Walks in Hudswell, North Yorkshire
From easy city strolls to challenging trails, discover the best of Hudswell, North Yorkshire on foot.
Walk: Richmond, Hudswell and the River Swale
Richmond, Hudswell Woods, George & Dragon and the River Swale. The Route What3Words reference: ///collects.instructs.afflicted Start / Finish Point: Market Pl, Richmond DL10 4QN Distance: 5 Miles GPX Route Map richmond-and-hudswell-woodsDownload Walk Description Following the Norman Conquest, the ‘new’ ruling lords were given large tracts of land and ordered to keep an eye on the unruly locals. William the Conqueror gave Alan Rufus, one of his loyal supporters, a vast estate in what is now North Yorkshire as well as the title ‘Earl of Richmond’. He then set about building a castle on the edge of the sheer cliffs high above the River Swale, and named it ‘riche mont’ which means ‘strong hill’ in Norman French. The view of the castle from Richmond Green Bridge is a delight with the castle ramparts towering above and the River Swale, England’s fastest flowing river, which then tumbles over its limestone bed to create a series of waterfalls known as The Fosse. Richmond Green Bridge was built in the 1780’s to a design of the famous architect John Carr, replacing a much older bridge. This was for many centuries the only crossing of the river and was the start of the Richmond to Lancaster Turnpike. Just beside the bridge is the former Good Intent Inn that served travellers along this old road as well as workers from the quarries in Billy Bank Wood. A delightful path leads up through these woods alongside the River Swale then on through Hudswell Woods, a semi-natural woodland clinging to the steep valley sides of the Swale with towering beech trees, oak and ash that are now thankfully in the care of the National Trust. A steep flight of steps leads up through these woods to the quiet village of Hudswell, situated on a flat shelf of land just above the escarpment and deep valley of the Swale. Here you will find the George & Dragon, Yorkshire’s first community owned pub with its own community shop, library, allotments and beehives, not to mention its large terraced beer garden, which affords panoramic views across the wooded gorge of Swaledale. The return leg of this walk follows the top of the wooded escarpment for most of the way, walking across a series of narrow field strips and countless stiles. There are also occasional glimpses of Swaledale through the trees as well as a perfect framed view of the Keep of Richmond Castle.
Walk: The Whitcliffe Walk
An unforgettable walk that offers wonderful views of Swaledale with dark forest walks, river trails and dramatic cliffs with a dose of historical sites thrown in for good measure. The Route what3words for start point: ///rates.prefect.shelf Start Point: Aislabeck Plantation, Hurgill Rd, Richmond DL10 4SG Finish Point: Aislabeck Plantation, Hurgill Rd, Richmond DL10 4SG Distance: 4.5 Miles GPX Route Map whitcliffe-walk-yorkshire-dalesDownload Walk Description This breath-taking route is ideal for holidaymakers and local residents looking to find a new trail on their doorstep. Weaving through scenic woodland, along the powerful river and up into the hills where the sun streams over the kaleidoscopic colours of the Swale valley, this circular walk is one for all seasons and takes in a myriad of wildlife.
Walk: River Swale Richmond
A lovely stroll by the River Swale in the picturesque town of Richmond. The Route what3words for start point: ///chariots.visits.delay Start Point: Richmond Finish Point: Richmond Distance: 6 Miles GPX Route Map river-swale-richmondDownload Walk Description A nice, easy stroll in Richmond following the River Swale towards Hudswell woods. Before setting off why not take in the lovely town of Richmond including its fine marketplace. Starting at Richmond bridge pick up the path to Billy Bank woods which runs parallel to the river. Look out for the wide variety of wildlife an nature on show. Keep an eye out for fishing birds on the quieter stretches of the river. You will soon hit the woodland with it's stunning bluebells in spring as well its the vast number of butterflies attracted to the area. After you've taken some amazing photos follow the path back to Richmond and refuel at one of the amazing cafes or pubs in the town itself.
Walk: Catterick Garrison to Northallerton
Explore a scenic stretch of rural North Yorkshire, linking Catterick Garrison to Northallerton via quiet lanes, open fields, and peaceful riverside sections. At just over 26 km, this is a longer, rewarding full-day walk that crosses the A1, skirts the River Swale near Kiplin Hall, and takes in a string of traditional villages on the way to the county town. The route Distance: 26.3 km (16.3 miles)What3Words: //altering.overlaid.clapStart Point: Catterick GarrisonFinish Point: NorthallertonPublic Transport: Buses to Catterick Garrison; train from Northallerton GPX route map Use the interactive map below to follow the route from Catterick Garrison through Tunstall, Great Langton, Little Langton, Thrintoft and Yafforth before reaching Northallerton. This GPX file can be downloaded and used with most navigation apps or GPS devices for offline access. catterick-garrison-to-northallertonDownload Walk Description This long but relatively gentle walk begins in Catterick Garrison and heads east across open fields and quiet country roads. After passing through Tunstall, you’ll cross the A1 — one of the walk’s few major interruptions — via a safe bridge crossing. From here, the route settles quickly back into rural rhythm, with wide views and agricultural landscapes dominating the horizon. Near Kiplin Hall, the path skirts close to the River Swale, offering moments of riverside calm and birdlife activity before curving toward the village of Great Langton. From there, you continue to Little Langton, where hedged lanes and traditional farm buildings maintain the peaceful, rural feel. The next section continues across open farmland to Thrintoft and then Yafforth — two small, unspoiled villages typical of this part of North Yorkshire. As the walk nears its end, it skirts the northern boundary of Romanby Golf Club before leading into the centre of Northallerton via quiet lanes and footpaths. With a mix of historical interest, changing scenery and the convenience of rail connections, this is a rewarding route for anyone looking to experience Yorkshire’s gentle countryside on foot.
Walk: Munster Barracks Catterick to Richmond Castle
This inspiring walking route follows the footsteps of Royal Lancers soldier Seun Ayoola Olagunju and his team, who completed the walk on December 10th as part of the Walking Home campaign to support veterans and their families. Whether you’re honouring their effort or simply enjoying a scenic walk with a purpose, this 12-mile route combines historical landmarks, scenic landscapes, and a chance to reflect on the sacrifices made by our armed forces. The Route what3words for start point: ///listening.shared.throw Start Point: Munster Barracks, Catterick Garrison Finish Point: Richmond Castle Distance: 12 Miles Difficulty: Moderate GPX Route Map WalkForWoundedDownload The route is also available on OS here. Walk Description This route takes in some quiet footpaths along the Swale river before climbing into the historic centre of Richmond and looping back to Catterick Garrison. The background Commenting on his challenge, Seun said: “I care deeply about giving back to and supporting my friends and neighbours in whatever capacity I can. This is another opportunity for me to do so and I hope it goes a long way for veterans and their families. “I am not undertaking this alone. I am proud to be part of a team supporting Walking Home. A huge thank you to my team mates- Chena Bowman-Olagunju, Jarra Horton, E Hyde, Rachel Moss, Adeyemo Huldah, Jonny Parsons and all other team members and donors. Your generosity and kindness mean so much and will make a big difference to the lives of those who served.” The Walking Home campaign was launched by former Army Reservist and presenter of the BBC’s Escape to the Country, Jules Hudson. Jules took part in a sponsored walk at Monmouth Castle where his former regiment, the Royal Monmouthshire Royal Engineers, is stationed. Alongside him were local cadets from Gwent and Powys Army Cadet Force and Monmouth School Combined Cadet Force. How to Donate Visit the Walking Home campaign page: Walking With The Wounded. Every contribution makes a difference. Donate
Walk: The Easby Loop
A favourite family picnic route. From The Station in Richmond, North Yorkshire, (refreshments available) follow the old rail-track to historic Easby Abbey. Return beside the rushing River Swale. The Route what3words for start point: ///dined.shipyards.data Start / Finish Point: The Station, Richmond DL10 4LD Distance: 2.5 Miles GPX Route Map easby-loopDownload Walk Description Richmond’s most popular ramble: fine views, a rushing river, ancient ruins, picnic sites, and an eerie folk-tale. Park at The Station, Richmond’s old railway terminus, now a bustling visitor attraction. If the car park is full, The Station is only a few minutes’ walk from other car parks in town. From The Station, follow the rail-track in a tunnel of trees. (Don’t worry - the last train left 52 years ago!) After ½ mile, a bridge croses the Swale, reputedly the fastest-flowing river in England. Turn left to reach a gaggle of medieval buildings. St Agatha’s Church is a haven of tranquility on a warm day, with thirteenth century wall paintings. (Adam and Eve are delightful!) Over the road is the roofless Gatehouse of Easby Abbey, and behind the church is the Abbey, founded in 1152 and largely destroyed by Henry VIII in 1536. Entry to this English Heritage property is free. The main route continues past the Abbey, through the yard of a private house into an open field. Keep dogs on leads for this section. After 200 yards a kissing gate leads into woodland; take the higher path, or go down a flight of steps to walk beside the river. Either way, follow your nose for half a mile and you’ll see The Station through the trees on your left, over the river. Turn left on a tarmac lane to Station Road.