Discover Open Moorland and Hidden Valleys on a Yorkshire Moors Walk
Begin your Yorkshire moors walk by parking at Gollinglith Foot. There’s space for about half a dozen cars next to a postbox and a red telephone box. From the parking area, walk past the small stone garage on your right and cross the footbridge over the River Burn.
On the far side of the footbridge, turn left onto the bridleway, which also forms part of the Six Dales Trail. Follow this bridleway south through farmland and woodland, using the blue waymarker arrows for guidance. These signs confirm you’re on a public bridleway, and some also mention the Six Dales Trail.
After roughly half a mile, you’ll reach a tall, disused farmhouse called Pickersgill House. Walk past it and emerge onto a minor tarmac road. Turn left and follow the road uphill. At the top, turn right, continuing along the public bridleway, still following the Six Dales Trail.
Carry on along this quiet lane for around a quarter of a mile. Then turn left, signposted as a public footpath for the Six Dales Trail. Walk past the right-hand side of the farm buildings at Towler Hill. Keep following the waymarked trail across five more fields and over several stiles.
In the final field, you’ll see a row of farm buildings at High Sourmire ahead of you. Skirt around the right-hand side of the buildings and continue downhill on the footpath, which remains part of the Six Dales Trail. Descend into the valley and enter an area of pine woodland. Walk through the trees to the bottom of the valley and cross the stream via a wooden footbridge.
From the footbridge, begin your climb out of the valley along a woodland path. The track is fairly clear underfoot, but in summer the bracken may be high and the path could become overgrown. After emerging from the trees, continue on the public footpath, still on the Six Dales Trail.
Cross the next few fields to reach a stone track and pass over a cattle grid. Avoid the right-hand track and keep straight ahead. This route leads you to the minor road known as Pott Moor High Road. Turn right and follow the road for about two-thirds of a mile. At this point, you leave the Six Dales Trail.
Turn right onto a broad stone track, signposted as a public footpath heading across the open moorland. Follow the track for half a mile until it splits into two. Ignore the right-hand fork and continue straight ahead.
You’re now walking across Pott Moor, the most exposed section of your Yorkshire moors walk. Follow the moorland path for roughly a mile, pass through a boundary gate, and shortly afterwards, enjoy wide views as the Nidderdale valley comes into sight.
Soon, you’ll reach the bridleway at Dale Edge. Turn right and go through the gate. The track then divides—avoid the left-hand path downhill and continue straight ahead along the right-hand fork. Walk along Dale Edge for 1½ miles. This high-level stretch is the scenic highlight of your Yorkshire moors walk.
As the track gently descends, look out for a clump of coniferous trees on your left, about 150 metres away. As you reach them, turn right onto a grassy bridleway heading north. There is no signpost, but the path is faintly visible. This section climbs gently uphill and passes a deep, disused shaft on your right, surrounded by a small fence, then a semi-circular stone sheepfold on your left.
Keep going north across the moorland for about two-thirds of a mile. You’re now heading for a hill called Little Haw, also known as South Haw. On its summit is a boundary stone. Skirt around the left-hand side of the hill to reach a metal gate. Go through the gate and continue straight ahead in a north-easterly direction, still on the bridleway across the open moors.
The track is faint but visible, trodden by other walkers. If you find yourself pushing through tall heather or long grass, you may have strayed off course. After about half a mile, descend to cross a small stream at the top of Steel House Gill. Turn right to join a stone track heading east.
Follow this track for around two-thirds of a mile, staying on the left-hand side of the valley. The path descends to cross the stream again—this marks the start of the River Burn. From this point, continue along the well-maintained track on the right-hand side of the valley.
Stay on this wide track for almost a mile. You’ll pass a shooting house on your right. Not long after, the track splits—be sure to take the left-hand fork. Stay on the track for another three-quarters of a mile, always keeping to the right-hand side of the valley, until you reach the start of a route known as Coal Road.
Coal Road is a pleasant, grassy track that’s easy to follow for the next two miles. This part of your Yorkshire moors walk offers stunning views over the Colsterdale valley to your left. Ignore any side tracks and continue straight on.
Eventually, the track descends into the valley and passes some farm buildings on your right. After the buildings, follow the track downhill, then turn right where a sign points to a public bridleway.
A little further on, turn left and use the footbridge to cross back over the River Burn. You’ll return immediately to the car park, where your Yorkshire moors walk comes to an end.
Yorkshire Moors Walk: Maps and Tools
Visit either the OS Maps website or the Outdooractive website to view this walking route in greater detail. Both platforms offer a range of features, including the ability to print the route, download it to your device, and export the route as a GPX file. You can also watch a 3D fly-over and share the route on social media.
Yorkshire Moors Walk: Distance, Duration, Statistics
Distance: 11½ miles
Distance: 18¾ kilometres
Duration: 5¾ hours
Ascent: 1153 feet
Ascent: 351 metres
Type: Circular walk
Recommended Ordnance Survey Map
The best map to use on this walk is the Ordnance Survey map of Nidderdale, reference OS Explorer 298, 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.
Weatherproof Version
Ordnance Survey map of Nidderdale, reference OS Explorer 298, scale 1:25,000
About Colsterdale
Colsterdale is a scenic valley in the Yorkshire Dales, North Yorkshire, shaped by the River Burn, a tributary of the River Ure. The valley lends its name to a hamlet and civil parish in the upper part of the dale, about seven miles west of Masham. The civil parish had an estimated population of 20 in 2010. The lower section of the dale, near Gollinglith Foot—where this Yorkshire moors walk starts—falls under the civil parish of Healey. From 1974 to 2023, Colsterdale was part of the Borough of Harrogate but is now governed by North Yorkshire Council.
Although not part of Nidderdale, Colsterdale lies within the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The valley is also located within the privately owned Swinton Estate.
A notable feature of Colsterdale is the Colsterdale Towers, a series of sighting towers built in and around the valley. These towers were erected to assist in surveying the land during the construction of Leighton Reservoir and Roundhill Reservoir, as well as other proposed reservoirs and their associated pipelines.
Visible from Roundhill Reservoir and Leighton Reservoir above Arnagill Crags is a stone sighting tower built over an aqueduct near a water-pumping station. A similar structure, Carle Tower, stands 1.9 miles south-east, just above Wandley Gill. Another sighting tower, Carlesmoor Sighting Tower, is located a further 1.2 miles east. To the north, a wooden sighting tower, which no longer exists, once stood.
The sighting towers were instrumental in surveys for the steep-sided valley of Dallowgill, which was once considered as a potential reservoir site. They were also used as reference points for the construction of pipelines that stretched from the small catchment reservoir above Spout Gill Farm to Roundhill Reservoir, where the pipe met the dam overflow, which then continued to Carlesmoor and emptied into the River Laver.
The name ‘Colsterdale’ was first recorded in 1281 and is believed to mean ‘coalman valley’. The valley was home to a coal mine in the 14th century. Part of my Yorkshire moors walk takes you through this valley.
Historically, Colsterdale was split between the parishes of East Witton and Masham in the North Riding of Yorkshire. The upper part of the valley, above Gollinglith Foot, was originally a detached part of the parish of East Witton. In 1886, this area was transferred to the civil parish of Healey with Sutton, and by 1894, it became a separate civil parish. In 1934, 2915 acres of the uninhabited Masham Moor, which included parts of Colsterdale, were added to the civil parish of Colsterdale. Meanwhile, the lower part of the dale became part of Healey with Sutton in 1866 and has been known as Healey since 1934.
During the First World War, Colsterdale was used as a training camp for the Leeds Pals, a group of soldiers from Leeds. A memorial to the Leeds Pals was erected in the dale in 1935. Later, the camp was repurposed as a Prisoner of War camp for German officers.
Today, the parish is part of the Fearby, Healey and District Parish Council, which also serves the villages of Ellingstring, Fearby, Healey, and Ilton cum Pott.
Yorkshire Moors Walk: My Photos
Setting off from Gollinglith Foot, I head south through a stretch of woodland. The route is a bridleway and also forms part of the Six Dales Trail. Several helpful blue waymarker arrows guide me on my way.
I climb steadily out of the valley, following the bridleway south in the direction of Pickersgill House.
I reach a junction by a minor road near Spout House and pass a charming, abandoned farmhouse. It’s marked on the map as Pickersgill House.
Continuing my Yorkshire moors walk, I follow the route of the Six Dales Trail and pass a series of farm buildings at Towler Hill.
From Towler Hill, I cross several farmland fields. At times the footpath is faint and navigation becomes a little tricky. I know I’m on the right track when I reach a cluster of buildings at High Sourmire. I follow the path past the right-hand side of the farm.
After passing High Sourmire, I head downhill across another field towards a patch of coniferous trees. The footpath continues through the woodland and descends into a small valley before climbing up the opposite side. The trail is generally easy to follow, but it’s summer, the bracken is tall, and the overgrown path makes this section of the walk a bit tiring.
Emerging from the trees and crossing more farmland, I eventually reach a minor road known as Pott Moor High Road. Here I leave the Six Dales Trail, which continues across fields towards a distant farm.
I follow Pott Moor High Road in a south-westerly direction. For just over half a mile, I walk along this peaceful road across open moorland. The wide grassy verges make it safe and pleasant underfoot.
Leaving the road, I join a footpath across Pott Moor. This stretch of my Yorkshire moors walk covers more than 1½ miles of exposed moorland. The wide stone track is well-defined and easy to follow, with no significant inclines or descents. It certainly blows the cobwebs away.
At the end of the footpath across Pott Moor, I finally get my first glimpse of the views I’ve been waiting for—down into the Upper Nidderdale valley.
Crossing Pott Moor offered little in the way of views, but now the reward is clear. The expansive panorama into Upper Nidderdale is stunning, with Little Whernside and Great Whernside visible on the far side.
The path leads to a bridleway on Dale Edge. I turn right through a gate, where I face a choice: the bridleway on the left descends into the valley, while the one on the right crosses Dale Edge. I opt for the right-hand route. This Yorkshire moors walk now begins to circle the wide open expanse of Masham Moor.
The views from Dale Edge are spectacular. Looking west, I can see across the valley towards Scar House Reservoir and its prominent dam.
I gaze across a patchwork of green fields, bounded by dry stone walls. Below lies a deep, wooded valley carved by the River Nidd.
The views remain impressive as I continue along Dale Edge. Looking south, I can just about make out the village of Middlesmoor perched high on the hillside.
The bridleway across Dale Edge is straightforward and pleasant to walk. With no major gradients, this gentle section gives me time to take in the beautiful, untamed landscape. Beyond Scar House Reservoir, Little Whernside and Great Whernside dominate the skyline.
The bridleway begins to descend slightly. On the left-hand side of the track, a clump of coniferous trees appears. I know that when I draw level with these trees, it will be time to leave Dale Edge and turn right onto a new bridleway heading north across the moor to South Haw.
This area is rich in rough moorland grasses and patches of heather. Swaledale sheep graze quietly in the open landscape, their curved horns and thick wool ideal for the harsh upland terrain.
Another group of Swaledale sheep stands alert on the windswept moor. Their black faces and white markings contrast sharply with the soft greens of the fields and wooded valleys behind. I’m loving this Yorkshire moors walk.
The bridleway that leaves the main Dale Edge track isn’t signposted and is hard to spot. I know I’ve found it when I’m roughly 150 metres from the coniferous trees on my left. A faint grassy trail leads uphill, near a small grassy mound with old fence posts—another helpful clue.
The path passes to the left of a deep, disused shaft, which is surrounded by a small protective fence.
A little further on, I pass a semi-circular, stone-built sheepfold on my left. It’s another reassuring sign that I’m heading the right way.
I head north across the moor and take a short detour to the summit of South Haw, also known as Little Haw, which stands at 499 metres. A boundary stone marks the top. It’s engraved with a cross and some faded lettering, but I can’t quite make out what it says.
After visiting the summit, I pass through a gate and rejoin the bridleway. It stretches across the wild, exposed moorland and reinforces the feeling that this really is a proper Yorkshire moors walk.
After my moorland section, I follow a path along the left-hand side of a ravine known as Steel House Gill. The route here is clearly defined and easy to follow.
I reach a point in the valley where one track climbs back uphill to the left. Another crosses a stream and continues along the right-hand side of the valley. This is the route I take.
I cross the stream—though I believe this marks the beginning of the River Burn. It flows eastwards through Colsterdale and eventually joins the River Ure near Masham. The river is roughly 12 miles long.
Continuing along the track on the southern side of the River Burn, I pass a small shooting house nestled in the landscape.
This part of my Yorkshire moors walk is particularly enjoyable. The track is straightforward, easy to navigate, and provides some lovely views along the way.
The River Burn cuts through the landscape with charm. It flows over mossy rocks and shallow ledges, creating miniature waterfalls. Tall conifers cling to the steep banks, their roots exposed and gripping the stone, hinting at the slow erosion of the gorge.
From the elevated track, I look across the Colsterdale valley. Scattered farm buildings dot the scene, and I spot rocky outcrops high in the distance. Marked on the map as High Crags, they’ve piqued my curiosity. I’m already planning another walk to explore them.
The track I’m now walking is called Coal Road, and it’s absolutely delightful. On my left, the views open up across Colsterdale. The hillside is bursting into colour with blooming purple heather and vibrant green bracken.
Coal Road continues to provide excellent views. In the foreground is a vivid strip of moorland vegetation. Beyond, a patchwork of stone-walled fields is dotted with mature trees. The layered landscape blends farmland and wild moorland, rising again to dark heather hills.
Coal Road brings me back to Gollinglith Foot and the end of this wonderful Yorkshire moors walk. I pass a few farm buildings and join a bridleway that leads back towards the car park.
Finally, I cross the River Burn via a footbridge and return to the car park. This Yorkshire moors walk has been absolutely fabulous, skirting Masham Moor and passing through Pott Moor, Thorny Grane Moor, and Steel House Moor.
Amazon’s Top Walking Boots: Four Standout Choices for Men and Women
For walking and hiking, the right boots are essential for both comfort and safety. While Amazon boasts a wide range, certain boots emerge as top-sellers. From those, here are four I personally favour. As an Amazon affiliate, I may earn a small commission from any purchases made through the links provided. This helps support the upkeep of this website. Rest assured, you won’t pay a penny extra, but your purchase will contribute to keeping my site running smoothly. Happy walking!
Berghaus Men’s Hillmaster II Gore-Tex Walking Boots
These fully waterproof leather walking boots feature a Gore-Tex lining, ensuring no water enters whilst allowing feet to breathe and stay cool. Made from full-grain leather, they promise unmatched durability and comfort. The boots come with memory foam tongues and cuffs that mould to your feet for a tailored fit, and the Vibram Hillmaster outsoles offer confidence on challenging terrains.
Salewa Men’s Mountain Trainer Mid Gore-Tex Walking Boots
Made from durable suede and abrasion-resistant textile, these men’s hiking boots are both lightweight and sturdy. The upper material is enhanced by a 360° full rubber sheath. Their dual-layer midsole with Bilight technology ensures ergonomic cushioning and grip, especially on extended hikes. The Vibram Wrapping Thread Combi outsoles allow a natural walking feel, and the Gore-Tex lining provides waterproofing, breathability, and optimal weather protection. Furthermore, the patented Salewa 3F system ensures flexibility, a secure heel grip, and a blister-free fit.
Berghaus Women’s Supalite II Gore-Tex Walking Boots
Specially designed for women, these hiking boots offer waterproofing and breathability, thanks to their Gore-Tex lining. Crafted from full-grain abrasion-resistant leather, they’re durable enough for the toughest hikes. The Supalite soles ensure stability and traction, and the EVA midsoles add comfort for extended walks.
Merrell Women’s Moab 3 Mid Gore-Tex Walking Boots
These hiking boots incorporate a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane, blending breathability with superior waterproof performance. The combination of pigskin leather and mesh on the uppers, along with the suede outer material, ensure durability and style. Enhancements include 100% recycled laces, webbing, and mesh lining. Additionally, bellows tongues, protective toe caps, and Vibram TC5+ rubber soles ensure protection and ease on any terrain.