Walks in Helmsley
From easy city strolls to challenging trails, discover the best of Helmsley on foot.
Walk: Helmsley and Beck Dale
Helmsley and Beck Dale is a 10.3 kilometer loop trail located near York, North Yorkshire, England that features a great forest setting and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and trail running. The Route what3words for start point: ///slope.deserved.swoop Start Point: Market Pl, Helmsley, York YO62 5BH Distance: 6 Miles GPX Route Map helmsleyandbeckdaleDownload Walk Description A circular walk from the market town of Helmsley in Ryedale. The route heads north through the beautiful woodland belt of Beck Dale, following an idyllic babbling brook, before crossing a few fields and returning via another woodland belt, Ash Dale. The walk has just gentle slopes for the most part, with one steep climb about half way round. Whilst some of the tracks are firm stone, many of the other stretches through woodland can be muddy in winter and after periods of rain. You will need to negotiate several single bridle gates throughout plus one stile (which can easily be avoided if necessary). You will be sharing a few of the fields with sheep so take particular care with dogs. One field could also be holding a mixture of cattle and sheep (although this one field can also be avoided if necessary). Allow 3 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.
Walk: Helmsley and River Rye
Helmsley and River Rye is a 6.4 kilometer loop trail located near Helmsley, North Yorkshire, England that features a river and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and running. The Route what3words for start point: ///caked.appraised.lunge Start / Finish Point: Helmsley Distance: 4 Miles GPX Route Map helmsleyandriverryeDownload Walk Description A circular walk from the market town of Helmsley in Ryedale. The route heads south along the banks of the River Rye, through pastures and crop fields, crossing the river via the footbridge alongside the fish farm and then returning on a higher farm track giving glorious long-reaching views. The walk is flat for the most part, with just a couple of steady climbs. The riverside grass paths can get muddy at times. You will need to negotiate several single gates, a couple of kissing gates, some footbridges and 4 stiles. The first stile has a very generous adjacent dog gate, but the following 3 have tighter wooden fence surrounds (suitable for small dogs to squeeze through but larger dogs may need a lift over). You will be sharing the riverside pastures with a mixture of horses, sheep and cattle, so take particular care with dogs. If you want to avoid the cattle and tight-surround stiles, a more dog-friendly option would be to follow just the first 1.5 miles, a 3 mile there and backwalk (with only sheep, horses and a generous dog gate to contend with). At the end of the walk you will need to cross the A170 river bridge (which does not have a pavement) so take particular care of traffic at this point. Allow 2 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.
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. The Route what3words for start point: ///caked.appraised.lunge Start / Finish Point: Helmsley, York YO62 5BH Distance: 8 Miles GPX Route Map helmsleyandriccaldaleDownload 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.
Walk: Rievaulx Abbey, Cold Kirby and Old Byland
The magnificent ruins of Rievaulx Abbey, wooded valleys and historic churches. The Route what3words for start point: ///crescendo.finders.charging Start Point: Rievaulx Bank, Rievaulx, Helmsley, York YO62 5LB Finish Point: Rievaulx Abbey Distance: 9 Miles GPX Route Map rievaulxabbeyDownload Walk Description Rievaulx Abbey is an architectural masterpiece set in stone, with soaring pillars, walls and windows. The impressive ruins have a romantic setting in the wooded valley of Ryedale, from which the abbey is named. Its history stretches back to 1132 when twelve monks came from Clairvaux in France to establish the first Cistercian abbey in the North. They had been given 1,000 acres of waste land by Walter Espec of Helmsley Castle, which met their requirements exactly as theirs was an Order of poverty and simplicity. Their land holdings soon increased as Norman lords sought favour with the monks and, they hoped, a passage into Heaven. It was during the mid 12th Century that the abbey prospered and when most of the major building work took place, with Rievaulx becoming the largest monastic establishment in England with 140 choir monks and over 500 lay brothers. By the early 13th Century Rievaulx Abbey had acquired several thousand acres of land predominantly in the North York Moors but also across the North of England on which they developed sheep farming. The fortunes of the abbey turned for the worse during the 13th Century due to poor wool prices as well as debts accrued due to land purchases and construction work. This was compounded in the 14th Century when Scottish raids became more frequent. When the abbey was suppressed in 1538 on the orders of Henry VIII there were only 22 monks left. From Rievaulx Abbey, our route heads south to reach the historic Rievaulx Bridge, built in the 13th Century by the monks. The beautiful wooded valleys of Nettle Dale and Flassen Dale lead to the village of Cold Kirby. The layout of this linear village has changed little since medieval times with cottages and farms lining the single street. St Michael’s Church dates from the 12th Century, although almost completely rebuilt in 1841, and was originally ministered by the Order of Knights Templars. Not far from Old Byland stands Tylas Farm where the monks of Byland Abbey first settled in the early 12th Century, having fled their previous home at Calder (Cumbria) due to Scottish raids. However, this new home was not suitable as they could hear the bells of Rievaulx a few miles down the valley so after four years they moved to Oldstead and then finally settled at Byland Abbey, where they built their magnificent abbey. Book Rievaulx Abbey tickets The abbey itself is managed by English Heritage and tickets can be booked online here. Book tickets
Walk: Helmsley and Rievaulx Abbey
This route is a 10.1 kilometer out and back trail located near Helmsley, North Yorkshire, that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and bird watching. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. The Route what3words for start point: ///udder.rarely.parked Start Point: Helmsley Finish Point: Rievaulx Abbey or return to Helmsley Distance: 6 Miles GPX Route Map helmsrievaulxDownload Walk Description A walk from the market town of Helmsley in Ryedale. The route follows the Cleveland Way through open fields, beautiful woodland belts and along quiet lanes to visit the spectacular Rievaulx Abbey before returning along the same route. The walk has several climbs and descents throughout, including a couple of steep sections within the woodlands. You will need to negotiate several kissing gates plus two long flights of stone steps which take you through a woodland valley (both there and back), but there are no stiles on route. You are likely to be sharing a couple of the fields with sheep so take particular care with dogs. The middle stretch of the route (by the Abbey) follows the edge of quiet lanes so take care of traffic at these points. You will have good views of Rievaulx Abbey from the public paths and lanes, but should you wish to enter the abbey grounds, these are managed by English Heritage (#ad) and entrance fees apply (which includes an audio tour). Dogs on leads are welcome. Allow 3 hours plus extra time to visit the abbey. There are public toilets in the long stay car park (close to waypoint 1) and there are also toilets at Rievaulx Abbey at the half way point. If you are looking for refreshments, the abbey has a cafe and 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 (#ad). 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. Join English Heritage (#ad)
Ryedale Market Towns Trail: Part 1 Helmsley to Hovingham
Ryedale Market Towns Trail: Part 1 Helmsley to Hovingham is a 14.3 kilometer point-to-point trail located near Helmsley, North Yorkshire, that features a river and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and bird watching. The Route Start Point: Helmsley Finish Point: Hovingham Distance: 9 Miles GPX Route Map ryedalemarketDownload Walk Description IMPORTANT NOTE This is a linear walk that forms part of a long distance trail. If you intend to walk this stretch as a stand-alone route, there is no suitable public transport for the return leg, so you would need to use a taxi. A linear walk from Helmsley to Hovingham in North Yorkshire, forming the first part of the Ryedale Market Towns Trail. The route heads south along the banks of the River Rye, through pastures and crop fields, crossing the river via the footbridge alongside the fish farm and heading south to Oswaldkirk. From here the trail continues along the Ebor Way, following quiet tracks through Cawton and on to the idyllic village of Hovingham. ABOUT The Ryedale Market Towns trail is a 67 mile (108km) long-distance circular trail, created to allow walkers to enjoy the highlights of Ryedale, visiting each of the five market towns along the way. ACCESS The walk is relatively flat for the most part, with just a couple of long but steady gradients. Some of the grass paths can get muddy at times. You will need to negotiate several single bridle gates, a couple of kissing gates, some footbridges and 2 stiles. The first stile has a very generous adjacent dog gate, but the following one has tighter wooden fence surrounds (suitable for small dogs to squeeze through but larger dogs may need a lift over). You will cross many sheep pastures, one pasture with both horses and sheep, plus two cattle pastures, so take particular care with dogs. Approximate time 4.5 hours. LOGISTICS If you are completing the whole 67 mile trail, you can arrange accommodation at both ends, with plenty of choices in Helmsley and the Worsley Arms Hotel in Hovingham village. If you are walking this stretch as a stand-alone walk, you would need to catch a taxi back to Helmsley, as the bus journey would involve three changes and so is not practical. FACILITIES There are public toilets in Borogate (just south of Helmsley Market Place at the start of the walk). If you are looking for refreshments, there are lots of options in Helmsley at the start of the walk (including places to buy picnic supplies), a pub in Oswaldkirk along the way, and you will find a tea room, bakery, coffee house, pub and hotel all within Hovingham village at the end of the walk. OS Maps: Explorer OL26 North York Moors Western Area and 300 Howardian Hills and Malton. 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. Access a list of all the segments that make up this walk here.
Ryedale Market Towns Trail: Part 6 Kirkbymoorside to Helmsley
Ryedale Market Towns Trail: Part 6 Kirkbymoorside to Helmsley is a 14.3 kilometer point-to-point trail located near Kirkbymoorside, North Yorkshire, England that offers scenic views and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and bird watching. The Route what3words for start point: ///dividers.taped.pothole Start Point: Kirkbymoorside Finish Point: Helmsley Distance: 9 Miles GPX Route Map ryedalemarkettownstrailpart6kirkbymoorsidetohelmsleyDownload A linear walk from Kirkbymoorside to Helmsley in North Yorkshire, forming the sixth and final part of the Ryedale Market Towns Trail. The route heads west through a mixture of open crop fields, sheep pastures and woodland valleys with gorgeous views from the hilltops. Along the way there are several interesting landmarks including Kirkdale Cave (where a fascinating set of fossilised bones were discovered), St Gregory's Minster, the predominantly thatched village of Pockley and the magical woodland ravine of Riccal Dale. ABOUT The Ryedale Market Towns trail is a 67 mile (108km) long-distance circular trail, created to allow walkers to enjoy the highlights of Ryedale, visiting each of the five market towns along the way. It is published through a collaboration with the Ryedale District Council. For more visitor information on the area including events and accommodation, go to www.VisitRyedale.co.uk ACCESS The walk has several steady climbs and descents throughout, plus a couple of steeper sections through Riccal Dale. The paths are mostly unmade and can get very muddy after periods of rain and in winter. You will need to negotiate several gates and kissing gates, two footbridges (one of which has steps each end) plus 5 stiles (a couple of which have tight fence surrounds so dogs will need a lift over). You will be sharing many of the pastures with sheep, so take particular care with dogs. There are only a few short sections along country lanes. Allow 4.5 hours. LOGISTICS If you are completing the whole 67 mile trail, you can arrange accommodation at both ends of this stretch, in Kirkbymoorside and in Helmsley. If you are walking this stretch as a stand-alone 9-mile walk, you can catch a bus for the return leg. Bus 128 will take you from Helmsley Market Place to Kirkbymoorside Market Place, taking just 20 minutes. The buses usually run hourly Mon-Sat and every two hours on Sundays. FACILITIES There are public toilets at each end of the walk. If you are looking for refreshments, there are lots of shops (including two bakeries) in Kirkbymoorside if you want to buy picnic supplies and you will be spoilt for choice in Helmsley at the end of the walk. OS Maps: 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. Access a list of all the segments that make up this walk here.
Walk: Helmsley Discovery Trail
Helmsley Discovery Trail is a 1.8 kilometer loop trail located near Helmsley, North Yorkshire, and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and running. The Route what3words for start point: ///scores.sublime.swatting Start Point: Helmsley Finish Point: Helmsley Distance: 1 Miles GPX Route Map helmsley_discovery_trailDownload Walk Description An easy access circular trail around the market town of Helmsley in Ryedale. The route discovers several of the town's key attractions including the bustling Market Place, the pretty beck, the imposing castle, the magnificent walled gardens and a short stretch of the Cleveland Way. The walk follows generous width tarmac or paved surfaces for the most part, with one stretch along an uneven compacted stone track (although this can be excluded if necessary). The route is mainly level with a couple of gentle slopes. There are no stiles, kissing gates or steps on route. With this in mind, the entire route would be suitable for a rugged pushchair or disability buggy. If the uneven stone track section is excluded, the route would be suitable for a wheelchair. Allow 1 hour. There are public toilets close to the Market Place at the start of the walk. If you are looking for refreshments, the Walled Garden (waypoint 3) has a cafe open to the public and 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.
Walk: Cleveland Way National Trail
The 109 mile horseshoe-shaped Cleveland Way starts in the wonderful market town of Helmsley before stretching across the breathtaking heather moorland of the North York Moors National Park then returning south along the coast from Saltburn-by-the-Sea. The Route Start Point: Helmsley Finish Point: Filey Distance: 109 miles GPX Route Map cleveland-wayDownload Walk Description what3words for start point: ///expose.billiard.walnuts The 109 mile horseshoe-shaped Cleveland Way starts in the wonderful market town of Helmsley before stretching across the breathtaking heather moorland of the North York Moors National Park then returning south along the coast from Saltburn-by-the-Sea. The route progresses along the North Yorkshire coastline to Filey, passing old fishing villages and bustling coastal towns. The National Trail runs through the smuggler’s village of Robin Hood’s Bay and the fantastic seaside resorts of Scarborough and Whitby You can walk the Cleveland Way at any time of year but if you want to see the moorland heather in bloom, the best time to visit is late August and early September. It is better to walk it in a clockwise direction from Helmsley to Filey with the wind behind you. It can be challenging in places, especially along the coastal areas. There are plenty of shorter circular walks that incorporate stretches of the path that can be completed in a day.
National Trails
We're lucky to have four of Britain's finest National Trails here in Yorkshire. So take your pick. The Cleveland Way roller-coasts around the North York Moors from Helmsley to the coast. The Yorkshire Wolds Way rambles through peaceful fields and over gentle chalk-hills. Or for something more strenuous, the Pennine Way strides through the Yorkshire Dales on its mammoth journey from the Peak District to Scotland. Or maybe the purpose built Pennine Bridleway is your kind of walk, bike or horse ride? Try a Trail One of the best things about these trails, apart from the amazing scenery, is how easy it is to sample them. You don't have to do the whole thing end-to-end. And you don't have to be hardy hiker. You can stroll along a route for a few hours then loop back to your start-point. Once you've sampled a few days on one of Yorkshire's National Trails, walking a route in its entirety will surely be your next aim. It may take a week or longer, but the sense of achievement is supreme, while close contact with the natural environment provides its own spiritual rewards - and it doesn't do the waistline any harm either. Walkers come in all different varieties. Some like to do it in style, staying at good B&Bs and having their luggage brought on each day by a baggage handling company, while many like to enjoy shorter walks just for the day. But there's still a place for the hardy hiker seeking the thrill and challenge of being exposed to some of the most outstanding scenery in Britain. Cleveland Way Distance: 109 miles (98 miles in Yorkshire)Duration: 9 daysStart: Helmsley, North YorkshireFinish: Filey Brigg, North Yorkshire GPX Route Map cleveland-wayDownload Follow the fantastic scenery of the North York Moors National Park, crossing stunning lengths of heather moorland and providing spectacular views of the North Yorkshire coastline. Starting from the attractive market town of Helmsley, the trail heads across the inspirational, and sometimes vibrant heather moorland of the North York Moors, before reaching the coast at Saltburn. From here it's a visual feast along the dramatic North Yorkshire coastline to Filey, passing old fishing villages and lively coastal towns, including Staithes and Whitby. Along the way there is a wealth of history and heritage to enjoy. Helmsley Castle, Rievaulx Abbey, Mount Grace Priory, Gisborough Priory, Whitby Abbey and Scarborough Castle to name just a few special sites. A good level of fitness is needed to walk the whole route in one go, especially if you carry your own gear. However you can do a short section or a day walk which would be much easier. The distance you walk is entirely up to you - maybe you'll enjoy a few hours steady saunter, or maybe a few days trekking. Accommodation and pubs are great along the route. You're sure to get a warm Yorkshire welcome! The shoulder seasons in spring and autumn are good times to walk the Way. It will be quieter and it can be easier to book accommodation. Filey Brigg is also the northern end of the Yorkshire Wolds Way, so why not keep going for another week of waking on one of Yorkshire's Top Trails? For a real test of stamina, if you can manage another 48 miles walking, follow the Tabular Hills Walk between Scarborough and Helmsley, to complete the circuit around the North York Moors National Park, and you'll be able to travel by train to Scarborough, Whitby, Saltburn, Great Ayton or Kildale to start it. Pennine Way Distance: 270 miles (80 miles in Yorkshire)Duration: 6 to 19 daysStart: Edale, Peak DistrictFinish: Kirk Yetholm in the Scottish Borders The Way takes you from the Peak District along the Pennine ridge, through the Yorkshire Dales and beyond. There are plenty of historical and cultural interest sites along the way to be enjoyed too. Starting at the scene of the Kinder Scout mass trespasses of the 1930s, walk through the Southern Pennines, the cradle of the Industrial Revolution, pass Haworth, home of the Brontë sisters, across the limestone country of the Yorkshire Dales, and enter an area renowned for its lead mining history. Finally you'll reach the Roman Wall and beyond that the territory of the Scottish Border rivers. The Pennine Way takes you into isolated country. As with all walks, sound planning is important. Brush up your navigation skills, carry the appropriate large-scale maps and know how to use them. There are sections of the route, especially at each end, which require careful thought about accommodation and advance booking is advisable at most times of the year. It's a life affirming (possibly changing) experience. Pennine Bridleway Distance: 350 miles (when complete) GPX Route Map penninebridlewayelev20200819Download The Pennine Bridleway is one of the newest National Trails and the first purpose built trail of its kind designed specifically for horse-riders, off-road cyclists and walkers to enjoy. The entire Pennine Bridleway will eventually run for 350 miles (560km) from the High Peak Trail in Derbyshire to Byrness, Northumberland. It follows a mix of old packhorse routes and drove roads, often sensitively refurbished and upgraded, linked with newly created stretches of bridleway. It's well signposted and maintained, which means you don't have to be a serious mountain biker to enjoy some of our finest mountain bike country. Open sections include 73 miles through Derbyshire to the South Pennines, the 47 mile Mary Towneley Loop, which runs close to Todmorden, and the 10 mile Settle Loop in the Yorkshire Dales. Yorkshire Wolds Way Distance: 79 milesDuration: 6 daysStart: Hessle, East YorkshireFinish: Filey, North Yorkshire yorkshire-wolds-wayDownload A National Trail to savour. It's not too strenuous and offers a route where the peace and quiet of country life still dominate and the gentle charm of the Yorkshire Wolds leaves the walker refreshed in body and spirit. As well as being a National Trail, the Wolds Way National Trail forms part of the E2 European walking route. If you're looking for your first National Trail to walk, then the Yorkshire Wolds Way gives you a not too challenging introduction. It's only 79-miles long and the Wolds make for easier walking than the North Yorks Moors, the Dales and the rest of the Pennines in Yorkshire. To make things even easier there are train stations near the start of the walk on the shore of the Humber estuary in Hessle and its North Sea coast end in Filey.
Walk: Tabular Hills
The Tabular Hills Walk is a scenic long-distance footpath in North Yorkshire, England, stretching approximately 48 miles from Scalby to Helmsley. This route traverses the picturesque landscapes of the North York Moors National Park, offering walkers a mix of hills, ancient woodlands, and historic villages. The trail is named after the distinctive tabular, or flat-topped, hills that characterize the region. Along the way, hikers can enjoy breath-taking views, diverse wildlife, and historic sites, making it a popular choice for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage in their walking adventures. The Route what3words for start point: Start Point: Scalby Finish Point: Helmsley Distance: 48 Miles GPX Route Map Tabular-Hills-Walk_0Download Walk Description The Tabular Hills Walk is a captivating journey through the North York Moors National Park, offering diverse landscapes and stunning views. Here’s a detailed description of the route: Scarborough to Hackness Starting from the coastal town of Scarborough, the route heads inland, passing through wooded valleys and scenic countryside. Walkers will traverse Raincliffe Woods and Forge Valley, a National Nature Reserve known for its rich flora and fauna. Hackness to Thornton-le-Dale The path continues through the picturesque village of Hackness, with its charming stone buildings and historic church. It then crosses the undulating landscape towards Thornton-le-Dale, a quintessential English village featuring thatched cottages, a beck, and the famous chocolate-box scene of Beck Isle Cottage. Thornton-le-Dale to Levisham From Thornton-le-Dale, the trail moves through Dalby Forest, offering tranquil forest paths. Exiting the forest, the route reaches Levisham, a quaint village with a traditional pub and access to the dramatic landscapes of Levisham Moor. Levisham to Cropton The walk continues across Levisham Moor, providing expansive views over the surrounding moorlands and valleys. Following paths through open countryside and small woodlands, hikers arrive at Cropton, known for its brewery and welcoming pub. Cropton to Hutton-le-Hole Leaving Cropton, the route meanders through fields and woodlands, passing by the serene village of Lastingham with its historic church and crypt. The next destination is Hutton-le-Hole, a picturesque village with a stream running through its centre. Hutton-le-Hole to Helmsley The final leg of the journey takes walkers across the open moorland and through charming villages such as Gillamoor and Fadmoor. The walk concludes in Helmsley, a vibrant market town with a medieval castle, beautiful walled garden, and a variety of shops and eateries. Where to eat Throughout the Tabular Hills Walk, hikers are treated to a feast of natural beauty, and, after 48 miles, you'd be forgiven for wanting a heart meal to finish up. These venues in Helmsley are great for dinner and a bed: The Black Swan, The Feversham Arms, The Royal Oak Hotel, The Feathers Hotel.
Walk: The Ebor Way
The Ebor Way is a long-distance walking route that stretches approximately 70 miles (113 kilometers) across the scenic landscapes of Yorkshire. It connects the historic market town of Helmsley in North Yorkshire with the riverside town of Ilkley in West Yorkshire, traversing a variety of terrains and offering walkers a rich blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and charming villages. Route Start Point: what3words for start point: ///gladiator.case.flagging Distance: 70 miles Start Location Name: Helmsley Finish Location: Ilkley OS Route Map & GPX File eborwayDownload Description Starting Point: Helmsley Helmsley Castle: The route begins in the picturesque market town of Helmsley, renowned for its medieval castle. Duncombe Park: Passing through the estate of Duncombe Park, offering views of its stately home and gardens. North York Moors National Park Rievaulx Abbey: The path leads to the ruins of Rievaulx Abbey, a former Cistercian monastery. Moorland and Woodland: Walkers traverse the North York Moors, experiencing a mix of heather-clad moorland and dense woodland. Market Towns and Villages Ampleforth: The trail passes through this village, known for Ampleforth Abbey and its apple orchards. Coxwold: Famous for its church, St. Michael's, and Shandy Hall, the home of writer Laurence Sterne. Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Kilburn White Horse: The route offers a view of this large hill figure carved into the limestone. Castle Howard: Near the trail, this magnificent stately home and its grounds provide a detour worth considering. River Derwent River Crossings: The Ebor Way crosses the River Derwent, offering serene riverside walking. York City Walls and Minster: Walkers enter the historic city of York, where the route skirts the ancient city walls and the iconic York Minster. Micklegate Bar: One of the medieval gateways into the city. Vale of York Flat Farmland: The trail crosses the Vale of York, characterized by flat, fertile farmland. Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Ripley Castle: The route goes through the grounds of Ripley Castle, a historic country house. Nidderdale Views: Walkers enjoy panoramic views of Nidderdale’s rolling hills and valleys. Wharfedale Otley Chevin: The path climbs Otley Chevin, a prominent hill offering spectacular views of Wharfedale. Riverside Walks: The trail follows sections of the River Wharfe, providing pleasant riverside scenery. Ending Point: Ilkley Ilkley Moor: The route concludes at the famous Ilkley Moor, known for its rugged beauty and the iconic Cow and Calf rocks. Ilkley Town: The walk ends in the spa town of Ilkley, a perfect place to relax and explore after completing the trail. Get on the trail The Ebor Way offers a diverse walking experience through some of Yorkshire’s most beautiful and historically rich landscapes. From the moors and woodlands to riverside paths and urban heritage sites, the route encapsulates the essence of Yorkshire's natural and cultural treasures.