Walk: Sutton Bank and the Kilburn White Horse Walk

This challenging circular walk in the North York Moors visits the Kilburn White Horse, the lovely Gormire Lake and the scar at Sutton Bank. It's one of the premium walks in the park and a must see if you are in the area.

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The Route

• what3words for start point: ///premises.enchanted.whips
• Start / Finish Point: Sutton Bank National Park Centre, Sutton Bank, Thirsk YO7 2EH
• Distance: 6 Miles

GPX Route Map

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Walk Description

Start at the car park which sits just under the white horse and pick up the Cleveland Way to take you to the 978 ft (298 m) summit of Sutton Bank. The hill is a high point in the Hambleton Hills and commands splendid views over the North York Moors, the Vale of York and the Vale of Mowbray.

At the summit you will find the fascinating Sutton Bank Visitor Centre where you can find out how the dramatic landscape was formed in the ice age. From the viewing platform there are views of Roulston Scar, Hood Hill and Lake Gormire. There's a handy view indicator which displays all the landmarks you can see. Also look for gliders setting off from the top of the hill on fine days.

From the summit descend through woodland to Gormire Lake, passing the striking Whitestone Cliff as you go. Continue through the countryside before a final woodland section through the Hoodhill Field Plantation returns you to the car park.

The area is also great for mountain biking. The North York Moors National Park Authority has created a green, blue and red trail. These are all waymarked and start from the Sutton Bank National Park Centre where you can hire bikes.

Just to the south east you can also visit the magnificent Byland Abbey. The 12th century abbey includes extensive ruins and wonderful brightly coloured medieval floor tiles.