Sunday 2nd April 2000
Leader Enid Parker
Sunday April 2nd 2000 was not the most sparkling walking day — but there was a good turnout at Airton Green. After walking a short distance along the Hellifield Road we turned right at a wall stile and crossed a couple of crofts before joining Scosthrop Lane - the Settle to Airton road.
After about a quarter of a mile the Kirk Gait traverses the road.
This path from Otterburn to Kirkby Malham was followed for many centuries by worshippers on their way to and from Kirkby Malham church. We too turned right here at the finger sign, noting a well-preserved limekiln by the pathside.
The Kirk Gait ascends Warber Hill before dropping down through the trees to the footbridge crossing Kirkby Beck by the church. The road by the church was formerly Pig Street: the village school was here and a small bobbin mill. Several cottages and the original pub, the 'Sun Inn', were demolished to extend the graveyard.
The walk continued down the lane towards the Aire, Hanlith Bridge and a view of Hanlith Hall, the former home of the Sergeantson family. There is a carving of a sergeant with a halberd on the facade.
Crossing the bridge we turned right along the Pennine Way back to Airton and were pleased on the way to see the newly planted trees near the old mill leat.
An easy 4 1/2 mile walk with one easy climb.
E.P.