River Washburn from the 'Six Dales Trail'
Fewston Reservoir . . . looking north back towards Blubberhouses
Over the last few years Yorkshire Water have continuously improved the footpaths around the reservoirs. Even three years ago I was unable to push Lynne in her wheelchair completely around Fewston because of a steep and uneven section on the west side of the reservoir. But we did take advantage of the new 'wheel-chair' access route on the eastern side from Blubberhouses as far as the dam. Lynne used to enjoy the opportunity to be outdoors in the fresh air. Sadly she was unable to see the new accessible path recently created on the western side of the reservoir.
Yorkshire Water have posted new 'social distancing' signs around the reservoirs
Foxgloves were alongside the footpaths throughout my walk today!
The low water level in the reservoirs, after our record dry spell in April/May,
has revealed the original river course that runs from Fewston Reservoir into Swinsty
The water level in Swinsty Reservoir seemed particularly low
In the late morning I eventually crossed the main Swinsty dam. Earlier I had spotted a heron fishing in an arm of the reservoir so I was on the look-out for more bird life. Suddenly a flight of geese, in perfect 'v-formation', passed noisily 'honking' overhead.
Swinsty Hall, built in the late 15th and early 16th century, is just off the track close to the reservoir
'The best, most substantial and majestic of the old halls which grace the valley of Washburn . . . many chimneyed, mini-gabled, grey and grand, it stands amid a solitude of woods and fields, a pile of mystery, surrounded by legends'.
The England football manager, Gareth Southgate, has lived in the property for several years. I am sure he is also very much aware of the legend of Swinsty Hall's resident ghost! Close to Swinsty Hall, beneath the waters of the reservoir are the remains of New Hall, originally a home of the Fairfax family, whose members included Fernando Fairfax and the poet Edward Fairfax. Women in the nearby village of Timble were twice tried at York for witchcraft on the accusation of Edward, who suspected them of possessing his two daughters! It is also interesting to note that neighbouring Fewston Reservoir covers over another Fairfax home . . . Cragg Hall. Fascinating history, stories and legends!
Two Common Spotted Orchids nestled at the edge of the footpath
Walking due north, back towards Blubberhouses, I followed the footpath back along the shoreline of Fewston Reservoir. Lots of geese and ducks were floating on the placid grey waters of the reservoir. I was soon back at my starting point. As I approached the car park I had a clear view of St Andrew's Church above me on the hill-side. I always think it looks a bit like a Norwegian stave-church when viewed from a distance. It was built in the 1850's for the estate workers at Blubberhouses Hall, so that they did not have to walk to church in Fewston.
A delightful walk beside the River Washburn walking towards the Thruscross Dam
British Canoeing, through partnership with Yorkshire Water, also use this section of water for up to 30 days per year. It is known as England's premier dam-release river, offering 1.5 miles of Grade 2-3, fast flowing water. This provides white water paddling plus slalom and adventure racing.
Fast flowing 'whiskey-coloured' water crashes over one of the weir's in the River Washburn
*** please click on the above video . . . . it may take a few seconds to load! ***
The old mill pond that provided water for the large flax mill (now gone) in the 1800's
'Six Dales Trail' footpath sign beside the River Washburn
Just as I approached the Blubberhouses end of the valley I was treated to a truly awesome sight of a large deer! It was just a few metres infront of me . . . it leapt over a fence and bounded across the valley floor to the nearby woods. I was particularly taken with it's rich dark reddy/brown colour. It was the perfect end to a glorious walk! I then looked down to see yet another 'spotted orchid' beside the path.
Another 'spotted orchid' at the end of my walk beside the River Washburn
Regards
David
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. . . old beech tree beside the River Washburn