From Keld, the Coast to Coast enters the heart of Swaledale, where the narrow upper valley is enclosed by steep hillsides, scattered farms and traditional stone-walled fields. Here walkers can choose between routes with very different characters: the lower way follows the River Swale through the valley, while the higher route climbs into the historic lead-mining landscape above the dale.

The upper route crosses a remarkable industrial landscape of old mine workings, spoil heaps, tracks and ruined buildings around Swinner Gill and Gunnerside Gill. Below, the river route remains closer to the farms, meadows and settlements of the valley, revealing another side of Swaledale before the alternatives converge on the approach towards Reeth.

The articles below explore the villages, mining remains, waterfalls, valleys and natural features encountered along and around this stage of the Coast to Coast. Together they reveal how both landscape and human activity have shaped Upper Swaledale, providing a closer look at places that can easily be overlooked while simply following either route towards Reeth.