The trail links the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Saltaire and Fountains Abbey as well as passing through stunning countryside in Bradford District and North Yorkshire.
The launch event at Bradford Cathedral from 9am to 10am is open to all, and celebrates the publication of a 60 page fully illustrated route guide with Ordnance Survey mapping which will be available to purchase on the day. The event also marks the start of a guided four-day inaugural walk of the trail beginning immediately after the launch ceremony at 10am. Finishing at Ripon Cathedral on Monday 2nd May, the walk coincides with the 1350th celebration of the founding of the Cathedral, and walkers will be invited, should they wish on arrival, to participate in the Beer Festival taking place that day as part of the weekend of festivities.
David Asher, Secretary of the Burley Bridge Association, said:
“The Yorkshire Heritage Way visits some of the most iconic historical sites in Yorkshire whilst walking through some of the best scenery the county has to offer, including the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Linking the centre of Bradford, one of the grandest cosmopolitan cities in the north of England with Ripon, one of the smallest and prettiest, the route also connects two of Yorkshire’s amazing World Heritage sites as well as two beautiful and historic cathedrals.
“Saltaire village is an outstanding example of a mid-nineteenth century model town demonstrating the social and economic impact of the textile industry, while Fountains Abbey is one of the largest and best preserved ruins of a Cistercian monastery in England.
“The route takes the walker through wildlife rich urban green corridors, stunning wooded valleys, alongside tranquil streams and rivers, across upland moor landscapes with extensive views, and past dramatic geological formations such as Brimham Rocks. There are many bridges to cross, including the thirteenth century Butterton Bridge built by Fountains Abbey monks which is featured on the waymarks along the route. The importance of constructing a bridge over the Wharfe at Burley will also be highlighted through providing a stronger link between communities and making attractions of the area accessible to a wider range of people all year round regardless of the river level. Whether walking, running or making a pilgrimage, the Heritage Way provides a bridge between the best of urban and rural Yorkshire!”
Those wishing to take part in the 4 day walk should register beforehand, especially if wishing to book a place on the minibus transport arrangements being organised for the second, third and fourth days. The itinerary will be:
Friday 29 April, Stage 1. Bradford Cathedral to Saltaire. 4.5 miles Departs 10am
Friday 29 April, Stage 2. Saltaire to Burley in Wharfedale. 8.5 miles Departs 1pm
Saturday 30 April, Stage 3: Burley in Wharfedale to Thruscross 10 miles: Departs 10am
Sunday 1 May, Stage 4: Thruscross to Brimham Rocks: 9 miles: Departs 10am
Monday 2 May, Stage 5: Brimham Rocks to Ripon: 10 miles: Departs 10am
A limited number of minibus places will be available to bring walkers back to Burley railway station on Saturday afternoon, and from Burley station to starting points on Sunday and Monday in time for the beginning of the walk. Return transport will be provided to Burley station at the end of each afternoon. A small contribution will be asked from walkers to cover transport costs. Burley in Wharfedale has frequent trains to and from Leeds, Bradford and Ilkley, and is linked by bus to Ilkley, Leeds and Harrogate.
Those wishing to register for one or more days walking should send names and phone numbers to [email protected]. This is especially important if transport is required to walk Stages 3, 4 or 5. Full details will then be provided.
Please get in touch by email if you would like further information, or phone David Asher on 07751 959494.