Even with the playful rivalry between Yorkshire and my home county of Lancashire, I can’t deny how breathtaking Yorkshire is for walking.
Every time I step across the border, I’m met with endless stunning trails waiting to be explored.
Breathtaking coastlines, dramatic valleys, towering peaks, and serene woodlands – Yorkshire is also home to one of my all-time favourite National Parks, the legendary Yorkshire Dales. 🌿
With so many hikes on offer, picking the perfect route can feel a little overwhelming.
To make it easier, we’ve carefully put together some of the most scenic walks across the county.
With such a variety on the list, I’m sure you’ll find something that sparks your sense of adventure.
Lumb Hole Falls
Starting point: Hebden Bridge, HX7 6JE
Kicking off with one of Yorkshire’s hidden treasures, Lumb Falls feels like it stepped right out of a fairy tale. 🌊
Also known as the ‘Hebden Bridge Waterfall’, this charming spot sits in the wooded valley of Hardcastle Crags, just outside Hebden Bridge.
With its enchanting views, the moss-covered falls are often dotted with seasonal wildflowers like bluebells and wild garlic, adding to its magical atmosphere.
Parking is available at Hardcastle Crags, or you can choose to walk straight to the valley from the heart of Hebden Bridge.
For a change of pace, we sometimes hop on the train to Hebden Bridge, making the journey even more relaxing.
Best explored via the Lumb Hole Circular Trail, this nine-mile walk takes you through ancient woodlands, across scenic moorlands, past old ruins, and finally down to the hidden waterfall.
Simon’s Seat and valley of Desolation
Starting point: Barden Bridge, 6AT, Dales Way, Skipton
Another hidden gem, the views from the summit of Simon’s Seat are absolutely breathtaking. 🏞️
Renowned as one of the best spots to take in the stunning Yorkshire Dales countryside, Simon’s Seat also features striking millstone grit formations that jut dramatically from the peak.
Nestled within the famous Bolton Abbey Estate, one reason this spot isn’t more popular might be the steep car park fees – last I checked, it was fifteen pounds for the official lots. ⚠️
But here’s a tip: many don’t know there’s a completely free parking spot along a scenic path leading up to Simon’s Seat.
The three-mile climb rewards you with incredible views, and from the top, there are plenty of ways to extend your walk. I especially recommend heading down to the Valley of Desolation if you have the time.
Whernside via Ribblehead Viaduct
Starting point: Blea Moor Rd, Carnforth LA6 3AS
Part of the famous Yorkshire Three Peaks, Whernside is known as the tallest mountain in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. ⛰️
Rising to an impressive seven hundred thirty-six metres, the views from the summit are nothing short of spectacular.
What makes Whernside even more special is its proximity to the Ribblehead Viaduct.
This stunning railway bridge, a Grade II listed marvel, sweeps across the countryside and is just a short walk from the Whernside car park – definitely worth a look before or after your climb.
Malham Cove
Starting point: Chapel Gate, Malham BD23 4DA
For Harry Potter fans, a visit to Malham Cove is an absolute treat. ✨
Just half a mile north of the charming village of Malham, this enormous curved limestone cliff has been one of Yorkshire’s most famous natural wonders for centuries.
Rising to a staggering two hundred sixty feet, Malham Cove is home to the iconic limestone pavement featured in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Exploring the area to spot the exact filming locations is both fun and magical.
Although you can hike directly to the limestone pavement from Malham village, I personally recommend the Malham Circular Trail for the best experience. 🌿
This four-and-a-half-mile loop offers a mix of scenery and takes you past other natural wonders, including the enchanting Janet’s Foss and the dramatic Gordale Scar.
Gaddings Dam
Starting Point: Rochdale Rd, Walsden, Todmorden OL14 7TJ
Did you know Yorkshire is home to England’s unofficial ‘highest beach’? 🏖️
Gaddings Dam, also known locally as ‘Todmorden Beach’, is a long-disused reservoir turned wild swimming spot, sitting high on the moors of Todmorden.
It’s not every day you find a beach eighty feet above sea level and sixty miles inland! Famous for its cosy sandy stretch, sparkling waters, and breathtaking countryside views, it’s surprising this hidden gem isn’t more popular.
The only way to reach this unique spot is via one of the steep trails up to the summit, and there’s one route in particular we recommend.
It’s also a fantastic place for a refreshing dip once you arrive, though be ready – the winds can make the water quite chilly up there!
Stoodley Pike Monument
Arguably the most iconic feature of the Upper Calder Valley skyline, Stoodley Pike Monument towers over the Pennine landscape for miles. 🏔️
Overlooking Todmorden and Hebden Bridge, Stoodley Pike sits at the summit of its hill and remains one of West Yorkshire’s favourite walking spots. 🌄
Drawing visitors from all over, the monument is only reachable on foot, with our top route starting from Hebden Bridge.
It’s a fantastic countryside hike, and finishing in Hebden Bridge means you can reward yourself with some delicious local food in the town centre afterwards.
Swinsty Reservoir
Flat, peaceful, and easy to navigate, a classic reservoir walk is hard not to fall in love with. 🌿
Of all the reservoirs in Yorkshire, I’d say Swinsty ranks among the very best. 💧
Tucked away in the beautiful Washburn Valley, just west of Harrogate, the sparkling waters of Swinsty Reservoir are truly unmissable.
Sitting on the southern edge of the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the five-kilometre path around the embankment is well-maintained and mostly flat, making it perfect for walkers of all levels.
There’s plenty of variety too, with the chance to stray from the main path and explore the surrounding fields and woodlands.
For those looking to stretch their legs even further, you can combine Swinsty with a walk around its equally scenic neighbour, Fewston Reservoir.
A gentle six-point-six-mile loop covering both reservoirs makes for a relaxing three-hour adventure.
Druid’s Temple
Looking for something a little out of the ordinary? A visit to Druid’s Temple could be just the ticket. 🌲
Quirky, striking, and full of atmosphere, this stone formation sits in the woodlands of the Swinton Estate and has fascinated walkers for centuries.
But here’s the twist – despite its name, it’s not a real temple.
Often called one of the county’s greatest follies, the structure was actually built in the 1800s by William Danby, the owner of the Swinton Estate.
Even though it’s not as ancient as it looks, the Druid’s Temple remains eerily captivating and has sparked its fair share of local legends.
Rumour has it a bearded hermit once lived there, and in 2000 the site was linked to dark rituals after a pig’s head was discovered on the stone altar. Creepy stuff… ⚠️
With countless trails winding through the lush Swinton Estate, one of the best has to be the Druid’s Temple and Sole Beck Circular Walk. 🌿
This route lets you explore the temple ruins before heading out across beautiful moorland. Towards the end of the five-mile loop, you’ll pass the derelict Lobley Hall, a Grade II listed building dating back to the seventeenth century.
To finish on a high note, the trail ends at the Swinton Bivouac café – the perfect spot to enjoy a well-deserved drink and bite to eat!
Bronte Waterfall
No guide to the best Yorkshire walks would be complete without including Brontë Falls. 🌊
A legendary waterfall walk filled with breathtaking views from start to finish, this trail never fails to impress. 🌿
Starting from the historic village of Haworth, home of the famous Brontë sisters, the waterfall was named in their honour, as it was one of their favourite spots.
Brontë Falls and the surrounding countryside are famously said to have inspired Emily Brontë’s classic novel, Wuthering Heights. 🌾
There are multiple paths to reach the waterfall, with plenty of offshoot trails for those wanting a longer adventure. For devoted Wuthering Heights fans, a visit to Top Withens is a must.
Just a thirty-minute walk from Brontë Falls, the now-derelict farmhouse is well worth exploring if you have the time.
Saltburn By The Sea coastal walk
Ask any non-Yorkshire local about Saltburn By The Sea, and chances are they’ve never heard of this hidden gem. 🌊
I’ll admit – I didn’t even know it existed myself until my partner took me there last summer.
A charming seaside town with beautiful Victorian architecture and a stunning beach, Saltburn By The Sea sits along the scenic coast of Redcar and Cleveland, North Yorkshire. 🌊
Steeped in history, the coastline from Whitby to Saltburn was a notorious smuggling area during the eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, with Saltburn’s own John Andrew earning fame as the ‘King of the Smugglers’.
While the town is popular for surfing, if the waves aren’t your thing, the Saltburn Beach Circular Walk is a great alternative that keeps you dry (weather permitting!).
Stretching just under six kilometres, this flat and gentle trail is perfect for all abilities, and the sandy shoreline is ideal for families with kids.
Saltburn Beach also makes a perfect spot for an ice cream or a picnic – just remember to check tide times before heading out along the coast.
Scarborough To Filey coastal walk
Last but certainly not least, Yorkshire’s most iconic coastal town had to make the list. 🌟
Part of the famous Cleveland Way – a massive one hundred nine-mile coastal trail – this short section from Scarborough to Filey showcases some of the country’s most stunning seafront views. 🌊
A fairly gentle ten-point-five-mile walk with just a few steeper sections, it’s also the perfect excuse to explore the historic and charming streets of both towns!
Breathe in the fresh sea air as you walk along clifftops and sandy beaches, taking in the stunning views along the way. On a clear day, you might even spot the white cliffs of Flamborough Head in the distance. 🌊
Cayton Bay is one of our favourite stops on the trail – an ideal spot for a quick break and snack.
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