Length: 5.5 miles. Height change: 2,000ft. Time: 2hrs.
This is a moderate walk with a nice long warm up section and gradual climb, before the effort must start near Keld. Starting in Muker, the main path up the Swale valley leaves via the small road passing to the left of the Literary Institute. Following the signs through the back of the village, you will eventually come to a gate leading into meadows, across which there is a flagged path. In June, these meadows are covered in wild flowers and are absolutely stunning. Follow this path and once it arrives at the river, turn left and follow the path up the valley on the left hand side of the river. Eventually you will follow the valley left and the path begins to gradually climb between ancient walls.
About half a mile further, you will come across another path. You now have a choice to make: you can turn sharp left and follow the path directly back to Muker or follow the path right and walk into Keld. In the summer, a farm shop will be open for light refreshments and there is the excellent Keld Lodge which serves beer and food. You can also make a small detour to visit East Gill Force or Kisdon Force – see map below.
If you go into Keld, you will need to return the way you came and continue straight on at the junction. The path now climbs up hill and as it does, the views get better and better: you will be able to look up Swiller Gill, see Crackpot Hall and look down the valley to Muker. Eventually the path meets the Kisdon Hill path and takes you all the way back to Muker.
Highly recommend you visit the Muker Teashop – it is on our Top Tips page and is definitely worth a visit.