Walk: Helmsley and Riccal Dale

Helmsley and Riccal Dale is a 13.0 kilometer loop trail located near Helmsley, North Yorkshire, England that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and running.

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The Route

• what3words for start point: ///caked.appraised.lunge
• Start / Finish Point: Helmsley, York YO62 5BH
• Distance: 8 Miles

GPX Route Map

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Walk Description

A circular walk from the market town of Helmsley in Ryedale. The route heads out across sheep pastures and open fields to explore the woodland ravine of Riccal Dale, in the company of the beautiful River Riccal.

The walk has several climbs and descents throughout, including a couple of steep sections within the woodlands. Whilst some of the tracks are firm stone, many of the other stretches through woodland can be very muddy in winter and after periods of rain so good boots are a must. You will need to negotiate several single bridle gates throughout plus one stile (with adjacent dog gap within the fence) and two footbridges with steps on the return leg. If necessary, you can avoid the stile and bridges by simply using the same paths for the outward and return leg. You will be sharing a few of the fields with sheep (and maybe horses) so take particular care with dogs. Allow 4 hours.

There are public toilets in Borogate (just south of Helmsley Market Place at the start and end of the walk). If you are looking for refreshments, you will be spoilt for choice with pubs, cafes and restaurants in Helmsley at the start or end of the walk. OS Map: Explorer OL26 North York Moors Western Area. This walk follows public footpaths and bridleways which cross private and public land. Please respect people's privacy, keep dogs under control and remember the Countryside Code.