There was a post on Facebook recently about Gastack Beck at the head of Deepdale which whetted my swimmers appetite. Our group of wild swimmers – The Dales Dippers – have regularly swum in a waterfall plunge pool by the roadside, but a couple of us suspected there may be more offerings from a dipper’s point of view up and down the beck…
So on Tuesday I had time to spare and decided to go chasing waterfalls… First call was Yordas Cave in Kingsdale to see the mighty waterfall chamber at one end of this cave – never fails to delight and drench!
Then I had a short drive over into Deepdale (fantastic views – on a clear day!!) and parked up by the roadside falls we have swum in several times before. I’d noticed on the OS map that falls were marked above the road as well as below so scrambled upstream (very greasy and treacherous footing) and shortly came across a fabulous waterfall and deep plunge pool tucked away. Didn’t swim this time but will definitely be back.
I retraced my steps back down to the car and then followed the footpath downstream where I found a delightful short ravine with another deep pool… I couldn’t resist this one!!
It is a totally secluded spot so I decided it was the perfect place for a #FreedomforYorkshire moment (if you know, you know!!) and quickly undressed and plunged into the sub 5 degree waters…
It was magical – deserted, still, fairly clear and delightfully chilly water and no wind as I got back out to dress afterwards and enjoy my cake and hot chocolate… The perfect end to a mini adventure in a special hidden place, Gastack Beck is worth a bit of time just pottering about, it really is a little gem!!
Stu's Ramblings 