Raydale

Valley in Yorkshire Richmondshire

England

Raydale

Path down to Semer Water There are only two lakes in the Yorkshire Dales, Malham Tarn and Semer Water. Semer Water was formed during the last Ice Age by a moraine which effectively dammed the valley. The lake today is a shadow of its former self but is still three miles in circumference and 45 feet deep. This is the footpath back down to Semer Water in evening sunlight. — Path down to Semer Water Credit: Marathon

Raydale is a picturesque valley located in the county of Yorkshire, England. Situated within the Yorkshire Dales National Park, it is surrounded by rolling hills and stunning natural landscapes. The valley stretches for approximately 10 miles, with its main village being Stalling Busk.

Raydale is characterized by its lush green meadows, dotted with traditional stone-walled farms and charming cottages. The valley is traversed by the River Ure, which meanders its way through the landscape, providing a tranquil and scenic backdrop. The river is home to a variety of wildlife, including trout, which makes it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts.

The valley is renowned for its rich agricultural heritage, with farming being a significant part of the local economy. The fertile land is used for livestock grazing and cultivation of crops such as barley and oats. Visitors can often witness sheep grazing on the hillsides, adding to the idyllic rural charm.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Raydale offers ample opportunities for hiking, cycling, and horse riding. The valley is crisscrossed by numerous footpaths and bridleways, allowing visitors to explore the breathtaking scenery at their own pace. Popular trails include the Raydale Loop, which takes you on a circular route around the valley, and the path leading to Semer Water, a beautiful lake nestled in the heart of Raydale.

Raydale is a place where one can escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. Its tranquil atmosphere, stunning landscapes, and rich heritage make it a beloved destination for both locals and tourists alike.

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Raydale Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.271079/-2.1356281 or Grid Reference SD9186. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Path down to Semer Water

There are only two lakes in the Yorkshire Dales, Malham Tarn and Semer Water. Semer Water was formed during the last Ice Age by a moraine which effectively dammed the valley. The lake today is a shadow of its former self but is still three miles in circumference and 45 feet deep. This is the footpath back down to Semer Water in evening sunlight.

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Semer Water at sunset

There are only two lakes in the Yorkshire Dales, Malham Tarn and Semer Water. Semer Water was formed during the last Ice Age by a moraine which effectively dammed the valley. The lake today is a shadow of its former self but is still three miles in circumference and 45 feet deep. Legend has it that there is a drowned village under the water.

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View from a footpath above Semer Water

There are only two lakes in the Yorkshire Dales, Malham Tarn and Semer Water. Semer Water was formed during the last Ice Age by a moraine which effectively dammed the valley. The lake today is a shadow of its former self but is still three miles in circumference and 45 feet deep. Legend has it that there is a drowned village under the water. The hill in the distance is Addlebrough.

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Semer Water

There are only two lakes in the Yorkshire Dales, Malham Tarn and Semer Water. Semer Water was formed during the last Ice Age by a moraine which effectively dammed the valley. The lake today is a shadow of its former self but is still three miles in circumference and 45 feet deep. Legend has it that there is a drowned village under the water. The River Bain, which flows out of Semer Water, at two and half miles is the shortest river in England.

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Marsett Lane

This is just outside the hamlet of Marsett on the way to Countersett. The hill in the distance is Addlebrough.

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Footbridge over Cragdale Water

The footpath between Stalling Busk and Marsett is wet at the best of times. Cragdale water and then Raydale Beck are crossed by footbridges. This is the first one.

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A barn in Raydale

This view is from a meeting of footpaths downhill from Stelling Busk on the way to Cragdale Water.

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The head of Semer Water at sunset

There are only two lakes in the Yorkshire Dales, Malham Tarn and Semer Water. Semer Water was formed during the last Ice Age by a moraine which effectively dammed the valley. The lake today is a shadow of its former self but is still three miles in circumference and 45 feet deep. This is the view from the footpath looking back to the head of Semer Water at sunset.

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Erratic at Semer Water

Semer Water was formed during the last Ice Age by a moraine which effectively dammed the valley and leaving erratic boulders like this one behind. The lake today is a shadow of its former self but is still three miles in circumference and 45 feet deep.

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Semer Water Bridge

The River Bain flows from Semer Water under the bridge here. As a tributary of the River Ure, it is one of the shortest, named rivers in England.

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Part of Semer water

There are only two lakes in the Yorkshire Dales, Malham Tarn and Semer Water. This is Semer Water in Wensleydale. It was clearly fuller than normal making this look like a mangrove swamp. Legend has it that there is a drowned village under the water.

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Semer Water

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Semer Water

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Semer Water seen from Marsett Lane

There are only two lakes in the Yorkshire Dales, Malham Tarn and Semer Water. Semer Water was formed during the last Ice Age by a moraine which effectively dammed the valley. The lake today is a shadow of its former self but is still three miles in circumference and 45 feet deep. Legend has it that there is a drowned village under the water.

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Old barn seen from Marsett Lane

The barns in the Yorkshire Dales are in varying stages of dilapidation. This one seems quite good and it appears to have a new roof. The hill in the distance on the left is Addlebrough.

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Marsett Beck

This looks downstream from Marsett Bridge. Marsett Beck flows into Crooks Beck a short distance ahead which in turn flows into Semer Water.

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Track between two streams

The track has just crossed Raydale Beck and is heading to the footbridge over Cragdale Water.

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Isolated barn in a field

The barns in the Yorkshire Dales are in varying stages of dilapidation. This one seems in quite good condition and it appears to have a decent roof. This view is from the footpath which leads from Busk Lane towards Semer Water.

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Raydale is located at Grid Ref: SD9186 (Lat: 54.271079, Lng: -2.1356281)

Division: North Riding

Administrative County: North Yorkshire

District: Richmondshire

Police Authority: North Yorkshire