Conistone Dib & Capplestone Gate
Wharfedale’s hidden beauty
Summary
Nestled in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, in-between Kettlewell and Grassington. Conistone is a charming little village that offers a peaceful countryside retreat. With its picturesque countryside, lush green fields, rolling fells, narrow gorges and quaint stone cottages. It is a perfect place for hiking and to enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds the area.
Capplestone Gate
The Hike
I wanted to explore somewhere new in the Dales that I have never been before. Conistone Dib seemed like the best bet, especially with it not being particularly far from me. Also, from what I had seen online, it looked like a great place to explore! The gorge looked immense!
It was a hot summer’s day, with barely a cloud in the sky. As I began from Conistone village, I could already sense it would be a great day. A quick walk in the village led me to ‘Conistone Dib’. Opening and closing rapidly, the dry valley and limestone gorge unveiled a picturesque green landscape. As I kept going through the valley, I didn’t know what to anticipate next, including a fun little climb out of dib gorge. A place to be careful if it’s not dry. However, it can be a great way to get your heart pumping. As I ascended to the highest point, I was treated to a spectacular view of Kilnsey Crag and Conistone.
Conistone Dib
After emerging from dib gorge, I still had a fair amount of uphill walking to do, mostly across grassy fields. Meanwhile, I followed the gravel and onto a long exposed grassy field. Going further up, I reached the walk’s highest point known as ‘Capplestone Gate’. The air was filled with the sounds of nature, a gentle breeze rustling through the grass as I reached the summit. Standing at the top, I took a moment to absorb the panoramic view. The undulating hills were a stunning shade of emerald, framed by the rugged outline of Kilnsey Crag. Sunlight danced across the landscape, casting shadows that highlighted the intricate textures of the limestone rock.
Afterwards, I continued along the path, following signposts towards Kettlewell. Crossing over multiple stiles and along exposed areas of the vast countryside. I descended to Old Pasture, a series of limestone scars, small natural cliffs used as field boundaries. I relished in the moment! Continuing along the path towards Conistone Pie, where I would stop once again to admire the view. Walking through the Dales always lifts my morale, especially when rewarded by magnificent views.
After a refreshing pit-stop at the top of Conistone Pie, it wasn't’t long before I began to descend towards Conistone, where I followed a pleasant gravel track with views of the rolling countryside everywhere you looked. For such a short walk, there was so much to look back on, highlights galore! By the time I returned to Conistone, I was filled with a sense of accomplishment and tranquility. The experience had not only invigorated my body but also refreshed my spirit. There’s is no doubt I will be back again to explore in the different seasons.
