Buckden to Starbotton Hillside and River Walk, Upper Wharfdale

This 8.7 km circular from Buckden climbs steadily out of the village to gain the open hillside above Upper Wharfedale, where wide views unfold across the dale and the surrounding fells. The path traces the contours northwards, passing the distinctive Cow Pasture Barn, one of the many traditional field barns that characterise this corner of the Yorkshire Dales.

Continuing along the hillside, the route gradually descends into the small stone village of Starbotton. From here, the return follows the valley floor beside the River Wharfe, an easier stretch along pasture and riverside paths that leads steadily back to Buckden. Look out for the old lime kiln set into the slopes, a reminder of the dale's working past.

With around 328 m of ascent spread over roughly two and a half hours, it is a satisfying half-day outing that combines an airy upper path with a gentle riverside return, sampling both halves of classic Wharfedale scenery in a single loop.