Top Walking Routes in North Yorkshire: North Yorkshire Walking Trails

North Yorkshire has everything from coastal cliffs and moorland to limestone valleys and quiet villages. Lyn and I have walked and GPS-recorded routes across the county, so we've included links to our own walking guides alongside these longer established trails.

Discovering North Yorkshire Walking Trails

Surfaces, gradients and access vary widely. Use the relevant route map and check current conditions, particularly on the coast and in the hills.

Some well-known North Yorkshire trails include:

1. The Cleveland Way National Trail

The 109-mile Cleveland Way crosses the North York Moors and follows the Yorkshire coastline to Filey Brigg. You can walk a particular section rather than attempting the entire National Trail. Whitby and Robin Hood's Bay are among the places on its coastal route.

• Distance: Around 7 miles (Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay)

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Highlights: Coastal views, historic Whitby Abbey, charming villages

  
  

This route is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of history alongside their walk. Whitby Abbey, with its gothic ruins, is a must-see. The path also passes through the North York Moors National Park, offering a chance to spot wildlife and enjoy peaceful moorland.

Coastal cliffs and sea at Robin Hood’s Bay

2. The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge

For a more challenging walk, the Yorkshire Three Peaks is a classic. It covers the peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough. The full circuit is about 24 miles and can be completed in a day by experienced walkers.

• Distance: 24 miles

• Difficulty: Hard

• Highlights: Panoramic views, limestone pavements, historic villages

  
  

This walk is a test of endurance but incredibly rewarding. The views from the summits are breathtaking, and the route passes through picturesque villages like Horton-in-Ribblesdale, where you can stop for refreshments.

3. The Nidderdale Way

The Nidderdale Way is a long-distance circular walking route through Nidderdale National Landscape. It combines countryside, woodland, villages and riverside scenery, with Pateley Bridge among its main settlements.

• Distance: 54 miles (can be broken into shorter sections)

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Highlights: Rolling hills, riverside paths, historic sites

  
  

You can choose to walk the entire route over several days or pick shorter sections for day walks. The trail passes through lovely villages such as Pateley Bridge, where you can explore local shops and cafes.

Rolling hills and river in Nidderdale

4. The Wolds Way

The Yorkshire Wolds Way is a 79-mile trail that runs from Hessle to Filey. It offers a quieter alternative to some of the more popular routes, with gentle hills and expansive views over farmland and the coast.

• Distance: 79 miles

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Highlights: Peaceful countryside, historic market towns, coastal views

  
  

This trail is ideal for those who enjoy peaceful walks through rural landscapes. Along the way, you can visit market towns like Driffield and Bridlington, which offer plenty of local charm and amenities.

5. The Coast to Coast Walk

Although not entirely within North Yorkshire, the Coast to Coast Walk passes through some of the region’s most beautiful areas. It stretches from St Bees on the west coast to Robin Hood’s Bay on the east coast.

• Distance: 192 miles (total length)

• Difficulty: Hard

• Highlights: Diverse landscapes, historic sites, coastal views

  
  

Many walkers choose to complete the route in stages. The section through the North York Moors and along the coast is particularly stunning. This walk is a great way to experience the variety of landscapes Yorkshire has to offer.

Tips for Enjoying Your Walks in North Yorkshire

Walking in North Yorkshire is a joy, but a little preparation goes a long way. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your walking adventures:

• Check the weather: The weather can change quickly, especially on the moors. Dress in layers and bring waterproofs.

• Wear suitable footwear: Trails can be muddy or uneven. Good walking boots will keep you comfortable and safe.

• Plan your route: Use maps or apps to plan your walk and know where you can stop for food or rest.

• Carry essentials: Water, snacks, a map, and a fully charged phone are must-haves.

• Respect the environment: Stick to marked paths and take your litter home to help preserve the beauty of the area.

  
  

If you want to explore more options, there are many resources online that list north yorkshire walks with detailed descriptions and maps.

Find more walking ideas and routes in our Yorkshire Walks collection.

Embracing the Local Culture on Your Walks

One of the best parts of walking in North Yorkshire is the chance to connect with local culture. Many routes pass through historic villages and market towns where you can enjoy local food, crafts, and hospitality.

Walking also gives you the opportunity to visit local businesses that contribute to the community. From farm shops selling fresh produce to artisan bakeries and craft shops, these stops enrich your experience and support the local economy.

Planning Your Next North Yorkshire Walking Adventure

Whether you prefer coastal paths, moorland hikes, or gentle countryside strolls, North Yorkshire has a walking route for you. Each trail offers unique scenery and experiences, making it easy to find one that suits your interests and fitness level.

For routes we have personally walked and recorded, see our Staithes Circular Walk, Pateley Bridge Circular Walk and Wharram Percy Circular Walk. Each has its own original Komoot map and details of our visit.

Happy walking!

Footpath through a Yorkshire village

For more recorded routes, see North Yorkshire Walks.