Ilkley to Shipley to Otley.

I have been trying to get away for a few days all summer and not succeeded for various reasons. Now is a chance and the forecast is good.  I’ve had a circular walk in Yorkshire in mind for some time.

My walk loosely follows some of The Welcome Way, a route devised to link Otley, Burley, Bingley and Baildon. These towns have declared themselves Walkers Are Welcome communities to promote walking in the area. For some reason, Ilkley was omitted from the route, although it passes very close by. I have adapted the route to create a more logical, rural three-day itinerary for my purposes not actually visiting Bingley or Burley.

I will use other LDWs: the Dales High Way, Dales Way Links, and The Airedale Way on my Ilkley – Shipley – Otley – Ilkley circuit.

Suitable overnight accommodation is booked for the first night along the route, Travel Lodge Shipley. When I see the prices of the second night in Otley, I am not sure how welcome walkers really are, I’m holding back booking, something will turn up.

As  I will be carrying all my needs with me, why not include this in my 52 Ways of Walking challenge? Walk with a pack. Now I know I am not backpacking in the sense of carrying a tent, sleeping bag and cooking  equipment.  I’ve had a lifetime enjoyment from that style of walking, now I prefer to travel lighter and have a room at the end of the day. But I am carrying a pack heavier than my normal load.

My route should be varied with moorland,  countryside, woods, and urban canals.

I plan to catch a bus from Skipton to Ilkley for the start,  see you there.