Medieval Cross Base And Shaft Approximately 200 Metres South East Of High Rails Farmhouse

The medieval cross base and shaft, located approximately 200 metres south-east of High Rails Farmhouse, is likely from the medieval period and constructed from gritstone. It features two tiers of steps, with the lowest tier measuring about 1.5 metres square. The cross base is a square block, and the base of the stone shaft, which is approximately 50 centimetres high, fits into a socket on top. The shaft is chamfered on all four corners, with the chamfers possibly widening towards an octagonal section. This cross is believed to stand on the deserted site of the village of Whipley and may have served as a way marker, positioned on trackways leading west towards Pateley Bridge and north towards Fountains Abbey. It is situated near the site of a well and is designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument No 416.