Hiking in Yorkshire: A Walkers Guide to Moors, National Parks and Jurassic Fossils

Yorkshire (which is often called “God’s Own Country” by the locals) is a dream come true for walkers and hikers. 

With two sprawling national parks, wild moorland, rolling dales, dramatic coastline, and chocolate-box villages, it’s the kind of place where the walking boots never quite get unpacked!

It’s also a region that has something for every kind of walker (like solo adventurers, families with little legs, long-distance enthusiasts, and those of you who simply want a good pub at the end of the trail).

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about hiking in Yorkshire, from choosing the right base to picking up a spare pair of socks when yours inevitably soaks through.

Yorkshire is one of the country’s premier hiking destinations, and if you’re planning a broader trip, our ultimate guide to hiking in England covers the best regions across the country.

Best Time to Visit

Yorkshire wears every season well, but some wear better than others depending on how much rain you’re willing to dodge. Spring (April to June) is a firm favorite because the blossoms are out, the lambs are bouncing, and the trails are dry enough to trust. Summer brings longer days and lusher landscapes, although you may have to share the paths a bit more.

Autumn is stunning too (and especially in the Dales) when golden leaves blanket the valleys. Winter hikes can be magical (particularly in the Moors under a dusting of snow) but remember to be ready for muddy paths and shorter daylight hours.Yorkshire weather changes quickly, so using a proper layering system will help you stay comfortable throughout the day.

Which is best, North York Moors or Yorkshire Dales?

This is the question that splits opinion across the county like a dry-stone wall through a meadow. The North York Moors offer a more dramatic and wilder feel with vast open landscapes, purple heather in August, and crumbling abbeys tucked into hillsides. They’re perfect for those of you who are solitude seekers and coastal cliff wanderers.

The Yorkshire Dales, on the other hand, are all about valleys, waterfalls, limestone pavements, and quaint villages with low-slung stone cottages. They feel more pastoral and gentler underfoot. For variety and long-distance treks, the Dales often win, but if it’s dramatic skylines and sea views you want, then head for the Moors.

Short answer? Do both. After all, they’re only an hour apart!

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Can You Walk on the Moors?

Yes, and you absolutely should! Much of the moorland in Yorkshire is open access, which means you’re free to roam responsibly. Stick to footpaths where possible (especially during bird nesting season) and be mindful of livestock and wildlife. 

Paths like the Cleveland Way, Esk Valley Walk, and parts of the Lyke Wake Walk are classic moorland experiences. Just remember that it’s easy to get turned around when visibility drops, and the weather can shift fast, so map skills and good boots are your best friends.

Remember to respect wildlife, stay on designated paths where appropriate, and follow good hiking etiquette throughout your visit.

What is the Largest Waterfall in Yorkshire?

That honor goes to Hardraw Force, which is just outside the village of Hawes in the Yorkshire Dales. It’s England’s tallest single-drop waterfall above ground, and yes, it’s a beauty. The walk to it is short and sweet, which makes it a great add-on to a day in the Dales.

For a more adventurous waterfall fix,  you should try the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail, a 7 km loop filled with roaring cascades, woodland, and limestone gorges.

Well Known Landmarks, Cities, and Areas

Some of the most well-known landmarks in Yorkshire include:

• Whitby
  
  • This is a coastal gem that’s mainly famous for its abbey, Dracula connection, and fish and chips. The clifftop walk south to Robin Hood’s Bay is one of the best in the country.
    
• Haworth
  
  • THis is Brontë country with rolling moors and atmospheric paths inspired by Wuthering Heights.
    
• Malham Cove
  
  • This is a stunning limestone amphitheater with a winding staircase path up the side. It was featured in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.
    
• York
  
  • Not a hiking spot per se, but it’s a charming historic city that makes for a great cultural detour or rainy-day plan.

Best Viewpoints in Yorkshire

For sweeping views and serious “wow” factor, you sholdtry:

• Roseberry Topping in the North York Moors. It’s a short and sharp climb with some truly panoramic views.
  
• Buttertubs Pass in the Dales. Just drive or cycle to the top and then you can walk short loops around.
  
• Sutton Bank has the “the finest view in England,” according to James Herriot…and he wasn’t wrong!

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Best Place to Get Last Bits of Equipment

Not sure you’ve packed everything? Our guide on what to bring on a day hike covers the essentials before you hit the trail.

Forgot your waterproofs or blister plasters? Most towns have an Alpkit, Cotswold Outdoor, or a Go Outdoors nearby. 

Richmond, Skipton, and York are solid towns for gear shopping, and even smaller villages often have a walking shop or two. Local outdoor shops like The Walking Shop in Helmsley are well stocked and know exactly what you’ll need for local conditions.

Types of Hiking in Yorkshire

You’ll find everything from short woodland walks to full-on multi-day challenges.

• Day hikes are the most popular and accessible, and they often lead through valleys, along rivers, or across moor tops.
  
• Inn-to-Inn hiking is also big here. Routes like the Coast to Coast Walk and Cleveland Way pass through towns and villages and they have places to stay and eat.
  
• Overnighters can be done with a bit of planning, and especially if you’re wild camping legally or using hostels.
  
• There aren’t bothies like in Scotland, but bunk barns, pub inns, and farm stays fill that role nicely.

If you enjoy long-distance walks like the Cleveland Way, you’ll probably also love the Cotswolds Way, another classic National Trail in England.

Best Way to Get Around – Do You Need a Car?

If you’re sticking to one area, you can manage with buses and trains. The DalesBus and MoorsBus run to trailheads on weekends and holidays. 

The trains connect major towns like York, Harrogate, and Whitby. But if you’re planning to hike in different parts of the region, then renting a car will definitely be a huge advantage. That’s because some trailheads are remote and public transport can be limited (especially in winter or mid-week).

Are There Lesser-Known Trails or Areas for Avoiding Crowds?

Yes, plenty. Try:

• Upper Swaledale. It’s Quiet, remote, and breathtaking.
  
• The Esk Valley in the Moors, which have rolling hills and sleepy villages with hardly another walker in sight.
  
• The Hole of Horcum has a quieter midweek and  is one of the most striking moorland walks.

Take note that local visitor centers often have pamphlets with hidden gem trails, so it’s worth popping in before heading out.If you’re travelling between trailheads, learning how to pack a hiking backpack efficiently can make every hike much more comfortable.

🗒️ Free Checklist: “Never forget the essentials — grab your free Ultimate Hiking Packing List.”

Special Accommodation for Walkers

While Yorkshire doesn’t have Alpine huts or bothies, it does have:

• Bunk barns and hostels, especially in the Dales.
  
• Inns and pubs that cater to walkers with drying rooms and hearty breakfasts.
  
• Shepherd’s huts, yurts, and glamping pods for those of you who like your wilderness with a touch of comfort

Is It Safe to Travel Alone?

Generally, yes. Yorkshire is considered very safe for solo travellers, including women. The trails are well-used and the signage is decent, and the locals are famously friendly. Standard solo travel advice applies: let someone know your route, carry a map, and keep a charged phone with you at all times. 

Do you want a full list of top trails? Check out our companion article because it’s packed with day hikes, family walks, and long-distance routes for every level!

Where to Next?

• Ultimate Guides – your gateway to hiking across Europe
• Hikes & Trails – curated lists of the best hikes and local gems
• Walking Holidays – extended journeys for when a single day just isn’t enough
• General Blog – all the extras: gear reviews, planning tips, and personal stories

Walking Holiday in Yorkshire

Are you planning a walking holiday in Yorkshire? Well, it’s a classic choice for a reason. You can stay in a market town, hike by day, and soak in a pub by night. Then you can explore a national trail like the Dales Way, Ribble Way, or Cleveland Way. Or you could just build your own route through the national parks and coast. You’ll find cosy beds and welcoming locals, along with landscapes that make every mile worth it.

So grab a map and lace up your boots, and just like that you’ll see why walking in Yorkshire is the kind of trip people take once…and then again and again.