Best walks in North Yorkshire

The Malham Tarn Archaeology Walk

This walk created by the National Trust is one for history buffs, and takes in thousands of years of history, from Roman Britain to long-abandoned medieval farms once managed by monks. The walk is dog-friendly and excellent for burning off excess energy, as there’s open space everywhere you look. The Tarn itself is a glacial lake and nature reserve with glorious, sweeping views over hay meadows and empty moors. Visit the National Trust for details of the walk.

Wainwright’s Coast-to-Coast Walk

Photography fans will love this walk through the northern parts of England, devised by Alfred Wainwright in the 1970s. The latter part of it is one of the best walks in Yorkshire, crossing through the highly photogenic Yorkshire Dales, the Vale of Mowbray and the North York Moors. It ends at atmospheric Robin Hood’s Bay, once a hotspot for smugglers, for a symbolic paddle in the water (though don’t expect the sea temperature to be tropical). The Wainwright Society has a guide for walkers. Those looking to visit the Yorkshire Moors will be well-suited with a stay at our Cayton Village glamping site, just four miles south of Scarborough.

Rievaulx Terrace

North Yorkshire hikes don’t have to be exhausting. Culture fans who want a gentle wander will love the walk around the gardens of Rievaulx Terrace, an 18th century landscaped estate owned by the National Trust. It’s particularly kid-friendly, allows dogs on leads, and has trails, two striking outdoor temples, art exhibitions, fields of wildflowers and a café. That, plus the ruins of Rievaulx Abbey at your feet, makes for a remarkable day out. Check out Rievaulx Terrace’s site at the National Trust.

The James Herriot Way

Vet and writer James Herriot was one of the most famous chroniclers of the Yorkshire Dales, and a beautiful route with his name traces its way through tiny villages, rolling fells, ruined castles and extensive fields of heather. Climb Yorkshire’s third highest peak, Great Shunner Fell, and make sure you have your camera ready for sights like Aysgarth Falls. You can take the 52-mile circular route in sections, or attempt the challenge in full, with our Lower Wensleydale campsite giving good access to the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. The Herriot Way site has more details.