Yorkshire
Is Made For
Walking.
Discover hundreds of hand-picked routes across the UK's biggest and most beautiful county.
Walk: Ribblehead, a short walk
The Ribblehead viaduct is one of the most dramatic Victorian engineering achievements of the era. This short walk gives a real feel and understanding of the feat. The Route what3words for start point: ///rent.imagined.intestine Start Point: Parking places on the road at Ribblehead Finish Point: Ribblehead Distance: 5 Miles GPX Route Map ribbleheadashortwalkDownload Walk Description There is plenty of car parking on the road at Ribblehead. Walk towards the viaduct but do not pass under it. Continue alongside the railway for half a mile to a tunnel under the railway on your left. There is an option here to continue for a further half mile to stand above the railway and look in to the extraordinary mile and a half Blea Moor Tunnel . Return to the tunnel under the railway to Winterscales. Past the farm take the track on your left and return to pass under the viaduct. It is only then that you can understand the extraordinary scale of the structure.
Walk: Scarborough Sea Cut
On the outskirts of Scarborough is a lovely walk alongside the famous Scarborough 'Sea Cut' before returning via Raincliffe Woods. It offers a pleasant change from the coast. The Route what3words for start point: ///moth.forgot.lands Start Point: On Hackness Road near Scalby and Newby. Finish Point: Hackness Road Distance: 6 Miles GPX Route Map scarboroughseacutDownload Walk Description The Scarborough Sea Cut is where the early Victorians created an inland channel from the Derwent to the sea in order to avoid repeated flooding. The walk starts between Newby and Scalby and continues 3 miles along the cut before entering Raincliffe Woods. The woods are a wonderful mix of mixed woodland trees, recreation and excellent paths.
Walk: The Lister Arms, Malham
Venture out into the lesser-visited side of the Malham countryside, topping it off with a recharge at The Lister Arms. The Route what3words for start point: ///optimists.requiring.grove Start / Finish Point: The Lister Arms, Malham, Skipton BD23 4DB Distance: 6 Miles GPX Route Map walkshire-malhamlisterarms-2Download Walk Description Starting at The Lister Arms, turn left down Finkle Street, then immediately left again to follow the Pennine Way. After a short while, look for a footpath on the left, and turn down that path. This exits on Cove Road, where you find the public footpath straight across and carry on down that. At the end, ignore the farm access on the left, but veer to the left and then turn right to walk down the track. Follow the track around to the right, and then at the fork in the tracks, veer to the right and follow it until the dual walled track opens into a field. Follow the clear path on the ground to reach Cove Road. Turn right and then take the first footpath on the left into the field. Head to the gate in the wall to the left, and go into the next field. Ahead, there are three trees - head to the right of the middle tree to the stile, then take the stile in the wall slightly to your right. Ahead across this field, finding the stile again slightly to your right. Head across two more fields, finding the stiles in the walls as you go. In the next field, just walk slightly to your right away from the road, which is on your left and you’ll find another stile in the wall. Here, walk straight ahead to the corner and then turn left to follow a wall on your right. This reaches Cove Road again, by a cattle grid. Cross over the road and take the footpath straight ahead. The footpath follows the line of the wall, but you can take the track off to the left if you wish. Just after the wall, the tracks split, and here, turn left. Follow this track into three fields and then alongside a wall on the left. At the junction of paths, turn left and follow the clear track. Just as the landscape gets rather rocky on the right hand side, find the clear path on the ground to turn right, and find the stile in the wall coming in on the left. Follow the clear path on the ground to eventually walk with a wall on your left. Follow this line to the gate in the wall ahead, then continue on, to head for the barn straight ahead. Go through the gate and to the right after the trees, to see a road ahead. Take the stile and join the road, as it turns to the right and eventually meets up with the track split from earlier in the walk, where you went right, instead of left. Now retrace your steps back into Malham to The Lister Arms.
Walk: Settle, Scaleber Force and Jubilee Cave
Settle, the waterfall of Scaleber Force, geological wonders and prehistoric Jubilee Cave. The Route what3words for start point: ///comply.solving.sublet Start / Finish Point: Market Pl, Settle BD24 9EJ Distance: 6.5 Miles GPX Route Map settle-warrendale-knott-and-victoria-caveDownload Walk Description From the lovely old market town of Settle in Ribblesdale, this walk heads to the dramatic waterfall of Scaleber Force, set in a wooded ravine. Here the waters of Scaleber Beck cascade down over limestone ledges formed by the South Craven Fault. The Craven Fault Lines define the southern geological boundary of the Yorkshire Dales, where the underlying rocks were displaced many hundreds or metres during the Carboniferous period over 300 million years ago. From Scaleber Force, our walk heads northwards to soon reach Warrendale Knotts, a dramatic cliff of shattered limestone crags and hills along the Mid Craven Fault, which is also responsible for Malham Cove and Gordale Scar. As you approach Warrendale Knotts you pass Sugar Loaf Hill, which is a Reef Knoll that was formed along the edge of these fault lines as coral reefs in a shallow tropical sea when this whole area was near the equator. A rocky path now heads northwards, with a detour up to the right to reach the incredible Victoria Cave. Deposits within this cave chart the climate and human history of the Yorkshire Dales, as animal bones from hippos, short-nosed rhino, elephants and hyenas have been discovered in thick glacial clay deposits. These animals lived in this area 130,000 years ago during a warm interglacial period. Above these deposits, a 11,000 year old harpoon tip made from reindeer bone was discovered dating back 11,000 years ago from when the first human hunter-gatherers arrived after the end of the last ice age during the Palaeolithic period. Similar discoveries have been found in nearby Jubilee Cave.
Walk: Ripon to Fountains Abbey
Ripon Cathedral, Studley Royal Deer Park, Fountains Abbey & Hell Wath. The Route what3words for start point: ///rant.cowering.truth Start Point: Ripon Cathedral Finish Point: Ripon Cathedral Distance: 9 Miles GPX Route Map ripon-to-fountainsDownload Walk Description In 1132, thirteen Benedictine monks set off from St Mary’s Abbey at York in search of a more austere way of life. They stayed at Ripon on Christmas Day before walking four miles further west to an area of land in Skelldale given to them by the Archbishop of York. Despite its sylvan appearance now, this remote wooded valley was “more fit for wild beasts than men to inhabit” in 1132. They established Fountains Abbey as part of the Cistercian Order, which grew over the centuries into one of the richest monasteries in Europe with vast tracts of land throughout the North of England from the Lake District to the North Sea on which sheep were reared for their wool and meat. However, bad harvests and frequent Scottish raids during the 14th Century brought about economic collapse. Despite its financial problems, Fountains remained an abbey of great importance with its abbots sitting in Parliament. All this came to an end in 1539 with Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries, although Henry did give the Abbot and his monks a generous pension! The ruins of Fountains Abbey are the largest remains of a Cistercian abbey in Europe, an outstanding example of monastic life and architecture that includes an exceptional stone-vaulted Cellarium and one of the finest Cistercian mills in Europe. The adjoining Studley Royal Water Garden was laid out in the 18th Century by John Aislabie. Although an amateur, Aislabie transformed the wild valley of the River Skell into a formal landscaped garden. The Water Garden now stands as the most important Georgian water garden in England with lakes, water features, temples, statues and woodland. The Water Garden occupies 60 acres of the 760 acre Studley Park, an expansive deer park where over 600 deer roam. This walk retraces the footsteps of those monks who set out from Ripon Cathedral on Boxing Day 1132 to establish Fountains Abbey. The striking 13th Century West Front of Ripon Cathedral dominates the city skyline. The Cathedral is famed for its Saxon Crypt, the oldest in England, a simple chamber deep beneath the Nave. This is all that remains of the Saxon monastery founded in 672AD by St Wilfred above which towers the magnificent Norman Cathedral. Inside there is a wealth of architecture to marvel at including the 15th Century choir stalls and misericords carved by the famous Ripon School of Carvers.
Walk: Haworth Moor and Top Withins
A hearty moorland walk past Lower Laithe Reservoir and over Haworth Moor to the abandoned stone farmhouse of Top Withins. The Route what3words for start point: ///flute.model.aunts Start / Finish Point: Lay by car park area Cemetery Road, Haworth, BD22 8EN Distance: 6.2 Miles GPX Route Map walkshirehaworthtotopwithensDownload Walk Description From the layby car park on Cemetery Road in Haworth, with the bench in front of you, turn right, and walk towards the cemetery. At the gate on the right, take the public footpath that runs initially parallel to the road, but then starts to move away to the right. Follow this path to go past a works on the right to reach Reservior Road. Here, Lower Laithe Reservoir will be straight in front of you. Turn right and follow the road along the top of the embankment, and then up to Sun Lane. Turn left, and walk through the village of Stanbury - taking care as the pavements often disappear! Carry on past the village school and out of the village past the traffic calming islands. At the road junction, veer left along Back Lane - ignoring the no through road sign - and continue along the lane. At the junction, keep to the left, and then at the end of the lane, head to the right, along the path marked “Private Road”. As this is a public footpath, you are allowed to walk on it. Follow this path, and then at the junctions, keep to the right, to walk past two farm buildings on the right. This is now part of the Pennine Way. The path heads alongside some walled fields on the left, before clearly turning to the left to eventually find the remote abandoned stone farmhouse of Top Withins. Once you’ve investigated, retrace your steps until you see a clear path branching out to the right. Take this path and when it joins another, turn left. Follow this to walk alongside South Dean Beck. Ignore the next two paths branching off, and stick to the main path - although the landscape is wild, stick to this clear path. After a while, three more paths branch off, and you should ignore those too. Just after the edge of a walled field, at the junction of paths, head to the right, which is the easiest way to Bronte Bridge. Cross over the bridge, and look for the Bronte Waterfalls. Don’t turn down the path on the right, but continue on what is now part of the Bronte Way. Follow this very clear path, with green fields on the left and moorland on the right. Keep on this path until it reaches a crossroads. Here, head straight across, and down along Cemetery Road - keeping safe as it is a narrow road. Follow this all the way back to the laybe car park.
Walk: Settle (The Golden Lion)
An interesting ramble taking in the historic town of Settle and the surrounding countryside into Giggleswick - all starting and finishing at The Golden Lion hotel. The Route What3words start point: ///touched.gamer.slanting Start Point: The Golden Lion, Duke St, Settle BD24 9DU Finish Point: The Golden Lion, Duke St, Settle BD24 9DU Distance: 8 Miles GPX Route Map walkshiresettlewalkforthegoldenlion-2Download Walk Description From The Golden Lion hotel, turn left down Duke Street, then turn right down Station Road. After crossing underneath the railway, turn right down Bond Lane and then left at the T-junction on to Kirkgate. On the bend to the right, turn left down Kings Mill Lane and follow this to the end. Turn right, and ignore two junctions to the left but then turn left at the yard gates to cross the River Ribble over the Giggleswick Memorial Bridge. Turn right and follow the made path until it meets the B6480. Cross over and turn right, then turn left immediately down the public footpath. Follow this path along the side of the playing field and turn left when you reach the side of the river. This is now part of the Ribble Way and the Dales High Way. Follow the path as it turns left away from the river, and then almost straight away turns right through a field. Follow this clear path, over the boundaries of two fields, to eventually reach a road through a small wooden gate. Turn right and then go through the gate immediately on the left. Turn right and follow the line of the road for a while, and then follow the boundary of the field as it veers to the left. Continue through the trees and turn left at the next junction of paths to walk between the two solo trees. Head towards the stile in the boundary wall and then once in the next field head for the gate almost straight ahead. In this field, follow the clear path on the ground as it zigzags upwards and make your way to the stile in the boundary ahead of you. Then, in the next field, the path pretty much follows the line of the right hand boundary - albeit a little way away from it. The path then crosses over the right hand boundary, turns left and then over another straight away. In the next field, head straight across to the gate in the far boundary, following the clear path on the ground. Then, follow the boundary wall on your left, until it ends, and then keep on that same line to another gate. Follow the clear path on the ground until you see another clear path turning left and heading towards the boundary wall on your left. Turn left to follow this path to reach the boundary wall on your right. At the wall in front of you, take the stile and follow the boundary on your right all the way until it ends. You’ve turned right slightly by this point, and now roughly follow this line, guided by the path on the ground, to reach the far boundary. Veer right, diagonally across the field, keeping to the left of the building on the right, and head to the next stile. In the next field, look around half way down the boundary on the left side for the stile to aim for. Now, veer diagonally to the right and head for the boundary wall on the right. When you’ve reached this, turn left and follow it until a wall stops your track. Look for the stile in the wall to your left, and take this. The path is clear on the ground in the next few fields, so don’t leave this path and keep the wood on your right hand side. Eventually, you’ll start to drop down slightly, and look for a path on the ground to the left - this is to avoid the quarry that is straight ahead. Go to the boundary wall and turn right - but follow the path which turns off to the right to follow the top of the quarry, not the boundary wall. Enter the wood and follow the path down to the B6480. Turn right, cross over the road, and turn left down the road signed “Giggleswick School”. Follow this road all the way down until you see a public footpath sign pointing right for Craven Bank Lane. Take this path, which cuts across the green to reach a footbridge, then follow the boundary on your right and follow it around to the left. Go through the hedgerow to reach Craven Bank Lane, and turn left, following the road until you cross over a stream. Turn right here, but go straight into the field, not over the little footbridge to the right. Follow the clear path to exit the first field to the right of the line of trees. Arrive back at The Golden Lion.
Walk: Addingham and Bolton Abbey
A walk of real contrasts on the southern fringes of the Yorkshire Dales. With spectacular views from Chelker Reservoir to riverside walking on the Wharfe and the highlight an unusual approach to Bolton Abbey. The Route what3words for start point: ///donation.outfit.nightlife Start Point: Addingham, near the church Finish Point: Addingham Distance: 8.5 Miles GPX Route Map addleboroughandboltonabbeyDownload Walk Description From the village of Addingham near Ilkley climb through a golf course to Chelker Reservoir. After a short detour to the excellent view point at Haw Pike drop down to the River Wharfe. Continue along the Wharfe to Bolton Abbey, in fact an Augustinian priory. Cross the river and return to Bolton Bridge. Here join the Dales Way and follow The River Wharfe back to Addingham.
Walk: Malham Tarn
Malham Tarn is a glacial lake, very rare, in the Yorkshire Dales, with an abundance of plants, trees and bird life along its shores. Some of the walk is through protected landscape. The Route what3words for start point: ///unto.processor.expect Start Point: Malham Finish Point: Malham Distance: 5 Miles GPX Route Map malhamtarnDownload Walk Description Begin your journey amidst the sweeping landscapes that have captured imaginations on the small screen, parking at Streetgate. This location, a mere mile from the bustling hub south of the tarn, sits quietly on the ‘Herriot road’, famed for its appearance in the beloved recent TV series adaptation of James Herriot's tales. This starting point offers a reprieve from the popular paths and ushers you into the heart of Yorkshire's undisturbed beauty. As you depart from Streetgate, take the northwest path. The route, a well-maintained farm track, guides you gently towards the serene expanse of the lake. With each step, the cacophony of daily life fades, replaced by the symphony of nature that crescendos upon reaching the water's edge, where you will merge with the path that runs intimately alongside the lake. The path soon whispers you into a wooded embrace, leading you into the sanctuary of the Malham Tarn Field Centre's protected grounds. Here, amidst the dappled light and the sheltering arms of ancient trees, you are invited to commune with nature. The nature reserve is a treasure chest of ecological wonders, offering an up-close experience with the rich tapestry of wetland birdlife that dances along the lake's shores. Continuing on, the northwest corner of the lake marks a change in your journey. Here, you transition onto one of the area's hushed byways, an inviting road that weaves around the water’s edge to complete your circuit of the tarn. The surrounding drystone walls, a patchwork of Yorkshire's craft and geology, stand as silent sentinels over a landscape that breathes tranquility. The native limestone, etched by time and elements, serves as a natural canvas, showcasing the unique topography that cradles Malham Tarn. For those who seek an unhindered experience of this tranquil circuit, the Field Centre offers an accessible option—hire a Tramper. These all-terrain mobility scooters provide a way for everyone to partake in the beauty of the reserve, ensuring that the soothing calm of the tarn and its surroundings can be enjoyed by all, regardless of mobility. This walk is more than a physical journey; it is a passage through time, a walk through living art, where every corner turned is a stroke of nature’s brush, every sound a note in an earthy melody, creating a landscape of peace that lingers with you long after the walk is concluded. More like this: try a longer form of this walk found at the Malham Cove Walk.
Walk: Robin Hood's Bay
Robin Hood's Bay (the name of the bay itself and the delightful village at its north end) is a lovely semi circle of sand flanked by cliffs reaching to Ravenscar. The Route what3words for start point: ///ditching.bluffs.political Start Point: Upper Robin Hood's Bay Finish Point: Robin Hood's Bay Distance: 7.5 Miles Getting there Robin Hood's Bay is best accessed by car with a public car park located at the top of the village. GPX Route Map robinhoodsbay-1Download Walk Description Start the walk by descending through the narrow streets of this old smugglers village before leaving it near the beach. Follow the Cleveland Way signs past the well, named Boggle Hole, to the end of the bay. Climb steeply up the path through fields to Ravenscar and the wonderfully situated hotel overlooking the cliff edge. To vary the return follow the Old Railway line inland before descending back in to the bay. It is perfectly possible (outside high tide) to spend some of the walk near the village on the beach itself. This is a perfect walk to add to your #WalkshireWishlist for the Spring or Autumn seasons, as the wetter weather can make the terrain muddier and the route more challenging than usual. Lunch The Victoria Hotel and the Flask Inn both serve food.
Walk: Whitby Abbey and the Coast
A short walk that follows a lovely cliffside section of the Yorkshire Coast and returns via the dramatic Whitby Abbey. The views over Whitby are exceptional. The Route what3words for start point: ///mastering.agreeable.glassware Start Point: Car Park east side of the estuary in Whitby centre Finish Point: Whitby Distance: 5 Miles GPX Route Map whitbyandwhitbyabbeyDownload Walk Description From Whitby harbour climb the steep steps on the east side past St Mary's Church. From the top of the steps enjoy the views over Whitby before following the signs for the Cleveland Way as it winds its way along the cliff edge. Pass the smugglers cove at Saltwick Bay (worth exploring if you have time) before arriving at the still working lighthouse after two miles. From here turn inland and continue along quiet lanes back towards Whitby. The ruins of Whitby Abbey will dominate the return, becoming more impressive with every step.
Walk: Bolton Abbey
An easy access walk at the delightful Bolton Abbey alongside the River Wharfe. This tranquil walk takes you past a well known section of the River Wharfe called The Strid. The Route what3words for start point: ///cello.lollipop.ratty Start / Finish Point: Sandholme Car Park, Bolton Abbey, Skipton BD23 6EX Distance: 4.6 Miles GPX Route Map drawaroute-14Download Walk Description An easy access walk at the delightful Bolton Abbey alongside the River Wharfe. For the first 1.8km of the route, the surface is compact stone at a width of at least 200cm. There are passing places and accessible benches along the full length of the route. Most of the route is flat with some areas having a gradient up to 1:10. From here, the route is unsurfaced with some gradients reaching 1:6.
Walk: Aysgarth Falls and Bolton Castle
Visit Aysgarth Falls and Bolton Castle – two of Wensleydale’s most impressive highlights – while enjoying peaceful footpaths and stunning views in between. The Route what3words for start point: ///chairs.nappy.fussy Start / Finish Point: Aysgarth Falls National Park Centre, Church Bank, Centre, Aysgarth, Leyburn DL8 3TH Distance: 7.5 Miles GPX Route Map castleboltonfromaysgarthcircularDownload Walk Description This beautiful circular walk takes in many of the highlights of mid-Wensleydale while offering quiet, peaceful paths away from the crowds in between. Start the day admiring the three separate cascades that make up the spectacular Aysgarth Falls, followed by some lovely walking through classic Dales’ pastures leading up to impressive 600-year-old Bolton Castle. You return to Aysgarth enjoying beautiful views over Wensleydale from the high moors of Bolton Parks and via the pretty village of Carperby. The Wheatsheaf Inn in Carperby provides the chance for a well-earned drink near the end of your walk, before returning across fields to Aysgarth. While not a long walk, you can easily spend all day on this route if you would like to spend some time at the waterfalls and go into Bolton Castle.
Ingleborough Walk from Clapham
Starting in the North Yorkshire village of Clapham this walk climbs to Ingleborough Cave, Ingleborough and Gaping Gill. The Route Start Point: Clapham, North Yorkshire Finish Point: Clapham, North Yorkshire Distance: 7 miles GPX Route Map ingleboroughwalkfromclaphamDownload Walk Description what3words for start point: ///wants.boom.jugs This walk starts in the North Yorkshire village of Clapham before tackling the challenging 4 mile hike to the top of the mountain. Heading north on the footpath that runs along Clapham Beck the route then passes Ingleborough Show Cave before climbing Gaping Gill. The cave is one of the unmistakable landmarks on the mountain with a plunging 98 metre deep hole which Fell Beck flows into. The next section of the route takes you to the summit of Ingleborough, the second-highest hill in the Yorkshire Dales.
Malham Cove Walk
This walk takes in two beauty spots in the Yorkshire Dales National Park - Malham Cove and Malham Tarn. The Route what3words for start point: ///chew.afflict.voltages Start Point: Malham, North Yorkshire Finish Point: Malham, North Yorkshire Distance: 9 Miles Getting there Travel by car - there is a sizeable car park just off Chapel Gate at the South end of the village, which includes a charging point. GPX Route Map malhamcoveandmalhamtarnDownload Walk Description This circular walk to the cove and the tarn is one of the most popular walks in Yorkshire. Malham Cove was put on the global scene as it was used as a filming location in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Part 1). The walk begins in the village of Malham, following the Pennine Way to the formidable Malham Cove. The cove is 260 feet high and was formed by a waterfall carrying meltwater from glaciers following the Ice Age over 12,000 years ago. Embarking on the Malham Circular Walk is a venture into a landscape steeped in both geological wonder and cinematic lore. Nestled in the heart of North Yorkshire, the walk is a symphony of nature’s grandeur, spanning a robust 9 miles that begin and end in the charming village of Malham. The walk's starting point, pinpointed by the what3words coordinate ///chew.afflict.voltages, hints at an adventure as electrifying as the words suggest. Travelers reaching Malham by car will find the practicality of modern life in the form of a spacious car park located just off Chapel Gate. It’s a thoughtful amenity, including an eco-friendly charging point for electric vehicles, symbolizing a bridge between nature’s past wonders and the future's sustainability. As you set off from the village, the walk takes you along the well-trodden paths of the Pennine Way, a route trodden by countless boots and hearts seeking the tranquil beauty that only the English countryside can offer. The initial stretch meanders through the village, where quaint stone cottages and the welcoming smiles of locals are a prelude to the natural marvels ahead. The approach to Malham Cove is nothing short of dramatic. The limestone amphitheater-like cliff formation looms ahead, standing as a 260-foot high testament to the raw power of nature. One cannot help but feel humbled by its enormity, which dominates the landscape. Its sheer face, akin to a stone curtain, reveals the history of Earth’s climatic shifts. The cove, carved by a colossal waterfall from melting glaciers over 12 millennia ago, is today silent, devoid of the thunderous water, but echoing with the whispers of its dramatic creation. Following the base of the cove, a series of stone steps invites you to ascend. The climb, while rigorous, rewards with every step; each rise unveils new vistas of the cove’s curvature and the sweeping valley below. Upon reaching the top, the limestone pavement stretches out like a natural mosaic, each clint and gryke telling a story millions of years old, a habitat for rare plants and creatures that have adapted to this unique environment. The walk doesn’t stop at the marvel of the cove. It beckons onwards towards Malham Tarn, England’s highest freshwater lake. The path to the tarn invites a contemplative silence, with the landscape opening up to rolling hills and fields dotted with grazing sheep and the occasional flash of a peregrine falcon in flight. The tarn itself is a serene mirror reflecting the sky, edged by reeds and wetlands, a vital oasis for birds and wildlife. With each step around the tarn and back towards Malham, the walk offers a meditative rhythm. The sights, from the occasional quaint farmstead to the swathes of wildflowers and the limestone cliffs standing sentinel in the distance, are a patchwork of nature’s finest. By the time you find yourself returning to the village, the circular journey feels like a closing of a loop, yet the experiences gained are far from circular. They spiral within you, a helix of stories, encounters, and vistas that have left an indelible mark. In this long walk around Malham, what begins as a simple trek becomes a pilgrimage through time, elements, and the undying beauty of Yorkshire. Refuelling Once you've finished your walk, why not stay for dinner at The Buck in Malham?
Ribblehead Viaduct Circular Walk
Enjoy a circular walk travelling around this famous Grade II listed structure whilst breathing in the countryside air. Situated within the Yorkshire Dales, this hugely picturesque spot is surrounded by beautiful rolling hills. The Route Start Point: Car park off of the B6255 Finish Point: Car park off of the B6255 Distance: 4.22 Miles GPX Route Map ribblehead-viaductDownload Walk Description what3words for start point: ///rent.imagined.intestine Enjoy a circular walk travelling around this famous Grade II listed structure whilst breathing in the countryside air. Situated within the Yorkshire Dales, this hugely picturesque spot is surrounded by beautiful rolling hills. The impressive viaduct carries the Settle to Carlisle Railway across Batty Moss in the valley of the River Ribblehead. Whether you’re isolating alone or with someone you love, be sure to add this glorious destination to your list of Yorkshire walks. You can start the walk from the car park just to the south of the viaduct, off the B6255. You can also visit the viaduct by public transport by catching the train to Ribblehead railway station. It's an interesting little station with a small shop selling memorabilia and a Visitor Centre which includes exhibits about the history of the line and the fight to keep it open. From the car park footpaths head north on the eastern side of the railway line, taking you to Winterscales Farm. Here you turn south west towards Broadrake, before crossing Winterscale Beck and heading back towards the viaduct. After your walk you can enjoy refreshments at the excellent Station Inn. The classic stone pub overlooks the viaduct and has free parking. You can follow the path to the viaduct by using the google street view link below. It shows the surfaced path with views of the viaduct and hills behind. To extend your walking in the area you could continue west and visit Twistleton Scar where there is some splendid limestone scenery. Food & Facilities Try The Old Hill Inn or The Station Inn (booking advisable) or travel on to nearby Ingleton for bakeries, pubs, shops and accommodation.
Bolton Abbey to Simon's Seat Walk
A 6-mile out-and-back walk from Bolton Abbey, up through the Valley of Desolation, on to Simon’s Seat and back. Route Start: Bolton Abbey Finish: Bolton Abbey Distance: 6 Miles Route Map & GPX File bolton-abbey-simons-seatDownload Walk Description what3words for start point: ///puzzle.ballparks.limbs Enjoy a beautiful, varied walk from Bolton Abbey, up through the Valley of Desolation on to Simon’s Seat. Walk through heather moorland, woodland trails and past waterfalls and rushing becks, culminating in spectacular views from the walk’s summit. Expect a challenging 3-mile hike up to the summit, making the most of a well-signposted path that rises slowly before reaching a peak of 485m. Then the return walk follows the same trail back down to the Bolton Abbey Estate.
Whitby to Robin Hood's Bay Walk
This coastal walk follows a popular section of the Cleveland Way from Whitby to Robin Hood's Bay. It's a beautiful stretch of coast with pretty bays and cliff top views. The walk runs for about 7 miles on generally good, waymarked footpaths. The Route Start Point: Whitby Finish Point: Robin Hood's Bay Distance: 6.4 miles GPX Route Map whitby-to-robins-hood-bayDownload Walk Description what3words for start point: ///giraffes.lofts.overlaps This walk starts in Whitby on the River Esk and heads to stunning Whitby Abbey. The atmospheric ruined abbey overlooks the North Sea on the East Cliff above Whitby. It's a very photogenic spot with the abbey ruins surrounded by coast, river and countryside. The route continues to Saltwick Bay and the Whitby Lighthouse, before passing Oakham Beck and Rain Dale. Soon after you come to the fishing village of Robin Hood's Bay. The village is very picturesque with lots of old fishermen's cottages. You could return the same way or turn it into a circular walk by following a track inland to Hawsker and Stainsacre. The trail can be picked up in the village just to the west of the coast path. To extend your walk you can continue along the coast path to Ravenscar and visit Harwood Dale Forest. There's lots of footpaths and bridleways to explore the coniferous woodland with its pine and spruce trees, streams and ponds. You can also try the Ravenscar to Robin Hoods Bay Circular Walk which perfectly combines some fine inland moorland scenery and the coast. Food & Facilities There are almost no facilities along this route, so it's best to pack a picnic. Once in Robin Hood's Bay, the Victoria Hotel and the Flask Inn both serve food.
Walk: Settle
This simple and easy walk takes you around the exquisite town of Settle and close to the beautiful River Ribble. The Route what3words for start point: ///townhouse.hatch.cowboy Start / Finish Point: Ashfield Car Park, 8 Kirkgate, Settle BD24 9DZ Distance: 2 Miles GPX Route Map drawaroute-1-1Download Walk Description This simple and easy walk takes you around the exquisite town of Settle. It starts in the town centre taking you over to the west side of the town. Once you've crossed the river the path will take you right going past Queens Rock. Once this path ends turn left on the road and continue done until you hit a fork in the road. At this fork take the left hand road and it will take you to a junction. At this junction go left and follow the road until you get to the rugby field where the path will take you to the bridge you crossed at the start. Once you're at the bridge you just need to follow the path you took at the start to where you parked. All paths are accessible to everyone including scooters.
Walk: Gordale Scar
Located just out of Malham is an easy access route into the towering cliffs of Gordale Scar. This walk is for anyone and everyone who wants a simple walk with great views. The Route what3words for start point: ///shunning.hopeless.landlords Start Point: Gordale Ln, Skipton BD23 4DL Distance: 1 Miles GPX Route Map drawaroute-3Download Walk Description An easy access route into the towering cliffs of Gordale Scar. This 600m footpath runs from Gordale Bridge to Gordale Scar. The route is well surfaced and level and has a general width of 100cm. Whilst walking the route, look out for peregrines and dippers.
Walk the James Herriot Way
Fan of All Creatures Great and Small? Then, you'll love this walk. The walk is a 52 mile circular route starting in Aysgarth and taking in majestic sights such as Hardraw Force, Aysgarth Falls and Bolton Castle. Barns in beautiful Swaledale Route Distance: 52 miles Start location: Aysgarth, Wensleydale Finish Location: Aysgarth, Wensleydale OS Walking Map & GPX Download Our OS map below shows the full route. Under the map, you can find a GPX file download for your navigational device. herriot-way-newDownload Walk Description This walk is inspired by the walking holiday that vet and author James Herriot took with his son Jimmy around the Youth Hostels of Aysgarth, Grinton and Keld. There is no wonder Herriot loved this area so much and chose it for the location for many of his books. This 52 mile long route takes four to five days to cover and combines gentle walks through valley bottoms with energetic climbs on the skylines. It takes you through parts of Swaledale and Wensleydale, and includes big sights such as Hardraw Force, Aysgarth Falls and Bolton Castle. The 52 miles can be broken into four 13 mile days, each one ending in a village with plenty of local amenities where you're sure to get a warm Yorkshire welcome. The walk begins in the village of Aysgarth in Wensleydale where you can marvel at the spectacular Aysgarth Falls before following the River Ure to Askrigg. The village was used as the fictional Darrowby in the BBC TV series All Creatures Great and Small, based on the books by James Herriot. Just along from here you can visit the fantastic Mill Gill and Whitfield Force Waterfalls. Continue along the route to the village of Hardraw where you'll find the epic Hardraw Force Waterfall which is England's highest single drop waterfall, falling some 100ft.The route then heads to the market town of Hawes before climbing Great Shunner Fell which is the highest point in Wensleydale and commands wonderful views over Ribblesdale to the south west and Swaledale to the north. After descending the hill to Thwaite the route then takes in the village of Keld and Gunnerside Moor before passing the beautiful valley of Gunnerside Gill. Following the River Swale into Reeth. The route continues along to the inspiring 14th Century Castle Bolton passing through open moorland with it's stunning heather (in the Summer months). The final section takes you back to Aysgarth, where you'll be needing a much needed rest after a fantastic route taking in the very best of the Yorkshire Dales.
Walk: Malham Tarn
A peaceful walk around beautiful Malham Tarn. Whilst walking round the lake, look out and listen for great crested grebe, moorhen, coot, tufted duck and teal. The Route what3words for start point: ///unto.processor.expect Start Point: Yorkshire Dales National Park, Pennine Way, Settle, Skipton BD23 4DJ Distance: 3.1 Miles GPX Route Map drawaroute-17Download Walk Description This 2.5km footpath starts at the National Trust car park. The first 500m of the route are rough grass up to a gradient of 1:10. From here, the route joins a well-surfaced track with a general width of at least 300cm. There is a wheelchair accessible boardwalk loop providing access to the nature reserve at the Water Houses end. The tarn is said to be the highest marl lake in Britain and is rich in submerged aquatic plants. Whilst walking round the lake, look out and listen for great crested grebe, moorhen, coot, tufted duck and teal.
Walk: Aysgarth Falls - a miles without stiles walk
A scenic walk in the woods alongside the popular Aysgarth Falls. The Route what3words for start point: ///pigs.tripled.newsprint Start / Finish Point: Aysgarth Falls National Park Centre, Church Bank, Centre, Aysgarth, Leyburn DL8 3TH Distance: 1 Miles GPX Route Map drawaroute-11Download Walk Description The first 500m of this 1.5km footpath runs through Freeholders’ Wood and has great views of the Middle Falls. The surface here is compact aggregate and the width of the footpath is at least 100cm. All gates are fully accessible and there are benches along the route. From here, a flight of seventy steps provide access to the Lower Falls. Alternatively, the footpath continues for a further 1km along an unsurfaced grass route. A further 600m route can be followed from the start along an unsurfaced track through the woodland.