July 2026, I took a long weekend to walk this short pilgrimage across the Yorkshire Dales. 57km from Giggleswick to Middleham. The Birthplace of British Horseracing.
Finding this short pilgrimage, I took the opportunity to take a long weekend to keep my walking fitness in check. A route dedicated to this medieval Saint, known for performing baptisms at the numerous natural springs across the Yorkshire Dales. A trail full of history from the Ice Age to Richard III; I also managed to pick a weekend that offered a cool break between the heatwaves melting the UK.
Video to follow of this adventure.
Trail of springs and Ice Age relics
St. Alkelda’s Way
I’m on a roll. The Walsingham Camino completed in March, The St. James’ Way finished a couple of weeks ago and I have a big one coming up later in the year, that I’m itching to start; my energy and soul is currently fully recharged. Keen to keep the momentum going, I’ve found a 3 day pilgrimage across the Yorkshire Dales – Although in my typical style, I’m doing it in 2! St. Alkelda’s Way,…
St. Alkelda’s Way Day One – Kettlewell
The choice was either do 2 of the 3 big hills on the first day or just do the one. Naturally I opted for the former; however a side quest had me adding an extra one! I started later than I would have liked. My BnB only served a cooked breakfast between 8.30 and 9.00. I was ready on the dot. I wolfed it down and hit the trail. From St. Alkelda’s church, Giggleswick, I…
St. Alkelda’s Way Day Two – Middleham
It had gone 9 when I returned to the route. Again cooked breakfast was between 8.30 and 9. Must be a Yorkshire thing. Drizzle greeted me on the climb out of Kettlewell and up on to the fells. It came in waves, never heavy enough for the full on waterproofs. The first 5km was the toughest of the day, levelling off, crossing into Richmondshire. The single track road passed by grazing cows that watched me…
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Stu's Camino 