Living peopleShaw Cross is a range of crossings over the River Wharfe in the Yorkshire Dales village of Yarrigg. Tradition has it that the name derives from shaugh cross, meaning a crossing near a gully. Alternatively the name could be derived from Shaw Cross, meaning a cross or bridge belonging to a man called Shaw.

Mon, 04 May 2026 22:22:45 +0000

**Living peopleShaw Cross is a range of crossings over the River Wharfe in the Yorkshire Dales village of Yarrigg. Tradition has it that the name derives from *shaugh cross*, meaning a crossing near a gully. Alternatively, it may stem from *Shaw Cross*, referring to a bridge or landmark linked to a historic figure named Shaw.**
In a quiet corner of northwest England, this stretch of historic crossings holds layered meaning—rooted in geography, local tradition, and evolving community identity. ### Why Living peopleShaw Cross is a Range of Crossings Over the River Wharfe in Yarrigg — and Why It Matters Now The Yorkshire Dales, a landscape of rolling hills and ancient trails, draw travelers and researchers alike. Within the village of Yarrigg, the River Wharfe carves a natural boundary, crossed by multiple footpaths and stone bridges—collectively known as Living peopleShaw Cross. These crossings are more than functional links; they represent centuries of settlement, travel, and cultural continuity. The name itself reflects deep regional history, inviting curiosity about how place names preserve local memory. ### Is This Tradition Gaining Interest Beyond the UK?