North Yorkshire walks

Walking in North Yorkshire: England’s Walking Paradise

Known for being the largest county in England and home to some of the most spectacular landscapes in the UK, walking in North Yorkshire offers an experience that is both varied and unforgettable. From the rolling valleys of the Yorkshire Dales to the vast heather moorland of the North York Moors, this region is truly a paradise for those looking to explore on foot. Whether you are searching for gentle countryside routes or more challenging walks, there is no shortage of incredible walks to discover.

Easy Walks in North Yorkshire (10–12 km routes)

For those looking to enjoy relaxed walks in North Yorkshire, the Rievaulx walk is a fantastic circular route that takes you through the peaceful countryside west of Rievaulx Abbey. Reaching a modest height of 154 m, this route offers a pleasant mix of woodland, open fields, and historic surroundings. The best time to do this walk is during the summer, although walkers should be mindful of nettles along certain sections. At just under 11 km, this walk typically takes between 3–4 hours, with plenty of scenic spots to pause and take in the surroundings.

Another excellent choice for an easy walk is the Robin Hood’s Bay circular route. Beginning near St Stephen’s Church and following sections close to the Cleveland Way, this walk leads you along dramatic coastal paths before descending into the charming bay itself. Covering around 10 km, it is a straightforward route that takes no more than around 3 hours, and replaces inland valleys with sea views and coastal winds. The elevation remains relatively low, making it ideal for a more relaxed outing, but the coastal path can feel exposed in strong winds.

The Hole of Horcum and Skelton Tower viewpoint walk is a good choice for those interested in unique landscapes. Starting from Saltergate car park, this route explores one of the most striking natural features in the North York Moors. At approximately 12 km, it takes around 4 hours to complete and passes landmarks such as Dundale Pond and Skelton Tower. This is a more exposed route, crossing open moorland, where sections can become boggy after rain, and conditions can feel much harsher on windy days.

Moderate Walks in North Yorkshire (8–14 km routes)

For walkers looking for something a little more challenging, many varied walks in North Yorkshire combine distance with elevation and changing terrain.

The route from Thixendale through Kirby Underdale offers a journey through secluded dales and open limestone landscapes. Stretching just over 13 km, this walk provides sweeping views across the Vale of York and reaches an elevation of around 247 m. Depending on the time of year, you may also encounter lambs grazing in the surrounding fields, adding to the charm of the experience.

The Knights Templar Preceptory walk from West Burton is a shorter, 3-hour, 8 km engaging route. This walk combines natural beauty with history, passing ancient ruins, a traditional lime kiln, and a serene waterfall. The initial ascent can be steep but is relatively short, making this an accessible introduction to more varied North Yorkshire walking terrain. Elevated sections also reward walkers with impressive views over the surrounding landscape.

Cracoe Fell offers a more demanding experience for those wanting a longer walk in North Yorkshire. Covering around 13–14 km, this route takes approximately 5 hours and climbs to a height of 495 m. Along the way, walkers pass historic features such as old lime kilns and the Cracoe war memorial. The climb to the summit is the most challenging part. Still, once completed, the rest of the walk becomes more relaxed, allowing you to fully appreciate the panoramic views over Wharfedale and the surrounding hills.

Who should choose the Dales vs the Moors?

Yorkshire, often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” is one of the best destinations in the UK for walkers. In North Yorkshire, you have both the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors national parks that offer distinct but equally memorable experiences, making it difficult to choose between them.

The Yorkshire Dales is renowned for its rolling green hills, dry stone walls, and picturesque valleys. It is here that you will find some of the most iconic North Yorkshire walks, with routes weaving through traditional villages and past dramatic limestone formations. The Dales are ideal for those who enjoy a balance of scenic beauty and traditional rural charm, with countless opportunities for a peaceful walk in North Yorkshire.

In contrast, the North York Moors provides a wilder and more expansive landscape. Known for its vast stretches of heather moorland, this area becomes especially striking in late summer when the terrain turns a deep shade of purple. It is also home to one of the most celebrated seasonal routes, the Farndale Daffodil Walk. This famous North Yorkshire daffodil walk follows a gentle riverside path through Farndale, where thousands of wild daffodils bloom each spring, creating one of the most picturesque walks. The route is relatively easy to follow and is a highlight of North Yorkshire walking, attracting visitors year after year.

Beyond seasonal highlights, walkers can explore miles of open moorland, ancient woodland, and rugged coastal paths. Routes along the Cleveland Way offer dramatic cliffside views over the North Sea, showcasing a more rugged experience.

Whichever area you choose, both regions deliver exceptional opportunities for North Yorkshire walks, combining natural beauty, history, and a true sense of escape.

The Seasons of North Yorkshire

Spring brings a sense of renewal as the landscape awakens with fresh greenery, blooming wildflowers, and the sight of lambs scattered across the hills. While paths can be muddy, it is one of the best times to enjoy a gentle daffodil walk in North Yorkshire.

Summer offers long days and wide open skies. The moors begin to show hints of purple as the heather blooms, and the countryside feels alive with movement and colour.

Autumn introduces a quieter, more reflective mood. Woodland trails become covered in shades of gold and amber, and the cooler air makes longer walks in North Yorkshire particularly enjoyable. It is a season that rewards slower, more thoughtful exploration.

Winter transforms the landscape into something more dramatic. Frost, wind, and occasional snow create a stark beauty across the moors and dales. While conditions can be more challenging, this season offers a unique sense of solitude and stillness.

Final Thoughts on North Yorkshire

Overall, walking in North Yorkshire is less about ticking off routes and more about the feeling you get while you’re out there. Some paths are quiet and steady, winding through farmland and stone-walled fields, while others open up into wide, exposed moorland where the weather can change in minutes. You might start a walk with clear skies and finish it in wind and mist, especially on the higher ground, which is part of what makes the experience so memorable.

With both the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors within easy reach, it’s worth trying a mix of routes rather than sticking to just one area. The Dales tend to feel more sheltered and structured, while the moors offer something more open and unpredictable. Whether you choose a shorter circular walk or a longer day route, North Yorkshire gives you that rare sense of space and quiet that’s increasingly hard to find elsewhere.