Now is an excellent time to get out and about and what better way to do it than by shanks' pony! The Yorkshire Dales are well known for their stunning scenery and great walking country. Masham has a host of lovely walks right on its doorstep and there really is something for everyone. I thought I would highlight The Ripon Rowel Walk - a circular walk which passes through Masham, and surrounding  villages as well as some historic local points of interest. 
The walk is some 50 miles in total and traverses moorland, woodland, green lanes and field and river paths. You may be pleased to know that the walk is made up of smaller distinct stages as well as some smaller circular walks, which branch off from these so no need to do it all in one go! 
Points of interest close to Masham, include the Druid's Temple at Ilton and Hackfall Woods. The temple is a circle of stones, a Victorian folly which was dreamt up by the landowner to give local men much-needed work at the time and which enjoys dramatic views of nearby Leighton Reservoir. Hackfall Woods, which was a pleasure garden for the Victorians, and which features stone follies, grottos, waterfalls and a fountain has been restored in recent years and is well worth a visit in its own right. Turner was so impressed by the landscape there he immortalised it in a painting. William Wordsworth also mentioned Hackfall in his guide for tourists.

Mock ruin at Hackfall

Druid's Temple, Ilton

A handy A5 size book/booklet of the walk has been produced by Les Taylor of the Ripon Group Ramblers Association and this can be purchased from the Masham Community Office in Masham's Little Market Place. The first stage of the walk, which starts in Ripon and passes the 14th century Markenfield Hall complete with moat and black swans, can also be read about on a walking enthusiast's website - terrysmithphotowalks.co.uk. For more details about Hackfall Woods and walks visit www.hackfall.org.uk