When it comes to walks in Yorkshire, we’re pretty spoilt for choice in God’s Own Country.
From the picturesque dales and moors to the stunning coastlines, there is plenty of luscious green space to be enjoyed in the area and there is nothing better you can do for yourself than take some time out in nature. As the biggest county in England, it's only to be expected that it should have some of England's best walking - here are ten of our Yorkshire favourites, all providing spectacular views of the iconic Yorkshire countryside.
Ilkley Moor Circular
Length: 2.4 miles
Approx. 1-2 hours
Ilkley Moor is a popular walking destination all year round, encouraging travellers from far and wide to engage in leisurely walks. Lying directly above the idyllic spa town of Ilkley, this spot is ideal for walking, rock climbing, bird-watching and absorbing panoramic views. This loop trail is famous for its links to ancient myths and legends which have been kept alive by local villagers. The walk is stunning in the late summer and early autumn when the heather blooms. Footpaths onto the moor will take you to the famous ‘Cow and Calf’, a large rock formation consisting of an outcrop and boulder, also known as Hangingstone Rocks. The distinctive millstone grit rocks are so named because one is large, with the smaller one sitting close to it, like a cow and calf. Opposite the famous rocks, you will find a perfectly placed pub (The Innkeepers Lodge) providing welcome refreshments with some stunning views.
Malham Cove Circular
Length: 4.5miles
Approx. 3 hours
Rated as one of the best walks in Yorkshire, and perhaps the UK, this walk takes you to the impressive cliffs and limestone pavement of Malham Cove, Gordale Scar Ravine and pretty Janet’s Foss waterfall. The cove is a huge limestone formation and can be enjoyed as part of a 4.5-mile circular walk. The walk starts just south of Malham Village, and leads walkers along the famous Pennine Way, before arriving at the picturesque Janet’s Foss. The route then progresses towards Gordale Scar, where you can take in the sights of the caves, the waterfall, and Gordale Beck. The walk finishes at Malham Cove, where you’ll be sure to want to update your Instagram Story from the iconic limestone pavement – as featured in Harry Potter! Not only that, but there’s also a pub to finish the walk with so you can claim your well-deserved reward – a refreshing cold drink!
Hebden Bridge
Length: 6 miles
Approx. 4 hours
The Hebden Bridge Loop is a walk that has just about everything! A 6 mile, well signposted, circular route that covers all terrains and takes in Heptonstall, Horsehold, Jack Bridge and Jumble Hole as well as some of the most stunning local moorland tops and views. It serves as a picturesque, off-road, direct route to-and-from the Pennine Way and directly into the heart of Hebden Bridge.
Alternatively, for those looking for a gentler stroll, the canal at Hebden Bridge and location near the river Calder make for a beautiful spring walk in West Yorkshire. If you follow Hebden Beck, you can enjoy a fantastic walkout to a beautiful woodland area, which is covered in bluebells in spring and alive through summer. The waterside destination of Yorkshire, Hebden Bridge is idyllic even in the rain. There are plenty of independent cafes, restaurants and pubs to enjoy a well-earned drink after a leisurely walk.
Newmillerdam Country Park
Length: 3 miles
Approx. 2 hours
This fantastic walk is just to the south of Wakefield and is dominated by the lake at its centre. A wonderful place to visit to get away from the busy life, it’s a great place to explore with the family. This stunning walk is great for dog walking, bird watching or just enjoying all nature has to offer. Take a stroll along the circular lakeside route beneath ancient woodland. This wide, flat path is very accessible, making it a great choice for wheelchair users and pushchairs. The lake, covering an area of 30 acres, is an important breeding site for the great crested grebe, and in spring they can be seen performing their ritualistic courtship dance. Bats feed here during the warmer months, with tiny pipistrelle, larger noctule and Daubenton’s bats able to be seen. The Newmillerdam Arboretum, located at the top of the hill at the far side of the lake, is a fantastic place for nature lovers. With more than 100 species of tree, the area is also home to a wide range of ground-based woodland plants and flowers, including selfheal, ragged robin and spear thistle. After your walk, why not stop for a little treat at the Boathouse café? Situated in the historic Georgian Boathouse, the café offers barista coffee, locally-sourced produce, tempting cakes – and even some of your favourite tipples. The Boathouse itself was built in the 1820s by the estate’s then-owners, the Pilkington family. It was originally used as a venue for entertaining friends and family, with the men shooting wildfowl from punts launched from the Boathouse, with the ladies joining them for a picnic lunch.
Ingleton Waterfall Trail
Length: 4.5 miles
Approx. 2- 4 hours
The Ingleton Waterfall Trail is loved by many – and for good reason, too, since it’s as magical as it sounds. Offering majestic sights of five main waterfalls and eight water spots in total, the trail follows the River Twiss and the River Doe from the Ingleton starting point, where, along the way, you’ll also be treated to spectacular sights of one of Yorkshire’s Three Peaks, Ingleborough. This stunning walk boasts some of the most spectacular waterfall and oak woodland scenery in the UK, truly encapsulating nature at its best. With rare and interesting plants and wildlife and its importance as a geological site, much of the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest by Natural England. The trail is a year round attraction currently priced at £11 for adults and £5.50 for children and is open 7 days a week.
Ribblehead Viaduct
Length: 5 miles
Approx 3 hours
Enjoy a circular walk travelling around this famous Grade II listed man-made wonder whilst breathing in the countryside air. Ribblesdale Viaduct is situated within the Yorkshire Dales and this hugely picturesque spot is surrounded by beautiful rolling hills. An epic railway bridge sweeping through the countryside, the sheer size of this historic structure is absolutely awe-inspiring. Enjoy the great moment as you walk beneath the mighty Ribblehead Viaduct and through one of the 24 arches which make up this outstanding piece of engineering. Here you can touch just some of the 1.5 million bricks used in its construction between October 1879 and 1874. The impressive viaduct carries the Settle to Carlisle Railway across Batty Moss in the valley of the River Ribblehead. Not only that, but you’ll pass by not one, but two of Yorkshire’s legendary Three Peaks – Whernside and Ingleborough. After your walk, you can enjoy refreshments at the excellent Station Inn. The classic stone pub overlooks the viaduct and has free parking.
Aysgarth Falls
Length: 0.5 – 6 miles
Approx 1- 4 hours
Aysgarth Falls is a triple flight of waterfalls surrounded by woodland and farmland. And what’s great about this location is there’s a few different walks to choose from. Ranging from ½ mile to 2.7 and even 6 miles, they all have one thing in common: impressive views of the spectacular falls. A 1 mile walk with views of the lower and middle falls through Freeholders’ Woods is the route to choose if you’re looking for a walk that’s suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs (with the exception of the route’s final loop). And for those looking for a slightly longer walk, there’s a 2.7-mile route which will take you past the middle and lower falls, before heading out into the countryside and eventually circling back to the falls. Those looking to take on a longer distance can also opt to complete a 6-mile circular route which will take you past the upper, middle and lower falls and all the way to Bolton Castle. Attracting visitors for more than two hundred years, William Wordsworth and John Ruskin are amongst those who have appreciated Yorkshire’s rural waterfall, with the watercolour artist J.M.W. Turner being inspired by Aysgarth Falls. So, whether it’s a long walk, short walk or something in the middle that you’re after, the falls are the perfect location.
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Nidd Gorge Loop
Length 6 mile
Approx. 2 - 3 hours
The Nidd Gorge Walk is a picturesque route that follows the River Nidd through dense woodland. This six-mile loop trail will take you over stiles, up ancient stone staircases, and have you traverse the banks of the River Nidd before going under the iconic Knaresborough Viaduct. It is a great option for dog owners who love exploring nature trails with their pets. Along the way, you and your furry companion will pass stunning waterfalls, bridges, and wildlife. The walk starts just outside Knaresborough and meanders into the countryside by partially following the winding River Nidd. Around three miles in, there’s a river beach which is the perfect place for a quick swim on a warm day. Keep an eye out for the rich array of wildlife too with colourful kingfishers and herons, blue tits, and flame-headed goldcrests. With lots to see along the way, this relaxing walk is worth every minute.
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Simons Seat, Skipton
Length 6 miles
Approx. 3 hours
Simon’s Seat is located in Wharfedale Valley on the private land of the Bolton Abbey Estate. While only standing at 485 metres (1,591 ft) above sea level, Simon’s Seat continues to be one of the Yorkshire Dales most popular peaks for ramblers. Those who make the relatively brief but steep climb to the summit are rewarded with incredible vistas. One of the best vantage points for admiring the spectacular Yorkshire Dales countryside, the views from the top are simply astounding and the peak of Simon’s Seat is also renowned for its unique millstone grit formations, which dramatically jut out from the summit. Just a note that for this walk, four-legged friends need to be left at home as dogs are not allowed on the estate to avoid potentially disturbing the variety of birdlife which nest on the grounds.
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Swinsty Reservoir
Length: 2-6 miles
Approx. 1-3 hours
A flat, easy to follow and incredibly picturesque, reservoir walk! Nestled within the stunning Washburn Valley – just to the west of Harrogate – the dazzling waters of Swinsty Reservoir certainly aren’t to be missed. Located on the southern side of the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this 5-kilometre footpath around the Swinsty embankment is well-laid out and mostly flat throughout, making it a great day out for ramblers of all abilities. Offering plenty of variety for outdoorsy types; there’s also the opportunity to divert off the main path and explore the surrounding fields and woodlands. Likewise, for those wanting to extend their ramble, you have the option of combining Swinsty Reservoir with a walk around its equally scenic neighbour, Fewston Reservoir. A gentle 6.6-mile loop if tackling both bodies of water, you can’t get much more relaxing than this gentle 3-hour trail.
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Whether you’re after a gentle stroll or undertaking a more challenging hike, it’s no surprise that millions flock to this stunning part of the world year on year. But what can be better than visiting the stunning scenery on offer? Well, how about being able to call this beautiful part of the world home and having the picturesque surroundings right on your doorstep. And if you were to buy a new home at any one of our developments, across North, East and West Yorkshire, a home in this sought after location could be a reality. Ellerwood is our collection of 2 - 5 bedroom homes in Skipton (also known as the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales), whilst Castle Locke is our collection of 2 - 4 bedroom homes in Knaresborough. So why not book a viewing, and find your new home in Yorkshire today?