Members of Ilkley & District Round Table took to the hills over the weekend with a visit to Hag Dyke Hostel, perched high above Kettlewell in Upper Wharfedale.
The group went to see first-hand some of the recent improvement works they have helped to fund, including upgrades to the kitchen facilities and the hostel’s solar power setup.
Hag Dyke is a unique and much-loved hostel, run by Ben Rhydding Scout and Guide Group, that sits over 1,500 feet above sea level on the southern slopes of Great Whernside. Accessible only by footpath or 4x4, it has been welcoming generations of young people and community groups for over 70 years. The building itself, a former farmhouse dating back to the 18th century, was gifted to the Scouts in the 1940s and has since become a popular destination for adventurous walkers, schools, and Scout groups from across the country.
The hostel has always relied on the dedication of volunteers and the generosity of local organisations to maintain and improve its facilities. With the support of Ilkley Round Table, the kitchen has recently been modernised, making it easier to cater for large groups, while upgrades to the solar power system will help ensure the hostel can run more sustainably in its remote location.
[Members of Ilkley Round Table enjoy a walk near Hag Dyke]
Round Table members were given a tour of the improvements before spending the weekend experiencing the hostel for themselves.
“It’s fantastic to see the difference our fundraising has made,”
said one member.
“Hag Dyke is a special place for so many people, and we’re proud to have played a part in securing its future.”
The visit also underlined the importance of community support in keeping Hag Dyke thriving. Its isolated setting and unique history make it a treasured asset not only for the many Scout groups across the country
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