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Mallerstang is a dale at the head of the upper Eden Valley, Cumbria and was originally part of Westmorland. Even though it is in Cumbria, I’ve included the walk in this series of Accessible Yorkshire walks as it falls within the boundaries of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. (Did you know that 25% of the Yorkshire Dales National Park is in Cumbria?)
This linear walk follows a section of the Pennine Bridleway from The Thrang to The Water Cut. The Water Cut, a stone sculpture by Mary Bourne, sits high up on the eastern side of the Mallerstang valley and is one of ten stone sculptures that are located at intervals along the length of the river Eden. To see the sculpture close up, and to get the awesome views over down the valley, you first have to climb up the side of the hill. Although this route follows a bridle path and in generally the terrain is good, it is up hill all the way to the top and therefore requires a robust all terrain wheelchair/mobility scooter.
The bridleway begins at The Thrang. Follow the signs for PENNINE BRIDLEWAY and once through the gate it’s upwards and onwards following the track. You really can’t get lost unless, of course, you chose to wander off the path, which is not recommended. It is just over a mile to the sculpture and it’s a steady climb all the way. Be prepared for some stunning views down the valley and across to Wild Boar Fell.
Nearest Accessible toilets: Market Square in Kirkby Stephen. There is also an accessible toilet in the Black Bull, Nateby.
Listen to Debbie's interview with Clare Balding when together they climbed to Watercut.