Harewood Circular Walk

Went for a walk with a couple of friends, we started at the 5 mile circular walk at the Gate House. From here we had great views of  Harewood House and parkland, with the Wharfedale for background.  The walk takes you past the village set of TV's Emmerdale. At this point the walk we are a short way from our Eccup walk connected by a country way. The estate has a very successful Red Kite project, after a while you stop noticing them, but I like the sound of their smew! There are nicely renovated farm buildings along the undulating route.

We planned to have lunch at the Muddy Boots Cafe but it was shut due to staff shortage.  Fortunately, the Harewood Arms (Sam Smiths) on the Harrogate Road was open and serving food.  I am not a fan of their  bitter but half/half lemonade made the pint an adequate thirst quencher! The food was standard but the staff were friendly and it is cheap!

The last mile or so of the walk is on a permissive path through woods that run parallel to the A61, here we saw some fallow deer.  The thrill of the wild.

L & H came in for a cup of coffee then left for home.  Alice B. is at the Bookshop til 5.  I love my friends and enjoy their company but I am home alone for the first time in a week. It is Bliss.