Adventure season upon us, and there’s no better destination for an on-foot escapade than God’s Own Country. From rolling hills (that are great for a quad work out!) and the rewarding views from the peaks of our hills and mountains, there’s plenty to see, and plenty of pubs at the end of each hike. For a bit of summer walking inspo, check out our guide to the best walking holidays in Yorkshire.
1. Malham
One of Yorkshire’s most famous walking spots, Malham is home to the stunning Malham Cove, with a number of fantastic walks on its doorstep. The waterfall walk showcases some of the areas most stunning sights – such as Janet’s Foss, Gordale Scar and the Cove – with further, tougher hikes up to the peaceful Malham Tarn. There’s plenty of gorgeous places to stay, too, including the super dog-friendly Beck Hall, and the cosy Lister Arms.
2. Pickering and the North York Moors
The gateway to the North York Moors, Pickering is ideally located by a number of stunning routes – including walks around Pickering Castle, Thornton Beck and Dalby Forest. The quaint market town overlooks the Vale of Pickering, and has a number of historic and natural attractions right on its doorstep.
3. Cleveland Way, Sandsend
Ideally located to take advantage of Cleveland Way, Sandsend is the perfect place to start – and it’s absolutely beautiful. The route travels across the Yorkshire coast, however, from Sandsend, you can take the route to the lovely Runswick Bay – with a number of Whitby viewing points along the way. Check out our guide to some of the most gorgeous places to stay on the Yorkshire coast here.
4. Settle
Found in the South of the Yorkshire Dales, Settle is the ideal spot to enjoy the Three Peaks – with all three – Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough – a reasonable drive away. If that wasn’t all, Ribbleshead Viaduct is also close by, and is a stunning place to enjoy the sunset. To enjoy it at its best, you’ll want to try out this stunning beer garden that sits close by to the viaduct.
5. Yorkshire Wolds Way, Filey & East Yorkshire
The Yorkshire Wolds is a severely underrated part of Yorkshire, so much so, it’s still waiting to became an AONB. The Wolds boast gorgeous countryside as far as the eye can see, and spans across East Yorkshire from as far as Hessle, to Filey. There’s a ton of gorgeous places to stay, too, from the coast, to small towns such as Beverley and South Cave.
6. Bolton Abbey Estate, Skipton
An iconic location in Yorkshire known mostly for its historic abbey, the Bolton Abbey estate is the perfect place to head out on a walk. Not only do you have the gorgeous abbey to explore, but the estate is also home to the Strid Wood, with plenty to explore during a woodland walk. The estate is also ideally located in Skipton, too, so you can enjoy a whole lot of variety right on your doorstep.
7. Nidderdale Way, Nidderdale
cc-by-sa/2.0 – © John Slater – geograph.org.uk/p/4882007
Nidderdale is home to a stunning 54 mile circular route, which boasts spectacular views of the AONB. Guiding you through the seemingly never-ending green landscape, the walk allows you to swan through gorgeous areas such as Pateley Bridge and Bewerley, providing varying sights from stunning little towns and villages, and water spots such as Gouthwaite Reservoir. Just be sure to check out the world’s oldest sweet shop en route…
Read more: The Yorkshire Town That Has A Beautiful Waterfall Flowing Between The Houses
