In search of the Hitching Stone

Summary

Keighley Moor located in West Yorkshire; it is a place that, until recently, I have never explored before. I have driven around the area, ridden my bike, visited pubs, friends and family, and still I was unaware about this hidden area of vast moorland. It was screaming out to be discovered. The moorlands covers surrounding areas such as, Colne in East Lancashire and Keighley in the Aire Valley of South Yorkshire comprising of the Pennine Way, Keighley Moor Reservoir and returning via the Hitching Stone, which is said be the biggest boulder in Yorkshire!

The Hike

We began the hike from a layby just past the Grouse Inn in Oakworth, following a short and steep gravel path towards the foot of the moor along the millennium way. From here onwards, all we could see was miles of rolling terrain as far as the eye could see, giving us an enormous sense of space, as we passed through the world at a much slower pace of life.

We were alone and relishing in the moment.

Meanwhile, following the moorland path, we emerged alongside the serene waters of Keighley reservoir. Stopping for a brief moment, gazing into the landscape whilst a team of ducks paddled lazily. It felt comforting. Beyond the reservoir, the path rose gradually and became treacherous under foot, slowing us down in our tracks. As we navigated our way upwards, parts of the trail became very boggy. However, continuing on, we were guided by numerous shooting boxes that were dotted along the trail every couple of metres, which are predominantly used for shooting wild grouse. A nice shelter spot if we were to have lunch there.

The path continued upwards, and we finally approached the summit of a bleak barren landscape that bought us to the dry stone ‘causeway path’ on the Pennine Way.

A welcoming change from the terrain we were getting so used to.

Proceeding onwards, the trail took us deeper into the wild moorland, submerging ourselves deeper towards the valley of Cowling below, as etchings of trail lines lay in front. During the descent, small huts were merged into the landscape, and I couldn’t help but wonder what these huts were? They would be a great escape! The huts seemed to be obsolete, however, in the far distance I could see there was one with smoke puffing out of the chimney. I was eager to find out more! “Hello? Excuse me?’ I said “Sorry, I am just wondering what are these huts? What are they used for?” An elderly lady emerged as she shouted her husband from inside. The couple were very friendly, and explained that they use the hut to escape, almost like a holiday home. I was lucky enough to poke my head inside. It was small, but warm and cosy with a log fire burning ferociously. Two beds, and a with a fantastic view of Cowling out of the rear window. I loved it. As we talked, the couple shared information about the area and asked where we were going. He explained that there is a bolder to be seen and it has been said that it was made by giants. My eyes lit up! I love finding new natural wonders.

As we said our goodbyes, we continued onwards, and found a great lunch spot overlooking the valley below. Just what we needed to refuel. After lunch, the path became a lot less viable, making it quite tricky to follow. In parts, it seemed we were making our own path. Wading through thick heather and wet marshlands. It was hard work but enjoyable. I was following my Alltrails map, but the paths that was highlighted didn’t seem to be there. Although frustrating at times, I couldn’t help but enjoy the solitude and freedom being outside was providing me with.

Luckily, the sun decided to make an appearance and I remember just stopping for a second and looking around. No sound. No people. Just us. Being there. Being present. Reconnecting.

It’s places like these where I feel most at home.

Whilst navigating our way through the landscape, eventually, I could see the boulder in the distance which is known as ‘The Hitching Stone’ which weighs about 1060 tons and is the size of a small house. The local story is that the stone used to lie on Ilkley Moor, until the local witch became fed up with it getting in the way – she solved the problem by driving her broomstick into the rock, and ‘hitching’ it ten kilometres to its present location. Not sure how that was possible, but one thing I do know is that I could climb it. Eventually, after plodding our way through the landscape, we arrived. The size of the stone was fascinating! I climbed to the top and was amazed by the views that surrounded me.

I am forever fascinated by Yorkshire and what lies within the landscape.

Beyond the boulder, we walked on a not so noticeable path along the fence line. The sun shone brightly, and I felt myself becoming slightly burnt from being exposed in the barren landscape. Eventually, this brought us on onto an isolated piece of track and onto the road. As we plodded on up the road, we had an option to veer off into the moorlands once again, which took us back towards the trail we started on.

 It was a great end to the hike, slowly meandering our way back towards the car.

A brilliant day out to get away from problems we seem to carry from everyday life.

It felt powerful yet peaceful.

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