From Malham I continued south (as always) on the Pennine Way.
Tuesday 30th August 2016
Left Yorkshire Dales to walk through farmland and along canals to Gargrave and Thornton-in-Craven. A couple were walking Pennine Way in same direction, but quickly left them behind.
Then over high moorland, passing through villages but feeling more and more remote. A beautiful evening bringing out colours, particularly red grasses. I was walking into darkness in attempt to get to Top Withins bothy, which I found still existed but was locked. Set up bivi next to it while midges feasted [on me].
Distance: 25 miles [view on map]
Spending: £15
Top Withins/Withens is an old ruined farm house in the hills said to be inspiration for Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë. The weather was mild when I was there, but it still felt very remote and one can imagine it being a harsh place to live much of the time.
Despite the remoteness of Top Withins, it is popular with tourists. I was awoken the next morning by a Chinese Emile Brönte fan who had travelled up from London for one night just for a quick visit at dawn. My presence didn’t seem to bother her, in fact the chance to chat to a wild camper seemed to enhance her sightseeing experience!