Take the signed path alongside the British Legion premises in the village centre. This leads to a large grassy meadow known as The Taft. On the far side stand two eagle statues. Just down from them, a wooden gateway leads into the magical fairy dell. The local community have made strenuous efforts to provide a network of named paths and a display of artwork within the woods. There are also picnic tables and a total of 15 posts with brass rubbings of local wildlife.
If you turn left at the wishing well and head up the shallow slope (signed as a link route), you can reach the edge of the woods by maintaining a straight course. You now stand upon a farm track. Turn right for a pleasant stroll that gains height, opening up views across the dual carriageway to the hills beyond. Hang left to skirt the farmstead and walk to the high point of the ridge. Return to Crossgates by the reverse route, or stay on the farm road, which meets the B981. A short walk into the village brings you back to the start point.
