Walks in Osmotherley
From easy city strolls to challenging trails, discover the best of Osmotherley on foot.
Walk: Cod Beck Reservoir from Osmotherley
From the "walking capital of the North York Moors" head to the fine circuit of Cod Beck Reservoir. The reservoir is hidden in the trees with excellent paths. The Route what3words for start point: ///incursion.enacted.spines Start Point: Osmotherley centre Finish Point: Osmotherley Distance: 5.5 Miles GPX Route Map codbeckosmotherleyDownload Walk Description From Osmotherley follow the Cleveland Way long distance path into the woods above Mount Grace Priory. The energetic can descend to the priory but the sensible carry on through the woods till the path emerges from the trees and excellent views across the Vale of York. Continue to Scarth Nick before returning along the quiet road to Cod Beck Reservoir. It is a lovely and tranquil spot with many places to stop in the woodland that borders the reservoir. Emerge from the woods at the dam wall before continuing the 1/2 mile to the outskirts of Osmotherley. The Osmotherley Loop: A Journey through Historical Woods, Reservoir Serenity, and Vale of York Panoramas Starting Point Initiate your adventure in the charming village of Osmotherley, a gateway to the Cleveland Way long-distance path. Introduction Set off on an enriching trek that marries breathtaking landscapes with historical intrigue. Beginning in the quaint village of Osmotherley, your journey will take you along the Cleveland Way, a path that meanders through the atmospheric woods above Mount Grace Priory. With a blend of choices for the adventurous and the tranquil seeker alike, the walk then leads you across Scarth Nick, passing by Cod Beck Reservoir, before concluding back in Osmotherley. Each step is a treat, offering immersive woodland walks, splendid views across the Vale of York, and idyllic waterside moments at Cod Beck Reservoir. The Woods and Mount Grace Priory: A Tale of Two Paths As you venture along the Cleveland Way and ascend into the woods, you'll be enveloped by a sense of tranquility and historical mystique. For those with abundant energy and a flair for history, a detour to explore Mount Grace Priory is highly tempting. However, if you opt for a more peaceful experience, carry on through the leafy canopy until you break free from the tree line. A Window to the Vale of York Emerging from the forest, you'll be rewarded with panoramic vistas across the Vale of York. Here, the landscape opens up to reveal the sprawling valley below, a sight that captures the true essence of the region’s natural beauty. This viewpoint makes for an excellent pause to take photographs or simply soak in the views. Scarth Nick and the Return to Tranquility Press on to Scarth Nick, relishing the countryside ambiance. Once there, you can begin your return journey, this time opting for a quiet road that guides you to the calming waters of Cod Beck Reservoir. The Oasis of Cod Beck Reservoir You'll find Cod Beck Reservoir to be an oasis of calm, bordered by lush woodland that invites leisurely stops. The reservoir area offers various secluded spots where you can pause to relish the serenity, perhaps even enjoying a picnic or capturing the scenery through your lens. The Dam Wall and Homeward Bound As you exit the wooded area, you'll come across the dam wall, another interesting facet of this varied walk. From here, it's just a half-mile back to the outskirts of Osmotherley, where your memorable journey concludes. Conclusion The Osmotherley Loop is not merely a walk; it's a symphony of experiences that harmonize to create a fulfilling day out. Whether you're captivated by historical landmarks like Mount Grace Priory, awestruck by sweeping views over the Vale of York, or seeking moments of peace by Cod Beck Reservoir, this walk offers a little something for everyone. So, lace up your boots and prepare for a truly enriching adventure.
Walk: High Moors over Osmotherley
Head on to the moors above Osmotherley for an excellent walk with extensive views. Return along the Cleveland Way on the escarpment overlooking the Vale of York. The Route what3words reference point: ///finer.stubborn.losses Start Point: Osmotherley, Hambleton, North Yorkshire Finish Point: Osmotherley, Hambleton, North Yorkshire Distance: 10 Miles GPX Route Map osmotherleymoorlandwalkDownload Walk Description Leave Osmotherley to the south and climb steadily up to the moors. The path passes the reservoirs of Jenny Brewster, hidden in some attractive woodland. Cross the moors for 3 miles, the main feature being a shooting hut which is a good spot to enjoy your picnic! On arrival at the edge of the moors the path turns west and follows a good track in the forest. Cross a moorland road at Scarth Nick and continue along the Cleveland Way before arriving back at Osmotherley.
Walk: Cod Beck Reservoir
An easy walk around the Cod Beck Reservoir, just inside the North Yorks Moors, near Osmotherley. The Route What3Words for Start Point: ///photo.perused.painting Start Point: Small car park at the north edge of the reservoir, DL6 3AL Finish Point: DL6 3AL Distance: 2 Miles GPX Route Map walkshirecodbeckreservoirDownload Walk Description Make your way to the smaller car park, which is south of the main car park and closer to the reservoir’s boundary fence. From this car park, look for the path which runs alongside the road, and head towards the green gate. Go through the gate and follow the path in front of you for the whole length of the reservoir. The end of the reservoir, turn left onto the embankment and walk across. At the other end of the embankment, turn left in front of the wood to follow the path alongside the reservoir back round, with the water on your left. Just before the end of the reservoir, the path enters a woodland and bends to the left down towards a bridge. Cross the bridge and head through the green gate straight in front of you. Follow the path back to the small car park.
Walk Northallerton to Chop Gate
This 25.7 km linear walk takes you from the market town of Northallerton into the North York Moors, finishing in the moorland village of Chop Gate. The route passes through varied and gradually changing landscapes — from farmland and riverside paths to forested valleys and high open moor. View from the top of Hasty Bank into Bilsdale, North Yorkshire Moors The Route Start: NorthallertonFinish: Chop GateDistance: 25.7 kmStart location (what3words): ///again.braced.invoices GPX route map Use the interactive map below to follow the route from Northallerton to Chop Gate. northallerton-to-chop-gate-walkDownload Walk Description Leaving Northallerton behind, the walk heads east through open countryside toward Kirby Sigston, a quiet village known for its church and historic hall — and currently home to the former Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak. From here, the route crosses Cod Beck for the first time before continuing across farmland and over the A19. The route climbs gradually past Hemmel Hill and crosses Cod Beck twice more as it enters more wooded terrain, including a section alongside Oakdale Beck and through Big Wood — part of Thimbleby Bank Plantation. From here, the path rises steeply toward the moor edge at Black Hambleton, offering wide views across Bilsdale and the Cleveland Hills. The moorland stretch beyond Black Hambleton and Miley Pike is atmospheric and remote, leading to the crossing of the River Rye and a long descent into Chop Gate. The final section follows the River Seph and narrow moorland lanes into the village. This is a varied and challenging day walk, best suited to experienced walkers with proper gear and a map or GPX device. The change in character from lowland farmland to exposed moorland makes for a rewarding journey through the diverse terrain of North Yorkshire.
Walk: Lyke Wake Walk
The Lyke Wake Walk is a challenging long-distance path in North Yorkshire, England, spanning approximately 40 miles (64 km) across the North York Moors National Park. The route traditionally begins near Osmotherley on the western edge of the moors and ends at the coastal town of Ravenscar on the eastern side. The Route what3words for start point: ///tilting.gladiator.march Start Point: Quarry Ln, Osmotherley, Northallerton DL6 3AL Finish Point: Ravenscar Distance: 40 miles GPX Route Map lykewakewalkDownload Walk Description The trail, established in 1955 by local farmer Bill Cowley, is named after the "Lyke Wake Dirge," a 14th-century funeral song. The dirge reflects on the soul's journey from Earth to the afterlife, a metaphor fitting for the traverse across the stark, expansive moorland. The walk is marked by diverse terrains, starting with the rolling hills near Osmotherley. It then ascends to the high, flat moorland plateau, characterized by peat bogs and heather expanses, offering panoramic views across the moors. The path crosses several forested areas and passes near or through notable landmarks such as the Wainstones, a distinctive rock formation, and the Lion Inn on Blakey Ridge, one of the highest public houses in England. As walkers approach the eastern edge of the moors, the terrain descends through more wooded areas before reaching the dramatic cliffs above Ravenscar, looking out over the North Sea. The route is renowned not only for its natural beauty but also for its historical and archaeological significance, featuring ancient standing stones and burial mounds. Completing the Lyke Wake Walk within 24 hours is a popular challenge among hikers, often undertaken as part of a group. Those who accomplish this feat are humorously referred to as "Dirgers" in homage to the walk’s funereal namesake.
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.