Are you looking for an outdoor adventure? If yes, then Yorkshire is the perfect place to go.
With its rolling hills, stunning coastline, and rugged moors, there’s plenty to explore in this beautiful part of England. What better way to experience it all than by going on a day walk? Here are seven of the best day walks in Yorkshire that will leave you wanting more.
If you’re looking for a great way to enjoy the English countryside, consider going on one of the many amazing day walks in Yorkshire.
There’s something for everyone in this picturesque region, from gentle hikes through rolling hills and past quaint villages, to more strenuous climbs up imposing mountain ranges.
If you’re looking for a great way to enjoy the English countryside, consider going on one of the many amazing day walks in Yorkshire.
There’s something for everyone in this picturesque region, from gentle hikes through rolling hills and past quaint villages, to more strenuous climbs up imposing mountain ranges.
- Guided Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge More information
- Guided 3 Peaks Challenge More information
1 Ingleborough
Ingleborough is a mountain located in North Yorkshire, England. At 2,375 feet (723 m), it is the highest mountain in the Yorkshire Dales.
The mountain is made of Carboniferous Limestone, and is one of the most popular peaks in the area for climbers.
The mountain is also a popular destination for day hikers. The easy-to-follow footpaths make it a great choice for beginners, and there are plenty of stunning views to be enjoyed along the way.
The summit can be reached via a number of different routes, so there’s something to suit everyone. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can always try your hand at the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge!
Difficulty Level: Difficult
Time Taken: 6 hours (17km)
Route information: You can find Ordnance Survey route information for Ingleborough here.
2 Buckden Pike
Buckden Pike is a popular day walk in Yorkshire that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The walk starts at the village of Buckden, located in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. From there, it’s a short but steep climb up to the summit of Buckden Pike, which stands at an impressive 1,493 feet (455 meters).
From the summit, hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the Yorkshire Dales, as well as the Forest of Bowland and the Lake District.
The return journey takes hikers past the lovely Stocks Reservoir, before finishing back in.
Difficulty Level: Challenging
Time Taken: 3 hours (11km)
Route information: You can find Ordnance Survey route information for Buckden Pike here.
3 James Herriot Way
The James Herriot Way starts in the town of Thirsk and takes in some of the most beautiful scenery in Yorkshire.
The route follows a section of the York-to-Liverpool railway line and passes through the villages of Carlton Husthwaite, Carlton Miniott, Sessay, and North Stainley.
Highlights of the walk include the picturesque Sessay Waterfall, the impressive ruins of Rievaulx Abbey, and the lovely North Stainley Viaduct.
The James Herriot Way is a great walk for all abilities, with most of the route being easy to follow and suitable for hikers of all levels.
The only strenuous part of the walk is the climb up to North Stainley Viaduct, which is over a 20-meter high hill. However, this section of the walk isn’t very long and can easily be handled by even the most novice hikers.
Difficulty Level: Easy
Time Taken: 2.5 hours (10km)
Route information: You can find Ordnance Survey route information for the James Herriot way here.
4 Upper Wharfedale
Upper Wharfedale is one of the most beautiful areas in Yorkshire, and it’s no wonder that it’s a popular destination for day hikers.
This picturesque valley is located in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, and it’s home to some of the most stunning scenery in England.
The Upper Wharfedale Valley is a long and narrow limestone ravine that stretches from its starting point at Malham Tarn to the village of Buckden.
The walking trails here are varied and interesting, taking hikers past waterfalls, limestone cliffs, and rolling hills.
There’s also plenty of wildlife to be seen, including deer, wild sheep, and peregrine falcons.
Difficulty Level: Challenging
Time Taken: 3 hours (12km)
Route information: You can find Ordnance Survey route information for Upper Wharfedale here.
5 Ilkley Moor and the Twelve Apostles
If you’re looking for a fantastic day walk in Yorkshire, look no further than Ilkley Moor and the Twelve Apostles.
This stunning hike takes you through some of the most picturesque scenery in the region, with rolling hills, beautiful forests, and awe-inspiring cliffs.
The hike starts at the Cow and Calf rocks, a set of limestone outcrops that are popular among climbers. From there, it’s a gentle walk to the top of Ilkley Moor, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
After taking in the views from Ilkley Moor, the hike continues on to the Twelve Apostles. These imposing cliffs are a sight to behold and provide excellent opportunities for stunning photographs.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Time Taken: 1.75 hours (7km)
Route information: You can find Ordnance Survey route information for Ilkley Moor here.
6 Bronte Country
Bronte Country is a beautiful area in Yorkshire that is perfect for a day walk. It’s located in the north of the county and is named after the Bronte sisters, who were born and raised in the area.
There are plenty of trails to choose from, and most of them are relatively easy, making it an excellent option for novice hikers.
The Bronte Way is a popular route that takes you past many famous Bronte landmarks, including Top Withens, the ruin where Wuthering Heights was set.
The walk is about 10km long and can be completed in a day. If you’re looking for something a bit shorter, there’s also the Bronte Parsonage Museum Walk, which takes you past various Bronte historical sites.
Difficulty Level: Easy
Time Taken: 3.25 hours (10 km)
Route information: You can find Ordnance Survey route information for the bronte way here.
7 Sutton Bank Linear Walk
Sutton Bank is a National Trust property located in North Yorkshire, England. It’s a beautiful spot for a day walk, with stunning views of the Vale of York and the North York Moors.
The walk starts at the Sutton Bank Visitor Centre and winds its way along the cliff edge, past ancient woodland and meadows full of wildflowers.
There’s also an option to do a circular walk (the white horse walk) if you have the time or energy!
Difficulty Level: Easy
Time Taken: 0.75 hours (3 km)
Route information: You can find Ordnance Survey route information for the Sutton bank linear walk here.
If you’re looking for a walking experience in Yorkshire to remember, make sure to check out the seven stunning walks we’ve listed in this article – get your backpack ready and your walking boots on to explore some of the best day walks Yorkshire has to offer.
