North Yorkshire Circular Walks: 50 Walks Across Moors and Dales

Detailed Routes and Free PDFs for 50 North Yorkshire Circular Walks

North Yorkshire circular walks are the focus of this page, bringing together fifty carefully selected routes that showcase the full variety of the county’s landscapes. From riverside paths and wooded valleys to open moorland, waterfalls, historic villages, and classic dale scenery, each walk has been chosen to offer something distinctive. Every route listed here is a true circular walk, returning you to your starting point, and each has been individually walked and written to give a clear, reliable picture of what to expect on the ground.

Each of the North Yorkshire circular walks featured on this page is supported by two dedicated resources to help you plan with confidence. Every route includes a free printable PDF, designed to be easy to read and practical to use on the day, containing route descriptions and essential walking information. In addition, each walk links to its own fully detailed page on the website, where you will find comprehensive written directions, photographs, maps, and further local detail. Together, these resources are intended to make exploring North Yorkshire’s circular walks straightforward, enjoyable, and accessible.

The interactive map below displays these North Yorkshire circular walks using Google My Maps. Click or tap any orange diamond on the map to reveal the walk’s printable PDF document and the dedicated website page.

Appleton-le-Moors Walk: A Classic Route Among North Yorkshire Circular Walks

This enjoyable circular walk begins in the village of Sinnington and explores a varied stretch of countryside linking Cropton and Appleton-le-Moors. The route combines quiet lanes, riverside paths beside the River Seven, and peaceful woodland bridleways, creating a constantly changing landscape. Highlights include traditional stone cottages, St Gregory’s Church in Cropton, and a welcoming village pub, before the path crosses the river via a wooden footbridge. A gentle climb leads into Appleton-le-Moors, where open views and strong village character enhance the experience. Woodland and riverside paths then guide you back to Sinnington, forming a well-balanced circuit of around seven miles along the southern edge of the North York Moors.

Aysgarth Falls Walk: A Family-Friendly Route to Iconic Waterfalls

This popular route showcases one of Wensleydale’s best-known natural attractions, combining woodland paths, riverside walking, and a sequence of impressive waterfalls. Starting close to the falls, the walk visits the Upper Falls before continuing downstream to the Middle and Lower Falls, where the River Ure spills over broad limestone steps. Well-maintained paths wind through mixed woodland, offering frequent viewpoints and generally easy walking. Historic features, including St Andrew’s Church and Yore Mill, add interest along the way. With gentle gradients and clear paths throughout, this is an ideal family route and one of the most accessible North Yorkshire circular walks.

Aysgarth Walk: Waterfalls, Castle Bolton and Dale Views

This varied circular walk begins in the village of Aysgarth and blends dramatic natural scenery with historic landmarks across the heart of Wensleydale. The route first heads to the stepped cascades of Aysgarth Falls, following woodland paths beside the River Ure past a series of striking waterfalls. From here, it continues through Freeholders’ and St Joseph’s Woods before opening out into farmland on the approach to Castle Bolton. The imposing medieval fortress forms a memorable focal point before the walk crosses Ellerlands Edge and surrounding fields, with wide views across the dale. A gentle return to Aysgarth completes a rewarding circuit of roughly nine miles.

Bewerley Industrial Heritage Walk: A Standout North Yorkshire Circular Walk

Starting and finishing in the market town of Pateley Bridge, this engaging route explores Nidderdale’s rich industrial heritage alongside open countryside and woodland. The walk passes through Bewerley village, visits historic lime kilns and smelting sites, and climbs towards the dramatic Coldstones Cut sculpture. Higher ground reveals the remains of Cockhill Lead Mines and wide views across the surrounding hills. Quieter sections through Fishpond Wood and past Bewerley Grange Chapel provide welcome contrast. With a mix of tracks, woodland paths, and steady climbs, this moderately challenging route covers just over ten miles and offers a strong sense of history and place.

Blakey Ridge Walk: Rosedale Valley Views and Moorland Tracks

Beginning and ending at the Lion Inn on Blakey Ridge, this circular walk drops into the heart of Rosedale before climbing back onto the surrounding moorland. The route follows a mix of grassy paths, quiet lanes, and farmland, gradually revealing wide views across Rosedale and Farndale. A steady climb up Thorgill Bank leads to the old ironstone railway line, once central to the area’s industrial past and now a superb high-level walking route. The return follows this gentler track before descending back to Blakey Ridge. At around eight miles, this is one of the classic North Yorkshire circular walks within the North York Moors.

Bolton Castle Walk: Moorland Scenery and Wensleydale Villages

This rewarding walk sets off beside the imposing walls of Bolton Castle and explores a varied stretch of Wensleydale countryside. The route climbs north across open moorland towards Dent’s Houses, then crosses Redmire Moor before descending into the village of Preston-under-Scar. From here, paths lead south through farmland to Redmire, before looping back across fields towards Castle Bolton. Highlights include expansive views from higher ground, the sheltered valley around Dent’s Houses, and the strong historical presence of the castle itself. At roughly nine and a half miles, the walk offers a satisfying blend of moorland, village lanes, and classic dale scenery.

Bridestones Walk: Dramatic Rock Formations on North Yorkshire Circular Walks

Starting from Saltergate on the A169, this striking circular walk explores the dramatic sandstone formations of the Bridestones Nature Reserve. The route follows Old Wife’s Way across Newgate Brow before entering a landscape shaped by weathered rock towers such as High Bride Stones, Needle Point, and Dove Dale. Heather moorland and wooded dales create a wild backdrop as the path continues past Staindale Lake and on to the Low Bride Stones. The return crosses open moorland and ancient earthworks on Newgate Moor before looping back to the start. At around eight miles, this is one of the most visually distinctive North Yorkshire circular walks.

Buckden Pike Walk: Fell Summit Views and a Riverside Return

This classic walk starts in the village of Buckden and combines a steady fell ascent with a scenic riverside return. The route climbs through Rakes Wood onto Buckden Pike, where expansive views open across Wharfedale and the surrounding hills. Near the summit stands the Polish War Memorial, a poignant landmark on this high-level section. The descent follows Starbotton Fell into the village of Starbotton, before a gentler stretch beside the River Wharfe leads back to Buckden along the Dales Way. With woodland, open fell, and riverside paths, this rewarding route fully earns its place among North Yorkshire circular walks.

Cleveland 4 Peaks Walk: A Challenging Moorland Ridge Circuit

This demanding circular route takes in four prominent North York Moors summits, offering a rewarding test of stamina with outstanding views throughout. Starting from Clay Bank, the walk follows sections of the Cleveland Way across White Hill, Cold Moor, Cringle Moor, and Carlton Bank. Each summit has its own character, from broad plateaus to rocky outcrops and distinctive cairns. Landmarks such as the Wain Stones, Green Bank, and Lordstones Country Park punctuate the route, while long ridge sections deliver sweeping views across surrounding valleys and towards the coast. At roughly nine miles, this is a challenge best suited to experienced walkers comfortable with steep climbs and exposed terrain.

Cod Beck Reservoir Walk: A Favourite Among North Yorkshire Circular Walks

This scenic walk begins in the village of Osmotherley and explores woodland, moorland, and reservoir landscapes on the southern edge of the North York Moors. The route climbs gently from the village before descending into the wooded valley of Cote Ghyll, where streams and shaded paths create a peaceful atmosphere. Paths then follow the edge of Cod Beck Reservoir, offering calm water views backed by rolling hills. A steady climb onto Scarth Wood Moor and Beacon Hill rewards you with wide panoramas before a gradual descent returns you to Osmotherley. It is a well-balanced circuit that combines variety with a gentle challenge.

Falling Foss Walk: Woodland Trails to a Hidden Waterfall

This charming circular walk starts at May Beck and leads through peaceful woodland to one of the North York Moors’ most attractive waterfalls. Clear paths follow the beck, crossing a stone bridge before entering shaded woodland alive with birdsong. The highlight is Falling Foss, where water pours into a rocky pool below. Beyond the falls, the route continues through Littlebeck, passing features such as the Hermitage carved into a sandstone boulder and the village chapel. At just over four miles, this is one of the most accessible North Yorkshire circular walks, combining woodland scenery with strong local character.

Falling Foss Waterfall Walk: A Scenic North York Moors Loop

Beginning at May Beck Car Park, this walk offers a varied route through woodland, open countryside, and gentle valleys. The path leads through Little Beck Wood towards the impressive Falling Foss waterfall, where a tall cascade drops into a shaded ravine. Boardwalks and well-surfaced paths make this section comfortable even after wet weather. Leaving the woodland, the route crosses fields near Leas Head Farm and Foss Farm before looping back along quieter paths to the start. At approximately four and a half miles, with modest gradients throughout, this walk provides an enjoyable introduction to the North York Moors’ woodland landscapes.

Fremington Edge Walk: Elevated Views on North Yorkshire Circular Walks

Starting in the heart of Reeth, this rewarding circular walk explores the dramatic ridge of Fremington Edge, delivering wide-ranging views over Swaledale, Arkengarthdale, and towards Calver Hill. A steady climb from village lanes leads onto open moorland and an airy path close to the escarpment, where distant panoramas unfold across rolling dales and dry stone walls. Along the way, you pass Fell End cairn and traces of historic lead and chert workings before descending via quiet bridleways past Storthwaite Hall, Heggs House, and Castle Farm back to Reeth. At roughly seven and a half miles, this moderate route blends upland scenery, industrial heritage, and classic Yorkshire Dales charm.

Grassington Walk: Linton Falls, Hebden and Yarnbury Moor

Starting in Grassington, this rewarding loop drops to Linton Falls, where the River Wharfe tumbles over limestone steps in a wooded setting. Riverside paths and field tracks lead towards Hebden, crossing the suspension bridge and continuing along quieter lanes as the scenery opens out. The route then climbs onto higher ground near Yarnbury, with broad views across Wharfedale and reminders of the area’s lead-mining past, before descending back to Grassington’s cobbled streets and cafés. At approximately eight and a half miles, it is a varied and satisfying day out that sits comfortably among North Yorkshire circular walks.

Guisborough 3 Peaks Walk: Roseberry Topping, Hanging Stone and Highcliff Nab

This classic walk in the North York Moors begins and ends on Hutton Village Road, taking in three distinctive high points: Roseberry Topping, Hanging Stone, and Highcliff Nab. A steady climb through woodland and across open moorland leads to Roseberry Topping’s iconic summit, with sweeping views over the Tees Valley and Cleveland Plain. The route then crosses grassy moorland and woodland paths to the dramatic Hanging Stone, before continuing to Highcliff Nab, where panoramic views stretch towards the coast. A descent via forestry tracks completes the loop of around six and a half miles, combining varied terrain with expansive scenery.

Guisborough Forest Walk: Woodland and Moorland North Yorkshire Circular Walks

This peaceful circular walk starts from the Guisborough Forest car park and explores a varied mix of shaded woodland trails, open moorland, and quiet country paths. Well-marked tracks lead through conifer and mixed woodland, where wildlife and seasonal colour add interest. The route then climbs gently onto open moorland, passing heather-clad slopes with views across the Cleveland Hills and towards the distant coast. Optional detours to Roseberry Topping allow flexibility for those seeking extra challenge and views. At roughly five and a half miles, this rewarding walk blends calm woodland with open countryside and panoramic vistas.

Guisborough Woods Walk: Woodland Paths with Uplifted Viewpoints

This engaging walk begins at the Guisborough Woods car park and follows a varied route through shady woodland tracks, open clearings, and quiet field edges with pleasing views across the Cleveland countryside. Well-marked paths pass beneath oak, beech, and conifer, with dappled light and birdsong setting a tranquil tone. Gentle climbs lead to open areas where wider panoramas unfold, before the route loops back through mixed woodland and past historic boundary stones. At approximately five and three-quarter miles, this is a fine example of North Yorkshire circular walks that blend peaceful forest walking with uplifting views.

Gunnerside Gill Walk: Swaledale Lead Mining Heritage and Valley Paths

This engaging circular walk starts in the attractive village of Gunnerside and follows Gunnerside Beck north through a mix of woodland and open farmland. Along the way, you pass the remains of historic lead-mining sites, including the Sir Francis Dressing Floor and Bunting Mine. Wide valley views open out from Silver Hill and Jingle Pot Edge, offering sweeping panoramas of Swaledale. The route then loops south through the hamlet of Ivelet and across peaceful fields back to Gunnerside. At around seven miles, this moderately paced walk combines riverside charm, industrial heritage, and classic Dales scenery.

Hawes Mosaic Walk: Art, Villages and Landscapes on North Yorkshire Circular Walks

This engaging route in Upper Wensleydale covers approximately eleven miles and combines classic Dales scenery with an unusual artistic theme. Starting at the Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes, the walk links the villages of Burtersett, Gayle, Hardraw, and Sedbusk, passing stone barns and open fields with wide views across the dale. Along the way, you search out twenty mosaic artworks depicting local wildlife, farming life, and cultural references. Highlights include Aysgill Force waterfall and the impressive Appersett Viaduct, with the route finishing beside St Margaret’s Church in Hawes, where the mosaic project began.

High Force Walk: Low Force, High Force and Bleabeck Force Circuit

Starting from the Bowlees Visitor Centre, this superb circular route follows the Pennine Way beside the River Tees to a trio of standout waterfalls. After crossing Wynch Bridge, the path reaches Low Force, where the river spills over stepped rock ledges, before continuing upstream to the dramatic plunge of High Force. The return climbs away from the river over open fell, with wide views, before descending via tracks and quiet lanes back to Bowlees. At approximately eight and a quarter miles, this is a memorable option to add to your collection of North Yorkshire circular walks.

Hole of Horcum Circular Walk: Moorland Trails and Big Rim Views

This captivating walk starts at the Saltergate car park and immediately reveals expansive views into the vast natural amphitheatre known as the Hole of Horcum. The route follows the Tabular Hills Walk around the upper rim across Levisham Moor before descending into the village of Levisham. A peaceful woodland section through Levisham Brow leads back via Horcum Slack and Low Horcum, passing grazing sheep and the distinctive stone barn at the base of the hollow. A final steady climb returns you to the rim and the start, completing a dramatic seven-mile loop.

Hole of Horcum Walk: A Defining Route in North Yorkshire Circular Walks

This engaging circular walk also begins at Saltergate and drops into the impressive Hole of Horcum, a vast bowl-shaped hollow carved by erosion over millennia. From the valley floor, the route climbs through the wooded ravine of Dundale Griff before emerging onto open moorland and following lanes into the village of Levisham. The walk then heads across Levisham Moor towards Skelton Tower, a striking landmark with far-reaching views across Newton Dale. Crossing Levisham Bottoms, the route returns to Saltergate, completing a varied loop of approximately seven and three-quarter miles.

Hutton-le-Hole Walk: Via Lastingham and Appleton-le-Moors

This charming walk begins at the National Park car park in Hutton-le-Hole and links several picturesque North York Moors villages. After crossing Jennie’s Bridge over Hole Beck, the route climbs towards Lastingham, where St Mary’s Church provides a fascinating historical stop. Quiet lanes and tracks then lead towards Appleton-le-Moors, passing traditional stone cottages and open dale views along the way. At approximately nine and a quarter miles, and taking around four and a quarter hours, this is one of the most scenic North Yorkshire circular walks, blending countryside charm with heritage and varied terrain.

Ingleborough Walk: From Clapham via Trow Gill and Gaping Gill

This adventurous circular route starts in the village of Clapham and explores some of the Yorkshire Dales’ most striking limestone scenery. Tracks beside Clapham Beck lead past Ingleborough Cave and into the dramatic ravine of Trow Gill. The path continues to Gaping Gill, where Fell Beck plunges into Britain’s largest naturally open underground chamber. From here, a steady climb leads to the broad summit of Ingleborough, with extensive views across the surrounding fells. The return follows limestone pavements and open hillside back to Clapham, completing a challenging and memorable walk of around ten and a half miles.

Kettlewell Walk: A Valley Classic Within North Yorkshire Circular Walks

This scenic walk begins in the village of Kettlewell and explores two classic Dales valleys, Wharfedale and Littondale. Riverside tracks and quiet field paths lead past hamlets such as Hawkswick and Arncliffe, with lime kilns and stone bridges adding interest. Open hillside sections provide wide views across rolling pasture and moorland, while stretches beside the Skirfare and Wharfe offer gentle variety. At roughly nine miles, this well-paced route blends varied scenery, historic features, and quintessential Dales character.

Leyburn Shawl Walk: Preston-under-Scar, Wensley and Dale Vistas

This rewarding circular walk starts in Leyburn and quickly reaches the elevated limestone terrace of Leyburn Shawl, where far-reaching views open across Wensleydale. The route continues through woodland and open fields before descending towards Preston-under-Scar via quiet lanes and rolling farmland. Paths then cross the valley to the village of Wensley, set beside the River Ure, before a varied return to Leyburn. At around six and three-quarter miles, this is a fine example of North Yorkshire circular walks, offering strong views and village character without feeling strenuous.

Leyburn Shawl Walk: Bolton Castle, Redmire and Village Lanes

This longer circular walk also begins in Leyburn and delivers sweeping views across Wensleydale. From the Market Place, the route follows the Shawl westwards before dropping towards Preston-under-Scar and passing through woodland to reach quiet country lanes. It continues through Castle Bolton and Redmire, crossing Apedale Beck, before traversing fields and woodland near Bolton Hall and reaching Wensley. A final stretch returns to Leyburn, completing a varied loop of approximately eleven miles that combines panoramic views, historic villages, and classic Dales countryside.

Lordstones Walk: A Moorland Circuit with Wainstones Views

This captivating walk through the North York Moors offers some of the most spectacular moorland scenery in northern England. The route begins at the Clay Bank car park adjacent to the B1257 road, just a couple of miles south-east of Great Broughton. From here, you’ll follow the Cleveland Way westward, climbing the three magnificent peaks of White Hill, Cold Moor, and Cringle Moor, before descending to the Lordstones Country Park for refreshments. The return leg takes you through the peaceful valleys of Raisdale and Bilsdale, passing through Chop Gate village and along the western slopes of Urra Moor before completing the circuit.

Low Force to High Force Walk: Waterfalls and Riverside Views

This scenic circular walk begins at Bowlees Visitor Centre and follows the Pennine Way beside the River Tees, taking in some of Teesdale’s most impressive waterfalls. After crossing Wynch Bridge, the path reaches Low Force before continuing upstream to High Force, where the river plunges over the Whin Sill. The return uses quieter lanes and field paths, with optional detours to Gibson’s Cave and Summerhill Force. At approximately five and a half miles, this accessible route combines riverside walking with dramatic natural features.

Muker Walk: Swaledale Waterfalls, Riverside Paths and Big Views

This varied walk begins in the village of Muker and explores some of Swaledale’s most appealing scenery. Riverside paths beside the River Swale lead towards the cascades at Kisdon Force, before a gentle climb onto open grassland reveals wide valley views. The route then descends through quiet fields and past traditional stone barns back to Muker. At roughly seven and three-quarter miles, this walk blends riverside charm, open fell scenery, and rural tranquillity.

North York Moors Walk: Wide Open Landscapes on North Yorkshire Circular Walks

This scenic circular walk starts in the village of Hackness and explores a mix of quiet lanes, grassy valleys, and forest tracks. Bridleways lead into Low Dales and Whisper Dales, following Whisperdales Beck through gentle meadows. A steady climb into Broxa Forest brings woodland interest before wide views open from Barns Cliff End across Harwood Dale. The return via High Dales completes an attractive loop of approximately eight and a quarter miles, combining pastoral valleys with upland scenery.

North Yorkshire Walk: Middleham to East Witton via Jervaulx Park

This engaging walk begins in Middleham and explores a varied stretch of Wensleydale. The route follows the Six Dales Trail beside the River Cover, passing Middleham Castle before reaching the stepping stones and Cover Bridge Inn. It then joins the River Ure and continues through the peaceful parkland of Jervaulx Park, with glimpses of the abbey ruins along the way. Paths lead on to East Witton before looping back across open fields and riverside tracks to Middleham, completing a satisfying twelve-mile circuit.

Osmotherley Walk: Lady Chapel, Sheepwash Force and Wide Views

This lovely circular walk sets off from the centre of Osmotherley, a charming village on the western edge of the North York Moors. From the village green, it climbs Ruebury Lane before turning into peaceful woodland on the way to the historic Lady Chapel. After visiting the chapel and the optional Rosary Path, the route continues along the Cleveland Way across the open expanse of Scarth Wood Moor. You’ll then loop south past Chequers and into Oak Dale, before returning to Osmotherley through quiet valleys and moorland fields. Expect great views, varied terrain, and lots to explore along the way.

Pateley Bridge Walk: A Riverside Favourite Among North Yorkshire Circular Walks

This rewarding walk starts beside the River Nidd in Pateley Bridge and explores a quieter stretch of Nidderdale rich in scenery and industrial heritage. The route follows the Nidderdale Way across fields towards the remains of Prosperous and Providence lead mines, before descending to the village of Wath and passing Wath Mill. A riverside return completes the loop, combining countryside, history, and well-defined paths.

Pen-y-ghent Walk: Classic Dales Route from Horton in Ribblesdale

This classic circular walk begins in Horton in Ribblesdale and climbs steadily onto Pen-y-ghent, one of the Yorkshire Three Peaks. Sections of the Pennine Way lead past limestone pavements and open hillside, with views gradually opening across Ribblesdale. A short rocky section near the summit adds interest before the broad plateau rewards you with far-reaching panoramas. The descent follows a gentler line back to Horton, completing a satisfying loop of just over six miles.

Penhill Walk: Stunning Views and the Historic Penhill Preceptory

This memorable walk starts in West Witton and climbs steadily onto Penhill, a distinctive ridge above Wensleydale. Field paths and woodland tracks lead to open ground, where wide views unfold across the dale and into Coverdale. Near the summit, the route passes a stone shelter before descending past the remains of the Penhill Preceptory, a medieval Knights Templar site. The return across mixed farmland completes a varied loop of around eight and a quarter miles.

Rievaulx Abbey Walk: A Historic Highlight of North Yorkshire Circular Walks

This peaceful circular walk begins near Rievaulx Abbey and explores the tranquil landscape of Rye Dale. Waymarked paths follow the River Rye before climbing gently through farmland and woodland, with views opening across rolling pasture. The route passes through Old Byland before looping back through sheltered valleys to the abbey. At approximately eight and a quarter miles, this walk blends heritage, riverside scenery, and classic Yorkshire countryside.

Roseberry Topping Walk: Captain Cook’s Monument and Moorland Paths

This rewarding walk from Great Ayton climbs through woodland to the distinctive summit of Roseberry Topping, where expansive views stretch across the Cleveland Hills and Tees Valley. The route continues across open moorland to Captain Cook’s Monument on Easby Moor before returning via quieter woodland paths and the River Leven. At around six and a half miles, this varied walk delivers big scenery in a compact and satisfying loop.

Rosedale Abbey Walk: Lastingham, Moorland Crossings and Dale Views

This varied circular walk begins in Rosedale Abbey and climbs beside Spaunton Moor, opening out to broad views across the valley. Quiet moorland paths lead towards High Askew before descending into Lastingham, known for its ancient church and crypt. The return crosses exposed moorland around Ana Cross before descending Rosedale Chimney Bank and completing a loop of around nine and a quarter miles.

Rosedale Walk: A Moorland Favourite in North Yorkshire Circular Walks

This enjoyable walk starts in Rosedale Abbey and explores a landscape shaped by natural beauty and industrial heritage. Quiet lanes and field paths lead to the old railway line above the dale, where wide views open across Rosedale. Passing lime kilns and ironstone remains, the route descends back into the valley, crossing the River Seven and returning via Thorgill. At around eight miles, this is a well-balanced and characterful North York Moors walk.

Semer Water Walk: Bainbridge, Marsett and Wether Fell Views

This rewarding circular walk begins in Bainbridge and leads through open countryside to Semer Water, the second-largest natural lake in North Yorkshire. The route follows ‘A Pennine Journey’, passes through the nature reserve, and continues via Marsett before climbing onto Wether Fell along an old Roman road. Wide views across Raydale unfold before a descent back to Bainbridge completes this scenic loop of approximately twelve and a quarter miles.

Sutton Bank Walk: Kilburn White Horse to High Paradise Views

This varied walk follows the Cleveland Way along the crest of Sutton Bank, starting near the Yorkshire Gliding Club. Passing above the Kilburn White Horse, the route delivers dramatic views across the Vale of Mowbray. Woodland sections, cliff-edge viewpoints, and landmarks such as Gormire Lake and High Paradise Farm add variety. The full there-and-back route can extend to around twelve miles on well-maintained paths.

Swaledale Walk: Moorland and Riverside North Yorkshire Circular Walks

This varied walk begins in Reeth and combines open moorland, riverside paths, and historic features. After crossing the River Swale, a steady climb leads onto Harkerside and Whitaside moors, where wide views and mining remains characterise the landscape. The route descends via Haverdale Beck and returns along the river, completing a scenic loop of around ten and a quarter miles.

Tupgill Park Walk: Wensley, Middleham and West Witton Circuit

Starting from Wensley Bridge, this scenic loop links Wensley, Middleham, and West Witton. Riverside paths lead towards Middleham and its castle before the route crosses Middleham Low Moor and enters the Tupgill Park Estate. Quiet tracks, woodland, and open fields provide variety before the return to Wensley. It is a strong choice among North Yorkshire circular walks for village character and changing scenery.

Wensleydale Walk: Redmire Force, Preston-under-Scar and Wensley

This delightful walk begins in Wensley and leads through classic dales scenery to the peaceful waterfalls at Redmire Force. Paths cross Wensley Park and open fields to Preston-under-Scar before reaching the woodland approach to the falls. The return follows riverside tracks and woodland near Bolton Hall back to Wensley. At around nine and a quarter miles, it offers a richly varied and satisfying day out.

Wensleydale Walk: A Timeless Route Among North Yorkshire Circular Walks

This superb circular walk starts in West Witton and explores some of Wensleydale’s most attractive scenery. Riverside paths lead beside the River Ure before a gentle climb through fields and woodland towards Aysgarth Falls. The route continues to West Burton, passing Cauldron Falls, before returning via quiet lanes and field paths. At roughly ten and a half miles, it delivers classic dale views and village charm.

Wharfedale Walk: Buckden, Starbotton and Kettlewell Loop

This varied walk starts in Buckden and follows a figure-of-eight route through Wharfedale. Sections of the Dales Way, riverside paths, and quiet bridleways lead to Starbotton and Kettlewell before a scenic return along the River Wharfe. At approximately nine and a half miles, the walk blends valley walking, open hillsides, and traditional village scenery.

Whernside Walk: A Classic Yorkshire Dales Summit Loop

This iconic circular walk starts at Ribblehead Viaduct and climbs steadily across open moorland to the summit of Whernside, the highest peak in the Yorkshire Dales. Sections of the Dales High Way and Pennine paths pass landmarks such as Force Gill Aqueduct before expansive views unfold from the ridge. A descent across farmland returns you to the viaduct, completing a rewarding loop of around seven and three-quarter miles.

Yockenthwaite Walk: A Riverside Gem Within North Yorkshire Circular Walks

This delightful circular begins in Buckden and explores the scenic upper reaches of Wharfedale. A steady climb along Buckden Rake opens wide views before the route descends to Cray and continues to Yockenthwaite, crossing its famous packhorse bridge. Riverside paths along the Dales Way lead to Hubberholme before the final return to Buckden. It is a rewarding loop rich in scenery and village character.

Yorkshire Moors Walk: Masham Moor, Dale Edge and Colsterdale

This engaging circular walk begins near Masham and crosses heather moorland, dale edges, and peaceful forest trails through Colsterdale. Grassy tracks lead over Masham Moor towards Dale Edge, where classic upland views open out. The route descends into Colsterdale, following Colster Beck and woodland paths, before climbing back towards open hillside and returning to Masham. At around ten miles, it is an excellent example of North Yorkshire circular walks, blending upland scenery with woodland tranquillity.