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Withernsea Circular Walk 3.64mi A Brief History of Withernsea Withernsea is a historic seaside town on the East Yorkshire coast, shaped by fishing, farming, and the sea itself. Its name dates back to Saxon times, originally recorded as Whithornsea , meaning “white thorn by the water.” Over centuries, coastal erosion gradually pushed the settlement closer to the sea, reshaping both the landscape and the town’s identity. By the medieval period, Withernsea had grown enough to re

Yorkshire’s rivers have always been more than just waterways—they are storytellers, carrying the history of industry, community, and culture through the region. In my latest podcast episode , I explore the fascinating story of the Rivers Aire and Calder, their role in shaping Yorkshire’s past, and how they continue to enrich our lives today. Why the Aire and Calder Matter A Lifeline of Industry The Aire and Calder Navigation was once the beating heart of Yorkshire’s industria

Discover this week's top walking destinations across Yorkshire. From historic villages to scenic countryside trails, explore the best circular walks featured on The White Shire this week.

Brayton Circular Walk 4.74mi Early Origins Brayton, situated just south of Selby in North Yorkshire, carries a name with deep historical roots. The earliest recorded versions appear as Breide-tun  around 1030 and Bretone  in the Domesday Book of 1076. The name likely combines Old Norse breiðr  (“broad”) or the personal name Breithi , with Old English tūn  (“settlement”), reflecting the village’s origins in a wide, fertile area. Agrarian Village and Parish Roots Originally, Br

England is dotted with the remnants of villages that once thrived but have since vanished from the map. These lost villages tell stories of changing times, shifting economies, and sometimes tragic events. Exploring these sites offers a glimpse into the past and reveals how communities adapted or disappeared over centuries. This article delves into the history, reasons, and intriguing tales behind some of England's most fascinating lost villages. Exploring England's Lost Villa

Nestled in the heart of the Yorkshire Wolds lies a remarkable site that tells a story of England’s past like no other. Wharram Percy, a deserted medieval village, offers a unique glimpse into rural life centuries ago. This hidden gem is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts, walkers, and anyone curious about England’s medieval heritage. In this post, we will explore the fascinating history, the archaeological significance, and practical tips for visiting this captivating s

Cawood Circular Walk 5.75mi A Brief History of Cawood Cawood is a picturesque village in North Yorkshire. It sits on the banks of the River Ouse, about 11 miles south of York. This village is one of Yorkshire’s most historic river settlements. For over 500 years, it served as the residence of the Archbishops of York. At the heart of Cawood stands the Cawood Castle Gatehouse. Built in the 15th century, it was once part of a grand medieval palace complex. The castle welcomed se

Spalding-Moor Circular Walk 5.26mi A Brief History of Spalding Moor Spalding Moor is a historic area of low-lying land in the East Riding of Yorkshire, situated between Howden, Holme-on-Spalding-Moor, and the River Foulness. Its name likely derives from the Old English “Spaldingas” , meaning the people of Spald, combined with “Moor” , referring to the marshy or open lands that once dominated the area. Historically, Spalding Moor was a wetland and fenland area, shaped by drain

Clayton Circular Walk 4.58mi A Brief History of Clayton Clayton is a traditional Yorkshire village with a long rural history, found just west of Doncaster in South Yorkshire. Its name originates from Old English — “claeg tun” , meaning “settlement on clay soil”  — a nod to the rich farmland that has shaped its landscape for centuries. The village dates back to medieval times, and much of its layout still reflects its agricultural heritage, with farmhouses, cottages, and fiel

Barnburgh circular 4.58mi A Brief History of Barnburgh Barnburgh is a charming rural village in South Yorkshire, lying between Doncaster and Mexborough, surrounded by open countryside and farmland. Its history stretches back to at least Saxon times, with the name thought to mean “stronghold of Beorn’s people.” At the heart of the village stands St Peter’s Church, one of the oldest in the area, dating from the 12th century. It’s famous locally for the “Cat and Man” legend, whi

Helmsley Circular Walk I think the walk is about 4 miles...I forgot to turn the app off and left it on when driving!!! A Brief History of Helmsley Helmsley, often described as one of Yorkshire’s prettiest market towns, sits at the southern edge of the North York Moors National Park, where the rolling Howardian Hills meet wild heather moorland. Its history stretches back over a thousand years — it was first mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 as Elmeslac , meaning “the clea

Thorner Circular Walk 4.14mi A Brief History of Thorner Nestled just eight miles north-east of Leeds city centre, Thorner is one of West Yorkshire’s most picturesque and historic villages. The name Thorner  comes from Old English, meaning “thorn-covered slope,” reflecting its setting among gentle hills and ancient hedgerows. Thorner has roots stretching back to Anglo-Saxon times, and it’s even mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 as Tornoure . The village grew as a small ag

Dearne Valley Park 3.43mi A Brief History of Dearne Valley Park Dearne Valley Park, located near Wombwell in South Yorkshire, is a modern leisure and countryside park that has transformed part of the historic Dearne Valley into a public green space. The valley itself has a long industrial history, shaped by coal mining and railways, which played a key role in South Yorkshire’s development during the 19th and 20th centuries. As the coal industry declined, the local authority a

Campsall Park Circular 2.55 A Brief History of Campsall Country Park Campsall Country Park, located near the village of Campsall in South Yorkshire, England, boasts a rich history intertwined with the region's industrial past. The park was once part of the estate of Campsall Hall, the residence of the Bacon-Frank family. In the 18th century, Richard Frank, a member of the family, significantly enhanced the estate's landscape, introducing various tree species that still grace

Rabbit Ings Country Park 3.63mi From Colliery to Country Park Rabbit Ings Country Park, located near Royston in South Yorkshire, is a 64-hectare green space that has undergone a remarkable transformation. Once the site of Monckton Colliery and later the Royston Drift Mine, both of which closed in 1989, the area has been rehabilitated into a vibrant country park. Officially opened in 2011 and managed by The Land Trust since 2012, Rabbit Ings now offers a blend of natural beaut

Stoneycliffe Circular 3.63mi Discover Ancient Woodland and Wildlife At The White Shire , we celebrate Yorkshire’s green spaces and walking gems. Stoneycliffe Wood Nature Reserve, nestled between Middlestown and Netherton in Wakefield, is a perfect example of ancient woodland blended with modern conservation. It’s ideal for a peaceful stroll, wildlife spotting, and exploring remnants of Yorkshire’s historical estates. A Brief History Stoneycliffe Wood was once part of a larger

Thurgoland Circle Walk 4.53mi A Brief History of Thurgoland, South Yorkshire Nestled in the rolling hills between Barnsley and Sheffield, the village of Thurgoland sits on the edge of the Peak District and the River Don Valley. Though small today, Thurgoland has a long and fascinating history that reflects Yorkshire’s rural and industrial heritage. The name Thurgoland  is believed to derive from Old Norse origins — “Thurkel’s land”  — suggesting it was first settled by Viking

Womwell Circular Walk 3.84mi A Brief History of Wombwell, Barnsley Wombwell is a town in the Metropolitan Borough of Barnsley, South Yorkshire, with a population of around 15,000 (2011 census). Historically part of the West Riding of Yorkshire, its name is thought to come from “Womba’s Well”  (or “well in a hollow”). Early & Rural Origins There is evidence of prehistoric activity around the Wombwell area, including Mesolithic and Neolithic findspots, plus Iron Age and Romano-

Upper Oakdale Reservoir loop 5.8mi Discover a Hidden Gem in the North York Moors At The White Shire , we’re passionate about uncovering Yorkshire’s lesser-known treasures. Our Yorkshire Walks series highlights scenic routes that offer both natural beauty and a glimpse into the region's rich history. One such gem is the Upper Oakdale Reservoir Loop from Kepwick, a peaceful walk that combines woodland trails, reservoir views, and the charm of the North York Moors. A Brief Histo

West Haigh Wood & Spring Country Park Circular 4.28mi Explore Yorkshire’s Green Heritage At The White Shire , we celebrate all things Yorkshire — from its landscapes and heritage to hidden walking gems. Our Yorkshire Walks series tracks some of the region’s most interesting routes, and the West Haigh Wood & Spring Country Park Circular in Grimethorpe is a perfect example of nature, history, and regeneration all in one. This circular walk combines the tranquillity of West Haig