Articles
In this section you will find descriptions of walks I have enjoyed in the Yorkshire Dales, and also the unpublished results of research I have undertaken into subjects of local history that have interested me.
A Walk from Otley to Huby
A walk following the ancient packhorse tracks from Otley to Huby in Wharfedale, passing beside the River Wharfe through Farnley Park, and then through Leathley, Stainburn, and Riffa Wood, and over the former Castley Moor.
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Along Badgers Gate
A walk following old packhorse trails used by pedlars ('badgers') over Middleton Moor from Ilkley, passing four ancient guideposts
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Alfred James Bethell, a Yorkshireman who Believed in Himself
This article begins by describing a mysterious brick tomb and an ancient arch erected as a memorial in the churchyard at Newton Kyme, near Tadcaster. The occupant of the tomb is Ruth Bethell (1895-1915) who, at the time of her death, lived at Newton Kyme Hall with her aunts, Marcia and Lucy Bethell. The arch and tomb were built by her father, Alfred James Bethell (1862-1920), an Army officer, banker, and financier. The article goes on to discuss Alfred Bethell, his wife Maud Bethell, and his views on divorce laws, as well as the origin of the arch and the meaning of the Latin inscription. Click on the link below to read the full article, complete with references, but no images.Alfred James Bethell
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The Bowshaws and Lineham
This article deals with the area south of Arthington in Lower Wharfedale comprising The Bowshaws and Lineham. It suggests, although the evidence is patchy, that Allums Lane, the present long wall/hedge which curves south and then east from it, and Eccup Lane from that point north to Allums Lane again, follow the line of an ancient ring fence and wall which, from the time of the area's ownership by the monks of Kirkstall Abbey in the 12th century, marked the boundary of The Bowshaws and LIneham.
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