Public access is available along the loop of former railway in Rosedale.
This is now open access land for walkers, but under agreements with respective landowners, the National Park Authority has negotiated public access for dog-walkers, for pedal cycles and for horses, though horse-riders need to obtain a free annual permit first.
The NPA has carried out improvement works to the track-bed and over the last few years the western side has become much easier to walk and cycle. We re-opened the moorland drains at the head of the valley 18 months ago and have an ongoing programme of works continuing around to the eastern end at Depot Cottages.
The NYMNP, have produced an information leaflet about the loop of the former railway in Rosedale which has been available locally and which is detailed below.
History
From 1861 to 1926 this railway carried iron ore from mines in Rosedale over the high moorland to the north-west and down to join the main rail network at Battersby Junction. Steam engines pulled up to 15 loaded wagons around the dale heads, but the hill itself with a maximum gradient of 1 in 5 was negotiated by incline tramway.Public enjoymentThe route of the former railway from Bank Foot, up the Incline and over the High Moors to Blakey Ridge is now a public bridleway for walkers, horse-riders and cyclists.
In Rosedale, the line is not a public right of way, but access has been provided through negotiated agreement between local landowners, the national park authority and cyclists enabling walkers, horse-riders and cyclists to explore the whole of the magnificent loop. Dogs are not allowed on the surrounding moorland but on leads, can walk the Rosedale loop, but .please consider exploring a non-moorland route during the ground bird nesting season (1st March to 31st July) to give these rare birds maximum peace to rear their young.
An ongoing programme of maintenance and repair will target the important industrial archaeology, protect the earthworks and retain the route’s unique character as a rough moorland track.
Moorland Management.
This treasured landscape relies on the continuation of traditional management such as heather burning and grouse shooting, so, if asked please help by waiting for a short period while this work takes place.
Always follow the countryside code and look out for signs indicating restrictions on access land.
ACCESS
Much of Rosedale Railway is over remote and exposed moorland, so watch the weather and be sure that you are properly equipped before you set out.
Cyclists give way to walkers and horse-riders. Horse-riding the loop in Rosedale is by annual permit; currently at no charge – please contact Spaunton Estate Office for details: 01759 371983
Dogs can seriously harm ground nesting birds and sheep. Please keep them on a lead at all times.
Motor vehicles and motorbikes are not permitted.
Uncontrolled Fire can devastate moorland which may never recover. Don’t light fires.
Rosedale Railway may be closed if the fire risk becomes extreme.
Litter is dangerous as well as unsightly – take it home. Fences and Walls keep some animals in and others out. Don’t climb walls. Please leave gates as you find them
North York Moors National Park Authority, Bondgate, Helmsley, York, YO62 5BP Tel 01439 770657 www.northyorkmoors.org.uk
