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Access the Dales at Swinton Bivouac: New Hub Opens with Tramper to Explore Druids Temple
- accessthedales
- Aug 17
- 3 min read
We’re thrilled to unveil our brand-new Access the Dales hub at Swinton Bivouac, made possible by the generosity of Open Country and delivered through the partnership with the Nidderdale National Landscape, who continue their brilliant work in ensuring access for everyone across the Dales. The all-terrain Tramper will be housed at Swinton Bivouac, opening the way for visitors of all abilities to experience the enchanting woodland path to the Druid’s Temple.
The Druid’s Temple is an atmospheric folly crafted in the late 18th century by William Danby to resemble Stonehenge, built as a public works project to pay locals a shilling a day. Composed of standing stones, altars, and mysterious chambers, it has since become steeped in folklore, offering a moody and evocative escape amid the woods. With the Tramper available, reaching this remarkable site is now genuinely inclusive.
The walk from Swinton Bivouac is gentle and woodland-clad—a perfect stroll for anyone—and with the Tramper, touring this route and beyond becomes a joyful, unfrustrated experience. It’s a shining testament to the Access the Dales vision: open up access, remove barriers, and bring the beauty of the Dales to everyone. The wider mission of the Nidderdale National Landscape can be explored here.
Beyond Swinton, adventurous souls can head to Brimham Rocks, where other-worldly balancing rock formations rise dramatically against the skyline—well-suited to Tramper-accessible paths for a uniquely sculptural landscape experience. For serenity beside the water, Swinsty Reservoir offers wide, level paths and plentiful wildlife—a peaceful complement to the woodlands of Swinton.
To further enrich the outdoor experience, two exciting guidebooks stand out:
First is “Walks Without Stiles”—a collaboration between Debbie North and Jonathan Smith, hosted via Where2Walk. This engaging guide describes 32 “stile-free” walks across the Yorkshire and Cumbrian Dales, from gentle riverside rambles to more challenging climbs of the Dales 30 mountains. Each route includes a detailed description, sketch map, vibrant photography, anecdotes, and local insight. Its foreword is written by Amanda Owen, the Yorkshire Shepherdess and Patron of the Access the Dales charity, adding heartfelt authenticity to the project. The book was created by Debbie (a wheelchair user and access champion) and Jonathan (a seasoned local walking guide), united in creating opportunities for anyone—families, wheelchair users, ageing walkers, or those with dogs—to enjoy walking without impediment.
Alongside that, the North Yorkshire Accessible Walks for All guide, part of the Ordnance Survey Pathfinder series, is another resource written by Debbie North (available here). Published in September 2024, this brand-new guide focuses entirely on accessible routes across North Yorkshire—covering the Dales, the Moors, the coast, and areas near Richmond, Ripon, Thirsk, and York. It offers 33 wheelchair- and pushchair-friendly walks, crafted for families, gentle explorers, and those needing accessible terrain, each thoughtfully mapped for clarity and ease.
Together, these books pair wonderfully with our Swinton hub: one makes the region more discoverable, the other makes it more navigable. Whether you’re planning your first Tramper adventure or a confident walker seeking new paths, they’re the perfect companions for exploring the Dales confidently and joyfully.
With the Swinton hub now in place, accessible walks, magic follies, sculptural rocks, and water’s edge tranquillity are no longer out of reach. Thanks to Open Country, Nidderdale National Landscape, and Access the Dales, the doors are wide open—come explore.
