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
Download file for GPSWalk 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.