The Yorkshire Dales is home to some of the most scenic views and fantastic hikes. From stunning river walks to scenic spots with panoramic views, it has it all. And, whilst the National Park is at its busiest in the spring and summer months when the wildflower meadows are in bloom and the weather is much more pleasant, we love visiting in the winter and taking in the harsh beauty that is the limestone wonder that is the Yorkshrie Dales. So, why not give one of these stunning Yorkshire Dales winter walks a go and stuff waiting until the weather changes.
So, what are some of the best winter walks in the Yorkshire Dales
1. Reeth Circular
The idyllic Reeth is on a plateau above the River Swale overlooked from all angles by hills and moors in the Upper region of Swaledale. The best thing about this short circular walk in the Yorkshire Dales is it has a fantastic bakery the Two Dales Bakery to visit for fuel before or after. The walk takes you along the valley on one side of the river and across the swing bridge taking in some stunning panoramic views. It’s just shy of 5km, so perfect for any level.
2. Malham Cove Circular
One of our favourite walks. It may be a well known circular, but for good reason. Taking in the stunning huge curving amphitheatre shaped cliff limestone formation that is Malham Cove as well as two stunning waterfalls, Janet’s Foss and Gordale Scar, this walk has so much to experience packed into a 4-mile circular. And, if you’ve got the legs for it you can extend the walk to incorporate the amazing Malham Tarn as well a big ol’ body of water. The walk is located a short drive from Skipton, otherwise known as the ‘Gateway to the Dales’. It’s home to some fantastic pubs such as the Lister Arms for some well-earned grub and a pint after a walk.
3. Aysgarth Falls
One of the most popular waterfalls in the Yorkshire Dales, known for featuring in the Hollywood classic Robin Hood: Prince of Theives starring Kevin Cosner. You can park up in the designated carpark that also has a great cafe and take a lovely woodland stroll. The walks takes in views of Bolton Castle as well as the various stretches of the Aysgarth Falls that stretch along the river, which includes High Force Middle Force and Lower Force.
4. Bolton Abbey Circular
Bolton Abbey stepping stones are probably the most famous stepping stones in the UK, and they are a must-see for any Yorkshire local. You can take a lovely 7.2 miles circular forest and river walk across the Bolton Abbey Estate grounds before attempting the tricky stepping stones. Keep an eye out for the shaky stone. You definitely don’t want to tumble into the river.
The stroll passes by the remnants of the priory and a few cafes along the way. The hike can be cut short due to the numerous bridges that cross the Wharfe. You can pop off to the Valley of Desolation, which is actually more cheery than it sounds to see the Posforth Gill Falls, a stunning waterfall located in a small forest.
5. Ingleton Waterfall Trail
This circular walk in North Yorkshire is one of God’s Own Country’s most popular waterfall and woodland walks – maybe even the UK’s. With its mixture of five beautiful waterfalls and eight water spots in total, Ingleton waterfall trail is a fairytale-esque jaunt through incredible scenery following the River Twiss and the River Doe from the Ingleton starting point.
Plunging 14-metres, budding photographers can enjoy Thornton Force at the start of the trail. the delicate waterfall is surrounded by rocky terrain, which makes for the perfect place to find a spot and settle down for a quick picnic and refresh. Others such as Pecca Falls have their own unique aspects to be enjoyed making this one of the best weekend walks in North Yorkshire.
6. Hawes To Hadraw Falls
Sure there are loads of places in the UK that are idyllic, stunning, incredible, breathtaking and every other synonym your friends tell you after they’ve been away for the weekend, but there is something that hits different about the Yorkshire Dales. An untouched, stillness and understated beauty that has to be experienced to be described. This Hawes to Hardraw Force walk which takes you to a series of stunning waterfalls is a prime example.
Pass through the stonewalled, patchwork countryside, quaint villages and immense natural beauty with lush greenery and wildflowers waiting to be enjoyed. The Dales is full of hidden gems and this seven-mile walk showcases some of its best hits.
