The nearby North Yorkshire Village of Clapham is well worth the 10 minute car journey along the scenic moor road. With an abundance of walks for all abilities from the Ingleborough Cave Trail to Ingleborough itself, it’s a must visit village for those who want to enjoy the outdoors.
What is there to see you ask?
Ingleborough Estate Nature Trail
The Ingleborough Estate Nature Trail winds its way alongside Clapham Beck towards Ingleborough cave and Trow Gill (keep reading to find out more about these places). Starting at the old sawmill, the trail takes you past the lake which offers a peaceful viewpoint, and through woodland packed with wildflowers. This is a gentle walk along mostly smooth terrain but with a small incline along the route. There are some gates and styles but the most part is pram and wheelchair friendly. Find out more here.
Ingleborough Cave
Ingleborough Cave is the premier show cave in the Yorkshire Dales. With floodlit passages and even concrete paths, sensible outdoor clothing and footwear is all you need to view this spectacular show cave. Plus, there are no steps so the cave is accessible with a pushchair and dogs are also welcome if they’re kept on a lead. The cave has seasonal opening times so please check ahead before planning your visit.
Trow Gill & Gaping Gill
This wooded limestone ravine, also known as Trow Gill, can be found beyond the Ingleborough Nature Trail. Historically an underground cavern, this dry gorge makes a scenic stop off point on your merry way up Ingleborough.
Gaping Gill is a well-known pothole located nearby in the bottom of a large crater in this limestone region. With a 365ft deep shaft, its exploration isn’t for the fight hearted and it is certainly recommended that you don’t tackle it alone. At bank holidays and peak times throughout the year, local caving clubs come together to set up a special platform with which they can lower eager explorers into the limestone abyss.
Norber Erratics
Norber Erratics are glacial erratic boulders and located on the southern side of Ingleborough. These large boulders are said to have been created in the last ice age having most likely been deposited by melting ice sheets.
Here’s a suggested walk to help you explore the erratics for yourself – Norber Erratics walking route.
Clapham also offers a few other local shops including their community run Village shop which offers some delights not found in your usual convenience store. It’s well worth popping your head in just to see a true display of community spirit!
With an abundance of walks for all abilities from the Ingleborough Cave Trail to Ingleborough itself, it’s a must visit village for those who want to enjoy the outdoors.
