Gilling West and Richmond
West from the village of Gilling West along Waters Lane to a point just past Crabtree House Farm, then south-west through Gilling Wood and all the way to the minor road on the southern perimeter of Beacon Plantation. South-east into Richmond via Whitcliffe Farm and Hurgill and briefly alongside the River Swale to see the waterfalls. North through the town centre to Richmond Golf Club and back to the starting point by way of Aske Park and Aske Hall. A 10-mile walk in Northern England.
Recommended Ordnance Survey Map
The best map to use on this walk is the Ordnance Survey map of Darlington & Richmond, reference OS Explorer 304, scale 1:25,000. It clearly displays footpaths, rights of way, open access land and vegetation on the ground, making it ideal for walking, running and hiking. The map can be purchased from Amazon in either a standard, paper version or a weatherproof, laminated version, as shown below.
My Photos
Gilling Old Mill Cottages, a group of luxury self-catering holiday cottages on Waters Lane, Gilling West.
The route into Gilling Wood.
Passing the ‘Wainwright’ bench on Westfields en route to Richmond.
Walking in the Yorkshire Dales with 43 Circular Routes
AD This Cicerone guidebook includes 43 circular walks exploring valleys, hills, and moors between Kirkby Stephen and Pateley Bridge. With OS maps, local highlights, and routes ranging from 3–11 miles, it is a year-round companion for walkers of all abilities.
A plaque attached to the side of the bench contains a passage from Alfred Wainwright’s book ‘A Coast To Coast Walk’ which reads as follows:
There is a thrilling view of Richmond ahead. Richmond is a town unlike others, a place unique, rich in relics of the past, steeped in a long history that still lingers in the ramifications of its castle and the narrow alleys and quaint buildings that huddle in the shelter of the massive Norman keep. The castle, dramatically poised on a cliff high above the Swale, is a dominating feature. It is a town of reminders of times long past. It is too good to be by-passed.
Grisport Unisex Adult Peaklander Hiking Boots
AD The Grisport Unisex Adult Peaklander Hiking Boots are crafted in Italy with a durable waxed leather upper, Spotex breathable lining, and a reliable Track-on rubber sole. Waterproof and weighing just 1120g, they offer comfort, resilience, and dependable performance on demanding trails.
The view of Richmond from one of the benches situated on the slopes of West Field, Hurgill.
Grisport Unisex Adult Peaklander Hiking Boots
AD The Grisport Unisex Adult Peaklander Hiking Boots are crafted in Italy with a durable waxed leather upper, Spotex breathable lining, and a reliable Track-on rubber sole. Waterproof and weighing just 1120g, they offer comfort, resilience, and dependable performance on demanding trails.
The River Swale waterfalls in Richmond town centre. Said to be England’s fastest flowing river, the Swale is often golden brown in colour, particularly after heavy rainfall, because its waters have absorbed peat high up on the moorlands of the Yorkshire Dales.
A fallen tree has recently lodged itself between the rocks on the north side of the river.
Fifty Walks Across the Beautiful North York Moors National Park
AD Discover 50 routes across the North York Moors, from short easy strolls to challenging high-level hikes. With OS maps, route descriptions, and local highlights, it also includes the legendary 40-mile Lyke Wake Walk, described in four accessible stages.
A walled garden and seating area by the side of the River Swale waterfalls.
Heading up Millgate towards Richmond Castle.
Fifty Walks Across the Beautiful North York Moors National Park
AD Discover 50 routes across the North York Moors, from short easy strolls to challenging high-level hikes. With OS maps, route descriptions, and local highlights, it also includes the legendary 40-mile Lyke Wake Walk, described in four accessible stages.
Richmond Golf Club.
One of the gated entrances of Aske Hall.
Osprey Hikelite Unisex Backpack for Comfortable and Lightweight Hiking
AD The Osprey Hikelite backpack combines lightweight design with practical features, including a breathable mesh back panel, soft webbing straps, and stretch mesh water bottle pockets. With zipped storage and an organiser compartment, it is ideal for day hikes and outdoor use.
Aske Park.
Aske Hall, a Georgian country house currently owned by the Marquess of Zetland.
Osprey Hikelite Unisex Backpack for Comfortable and Lightweight Hiking
AD The Osprey Hikelite backpack combines lightweight design with practical features, including a breathable mesh back panel, soft webbing straps, and stretch mesh water bottle pockets. With zipped storage and an organiser compartment, it is ideal for day hikes and outdoor use.
Saint Agatha’s Church, Gilling West.
