Pike Howe

Heritage Site in Yorkshire

England

Pike Howe

Gill Bank The unoccupied Gill Bank near Thorgill. — Gill Bank Credit: T Eyre

Pike Howe, located in Yorkshire, England, is a well-known heritage site that attracts visitors from around the world. Situated on the outskirts of the picturesque village of Ambleside, Pike Howe is a historic landmark that showcases the rich cultural and historical significance of the region.

The site itself is a large hill, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It is believed to have been used for various purposes throughout history, including as a defensive structure during the Roman era. The remains of ancient fortifications can still be seen, adding to the site's intrigue and historical value.

Pike Howe is also associated with local folklore and legends, enhancing its appeal to visitors. One such tale tells of a hidden treasure buried somewhere within the hill, leading to numerous treasure hunters trying their luck over the years.

Today, Pike Howe is a popular spot for walkers and hikers, who can enjoy the breathtaking vistas while exploring the area. The site is easily accessible by foot, with well-marked trails leading to the top. It is also a great location for nature enthusiasts, as it is surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife.

In addition to its natural beauty, Pike Howe offers a glimpse into the region's past and serves as a testament to the area's historical significance. Its combination of history, folklore, and stunning views make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Yorkshire's heritage.

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Pike Howe Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.358/-0.93 or Grid Reference SE6996. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Gill Bank

The unoccupied Gill Bank near Thorgill.

T Eyre

Victorian postbox, Daleside Road, Rosedale East, North Yorkshire

In the wall of the Tree Relaxation Retreat.

Shell Grayson

Reminders of an industrial age

In the middle of the North York Moors National Park in sylvan Rosedale one comes across rows of 19th century workers cottages which look as though they could have been transported here from the old coal mining areas of County Durham. This little community is known as Hill Cottages and sits directly below some of the main workings of the Rosedale East iron ore mines. The cottages probably date from the 1860's and reflect the rapid industrialisation of the dale following the discovery of thick seams of iron bearing rocks. In 1851 the population of Rosedale East was 373, but 20 years later it had swelled to 2041 as the mines were in full production. The old 25" OS maps show these cottages with rows of outbuildings at the rear, which one would assume were the 'facilities'.

Gordon Hatton

School Row, East Rosedale

One of three sets of terraced cottages spaced out along Daleside Road. Like the other terraces, this must have been built in the 1860's to accommodate miners and their families. School Row is different to the other terraces as the houses look rather bigger and also have generously sized front gardens. The name seems odd as the only school shown on old maps is another 500m along the road just beyond Hill Cottages. There is a village hall opposite which was built as a reading room.

Gordon Hatton

Low Baring: The end of the line

The former terminus of the east branch of the Rosedale Ironstone Railway. The branch line was built to serve the mines on the east side of the dale. It was opened in August 1865 by the North Eastern Railway although it is likely construction may have begun by the mine owners. The 4¾ mile route from the junction at Blakey Ridge involves a descent of over 100 metres around the head of the dale and is today a well graded cycle route. Beyond the mines and the old kilns the route terminated at Low Baring or more commonly known as ‘The Depots’. The goods shed and the coal bunkers are still standing; the shed can be seen in the distance in the feature image. The cottages are now very ruinous, partially demolished, and their footprint fenced off. Also still standing, but out of site, is the Depot Cottage, which looks like it has recently changed hands and the whole area is being cleaned up. At its peak the railway worked throughout the night. In the 1870s, it took away 1,000 to 1,500 tons per day, although this figure would have included ore from the west mines. Transported in were coal, foodstuffs, fertilisers, timber, and oil. The railway was also used to take some farm produce out of the dale. The east mines closed in 1926 with the railway being dismantled by 1929. For sources and link to an old photograph see my blog Link

Mick Garratt

Thorgill Crag

Looking towards Thorgill Crag.

T Eyre

Ruined barn near Thorgill

This barn has deteriorated since the last photo was taken in October 2011. Link

T Eyre

Near Thorgill

Looking NE across Rosedale towards Hill Cottages.

T Eyre

Stone trod by Daleside Road

A small stretch of stone trod by Daleside Road.

T Eyre

Rosedale WW1 memorial

WW1 memorial at School Row, Rosedale.

T Eyre

Above Thorgill

Looking north from the railway line.

T Eyre

Above Hobb Crag

Looking SE, the snow was starting to thaw at this point.

T Eyre

Melting snowdrift

The thawing snow made the return journey towards Blakey Junction harder.

T Eyre

Mine workings below Sheriff's Pit

Prior to the coming of the railway and the sinking of the shaft at Sheriff's pit for ease of extract and rail export, the mine workings were by levels into the hillside at a lower elevation. The course of a level or perhaps a tubway, can be seen here below Sheriff's Pit.

David Robinson

River Seven at Low Thorgill

David Robinson

Rosedale Ebenezer Primitive Methodist Chapel

Built to serve the expanding mining population in the 1870s. With population reduction following the end of mining in the 1920s the chapel has shared its space over the years with various other enterprises such as an activity centre.

David Robinson