Buckden to Cray to Hubberholme Circuit

A 7 km (4 mile) circular route from Buckden car park, climbing onto the fell side above the valley and returning along the River Wharfe. The official minimum is 1.5 hours, but allow 2.5 to 3 hours if you want to stop, take photos and walk the first climb at a comfortable pace. Difficulty is moderate, about 5 out of 10, with the effort concentrated at the start and on one steep descent.

• Leave the upper gate of Buckden car park on the signed track towards Buckden Pike and Cray.
• Climb steeply on a rough, rocky stone track, then follow Buckden Rake across the fell side high above Cray.
• Drop steeply into Cray and cross Cray Gill on stepping stones.
• Take the high traverse over limestone meadows to Scar House Farm.
• Descend to Hubberholme, passing the 12th century Norman church and the stone arch bridge over the Wharfe.
• Follow the road for roughly 700 m to the Buckden Bridge gate, then return on riverside and meadow paths into Buckden.

The opening climb is rough and rocky, and the drop to Cray is steep and can be slippery when wet. There are stepping stones to cross at Cray Gill, gates to work through, and livestock in the fields. The authority reports that the riverside section can be muddy, so boots with proper grip and a tolerance for wet ground help. The high traverse is open and exposed on the fellside, so carry a layer even on a bright day.

The reward for the early climb is the long view down Wharfedale, with dry-stone walls, limestone meadows and moorland tops above. Cray has tumbling water, and Hubberholme brings the historic church and the bridge over the river. Along the water, keep an eye out for kingfishers and oystercatchers. Cattle and sheep graze much of the route.

• Start: the National Park Authority car park in Buckden, BD23 5JA, grid reference SD 94239 77374. The walk begins at the upper gate.
• Toilets at the car park.
• Refreshments in Buckden, Cray and Hubberholme.

Dogs are allowed on the public rights of way here. Keep them under close control, use a lead around livestock, and use a short lead from March to July to protect ground-nesting birds.