Heritage Open Day: A tour and history of central Skipton's old routes looking at the complex system of roads, fords and bridges developed over many centuries from Roman times. About 3 kilometres. Up to 2 hours. This walk takes account of this year's theme of transport and connections. Skipton was an important river-crossing in the Aire Valley because it had several fords. Romans built roads through Skipton. Due to its location it later became an important market town and staging post. In the 1700s toll companies and canal companies replaced fords and clapper bridges with stone bridges. The walk will have some off-road walking (canal towpath) and there will be some brief bench stops for those that need this.