Garsdale

Valley in Yorkshire South Lakeland

England

Garsdale

Swarthgill Service Station Credit: Anthony Parkes

Garsdale is a picturesque valley located in the county of Yorkshire, England. Situated in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, it is surrounded by rolling hills, stunning landscapes, and abundant natural beauty. The valley is known for its tranquil atmosphere and unspoiled surroundings, making it a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

The main settlement within Garsdale is the small village of Garsdale Head. Despite its size, it offers a range of amenities, including a local pub and a railway station, which connects the valley to nearby towns and cities. The village is nestled amidst lush greenery, with charming stone houses and traditional architecture adding to its rural charm.

Garsdale is renowned for its impressive viaduct, which was built in the 19th century by the renowned engineer, Sir Joseph Locke. The structure spans the valley, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. It is not only a marvel of engineering but also a popular spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The valley is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and various plant species. Garsdale offers ample opportunities for nature walks, hiking, and birdwatching, with several well-marked trails crisscrossing the area.

Overall, Garsdale is a hidden gem within the Yorkshire Dales, offering visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the countryside. Its natural beauty, charming village, and stunning viaduct make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful and idyllic getaway.

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Garsdale Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.31145/-2.4427656 or Grid Reference SD7190. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Swarthgill Service Station

Anthony Parkes

Walking path beside coniferous plantation

The walkers are descending on a track over moorland into Garsdale following an ascent to Aye Gill Pike.

Trevor Littlewood

Little Winterscales Ford

This irish bridge ford on the River Clough is found at Little Winterscales.

John Walton

Gillfeet Gill Ford

This ford is found on the road crossing Gillfeet Gill.

John Walton

Old milestone

This West Riding CC milestone on the A684 is on a narrow verge at Bellow End on the south side of the road. Although now leaning slightly backwards it is set to almost its full height with 20cm of backing stone set into the ground. Going down Garsdale the previous milestone, Hawes 11/Sedbergh 5 is the only one lost from this route which was ceded to Cumbria in 1974. It is Grade II listed 1384040.

Chris Minto

Old milestone

Of the 8 remaining West Riding CC milestones from Ribblehead viaduct to Sedbergh, on the A684, this is the only one with a foundry name. WILLIAM TOWLER/GLOBE FOUNDRY/LEEDS.

Chris Minto

Old milestone

The Hawes 13 milestone on the A684 has its back to a drystone wall near Nether House on the south side of the road. 615 of these milestones were set up for the West Riding County Council in 1893/94 not long after the formation of County Councils. Gill and Frank Stead, stonemasons, of Mirfield won the contract which stated that the work had to be done in 12 months or they would incur a penalty. Considering the size of the West Riding that was a tremendous feat but they succeeded. The WRCC didn't always have stones erected on old tollroads. They wanted to promote new trade routes. It is Grade II listed 1384039.

Chris Minto

Valley of Holebeck Gill

The shallow, upper valley of Holebeck Gill heading north to where it will meet the Clough River which drains Garsdale. The Howgill Fells are in the distance beyond both the Clough River and the River Rawthey.

Trevor Littlewood

Stile with walls beyond

The stile and other similar ones allow easy access along the ridge rising to Aye Gill Pike, the highest point along a ridge between Garsdale and Dentdale.

Trevor Littlewood

Moorland of north-west ridge of Aye Gill Pike

Aye Gill Pike is the high point of a long ridge oriented almost north-west to south east between two valleys, Garsdale and Dentdale. The broad western end of the ridge is seen here, descending towards Sedbergh.

Trevor Littlewood

Moorland of, or above Copplethwaite

The moorland is along the ridge north-west of Aye Gill Pike. Baugh Fell is the hill beyond.

Trevor Littlewood

The slopes of Aye Gill Pike

The track up the fell can be seen to the left of the wall.

John Illingworth

Old Milestone by the A684 near Bellow End

Metal plate attached to stone post by the A684, in parish of Garsdale (South Lakeland District), 20m West of Bellow Hill Turn, Thwaite Head Gill, on narrow verge, on South side of road. Sedburgh V iron casting, erected by the County Council in the 19th century. Inscription reads:- : SEDBERGH / 4 MILES : : SEDBERGH & HAWES / ROAD / GARSDALE : : HAWES / 12 MILES : Grade II listed. List Entry Number: 1384040 Link

Milestone Society National ID: YW_HWSB12

C Minto

Old Milestone by the A684, Garsdale

Milestone by the A684, in parish of Garsdale (Eden District), Ex. Yorkshire West Riding, near Nether House, back to drystone wall. Inscription reads:- : SEDBERGH / 3 MILES : : SEDBERGH & HAWES / ROAD / GARSDALE : : HAWES / 13 MILES : Grade II listed. List Entry Number: 1384039 Link

Milestone Society National ID: YW_HWSB13

Milestone Society