I'm sure I speak for all LDWA members when I say we've all been chomping at the bit for much more than a year now, and it was no exception that North Yorkshire group walkers met with galvanised eagerness, on Saturday, after the lifting of COVID restrictions.  A small, but formidable group of eight met at Barden Tower for a 19 mile circular - a great start to our exciting up and coming new programme.

The route took on a long steady climb on to the moor above Barden; eventually reaching Rylstone fell and Rylstone Cross - the views amazingly panoramic.  The weather so delightfully unexpected, but equally welcomed.  Rylstone (stone) Cross (forms part of a ridge) was originally a wooden cross erected in 1783 to celebrate the "Peace of Paris" - a number of treaties which ended the American War of Independence.

Dropping off the ridge and heading down to the edge of Cracoe we soon circumnavigated Swinden quarry before making way and stopping for lunch at Linton.  Traversing via the hamlet of Thorpe we climbed back up on to the moor before soon descending to Lower Barden Reservoir and back to the cars.
  

The route, on well marked tracks and footpaths, leant itself to a walk of all seasons with outstanding views across the Wharfe valley and beyond.  New born lambs, grouse and pheasants, the warmth in the sun - all signs that spring is in the air.  Just a perfect day.  Thank you to our walk leader and those that came from near and far to join us.