Limestone and Lead on Greenhow Hill
Greenhow Hill between Grassington and Pateley Bridge was one of the two main lead mining areas in the Yorkshire Dales which have seen centuries of mining as well as stone quarrying. Join us for a journey through time discovering the mineral histories of the area, exploring two of the biggest lead mining sites, and two very different examples of limestone quarrying through the ages.
Our day begins in Pateley Bridge and after a riverside stroll and a steady gradual climb, we emerge onto open hillside and visit the site of Providence Mine with its architectural and mechanical remains. From here we soon reach the impressive Cockhill Mines and view the entrances to a couple of its many levels.
Our final ascent brings us into the limestone area where we can see the scale of a Victorian lime kiln before bringing our tour back to the present with a visit to Yorkshire’s highest art work and viewpoint for a surprisingly discreet modern working quarry complete with fantastic views across the Dales!
From here we descend moorland, farmland and woodland back down to Pateley Bridge where a number of pubs and cafes await.
9 miles (14.5km) with 1500 ft (460m) of ascent and descent
The majority of this route follows good tracks and paths but we may encounter some boggy or uneven ground so walking boots should be worn. We are crossing open moorland where the weather may be different to the valley so waterproofs, spare warm layers, hats and gloves should be carried at all times of year.
Our day begins in Pateley Bridge and after a riverside stroll and a steady gradual climb, we emerge onto open hillside and visit the site of Providence Mine with its architectural and mechanical remains. From here we soon reach the impressive Cockhill Mines and view the entrances to a couple of its many levels.
Our final ascent brings us into the limestone area where we can see the scale of a Victorian lime kiln before bringing our tour back to the present with a visit to Yorkshire’s highest art work and viewpoint for a surprisingly discreet modern working quarry complete with fantastic views across the Dales!
From here we descend moorland, farmland and woodland back down to Pateley Bridge where a number of pubs and cafes await.
9 miles (14.5km) with 1500 ft (460m) of ascent and descent
The majority of this route follows good tracks and paths but we may encounter some boggy or uneven ground so walking boots should be worn. We are crossing open moorland where the weather may be different to the valley so waterproofs, spare warm layers, hats and gloves should be carried at all times of year.