyke Wake Walk, the Hambleton Hobble or the Shepherd's Round, it is important to take note of the following walking information:
All of the walks are quite difficult- only experienced walkers should attempt the walks in winter.
When setting out on any of the walks always inform someone of where you are going - have a central telephone number for all walkers and the support party to report to. Bear in mind mobile phones do not work well in upper moorland areas, and mobiles do not always connect to local emergency services control rooms, the operator may have no idea of where you are or what you are talking about.
Ensure you are carrying and wearing the correct equipment - walking boots, warm clothing, waterproofs, water, food and an upto date map.
Due to conservation matters, it is preferred that only small groups complete the walks at any one time.
Please do not make noise near dwelling houses or deposit litter on the moor as this is a hazard to livestock, wildlife and a fire risk.
Keep at all times to authorised paths only. There are many reports that some walkers still use the unauthorised path across Flat Howe - instead continue on the railway tracks to the Lion Inn.
All walkers should be aware of the CROW Act. It is in fact not a 'right to roam' and open areas of moorland can be closed at almost any time to suit landowners business needs.
Dogs must be kept under close control or on lead at all times especially near livestock, and on open access land.
Local cafes and hotels find it difficult to cope with large parties with large backpacks and muddy boots - please be considerate.
The Lyke Wake Walk
Historically the route links together the bronze age tumuli (burial mounds) on the high watershed of the moors. When the walk first started the route was a major test of endurance, with no footpaths, pure navigation and moorcraft, knee deep heather and little idea of what lay ahead.
Since this time paths have developed and greatly improved - especially those that share access with the Cleveland Way and the Coast to Coast route.
It takes the average walker around 12 hours to complete the walk - in summer the whole thing can be done in daylight. It takes runners competing in the the annual race approx 5 hours.
The route can be completed in either direction, and anyone who completes it is entitled to wear the badge.
The walk traditionally starts from Sheepwash near Osmotherley (SE467992) and ends at Ravenscar (NZ981017).
A full route guide 'The Lyke Wake Walk-the official guide' published by the Dalesman is available either from us <here>.
The Hambleton Hobble
As an alternative to the Lyke Wake Walk, in 1983, Paul Sherwood devised the Hambleton Hobble, This is a 51km circular route which is traditionally started from Osmotherley and links the four pubs of Osmotherley, Hawnby, Scawton and Silton. With recent changes in ownership, closures etc it is expected none of these licensed premises will be aware of the walk, there has been no reports of their attitude to walkers. It can however be started at any point on the route, and it can be completed as two circular routes.
Anyone who completes this walk is entitled to wear the official woven badge.
Details of this walk are found in the Lyke Wake Walk guide book - for details of this, the leaflet and badge <Click Here>
The Shepherd's Round
As a second alternative to the Lyke Wake Walk, Bill Cowley also in 1983 devised the Shepherd's Round. This is a 64km route starting from Osmotherely taking in Urra moor, Rudland Rigg, Brandsdale, crossing Bilsdale, onto Snilesworth Moor and back to Osmotherley along the western escarpment of the moors.
It is a fairly difficult route with a lot of hill climbing - anyone who completes this walk is entitled to wear the woven badge.
Again details of the walk are found in the Lyke Wake Walk guide book - for this ,the leaflet and the badge <Click Here>
