Birks Fell
A spacious ridge between Wharfedale and Littondale
Summary
Birks Fell is situated in-between the valleys of Wharfedale and Littondale. Until recently, it has been labelled as a Marilyn. A peak that is above 2000ft, which is also classified as part of the Dales 30. With extensive views into Littondale, and a long exposed grassy ridge, the walk offers a place to truly stride out and roam the dale.
The Hike
We began at Starbotton. The route took us along narrow paths, over stone bridges and through farmland fields. Whilst continuing, it wasn’t long until the route rose steeply through a lovely area of woodland. The path became narrow as we slowly crested out of the trees where views of Littondale revealed itself. I love the surprise of seeing a view that you weren’t expecting.
Onwards, we continued upwards. Thick grey clouds rolled in and those lovely sunshine views we had before all seemed but a distance memory. The wind picked up, the temperate dropped, and dull grey clouds loomed over us. Don’t you just love the ever-changing British weather? - I thought. On the summit, we continued to follow the dry-stone walling, taking us onto a long and exposed grassy ridge. It felt remote, wild and gave me an immense feeling of space. The ridge offered extensive views down into Littondale and although it was bleak; the simplicity of walking, putting one foot in front of the other, and not having to think about anything else, felt great!
Meanwhile, not long before the summit, stood a fine body of water that was Birks Tarn. As I arrived, the wind swept fiercely across the water, a rawness that created a howling, rippling effect. Soon after the Tarn, we arrived at the summit of Birks Fell. An exposed area that can be easily missed, especially if you are not looking for it. Despite that, it was good to tick another one off the Dales 30 off.
From the fell we quickly retraced our steps, following the wall line before descending steeply down into Buckden. About halfway down, we found an old, dilapidated barn which sat alongside a quiet stream. It looked a bit out of place, but it offered an enjoyable place to stop, re-energise, and take in the rolling landscape.
Afterwards, we descended and arrived just before Buckden, where we followed the trail beside the stream bed and Birks Wood. The route was extremely flat, but it was a great way to end the hike whilst we surrounded ourselves by the high fells of the Dales. Ending the day with a Wharfedale pint at the Fox and Hound pub.
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