Blakethwaite Moss

Downs, Moorland in Yorkshire Richmondshire

England

Blakethwaite Moss

Blakethwaite Gill of Gunnerside Moor Snow cover over the hills of Swaledale with Blakethwaite Gill below the shooting hut in the foreground. The lower part of the valley is Gunnerside Gill which empties its water into the River Swale. — Blakethwaite Gill of Gunnerside Moor Credit: Trevor Littlewood

Blakethwaite Moss is a captivating area located in Yorkshire, England, renowned for its picturesque landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Situated amidst the beautiful Yorkshire Downs and Moorland, this region is a haven for nature enthusiasts and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and tranquility.

Covering a vast expanse of land, Blakethwaite Moss is characterized by its rolling hills, heather-covered moorland, and scattered clusters of trees. The area is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including heather, bilberry, and cotton grass, which blossom in vibrant hues during the summer months.

The diverse wildlife found in Blakethwaite Moss includes red grouse, curlews, and lapwings, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers. Additionally, the region is home to several grazing animals such as sheep and ponies, which contribute to the preservation of the unique ecosystem.

Blakethwaite Moss offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. Visitors can explore the network of trails that crisscross the area, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The tranquil atmosphere and untouched beauty of Blakethwaite Moss make it an ideal location for those seeking respite from the bustling city life.

The region's rich history is also evident, with remnants of ancient stone circles and burial mounds scattered throughout the area. These archaeological sites provide a glimpse into the lives of the early inhabitants of Blakethwaite Moss.

Overall, Blakethwaite Moss is a captivating destination that showcases the natural beauty and diverse ecosystems of Yorkshire's Downs and Moorland. Whether one seeks adventure, tranquility, or a deeper connection with nature, this area offers a unique and rewarding experience.

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Blakethwaite Moss Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.417404/-2.1032272 or Grid Reference NY9302. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Blakethwaite Gill of Gunnerside Moor

Snow cover over the hills of Swaledale with Blakethwaite Gill below the shooting hut in the foreground. The lower part of the valley is Gunnerside Gill which empties its water into the River Swale.

Trevor Littlewood

Summit cairn at Rogan's Seat

Colin Park

Gate across estate road on Rogan's Seat

The road is a disgracefully bulldozed scar right across the summit area of one of the highest hills of the Yorkshire Dales National Park! It's there simply to convey 'guns' to the butts further along the moor where there was also a shooting hut, but aerial imagery suggests that it's no longer there. The snowed hills in the distance are Little Fell and Mickle Fell.

Trevor Littlewood

Looking up Gunnerside Gill

Showing the remains of old lead mine workings on both sides

Chris Holifield

The path up Gunnerside Gill at Swina Bank

Chris Holifield

Botcher Gill

Chris Holifield

Entrance to Bunton Level lead mine

Chris Holifield

Entrance to Bunton Level lead mine

Chris Holifield

Ruined buildings at Bunton Level lead mine

Chris Holifield

Old lead mining area in Gunnerside Gill

The North Hush and Lownathwaite Lead Mine

Chris Holifield

Dolly Lead Level

The stone entrance to the Dolly Lead Level can be seen sitting above the mining waste tumbling into the Gunnerside valley as if spewed from the mouth of the level.

David Robinson

Bunton Level and Bunton Hush

Bunton level is one of many levels and shafts associated with Friarfold Lead Mine. There are also three hushes in close proximity around the mine site. Hushes were created by the damming and releasing of water to sweep away the upper layers of vegetation and expose the veins of ore.

David Robinson

Mine Buildings, Bunton Level, and Bunton Hush

Buildings, level, and hush associated with the Friarfold lead mine.

David Robinson

Waterfall and old mine workings, Blakethwaite Gill

David Robinson

Ruins of Blakethwaite Smelting Mill

Lead ore was smelted here from 1821. The closure date is disputed, with 1878 being the most often quoted year. The lead was smelted using peat with a little coal. The arched building in the foreground was probably for peat storage, the furnace was part of the ruin seen at the base of the hill, with the route of the flue traceable up the hillside to a now demolished chimney. Just behind and above the furnace ruin is a lime kiln, most likely built to provide the mortar for constructing the rest of the buildings on the site.

David Robinson

Entrance to Bunton Level

I've taken the 8-figure grid reference for this by comparison with Andy Waddington's photo NY9401 : Bunton Hush above the entrance to Bunton Level slightly adjusted from looking at aerial mapping.

Stephen Craven

Boundary stone near to Great Punchard Head

Great Punchard Head is an area of moorland drained by a number of minor streams that combine to form Great Punchard Gill. The boundary stone is one of a number marked on OS maps running (initially) near to east from Water Crag.

Trevor Littlewood