Walks in Bridge Hewick
From easy city strolls to challenging trails, discover the best of Bridge Hewick on foot.
Walk: Ripon to Fountains Abbey
Ripon Cathedral, Studley Royal Deer Park, Fountains Abbey & Hell Wath. The Route what3words for start point: ///rant.cowering.truth Start Point: Ripon Cathedral Finish Point: Ripon Cathedral Distance: 9 Miles GPX Route Map ripon-to-fountainsDownload Walk Description In 1132, thirteen Benedictine monks set off from St Mary’s Abbey at York in search of a more austere way of life. They stayed at Ripon on Christmas Day before walking four miles further west to an area of land in Skelldale given to them by the Archbishop of York. Despite its sylvan appearance now, this remote wooded valley was “more fit for wild beasts than men to inhabit” in 1132. They established Fountains Abbey as part of the Cistercian Order, which grew over the centuries into one of the richest monasteries in Europe with vast tracts of land throughout the North of England from the Lake District to the North Sea on which sheep were reared for their wool and meat. However, bad harvests and frequent Scottish raids during the 14th Century brought about economic collapse. Despite its financial problems, Fountains remained an abbey of great importance with its abbots sitting in Parliament. All this came to an end in 1539 with Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries, although Henry did give the Abbot and his monks a generous pension! The ruins of Fountains Abbey are the largest remains of a Cistercian abbey in Europe, an outstanding example of monastic life and architecture that includes an exceptional stone-vaulted Cellarium and one of the finest Cistercian mills in Europe. The adjoining Studley Royal Water Garden was laid out in the 18th Century by John Aislabie. Although an amateur, Aislabie transformed the wild valley of the River Skell into a formal landscaped garden. The Water Garden now stands as the most important Georgian water garden in England with lakes, water features, temples, statues and woodland. The Water Garden occupies 60 acres of the 760 acre Studley Park, an expansive deer park where over 600 deer roam. This walk retraces the footsteps of those monks who set out from Ripon Cathedral on Boxing Day 1132 to establish Fountains Abbey. The striking 13th Century West Front of Ripon Cathedral dominates the city skyline. The Cathedral is famed for its Saxon Crypt, the oldest in England, a simple chamber deep beneath the Nave. This is all that remains of the Saxon monastery founded in 672AD by St Wilfred above which towers the magnificent Norman Cathedral. Inside there is a wealth of architecture to marvel at including the 15th Century choir stalls and misericords carved by the famous Ripon School of Carvers.
Walk: Ripon Canal
This is lovely 2 mile stretch of canal ideal for a short stroll at any time of year mixing heritage countryside and wildlife. The Route what3words for start point: ///mountain.cubic.haystack Start Point: Ripon Finish Point: Littlethorpe Distance: 2 Miles GPX Route Map ripon-canalDownload Walk Description Fancy a walk that's like a step back in history? Head to this beautiful canal in Ripon, which first opened its watery gates in 1769! Back in the day, this canal helped Ripon grow from a small medieval town into a bustling city. The canal used to be super important, but when trains came along, people stopped using it. It even closed down in the 1950s. But don't worry! Thanks to the hard work of the Ripon Canal Society, the canal got a second chance and reopened in 1986. They even made it longer in the 1990s, stretching it right into the heart of Ripon. So, what can you see on this walk? Well, look out for old buildings along the canal that tell tales of times gone by. And keep your eyes peeled for ducks, swans, and other water birds that love this peaceful place as much as we do. It's a lovely walk that lets you see Ripon's past and present, all while enjoying the great outdoors!
Walk: Yorkshire Heritage Way
The Yorkshire Heritage Way is a long-distance walking route spanning 42 miles through West Yorkshire and North Yorkshire. Linking the vibrant city of Bradford with the historic cathedral city of Ripon, the trail takes in two UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Saltaire and Fountains Abbey—along with stunning countryside across Baildon Moor, the Washburn Valley and Nidderdale. Designed to connect urban and rural landscapes, the route blends spiritual, cultural, and natural heritage in one continuous and varied journey. The Route what3words for start point: ///purely.state.movesStart & Finish Point: Bradford Cathedral to Ripon CathedralDistance: 42 miles (68 km) GPX Route Map yorkshireheritagewayDownload Walk Description The Yorkshire Heritage Way begins at Bradford Cathedral, an ancient place of worship in the heart of the city, and heads north along green corridors and towpaths toward the model village of Saltaire, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its industrial and social history. From Saltaire, the route climbs gradually through Shipley Glen and out onto Baildon Moor, where wide views open across the moorland. The path then descends toward Burley in Wharfedale, where walkers must cross the River Wharfe—either by a traditional stepping stone crossing or by diverting two miles upstream to Denton Bridge. A new footbridge here has been a long-standing ambition of the local community. Entering North Yorkshire, the trail winds through Timble, past Blubberhouses Church, and into the Washburn Valley, climbing toward Thruscross Reservoir before descending into the wooded reaches near Glasshouses. Soon after, the dramatic formations of Brimham Rocks offer a spectacular natural landmark. The final stretch leads to Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Park, a second UNESCO site combining Cistercian ruins with Georgian water gardens and deer-filled parkland. The walk concludes at Ripon Cathedral, a fittingly peaceful end to a route rich in history, beauty and Yorkshire character.
Walk: Ripon Rowel
The Ripon Rowel Walk is a delightful circular walking route that encompasses the scenic and historic highlights surrounding Ripon, a charming cathedral city in North Yorkshire, England. Known for its ancient landmarks, natural beauty, and peaceful countryside, this area offers a unique blend of cultural and natural attractions, making it a favourite among walkers and history enthusiasts alike. The Route what3words for start point: ///ounce.tablet.mainframe Start / Finish Point: Ripon Cathedral, Liberty Court House, Minster Rd, Ripon HG4 1QT Distance: 50 Miles GPX Route Map riponrowelDownload Walk Description Ripon, one of England's smallest cities, is steeped in history and tradition. Founded over 1300 years ago, it features an impressive cathedral that dates back to the 7th century. The city is not only a historical treasure but also serves as a gateway to the Yorkshire Dales, an area renowned for its rolling hills, lush valleys, and picturesque villages. The Ripon Rowel Walk, spanning approximately 49 miles, circles this historic city and takes ramblers through a varied landscape of rivers, meadows, and woodland. It offers an excellent opportunity to explore the lesser-known rural areas around Ripon, including the banks of the River Ure and the Ripon Canal, as well as the ancient monuments and charming villages dotted throughout the region. Highlights of the Ripon Rowel Walk The walk is well-marked and can be undertaken in sections, allowing walkers to tailor their experience to their preferences and abilities. Some of the key highlights include: Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is one of the largest and best-preserved ruined Cistercian monasteries in England, located just a few miles from Ripon. The adjoining Studley Royal Park features beautifully landscaped gardens and a deer park. Newby Hall: An 18th-century country house situated along the route, known for its exquisite interiors and gardens. It's a splendid example of Georgian architecture and design. Hackfall Woods: A historic woodlands area featuring dramatic views, ancient trees, and a series of follies and water features, restored by the Woodland Trust. Markenfield Hall: An early 14th-century moated manor house, one of the finest surviving examples of its kind in England, offering a glimpse into medieval life. Masham: A market town famous for its family-run breweries, quaint shops, and vibrant community events, including an annual sheep fair. Planning Your Visit For those planning to embark on the Ripon Rowel Walk, it's advisable to check the weather conditions and wear appropriate footwear and clothing, as parts of the route can become muddy after rain. The walk is accessible year-round, but spring and early autumn are particularly pleasant times to visit due to the mild weather and the changing colors of the landscape. Whether you're a seasoned walker seeking a new adventure or a history buff eager to explore the heritage of North Yorkshire, the Ripon Rowel Walk offers a rich and satisfying experience that combines the best of both worlds.