Richmond walks

Best Walking Routes in Richmond, Yorkshire 

Here are the best walks in Richmond, from easy riverside routes to longer Yorkshire Dales walks. Located in North Yorkshire, Richmond offers a strong variety of walking routes that combine riverside scenery, historic landmarks, and open countryside. Walks in Richmond range from relaxed town loops along the River Swale to longer rural routes that quickly transition into moorland and dale landscapes.

The area works well for walkers of all levels, particularly because many routes can be started directly from the town centre without needing transport.

Easy walks near Richmond, Yorkshire (6-7 km routes)

One of the most atmospheric easy walks near Richmond is the Grinton Smelting Mill route. Starting from Grinton, this circular walk moves across open moorland shaped by centuries of lead mining. The terrain feels remote despite being accessible, with wide views across the valleys, especially at the highest point of 420 m, and remnants of industrial heritage scattered throughout the landscape. The highlight is the preserved smelting mill and its long flue structure climbing the hillside, a striking reminder of the area’s mining past. At around 6–7 km, the route is steady underfoot and typically takes 2–3 hours, making it ideal for a relaxed half-day walk without steep gradients.

Foxglove Covert Nature Reserve offers a very different walking experience. Instead of open moorland, the paths wind through woodland, reed beds, and wetlands, creating a quieter, more enclosed atmosphere. It is particularly rewarding for wildlife spotting, with hides positioned throughout the reserve. The trails are flat and clearly marked, making it one of the most accessible walks in the Richmond area. These walks are best for families or anyone looking for a shorter, slower-paced route close to nature.

A particularly rewarding 2-hour walk combines Easby Abbey and Richmond Castle. The walk starts with riverside paths along the Swale before reaching the dramatic ruins of Easby Abbey, reaching 138 m as its highest point. From there, the route ascends no more than 74 m, and it gently goes back towards Richmond Castle, where the elevated terrace provides one of the best panoramic views over the river valley. The mix of riverside walking, open views, and historic sites makes this around 6 km route the best for a short walk from the town centre.

Moderate Walking routes from Richmond, Yorkshire (8-11km routes)

For walkers looking to extend their time outdoors, the Richmond, Hudswell and River Swale loop offers a balanced mix of woodland, riverside paths, and open countryside. The terrain changes frequently, which keeps the walk engaging without becoming technically demanding. At around 8 km, it is close enough to town to feel convenient, yet far enough out to feel immersed in the rural edge of the Dales.

A more dramatic option slightly beyond Richmond is the Redmire Force and the Templar’s Chapel from West Witton. Although it sits just outside the immediate town area, it is easily reached and firmly within the Yorkshire Dales landscape. The walk follows a valley route with woodland sections leading to Redmire Force waterfall, where water cascades over limestone steps into a shaded gorge. The route continues to the remains of Templar’s Chapel, adding a strong historical dimension to the natural scenery. Covering roughly 10–11 km, it feels varied and rewarding throughout, especially after rainfall when the waterfall is at its most powerful.

The Richmond and Old Racecourse circular is another quieter, more expansive option. This 10 km route gradually leaves the town behind, opening into wide countryside and gently rolling fields. The historic racecourse site adds interest along the way, but the main appeal is the sense of space and isolation despite being so close to Richmond. It is a good choice for walkers who prefer open views and fewer people on the trail.

Cycling opportunities around Richmond, Yorkshire

Richmond also works well as a base for cycling, with routes that mirror many of the walking landscapes but allow for broader coverage of the surrounding dales.

The Grinton and surrounding moorland loop is one of the more enjoyable local rides. The terrain is steady rather than technical, but the exposed moorland creates a sense of openness that makes the route feel much larger in scale. Old mining remnants appear along the way, adding historical context to the ride. The circular nature of the route also makes logistics simple, with Grinton and nearby Fremington offering convenient places to stop.

For experienced cyclists, the Kidstones, Fleet Moss and Buttertubs circuit is a demanding full-day challenge that showcases some of the most striking scenery in the Yorkshire Dales. Covering around 100 km, it includes sustained climbs, high passes, and long descents through remote valleys. The route is as much about endurance as scenery, with each section offering a different character of landscape, from exposed ridgelines to sheltered dales. It is best approached as a paced ride with planned stops rather than a fast loop.

Richmond, Yorkshire, walking through the seasons

Spring brings noticeable change to the Richmond landscape, particularly along riverside and woodland routes. Fresh greenery returns to the valleys, and wildlife activity increases in places like Foxglove Covert. Conditions can still be mixed, with occasional rain making some paths soft underfoot, but the overall atmosphere feels fresh and uncrowded.

Summer provides the longest days and most consistent access to all routes, from riverside walks to high moorland trails. Early morning or late evening walks tend to be most comfortable, as midday temperatures can feel warmer on exposed sections of countryside. This is the season when longer routes feel most achievable due to daylight alone.

Autumn is widely considered the most visually rewarding time for walking in Richmond. Woodland areas around Hudswell and river routes along the Swale become particularly scenic, with strong seasonal colour contrasts. The air is often crisp, and visibility across the valleys is excellent, making both short and moderate walks especially enjoyable.

Winter brings quieter trails and a more stripped-back version of the landscape. While conditions can be colder and occasionally icy on higher ground, lower riverside routes and woodland walks often remain accessible. The lack of foliage also opens up wider views across the valleys that are not visible during other seasons.

Final thoughts on Richmond, Yorkshire walks

Richmond stands out as a walking base because of how quickly the landscape changes from town streets to open countryside. Within a short distance, it is possible to move from historic ruins and riverside paths into moorland and deep valley scenery.

Whether choosing short heritage loops, wildlife-focused nature reserves, or longer rural circuits, the variety of terrain and scenery makes walking in Richmond consistently engaging rather than repetitive.