Finding the perfect hike is somewhat of an art-form and we'd like to pride ourselves on finding the best walks in North Yorkshire - you've just got to visit.
So, these are our favourite circular walks in Yorkshire.
This picture-perfect walk takes you 7 miles around north Yorkshire starting from the village of Great Ayton. From there you’ll walk your way to the top of Roseberry Topping – the best spot in the region for panoramic views – then you’ll follow the clear track through heather moorland towards Cook’s Monument. After seeing world-famous monument, walk through woodland back towards the village – in perfect time to recharge with a pint.
Duration: 3-4 hours approx.
Address of start point: The Royal Oak, 123 High Street, Great Ayton, Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire, TS9 6BW
Find more info about the route here
One of the more popular walks in the area, this 5-mile circular route is set in the heart of the North Yorkshire Dales. Starting in the village of Kettlewell, expect a few hills, then flattening out along the Wharfe river, you’ll pass by some stunning countryside views. Cross a bridge and find yourself in the cutesy village of Starbotton – the perfect halfway stopping point for a pint if you asked us. Afte that, the walk takes you back to Kettlewell but higher up the valley, meaning you’ll get some amazing views of the river and drystone walls of the villages below.
Duration: 3 hours 20 minutes approx.
Address of start point: Kettlewell, Skipton, North Yorkshire, BD23 5RW
Find more info about the route here
This is definitely our favourite circular walk along the North Yorkshire coast – and it’s just a 4-mile round-trip. Starting from the Station Car Park (right by the village of Robin Hood’s Bay) and continuing along the (disused) Scarborough to Whitby railway line, you’ll be getting some seriously epic costal views. After walking for about two-miles, head down some steps and into the Boggle Hole, an impressive-yet-tiny cove. The last portion of the walk, which follows the well-known Cleveland Way, is also a great spot for stunning seaside views (don’t forget the camera) until you arrive back at the village.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes approx.
Address of start point: Station Road, Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire, YO22 4RE
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Be prepared to see a whole lot of greenery on this stunning walk which cuts right through the North Yorkshire Moors. This 6.5-mile circular route starts in the small village of Levisham and carries on along the high side of a steep valley before taking you towards the infamous Hole of Horcum (fondly nicknamed the ‘Devil’s Punchbowl’). Oh, and whilst you’re there, you’ll also be able to see the RAF Fylingdales radar station – pretty cool if you asked us. Then finish up the walk over the Levisham Moor and head back into the village.
Duration: 3-4 hours approx.
Address of start point: Saltergate Car Park, Lockton, Pickering, North Yorkshire, YO18 7N
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Found on the banks of the River Derwent in the North York Moor National Park, this walk provides the perfect opportunity for some nature spotting. From the Old Man’s Mouth car park, set out and begin walking through the heavily wooded Forge Valley Woods National Nature Reserve. Walking alongside the River Derwent, you may even notice the variety of fish which call it home – or some otters floating in the water. After exploring the valley (a great spot for plant-lovers), turn and retrace your steps back along the banks of the river.
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes approx.
Address of start point: East Ayton, Scarborough YO13 9LB
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Perfect for history lovers, this circular walking route in Yorkshire offers up some stunning views of epic ruins. Start at Cleveland Way Car Park and be prepared for a few steep pathways (rewarded with stunning views of Helmsley Castle behind you). From there, you’ll venture through woodland filled with bluebells and even wild garlic on your way to Rievaulx Abbey ruins.
Duration: 4 hours approx.
Address of start point: Cleveland Way Car Park, Helmsley, North Yorkshire, YO62 5AT
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Walk from Osmotherley and northwards up the main street towards Cod Beck Reservoir, then turn left on Ruebury Lane and follow the Cleveland Way across the hillside until you’re just past the telecommunications station – this is the official start of the walk. Continue walking along the Mooreland (taking in the stunning views of Roseberry Topping in the distance) and follow the bridleway as it joins to the road at the bottom. After walking a little further, you’ll pass the Chequers Tea Room, the perfect stop point for tea and a cake – which is compulsory if you asked us.
Duration: This is a long one – the route is around 42-miles and takes approximately 16 hours 50 minutes
Address of start point: Quarry Ln, Northallerton DL6 3AL
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This moderate 6-mile walk will take you along the sylvan banks of the peaceful river – oh, and you’ll see the dramatic ruins of a 12-century priory along the way. The River Wharfe sees contrasting beauty along its journey and this walk will take you from Bolton Abbey and along to the priory ruins. From here, choose from the footbridge or the adventurous steppingstones to cross the river. Carry on walking and find yourself at the riverside woods – eventually you’ll end up at The Strid, where the stream water is forced into a narrow channel between rocky slides.
Duration: 3 hours approx.
Address of start point: Car Park, Skipton, BD23 6EX
Find out more info about the route here
This is definitely one of the best walks in North Yorkshire (in our humble opinion) - with terraces, mossy woodlands and endless countryside views, the hillside of Parcevall comes to life during spring and summer. And there couldn’t be a better spot for a tearoom – enjoy a proper Yorkshire tea and a freshly baked scone whilst looking over Simon’s Seat. After your tea break, head out along the Skyreholme Beck, where you can head to Troller’s Gill, a stunning limestone gorge. Things just get more beautiful from here too, with moors, lanes and orchid meadows all on the route.
Duration: 3 hours approx.
Address of start point: Parcevall Hall Gardens, Skyreholme, Skipton BD23 6DE
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This quiet spot is the perfect Yorkshire circular walk if you’re looking to avoid bumping into loads of people – oh and the scenery is pretty spectacular too. Although, dogs aren’t welcome at this spot, so keep that in mind. Begin the walk and enjoy views of Lower Barden reservoir below before heading further down the path – you'll venture past the upper and lower reservoirs on this walk. Great through all seasons, this Yorkshire circular walk looks amazing in the snow and the bright summer sun.
Duration: Just under 2 hours approx.
Address of start point: The Bailey, Skipton BD23 1UA
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This busy walking route is quite challenging, with lots of stairs to climb, so make sure to keep that in mind. The early bird gets the worm at Ingleton Waterfalls, so leave early if you want to avoid the crowds. Oh, and this one comes along with a small entrance fee of £8 per adult but it’s definitely worth it for a peep of those views of the stunning waterfalls.
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes approx.
Address of start point: Broadwood Entrance, Ingleton, Carnforth LA6 3ET
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This 7.5-mile walk climbs an impressive 430m and travels across a variety of terrains. From green hillsides to woodlands and rivers, there’s plenty to see. Keep an eye out for the limestone pavements and wildflower field – and don’t forget your camera either. If you’re in the market for a challenging but highly rewarding circular walk in Yorkshire, this just might be the one for you.
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes approx.
Address of start point: Car park, Muker, Richmond DL11 6LJ
Find more info about the route here
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