The extensive network of drystone walls is an integral feature of the AONB, reflecting its agricultural history, clearly written on the landscape of today.  The history of drystone walls can be traced back to ancient traditions from over three thousand years ago. During the Iron Age the local population, known as 'The Brigantes', were constructing houses and field boundaries using a drystone walling technique similar to that being used today. Unfortunately only a small number of examples of this early walling survive and these are usually in remote, highland areas of the Upper Dales. 

Walls from the Medieval period can be found in parts of the AONB with good examples around Dacre Parish. These early walls have no standard size or appearance and are, therefore, often random in their construction techniques. The line of the wall was often selected to take in large boulders, known as 'orthostats'. These were situated within the base of the wall, set on edge and end to end, often with the remains of more recent walls built onto them.

Although the construction of enclosures was permitted they were not allowed to interfere with hunting rights - all ditches and walls had to be constructed in such a way that they could still be jumped by a wild beast. However, the boundaries of the hunting grounds were massive - up to six feet (183cm) wide and eight feet (244cm high). 

During the 16^th Century it became legal for communities to enclose areas of waste and common land in order to improve their yield. Walls from the post medieval period form a maze of small, irregular enclosures that are often situated adjacent to outlying farmsteads, hamlets and villages.  These small enclosures were usually used by the community to grow special crops and were often named 'closes'.  The walls of this time are characterised by their squat and broad nature, often incorporating orthostats as in earlier periods.  The walls were not built up in layers as they are today the placement of stones were much more random. 

The majority of the drystone walls in the Nidderdale AONB were built during the 19^th Century and were a result of the Enclosure Awards facilitated in 1801 when a General Consolidating Act was granted to make the act of enclosure easier.  The result was the remaining areas of open common ground being divided into smaller more manageable units. The walls became more standard in appearance and created a patchwork effect across much of the landscape. 

Today the drystone walls are still an important feature of the AONB although many are deteriorating in condition.  The walls do not only have landscape value but also provide a valuable habitat for some flora and fauna.  Mosses and ferns grow on the damper, shaded side whilst the cracks in the walls host a variety of wildlife including lizards and snakes.  

Extracts taken from 'Dry Stone Walls in Dacre Parish understanding the local landscape' 1998. To find out more about the Dry Stone Walls of Dacre Parish please contact the AONB Office.

Click here to download a pdf copy of the Dacre Walls Walk Leaflet 453KB.