Drive & Stroll, with RON FREETHY. . .

LINTON has a grand old pub, a set of alms houses, ancient bridges and within strolling distance is the ancient parish church which it shares with Grassington. Nearby are the remnants of old water mills and cascades over the river Wharfe.

Standing proudly on the village green is an impressive obelisk which bears an inscription "A tribute to Linton-in-Craven on being adjudged first in the News Chronicle loveliest village in the North Contest in 1949."

The village is still beautiful, the memorial is still in fine fettle but the News Chronicle has long faded into history.

On the opposite side of the green is a lovely set of Alms Houses known as Fountaines Hospital established by Richard Fountaine in 1721. This is still inhabited by six local folk and fulfils the original benefactors will.

Linton has a packhorse bridge dating to the 14th century and nearby is an even older clapper bridge. The Fountaine Inn dates to the 17th century and has an excellent cuisine.

The best way to reach the church of St Michael and All Angels is via Threshfield, which is signed from Linton Village.

The church has Norman origins but it is thought that there could have been a Christian place of worship on the banks of the Wharfe as early as the 5th century.

Near the church is Linton Falls which are partly natural and partly industrial. Nearby are the remnants of old watermills including some of the associated machinery.

A footbridge over the Wharfe leads up a track to the car park in Grassington but a track from the "falls" leads along the riverside through glorious scenery to Grassington bridge. A right turn leads uphill to Grassington itself. This and Linton can be linked by a circular route which is as beautiful as any in the North of England.

Apart from giving enjoyment to those interested in history and industrial archeology there is much to please those interested in natural history. I watched dipper, kingfisher, common sandpiper, swallow and sand martin and there were lots of flowers to enjoy.

I saw white deadnettle, meadow cranesbill while rowan berries and hawthorn berries were beginning to ripen. My day began in sunshine but heavy warm rain was falling as I returned to Linton and a welcome snack at the Fountaine Inn.

How to get there:

From East Lancashire either pass through Colne and Earby and then on the A59 or pass through Gisburn and Long Preston to meet the A59. Beyond Skipton is a roundabout which indicates Grassington. Pass a large quarry on left and turn immediately right to Linton.

Readers interested in last week's Drive and Stroll article around Carlisle should contact Clitheroe Interchange on 01200 429832 for more information about Dales Rail services.