Free tours on offer in area of beauty

Paul Jeeves

THE heritage of one of the country’s finest landscapes is being showcased to the public with a series of free tours.

The Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in North Yorkshire has a wealth of hidden heritage sites, many of which are not normally open to the public.

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To highlight some of the sites, a four-day series of events has been arranged by the officials to coincide with the national Heritage Open Days.

The programme includes a walk through the history of Gouthwaite Lodge Farm, looking at farm buildings and historic features, on Thursday, September 9.

A guided walk will take place the following day to explore Swinton Park – the landscape park, grounds and gardens to Swinton Castle.

On Saturday, September 11, there will be a visit to the Witch of the Woods, a 400-year-old cottage set in a wooded landscape between Fountains Abbey and Hackfall, and the Nidderdale Museum in Pateley Bridge will open its doors free the next day.

All events are free, but places are limited and booking required. For details or to book, visit www.nidderdaleaonb.org.uk or call the area office on 01423 712950.