Askwith Amble #1: Intro & Info
This series of caches will take you through and from a delightful village, down across grassy farmland to the north bank of the River Wharfe by the Burley weir and stepping stones, back up through farmland, along a quiet country lane, then across low moorland and down a wooded beck back to the start, with fine views throughout.
The trail can be done All in One (approx 5.7km/3hrs) or in two parts (see maps) . . .
Part 1 (South) is approx 2.5km/1h20 and covers AA ##1-8
Part 2 (North) is approx 3.5km/1h40 and covers AA ##9-19
Parking is available either at the Village Hall @ N 53 55.871 W 1 44.597 or roadside at a suitable and safe location on the main road, eg. near the pub @ or near N 53 55.840 W 1 44.762.
Notes: 1. When the pub reopens after refurbishment, alternative off-road parking should be available in the pub car park.
2. The terrain rating for caches in the series is based on the assumption that they are done in sequence.
The cache, a camo-taped preform tube is hidden on a public footpath heading down towards the River Wharfe.
To Find the Cache:
Step 1 (published coordinates): here you will be standing by a bench on which there is a commemorative plaque. The number of lines of text on this = A
Step 2: proceed down the Askwith Lane to N 53 55.846 W 1 44.610 adjacent to the gate of The Cottage on the nameplate of which is the image of an animal. The alphanumeric value (A=1 B=2 C=3 etc) of the 1st letter of its name = B
Update 2/12/25: the sign on the gate has changed and the dog has disappeared!
Step 3: continue down to the junction with West Lane and head for the signpost at N 53 55.817 W 1 44.636. The 3rd digit of the 6-digit number of the signpost = C
Step 4: now move left to the red post box in the cottage wall. On this you will see an 8-character Postbox number. The 4th character + the 5th character = D
Step 5: carefully cross over the road to the telegraph pole at N 53 55.819 W 1 44.626, the number of which is E14.
Step 6: just to the left is an old stone water feature (now dry) dated 18F6
The cache can be found at:
N 53 55.(A+B)(D/F)(C-B) W 1 44.(E+A)(F-B)(A/B)
Askwith is village and civil parish in the Harrogate district of North Yorkshire with a population of around 300. Facilities include an 'outstanding' community primary school with around 80 pupils, a pub (currently closed pending refurbishment), and a village hall.
It has an annual show with numerous attractions including produce and handicraft classes/competitions, dog show, horse competition food and craft stalls, and various forms of entertainment.
The village is listed as 'Asquith' by Edward Baines in his 1822 History, Directory & Gazetteer of Yorkshire, Vol. I: West Riding, and as 'Askwith, or Asquith' by Samuel Lewis, ed. in the 1848 'A Topographical Dictionary of England'. The surname Asquith is derived from the village which is related to the famous Asquith family which includes HH Asquith, Prime Minister 1908-1916 and A-list actress Helena Bonham Carter.
As you make your way toward GZ you will pass the Grade II listed 1681 Askwith Manor House @ N 53 55.848 W 1 44.684.
Media web page editor's comments on the photo below:
This print titled 'West Lane' transports us to the picturesque countryside of Askwith, Otley in Leeds, Yorkshire, England. The image beautifully captures the essence of this idyllic location, showcasing a serene lane surrounded by lush greenery and charming stone walls.
As we gaze upon this scene, we are instantly drawn into its tranquility and timeless beauty. The composition is masterfully framed with an impeccable balance between light and shadow. The soft sunlight filtering through the leaves creates a mesmerizing play of dappled shadows on the lane's surface. It evokes a sense of warmth and invites us to take a leisurely stroll along this enchanting path.
Every detail in this photograph is meticulously preserved, allowing us to appreciate the rustic charm that defines West Lane. From the weathered stones lining the road to the vibrant wildflowers peeking out from every corner, each element contributes to its undeniable allure.
As we admire this image, it becomes evident that it encapsulates more than just a physical place; it embodies an entire experience—a moment frozen in time where nature's splendour harmonizes with human craftsmanship - and serves as a constant reminder of nature's ability to inspire awe and transport us to places far beyond our immediate surroundings.
So . . . be prepared for an amazing amble around Askwith!
