Our Top 10 Walks in the North Yorkshire Moors

Is there any better way to experience the North Yorkshire Moors National Park than heading out for a wonderful scenic walk? We think not! From gentle family-friendly ambles to challenging hikes up the moors, there’s a walk to suit all ages and abilities here in North Yorkshire.

Check out our top 10 walks in the North Yorkshire Moors below…

1) Sutton Bank & The White Horse

The White Horse of Kilburn is the most northerly white horse in England. The horse dates back to 1857 and is cut in limestone and is regarded as one of the most famous landmarks in North Yorkshire. This easy 1.7-mile route takes you above the White Horse, providing you with a fantastic opportunity to enjoy one of the finest views in England.

2) Helmsley & Rievaulx Abbey

In 1131, a group of twelve French monks set about building the largest and richest Cistercian house in England: Rievaulx Abbey. It was then suppressed in 1538 by Henry VIII and left to decay. This 7-mile circular ramble from the market town of Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey is a popular favourite, offering sweeping views of Helmsley town and castle, before reaching the tranquil ruins of Rievaulx Abbey.

3) Roseberry Topping & Captain Cook’s Monument

Roseberry Topping is a unique, half-cone shaped hill; whilst Captain Cook’s Monument stands tall, marking the land where the famous explorer grew up. This challenging 7-mile hike begins at Great Ayton village green, before passing through peaceful woodland and farmland and climbing the hill to Captain Cook’s Monument. You’ll then join the Cleveland Way as far as Roseberry Topping, with rewarding views over the Cleveland plains.

4) Wainstones Walk

The impressive sandstone crags of the Wainstones have been popular with rock climbers for years. This energetic 8-mile circuit makes for a challenging day out – watch in awe as some of the most spectacular views in the whole of the National Park unfold before you whilst crossing the Cold Moor, as you travel to the magnificent rock crags known as the Wainstones.

5) Osmotherly & Mount Grace

Mount Grace was one of only ten Carthusian priories in the whole of the UK, housing around just twenty monks in its peak. Explore the handsome village of Osmotherly and its surroundings on this easy 3 ¼-mile circular trek that explores the village’s religious past, before stumbling upon the impressive ruins of Mount Grace Priory, with impressive views over Bilsdale, Teesside and the Pennines.

6) Lord Stones Walk

Lord Stones is a set of prehistoric stones that derive from three lords, whose estate boundaries met at this point on Carlton Bank. Uncover lords, stones, and ancient ways on this 3-mile family-friendly walk, offering awe-inspiring views of Middlesborough, the Cleveland plain, Roseberry Topping and Captain Cook’s Monument. The trail begins in the privately owned Lord Stones Country Park, before leading to the notorious ancient stones.

7) Clay Bank & Greenhow Plantation

The ancient woodland at Ingleby Greenhow, AKA Greenhow Plantation, is owned by the Forestry Commission, with Clay Bank being a popular stopover and picnic site. This 3-mile circular trail takes in the dramatic views across the Cleveland plain, with the twin landmarks of Roseberry Topping and Captain Cook’s Monument standing tall in the distance.

8) Farndale

Nestled at the heart of the North Yorkshire Moors, Farndale valley makes the perfect setting for a classic spring walk. Embark upon this easy 3 ½-mile linear route in the ‘Daffodil Dale’, running alongside the enchanted River Dove. Marvel upon Farndale’s beautifully wild daffodils on this wonderful walking route, which usually appear between mid-March and mid-April each year.

9) Hutton-le-Hole & Lastingham

Known as one of the most attractive villages in the North Yorkshire Moors, Hutton-le-Hole boasts pretty stone cottages, picturesque bridges and a beautiful beck. Admire the tranquil fields and country lanes on this charming 4 ½-mile ramble, which connects the two villages of Hutton-le-Hole and Lastingham. Make it a full day out with a visit to each village’s spotlight attraction: Ryedale Folk Museum in Hutton and St Mary’s Church in Lastingham.

10) Rosedale

From 1855-1926, Rosedale lay at the heart of the Victorian industrial era with its ironstone mines, kilns and even a moorland railway. This spectacular 7 ½-mile trek takes you from Rosedale Abbey and into Rosedale along the old railway track, boasting spectacular views of the old roasting kiln ruins. This walk is best completed on a clear day to maximise those views.

Spectacular Summer Staycations at Valley View Farm

Our six charming holiday cottages are situated in the beautiful surroundings of Old Byland, near Helmsley in North Yorkshire. We are filling up fast for the summer season, with only the following dates still available:

Monday 14th – Friday 18th July in Holt Cottage
Friday 25th – Monday 28th August in Form & Couch Cottage
Monday 4th – Friday 8th August in Drey Cottage
Friday 8th – Monday 11th August in Form & Drey Cottage
Monday 11th – Friday 15th August in Holt, Granary & Drey Cottage
Friday 22nd – Monday 25th August in all cottages
Monday 25th – Friday 29th August in Formicary, Form, Holt, Granary & Drey Cottage
Friday 29th – Monday 01st August in Form, Holt & Drey Cottage
Monday 25th – Friday 29th August in Form, Holt, Granary & Drey Cottage