Walking In North York Moors
Ah, Yorkshire! Otherwise known as ‘God’s own country’ – or that least that’s what folk here would have you believe. Yorkshire’s inhabitants are notoriously proud of their home, and with good reason – this wild, expansive county is home to three national parks, each covered with hundreds of miles of beautiful walking trails. Head for the North York Moors and discover what this magnificent region has to offer.
The North York Moors is a wild, windy, rugged place, with a unique charm that quickly captivates visitors. It’s no surprise that this part of the world has long inspired writers and artists, from Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights to Bram Stoker’s Dracula. With dramatic cliffs plunging down into the sea, and windswept hillsides, the landscape here has a strong and distinctive character.
The North York Moors are also steeped in history. You’ll have the opportunity to step back in time by walking in the footsteps of ancient warriors along the old Roman roads, or wandering through the beautiful and eerie remains of medieval abbeys. Explore the quaint fishing villages and hidden coves, or head inland along the Cleveland Way, an epic 177.0 km walking route that skirts almost the entire part.
Whatever you’re looking for, and wherever you go, you’re sure to receive a warm welcome. People from Yorkshire are friendly and big-hearted, and love to introduce visitors to their beautiful region. We’re confident you’ll love walking in this fantastic national park, but beware – you might just leave a little piece of your heart behind in God’s own country.
Top Walks In North York Moors
Looking for a place for a fun family walking holiday? Or an exhilarating trek over rugged moorland and plunging cliffs? Whatever you’ve got in mind, the North York Moors has it all. This beautiful corner of England boasts family-friendly strolls through picturesque woodland and farmland, historic trails that pass by medieval abbeys and picture-perfect villages, and epic coastal routes with views out across the sea. Whether you’re looking for an easy walk or a strenuous day hike, there’s a trail here for you.
- Captain Cook’s Monument and Roseberry Topping Walk: This wonderful walk takes in not just one, but two popular peaks in the North York Moors! The trail begins on the Cleveland Way and passes by the Cook Monument, erected in 1827 to celebrate the life of local figure Captain James Cook. The path snakes through woodland, carpeted with bluebells in spring, before reaching Roseberry Topping, offering fantastic views back over the Cook Monument and the Cleveland Plain.
- Ravenscar and Robin Hood’s Bay Walk: This wonderful cliff-side walk goes all the way to the lovely village of Robin Hood’s Bay, offering fantastic sea views. The village itself is crammed with pretty teahouses and interesting shops so make sure to leave plenty of time to explore. The return path takes you along the old Scarborough-Whitby railway with spectacular views across to Ravenscar. This is one of our favorite walks in the North York Moors, with incredible variety.
- Farndale Daffodil Walk: Looking for a fun, family-friendly walk in the North York Moors? Look no further than the Farndale Daffodil Walk, a short, easy loop suitable for young families. The path passes through idyllic Yorkshire meadows and beautiful woodland, although you’ll have to come in spring to see the eponymous daffodils. This trail can also be completed as an out-and-back route if you require a buggy/wheelchair-friendly route.
- Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey Walk: The ruined skeleton of Rievaulx Abbey is an iconic part of the North York Moors landscape. This wonderful hike begins in the bustling market town of Helmsley and passes along a lovely section of the Cleveland Way to reach the ruins of the medieval Cistercian abbey. It’s a relatively easy route with wonderful views, and is one of our favorite walks in the North York Moors.
- Goathland, Mallyan Spout and the Roman Road Walk: This challenging hike requires plenty of energy, as you’ll be negotiating some rocky, craggy terrain. However, the extra effort is well worth it, as this path passes through a beautiful wooded valley and open moorland, before reaching the ancient Roman Road. You’ll also enjoy a spectacular waterfall and lovely views over the wild terrain.
- Cloughton and Hayburn Wyke Walk: This gently undulating walk passes along the Cleveland Way between the wykes (a coastal path or creek between the sea and cliffs) of Cloughton and Hayburn. You’ll enjoy a stunning cliff-side stroll with views all the way out across the sea and to Scarborough Castle, pretty woodland, tall waterfalls, and even rocky beaches! Keep your eyes open for red deer and plenty of beautiful local birds, especially in the lush woodland.
- Hole of Horcum Walk: This peaceful route is one of our favorite walks in the North York Moors! The trail begins high up overlooking an expansive ravine, and snakes its way along the rim before reaching the village of Levisham. The views over the Hole of Horcum are simply stunning, and walkers can entertain themselves with stories of the legend of the long-dead giant that created the hole by scooping out giant handfuls of earth to form a mighty chasm. Make sure to go the extra distance to Levisham so that you can enjoy the wonderful path back through the woodland.
- Cold Moor and Urra Moor Walk: North Yorkshire is known for its wild moors, and this walk is one of the best ways to experience them. The Cleveland Way connects Cold Moor and Urra Moor, two rugged, beautiful fells, covered in colorful heather. The moors can be a little boggy in wet weather so make sure to bring sturdy footwear, and you’ll need to wear warm clothes, as the trail can be a little windswept. However, this wonderful walk is a great way to experience the stark beauty of the North York Moors.
- Sutton Bank, White Horse of Kilburn and Gormire Lake Walk: Looking for a fun, challenging hike in the North York Moors? This fantastic route follows the Cleveland Way along the cliff-tops, before passing through rolling farmland and past the tranquil Gormire Lake. The variety of scenery makes this hike really enjoyable, with lovely views, especially of the Horse of Kilburn, a white figure of a horse cut into the hillside near Kilburn.
- Black Hambleton Walk: This fantastic hike offers brilliant views of the North York Moors, extending all the way to the Vales of York and Mowbray and even to the Pennines on a clear day. The route begins just below the summit of Black Hambleton, passing through forest and farmland before climbing high onto a rocky ridge. The trail isn’t too demanding and you’ll have some truly wonderful views as you walk.
When Is The Best Time To Go Walking In North York Moors
The North York Moors are a year-round hiking destination, with accessible trails in every season. That said, we think the best time to go walking in the North York Moors is summer and early autumn, when you’ll have the chance to see the famous heather in full bloom. In July, the yellow bell heather covers the moors, and by mid-August the blossoming common heather adds a dash of purple to the landscape. These magnificent colors give the beautiful North York Moors their character and vibrancy.
Unfortunately, this being the north of England, whenever you visit the North York Moors you’ll risk some wild and windy weather, especially in late autumn and winter. While this doesn’t make for the best hiking conditions, it does add a dramatic character to the picturesque moorlands, and even in the depths of winter, walking here is a real treat. If you’re lucky with the weather and head out on a sunny summer’s day, there’s no better place on earth.
Other Outdoor Activities In North York Moors
Visitors flock to Yorkshire for the great walking routes, but there are also plenty of other activities in the North York Moors that you can enjoy during your visit. This is a very popular place for mountain biking, road biking and horse riding, and in the summer months you’re likely to encounter many four-legged friends on the bridleways that crisscross the national park. You’ll also have the chance to go fishing, rock climbing, canoeing, or kayaking, and if you’re really adventurous, head out onto the open seas for a spot of sailing. The only limit here is your imagination!
How To Plan A Trip To North York Moors
If you’re thinking of heading north and dreaming of a hiking adventure in the North York Moors, we’ve got all the information you need. Check out our guide to planning a trip to the North York Moors, where you’ll find tips on where to go, hidden gems that only the locals know about, and all of our favorite hiking trails. We’ve done the hard work so you don’t have to – simply pack your bags and head out onto the trail!
Frequently-Asked-Questions About North York Moors
How big is the North York Moors National Park?
The North York Moors National Park covers an area of 554 square miles, including 41.8 km of rugged, beautiful coastline. There are over 1000 miles of public footpaths in the national park, including the 110-mile Cleveland Way.
What is the difference between the North York Moors and the Yorkshire Dales?
The Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors are two distinct national parks in the English country of Yorkshire. The Yorkshire Dales offer slightly more varied scenery, with striking rock formations, deep, green valleys, and beautiful quaint villages. However, the North York Moors covers a slightly more wild, rugged terrain, with a beautiful stretch of coastline. Both areas are packed with amazing hiking trails and should be on any itinerary for a trip to the north of England.
What makes a moor a moor?
Moorland typically refers to a type of upland savannah with few or no trees and a distinct type of vegetation. In England, the term moor is usually used for uncultivated hill land with a high level of rainfall. In the United Kingdom, moors are characterized by their abundance of colorful heather, a small flowering shrub that grows in abundance on this type of terrain.
Best Hikes in North York Moors
Kildale Moor Walk
The Kildale Moor Walk is a fantastic route in North York Moors National Park that will expose you to the beautiful - if rugged - terrain in this region. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill across the barren landscape of the moor, taking in views of the surrounding hills as you work your way to Guisborough Woods. Sections of this trail can be a bit tricky to navigate, so make sure that you have a GPS or decent trail map.
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Osmotherley and the Cleveland Way
The Osmotherley and the Cleveland Way Trail is a fantastic journey at the western edge of North York Moors National Park that offers extensive views of the surrounding landscape. While out on the trail, you will face several brief climbs as you traverse the open fields and moors that characterize the landscape here. Off-lead dog walking is also a possibility, making this an amazing adventure that the entire family can enjoy!
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Saltergate to Pickering Walk
The Saltergate to Pickering Walk is a great long distance walking route in the North York Moors that isn’t overly difficult, making it a lengthy but fun day on the trails. While out walking this route, you will pass by the Bridestones and make your way through Levisham before traversing some undulating terrain on the final leg into Pickering. This is a one-way trail, so make sure to arrange a pick up at the end point of the walk so that you can get back to your vehicle.
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The Wainstones and Cringle Moor Walk
The Wainstones and Cringle Moor Walk is an exhilarating adventure in North York Moors National Park that will expose you to the unique geology and stunning vistas of the region. While out walking the trail, you will traverse the undulating landscape and pass by the giant weathered sandstone rocks known as the Wainstones before taking in the breathtaking views from atop Cringle Moor. This truly is a spectacular trail that is suitable for casual and seasoned walkers alike.
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Ingleby Incline Walk
Walking the Ingleby Incline is a fun and scenic, but challenging, adventure in North York Moors National Park that will take you on a lengthy climb uphill for views of the moor. While the trail is well-maintained, it does feature one long incline that is a real leg-burner and will be unsuitable for some walkers. Even still, this is an amazing walk to get you out for a spot of exercise while taking in the natural beauty of the park.
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Hutton-le-Hole and Lastingham Walk
The Hutton-le-Hole and Lastingham Walk is a great adventure in North York Moors National Park that provides a great insight into the landscape of the region. While out on the trail, you will make your way through several steep climbs along the moor and pass through charming villages before traversing some picturesque fields populated with sheep. While this does make for a fun family adventure, some of the climbs might not be suitable for younger children.
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Skinner Howe and Holiday Hill Circular Walk
The Skinner Howe and Holiday Hill Circular Walk is a beautifully scenic - if rugged - adventure that will allow you to experience the natural beauty of North York Moors National Park. Along the trail, you will traverse the hillside along Baysdale Beck before climbing uphill across the moor for some scenic views of the surrounding landscape. Make sure to wear proper boots that are ideally water-resistant, as the terrain here can be fairly boggy.
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Cold Moor and Cringle Moor Walk
Walking the Cold Moor and Cringle Moor Trail is a great adventure in North York Moors National Park that will see you traverse the undulating terrain of the moor for stunning views that sweeps across the surrounding landscape. While out on the trail, you will make your way through the charming village of Chop Gate, traverse several rugged moorland hills, and pass through Lord Stones Country Park before climbing uphill across Bilsdale West Moor on the return leg of the journey. This walk is a really great way to fully experience the landscape of the park.
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Old Meggison and Captain Cook’s Monument Walk
The Old Meggison and Captain Cook’s Monument Walk is a fantastic route that will showcase some of the beautiful landscapes within the North York Moors, while stopping off at some interesting historical sites along the way. While out on the trail you will descend the hillside and traverse some charming woodland terrain on the way to visiting Old Meggison Falls before climbing uphill to visit Captain Cook’s Monuments and the RAF Officers Memorial. This is a great walk for anyone with a combined interest in history and the outdoors.
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Little Roseberry and Great Ayton Moor Walk
The Little Roseberry and Great Ayton Moor Walk is an awesome adventure within the North York Moors that will provide walkers with stunning views of the park. While out on the trail, you will head uphill across the moor to a scenic viewpoint on Little Roseberry before visiting a Second World War Bunker. Stunning views across the barren landscape await on this family-friendly trail.
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Whitby Hawsker Circular Walk
The Whitby Hawsker Circular Walk is a beautifully scenic adventure within the North York Moors that will take you along the coast and offers views of historical buildings. While out on the trail, you will pass through Whitby and make your way along the coast to enjoy views of the stunning 7th Century Whitby Abbey before traversing the open countryside on the return leg of the walk. With fairly easy to traverse terrain, this walk is an amazing experience for just about anyone.
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Wykeham Forest Trail
The Wykeham Forest Trail is a fantastic walking route in the southeast corner of North York Moors National Park that will lead you through a tranquil stretch of woodland terrain. Along the trail, you will pass through peaceful forests and traverse the undulating landscape, getting a good amount of exercise while staying under the shade of the tree cover. While there are some climbs and descent throughout the route, this is a great walk for both beginners and seasoned explorers alike.
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Coast to Coast Walk: Ingleby Cross to Clay Bank Top
The Coast to Coast Walk: Ingleby Cross to Clay Bank Top is only a small segment of a much longer national walking route that will take you from the Irish Sea to the North Sea. While out walking this portion of the trail, you will traverse the rugged terrain of North York Moors National Park and take in the stunning scenery of the surrounding area from atop several moorland hills. This is a one-way trail, so be sure to arrange a pick up at the endpoint of your walk.
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Cod Beck to Thimbleby Walk
The Cod Beck to Thimbleby Walk is a fun journey through North York Moors National Park that will allow you to experience the various landscapes along the western edge of the park. While out on the walk, you will pass by the Cod Beck Reservoir and traverse some open fields and tranquil forests before traversing a small stretch of moorland terrain. There are some steep inclines along this route; however, the chance to experience the beautiful landscape of North Yorkshire is well worth the effort.
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Cuddy Lane Circular Walk
Walking the Cuddy Lane Circular Trail is a great adventure in the North York Moors that features a good variety of terrain and some scenic views across the landscape. While out on the trail, you will traverse the open fields around Osmotherley and climb uphill through the forest to reach the summit of Beacon Hill before skirting around the shores of the Cod Beck Reservoir. This is a great walking route that the entire family will be able to enjoy.
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Rievaulx Abbey Walk
The Rievaulx Abbey Walk is a fantastic adventure in North York Moors National Park for anyone interested in beautiful views and stunning historical buildings. While out on the trail, you will traverse some undulating terrain made up of beautiful forests and fields before spending some time around the historically significant Rievaulx Abbey that dates back to the 12th Century. A little bit of effort will be required to complete this adventure, although it is more than manageable for beginner walkers.
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Rievaulx Moor Circular Walk
Walking the Rievaulx Moor Circular Trail is an amazing experience in North York Moors National Park that features a good variety of terrain, scenic views, and fascinating historical sites. While out walking the trail, you will pass by Helmsley Castle and the historic Rievaulx Abbey before the rugged terrain of the moor and open farm fields. Navigation on the back half of this route can be a bit tricky, so you might want to bring a GPS or trail map.
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Forge Valley Woods Walk
The Forge Valley Woods Walk is a lovely adventure in North York Moors National Park that features easy to navigate terrain and a charming riverside setting. While out walking this route, you will follow closely along the banks of the River Derwent and traverse a boardwalk for views of local wildlife and the surrounding landscape of the gorge. This is an amazing outdoor excursion that is perfectly suitable for the entire family.
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Drove Road Walk
The Drove Road Walk is a fairly laidback adventure in the North York Moors that will see you experience a variety of terrain types and beautiful views of the national park. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill through the forest to reach the moor before turning to the southwest for views of the Oakdale Reservoir. There is a bit of undulating terrain throughout the route, but it is perfectly suitable for beginner and casual walkers.
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Kilburn White Horse and Sutton Bank Walk
The Kilburn White Horse and Sutton Bank Walk is an amazing adventure in North York Moors National Park that will provide stunning views overlooking the North Yorkshire landscape. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill past the famous Kilburn White Horse before making your way towards Sutton Bank to enjoy “The Finest View in England”. This great route is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of the North York Moors.