Hikes & Walks in North Yorkshire

If you’re looking for a classic hillwalking challenge in the UK look no further than the Yorkshire Three Peaks. This iconic route starts and ends in the town of Horton-in-Ribblesdale and takes in the varied peaks of Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough. It’s a proper challenge with 38.8km of trails to cover and requires a good degree of planning and consideration for the fickle Yorkshire climate. This route has gained massive popularity and for good reason. So get ready and enjoy unrivalled views of the National Park!

Another great long-distance circular route takes you from Pateley Bridge to Summerbridge and backtracing the River Nidd on the way out. Along the route, you’ll get the chance to take in the weird and spectacular Brimham Rocks. These are popular geological attractions carved out by nature over millions of years to form fascinating peaks raised above the heathland. This is the perfect way to take in the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is only a stone's throw from Harrogate.

A shorter but still challenging walk takes you on a loop starting in the village of Malham and takes in the sites of Malham Cove and Malham Tarn. The cove itself is a massive amphitheatre-like cliff sculpted by meltwaters from the last glacial period. This route takes you up to Malham Tarn and around the edge of the cove passing through spectacular limestone karst formations, and down into the cove itself. A favourite with hikers, climbers and everyone else this is a must-see in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. 

For a walk that can be done in a few hours and offers great views along the River Nidd connecting the towns of Harrogate and Knaresborough. If you’re looking to grab some fresh air but want a pub to relax in at the end of a long day this is the perfect route for you. Highlights along the route include the Knaresborough Rail Aqueduct and Knaresborough Castle and of course the bustling atmosphere of two of Yorkshire’s finest market towns.

Taking you from the mountains to the coastline lands you at the quaint village of Robin Hood’s Bay. This really shows off the varied nature of the North Yorkshire landscape and also brings you to its second national park The North York Moors. Starting in the village you can explore its many winding cobblestone paths before ascending to the cliff tops and traversing the Cleveland Way to Whitby. Despite being on the longer side this walk offers stunning views, easy navigation and plenty to explore along the way including the historic landmark of Whitby Abbey.

A second option for great coastal walk neighbours our first option starting in Whitby and continuing along the Cleveland Way to Hawsker. Take in Whitby Abbey and spend time in the bustling town before escaping the crowds out onto the coast. The return leg back to Whitby takes you along a trail which once connected the towns of Scarborough and Whitby by rail. It is now a popular inland walking route perfectly complementing the stunning sea views of the outward leg.

For a short walk that's is packed with things to see and explore on the route, the trail from Richmond Drummer Boy Walk. Starting in The Market Place in the town of Richmond this walk takes you along the path of the Richmond Drummer Boy a popular local myth. This legend isn’t the only reason to follow this route which also includes beautiful views of the River Swale and the ruins of Easby Abbey. The return journey takes you back to Richmond where you can unwind and relax at one of the town's many restaurants and pubs.

Another shorter route takes you to Dalby Forest in The North York Moors National Park. This offers some great forest walking further away from the bigger tourist towns. Parking next to Staindale Lake this route takes you through winding forest paths and up onto the moorland with the Bridgestone rock formations offering a great focal point. There are plenty of options here to shorten or extend your route making it flexible and suitable for all walking abilities.

Taking you even further into the North Yorkshire countryside is the Settrington Circuit which offers a chance to get off the beaten track. Along the route, you can take a breath of fresh air and admire pastoral views across the Yorkshire Wolds. Some of the best views on the route can be found around Settrington Beacon which has been used since Roman times as a signalling station.

Finishing of our list is another tranquil short circular route centred around Aysgarth Falls. Starting in the village of Aysgarth this route takes you on varied terrain alongside the River Ure and visits Aysgarth Falls and the village of West Burton. This route offers another great chance to take yourself away from the tourist trails and enjoy the quintessential Yorkshire Dales experience. Expect rolling hills, beautiful farmland and unspoilt villages.