The map and following description of the walk (Stage 4 of the Wolds Way as walked in the summer of 2007) were kindly sent in by Clive Inman for inclusion in the January 2008 edition of Area News.

Wolds Way Section 4 Saturday 18th August 2007

Were you there on the day? If so, Clive’s account will bring back memories. If not, perhaps you will be inspired to walk this favourite stretch of the Wolds Way.

Despite a poor weather forecast, an encouraging number of walkers assembled to board the bus in Norton Car Park. We had a short pleasant ride, alighting at Fridaythorpe from where we headed west and soon entered the typical dry valleys of this area. Did I see Blubberdale indicated on a wayside notice? No blubbering for us, as the obvious enthusiasm for the walk had now set in.

A short break allowed the party to consolidate and enjoy the views. Then we turned north and on into Thixendale village with its welcome tea-room. Regrettably, we hear this is soon to close.

Beyond the village, we met two stiff but brief climbs before turning east alongside the woodland of North Plantation. A pleasant, level stroll brought us to the parting of the ways. Ahead lay the old route leading to the Burdale Road, but we descended to the now accessible site of Wharram Percy medieval village, truly a special place, where we had lunch near the fishpond and church ruins.

Duly refreshed, we then headed east, crossing the disused Malton to Driffield railway track and up to the minor road near Bella Farm. North again into Wharram le Street and on through the village towards Malton.

We carefully crossed the B1248 and headed north to the B1253. After crossing these two roads, we descended on to the farm access track between North Grimston and Wood House. Passing through the farm, we entered the long woodland plantation leading to High Bellamanear and Settrington Beacon.

After a short refreshment break, it was but a stroll to the minor road where stood the welcoming sight of our transport back to Norton. Time to sit back, reflect on the day and remind ourselves of our extreme good fortune in having such wonderful walking country all around us.

Congratulations are due to our organiser, leader, backmarker and the bus company for a very successful event in celebration of 25 years of Wolds Way walking.