The best running trails around Lockton

Bridestones are unique rock formations located in Dalby Forest, North Yorkshire. Originally formed by movement of glaciers during the last Ice Age, the sandstone formations date back 150 million years ago.

The Bridestones are the remnants of a sandstone cap, deposited during the Jurassic period, some 150 million years ago. The formations consist of alternating layers of hard sandstone and softer calcareous layers. Erosion by wind, frost, and rain over millennia has created the unique and bizarre shapes seen today. The term "Bridestones" may have originated from the Old Norse words "brink-stones" or "edge stones" The Bridestones are steeped in folklore and legend, connecting them to ancient cultures and mythical beings. Some legends suggest the Bridestones were ancient meeting places for Druids, while others tell tales of giants who once roamed the moors. One legend speaks of a young couple who eloped and found shelter among the rocks, whose love caused the stones to form a protective arch. Another story tells of Nan Moor and Jack Stone, guardians of the stones, who lived in a rock house and were possibly married there. The Bridestones are sometimes associated with the Celtic goddess Brigantia.

Pieces of carved stone crosses suggest that a church has stood on this site from the 10th century. At this time, it would have been at the centre of the old village of Levisham. The present building dates from the 12th century, but it's believed that the original village moved due to the Black Death in the 14th century, leaving the church isolated from the current village. Local legend suggests the devil carried building materials down into the valley every night, contributing to the church's location below the village.

Dundale Griff is a delightful narrow side valley leading down from Dundale Pond to Levisham Beck. It's an area with significant historical traces, particularly relating to medieval times, when a monastic sheep farm (bercary) was established at the head of Dundale Griff, with the foundations of the stone buildings still visible today. Dundale Pond's history is linked to industrial water supply starting in the 19th century. William Kay, who owned a silk mill requiring substantial water, supplemented his supply by drawing water from a lake at Miswell Farm and connecting it to the hollow at Dundale via a tunnel. He is believed to have constructed a dam at Dundale to create the pond. Another tunnel then carried water from Dundale Pond to the mill. Both lakes were referred to as 'balancing ponds' to maintain consistent water levels. Look out for the herd of resident Highland Cows, actively breeding and very cute small calves can be seen in early summer.

A ruined two-story structure built around 1830 by Reverend Robert Skelton, the rector of Levisham. It was initially used as a shooting lodge and possibly as a retreat for Skelton to write sermons or enjoy quiet drinks. Situated on Corn Hill Point, a grassy headland overlooking Newtondale, there are fabulous views of both Cropton Forest and the NYMR.

Near the bend on Saltergate Bank (A169), you get spellbinding views of The Hole of Horcum (to the south-west). In the other direction, to the north-east, if you let your gaze follow the road, you can see the white structures of RAF Fylingdales on the moors in the distance. An amazing place.

Some pretty houses and the pub The Horseshoe where you can grab a drink and a bite to eat,

Situated in a truly beautiful location, this church's ruins date back to the 11th century. It was rebuilt in early 19th century, then restored in 1897-98, but, sadly, has now fallen into disrepair.