The Legend and Legacy of Devil’s Bridge: A Guide to Kirkby Lonsdale’s Iconic Landmark

Perched on the edge of the Lune Valley, where the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales meet the dramatic peaks of the Lake District, lies one of England’s most enchanting historical sites: Devil’s Bridge in Kirkby Lonsdale. This ancient stone masterpiece is more than just a crossing; it is a tapestry of medieval engineering, eerie folklore, and a thriving modern community hub.

Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or a weekend adventurer, Devil’s Bridge offers a unique glimpse into the soul of Cumbria. In this guide, we dive deep into the myths, the architecture, and the best ways to experience this "naturally divine" destination.

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The Legend: How the Devil Was Outwitted

The bridge takes its evocative name from a popular piece of English folklore. While there are several variations of the tale, the most beloved version tells of an elderly woman whose cow wandered across a shallow part of the River Lune and refused to return.

The Devil appeared to the woman, offering to build a bridge overnight so she could retrieve her livestock. His price? The soul of the first living thing to cross the new structure. The woman agreed, but she was cleverer than the Prince of Darkness anticipated. Once the bridge was complete, she tossed a loaf of bread (or a bun) across the stones. Her small dog chased after the food, becoming the first soul to cross. Enraged at being outsmarted by a simple countrywoman, the Devil vanished in a cloud of brimstone, leaving behind the bridge and—according to local lore—a handprint still visible in the stone.

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A Glimpse into History and Architecture

Beyond the myths, the real history of Devil's Bridge is equally impressive. Though its exact age is debated, historians suggest it dates back to the 13th or 14th century.

• Medieval Engineering: The bridge is a Scheduled Ancient Monument and a Grade I listed structure. It features three ribbed arches built of fine gritstone ashlar.

• Vital Connectivity: For centuries, it served as the only crossing over the River Lune for miles, acting as a crucial link for drovers and pack-horse routes.

• The Sundial: At the eastern end, look for a stone sundial installed in 1663, bearing the inscription "FEARE GOD HONER THE KING".

• Closure to Traffic: Due to its narrow 12-foot width, which became insufficient for modern vehicles, the bridge was closed to traffic in 1932. Today, motorists use the nearby Stanley Bridge, leaving Devil’s Bridge as a peaceful pedestrian haven.

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Top Things to Do at Devil’s Bridge

1. Join the Sunday Motorbike Meet

On any sunny Sunday, Devil’s Bridge transforms into one of the North’s most famous motorcycle meeting points. Hundreds of enthusiasts gather to showcase their bikes and enjoy the community spirit. It is a fantastic atmosphere where you can grab a "bacon butty" and a tea from the famous local snack van while chatting with riders.

2. Take the "Devil’s Bridge Wander"

For those seeking a scenic stroll, a 1.5-mile (2.5km) circular route connects the bridge to the heart of Kirkby Lonsdale.

• The Path: Start at the bridge and follow the riverside path toward the town.

• Radical Steps: Brave the steep "Radical Steps" that lead up from the riverbank.

• Ruskin’s View: At the top, you’ll be rewarded with Ruskin’s View. The Victorian critic John Ruskin famously described this panorama of the Lune Valley as "one of the loveliest views in England, therefore in the world".

3. Scuba Diving and Rock Pools

Surprisingly, the river beneath the bridge is a popular spot for scuba divers. The deep rock pools (around 16 feet deep) and clear visibility make it an ideal inland diving location for those looking for something different.

4. Picnic by the River

With large grassy banks and a tranquil atmosphere, the area around the bridge is perfect for a family picnic. On warm days, you’ll often find locals dipping their toes in the water or simply soaking up the sun with views of the three iconic arches.

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Exploring Kirkby Lonsdale

A visit to the bridge is the perfect excuse to explore the charming market town of Kirkby Lonsdale.

• St. Mary’s Church: A 12th-century marvel with stunning Norman architecture.

• The Vault: Visit "The Vault" at the old bank building to hear filmed stories of the town’s rich history.

• Dining: Enjoy local Cumbrian beef or lamb at award-winning spots like The Sun Inn or Plato’s.

• Shopping: Wander through cobbled streets filled with boutique shops and local butchers.

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Plan Your Visit

• Location: Kirkby Lonsdale, Cumbria, LA6 2AH.

• Parking: There are two car parks near the bridge with public toilets adjacent.

• Best Time to Visit: Sundays are bustling with the motorbike meet, while weekdays offer a more serene, "naturally divine" experience.

Devil’s Bridge remains a timeless landmark where legend and reality meet. Whether you’re standing on the high centre arch looking for the Devil’s handprint or capturing the perfect reflection in the River Lune, it is a destination that captures the heart of every traveller.

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The picture remains the copyright of Colin Green.

The Salvage Archive: Langthwaite in 1976 through a 35mm Lens

 There is a unique kind of magic hidden within the emulsion of a 35mm slide. When held up to the light, these tiny windows into history offer a clarity and colour palette that digital sensors often struggle to replicate. Today, I am thrilled to share a particularly special piece from my personal collection: an aerial perspective of Langthwaite village in 1976.

Nestled in the heart of Arkengarthdale within the North Yorkshire Pennines, Langthwaite is one of those rare English gems that feels as though time has intentionally slowed down. Looking at this photograph, taken nearly half a century ago, we are invited to explore the architecture, the landscape, and the soul of the Yorkshire Dales during a golden era of British rural life.

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The Charm of Arkengarthdale: A 1970s Perspective

In 1976, the world was a different place. The UK was experiencing a legendary heatwave, the music of ABBA and Queen topped the charts, and in the quiet corners of North Yorkshire, life revolved around the seasons and the land.

This photograph captures Langthwaite from an elevated vantage point, likely from the rising hills that hug the village. The first thing that strikes the viewer is the uninterrupted stone architecture. The traditional gritstone cottages, with their heavy slate roofs, sit huddled together as if for warmth, even in the summer sun.

The Architecture of Endurance

The buildings seen in this 1976 slide are testament to the "dry stone" heritage of the region. Many of these structures date back to the height of the local lead mining industry in the 18th and 19th centuries. By 1976, the mines had long been silent, but the village remained a sturdy, living monument to that industrious past.

If you look closely at the centre of the village in the image, you can spot the famous Red Lion Inn. Even then, it served as the beating heart of the community—a place where farmers, locals, and the occasional adventurous hiker would gather for a pint of local ale.

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The Landscape: Then and Now

The surrounding greenery in this image tells its own story. The fields are divided by the iconic dry-stone walls that characterize the Yorkshire Dales National Park. In 1976, these walls were (and still are) essential for managing livestock, primarily Swaledale sheep.

One notable aspect of this vintage slide is the vibrancy of the colors. 35mm film, particularly Kodachrome or Ektachrome which were popular in the 70s, had a way of rendering greens and blues with a saturated, organic warmth. The rolling hills in the background of the shot look soft yet formidable, reminding us that while humans build villages, the landscape ultimately dictates the terms of life here.

A Setting Fit for the Screen

It is no wonder that Langthwaite became a star of the small screen shortly after this photo was taken. Fans of the classic BBC series All Creatures Great and Small will recognize the village bridge and winding lanes. The 1970s were the beginning of Langthwaite's "fame," yet the photo shows a village that remained remarkably unpretentious and focused on its own daily rhythms.

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The Technical Nostalgia of the 35mm Slide

For photography enthusiasts, the medium is just as important as the subject. This image wasn't captured on a smartphone with instant filters; it was a deliberate act. Using a 35mm camera required an understanding of light, aperture, and patience.

The "look" of this 1976 shot—the slight grain, the way the sunlight catches the white-washed gable ends of the distant houses, and the deep shadows in the valley—is something modern photographers often spend hours trying to emulate in post-processing. There is a "honesty" to film that makes this view of Langthwaite feel tangible.

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Why Langthwaite Remains Iconic

What makes this 1976 view so poignant is how much—and how little—has changed. If you were to stand in the same spot today with a digital camera, the silhouette of the village would be almost identical.

• Conservation: The village is part of a conservation area, ensuring that the stone character seen in the slide isn't lost to modern development.

• Community: While many rural villages have struggled, Langthwaite maintains a sense of identity, supported by tourism and a deep-rooted local population.

• Natural Beauty: The "hush" of the dales, visible in the sprawling fields behind the village, remains as tranquil today as it was forty-eight years ago.

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Preserving Our Visual History

Sharing these slides is more than just a trip down memory lane; it’s about preserving a visual record of our cultural landscape. This image serves as a bridge between the generations who lived through the 70s and those who now visit Arkengarthdale to escape the frantic pace of the 21st century.

As we look at the tiny cars parked near the village green and the lack of satellite dishes on the roofs, we are reminded of a simpler, quieter England. It encourages us to look at our own surroundings today and wonder: what will someone think of our world 50 years from now?

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Stones of History and Dales Views: A Photo Journey Through Settle, North Yorkshire

Settle, nestled in the stunning landscape of the Yorkshire Dales, is a market town where the past is visibly woven into the present. A recent trip allowed me to capture a collection of images that perfectly illustrate this blend of history, architecture, and dramatic scenery. Join me as we explore the stories behind these Settle snapshots.

The Folly: A Grand Statement in Stone

One of the most architecturally striking buildings in Settle, and a central feature of any visit, is the magnificent house known as The Folly

This imposing structure, with its multiple gables and magnificent mullioned windows, is a superb example of seventeenth-century gentry house architecture.

• A Solicitor’s Ambition: The Folly was built in the late 1670s (either 1675 or 1679) by a wealthy local solicitor, Richard Preston. He strategically placed it where the main road entered Settle at the time, clearly intending to display his wealth and status to all who arrived.

• The Name: Why "The Folly"? While the name is often associated with a costly but useless structure, in this case, it’s also thought to have derived from the French word feuille, meaning leaves, or even an earlier meaning of "delight."

• A Building of Many Lives: Over the centuries, The Folly has led a remarkable number of lives, including a family home, a farmhouse, a bakery, a furniture shop, a doctor's surgery, and even a fish and chip shop! Today, after meticulous restoration, it is owned by the North Craven Building Preservation Trust and houses the Museum of North Craven Life. Its survival and current use are a testament to the community’s dedication to heritage.

The Talbot Arms: An Ancient Hostelry

The brilliant white facade of the Talbot Arms contrasts sharply with Settle's traditional stone, but its history is just as deep.

• Claiming Antiquity: The Talbot Arms is reputed to be one of Settle's oldest pubs, with claims of a history dating back to 1642. Inns like this were vital stopping points along the ancient trade routes that crossed the Dales.

• On the Old Road: The pub stands on what was historically the main street, the pre-turnpike road to Skipton, a prime location for catching travellers and locals alike. It remains a popular, welcoming free house today, celebrating local Yorkshire ales.

The Town’s Commercial Hub: A Distinctive Facade

Another photograph captures a significant building, now housing commercial premises, standing prominently on a corner. Its formal stone facade, with a central arched entrance and striking circular window above, suggests a public or commercial role, possibly even a bank or municipal building in its past.

This building is an excellent example of the 18th or 19th-century confidence and prosperity that grew in Settle as a central market town, often incorporating architectural grandeur into its commercial premises to reflect its importance. The bunting adds a touch of modern life and festivity to the historic setting.

The Mystery of the Elephants

A quirky and unexpected sight in the town is the pair of metal elephant sculptures. This small installation adds a delightful, slightly eccentric touch to the streetscape, standing in front of what the sign indicates is the Tourist Information Centre.

• A Literary Connection? While a definitive origin is hard to pin down immediately, the elephants might subtly nod to a literary or historical figure with a local connection. Settle is known for its surprising link to the famous novelist and aeronautical engineer, Nevil Shute. Though he is more famously associated with Australia and aviation, there are local stories suggesting connections to the area that sometimes inspire local art or references.

Castlebergh and the Landscape of the Dales

The final photograph pulls back from the town to showcase its magnificent backdrop: the surrounding Yorkshire Dales. Dominating the view is the steep, grass-covered limestone crag that rises directly behind the town.

• Castlebergh Crag: This striking hill, or crag, is known as Castlebergh. It has been a prominent feature and viewpoint for centuries. Notice the column of stone rising from the woods below the crag—this is likely part of the Castlebergh Plantation, a wooded area on the lower slopes.

• Victorian Pleasure Ground: Castlebergh became a popular attraction in the Victorian era, laid out with paths and even serving as a pleasure ground, attracting visitors arriving via the newly constructed Settle-Carlisle Railway. The views from the top, where a flagpole now stands, are truly spectacular, overlooking the town and the vast green expanses of Ribblesdale.

Settle offers a rich tapestry of sights, from grand 17th-century houses and historic pubs to captivating landscapes and charming modern touches. These photographs capture just a few layers of this beautiful and history-rich North Yorkshire town.

I took the pictures with a Nikon d3300 in August 2016, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Please take a moment to share this post, follow me on social media, and explore my work on Clickasnap and Photo4Me using the links below. Your support means a lot!

All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Long Preston Railway Station: A Stop on the Scenic Bentham Line

Nestled in the heart of North Yorkshire, Long Preston isn't your grand city station. But for those seeking a taste of rural England and a gateway to the Yorkshire Dales, it holds a certain charm.

Located on the scenic Bentham Line, which winds its way between Leeds and Morecambe via Skipton, Long Preston offers a peaceful escape. The original station buildings are long gone, replaced by basic shelters on each platform. But don't be fooled by its simplicity; there's a certain romance in its lack of modern frills.

For train enthusiasts, Long Preston holds particular significance. It's the last station before the Bentham Line and the Settle-Carlisle Line diverge. The Settle-Carlisle is known for its breath taking views and challenging engineering feats, making it a favourite among railway fans.

While the station itself is unstaffed, a handy ticket machine was installed in 2019, allowing for convenient ticket purchases. There's also a small car park for those arriving by car.

Long Preston's beauty lies in its surroundings. The village itself is a quintessential Yorkshire Dales gem, with old stone houses and traditional pubs. Stepping off the train, you're instantly transported into a world of peace and tranquillity.

For those seeking adventure, the Yorkshire Dales National Park beckons. With its rolling hills, dramatic waterfalls, and charming villages, it's a walker's paradise. Buses depart regularly from the station for the nearby towns of Settle and Skipton, offering further options for exploration.

Long Preston station sees a modest number of trains each day, with services running to Leeds, Morecambe, and Carlisle. To ensure a smooth journey, it's wise to check timetables in advance, especially if you're connecting to other routes.

While the station may lack extensive facilities, its basic amenities and idyllic location make it a worthwhile stop.  If you're looking for a taste of rural England and a gateway to the Yorkshire Dales, Long Preston Station awaits.

The pictures below were taken with a Nikon d3300 on the 19th August 2022. Clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Please take a moment to share this post, follow me on social media, and explore my work on Clickasnap and Photo4Me using the links below. Your support means a lot!

All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.