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The best winter walks around Yorkshire

03 January 2019

Autumn leafy walk

 

There is something magical about waking up early on a crisp winters morning and venturing out on a countryside walk. Yorkshire is full of stunning scenery that plays host to some fantastic walks, but what makes them so special? In this article, we uncover the top Yorkshire walks to explore in 2019, so dust off the walking boots and prepare for an adventure.

 

green walk

 

MALHAM COVE

Sitting proudly at 70 metre’s high, Malham Cove is a spectacle of its own. The large curved white limestone cliff has been a keen spot for walkers over the last century and the fascination for this spot doesn’t seem to be slowing. Set in the Yorkshire Dales National Park there is an abundance of circular trails ranging from short 20-minute routes to some that last up to 3 hours, perfect for a spot of winter walking. Passing through small, quaint, chocolate box villages and giving you a true taste for the real Yorkshire.

Combine fantastic views, drama, the sound of waterfalls plus unusual landscape and you get a truly memorable walk. None better fits this description than a walk to Malham Cove and it is not surprising that this is the best and most popular walk in Yorkshire. Malham Cove is an epic limestone amphitheatre, which provides sanctuary to nesting peregrine falcons. From its summit are spectacular views south, right down the dale. The summit itself is a fascinating plateau of limestone pavement with fissures between stone blocks, carved by the rain. A circular walk puts all this together with the pretty village of Malham itself, with pubs and cafes for refreshment afterwards. What’s not to like?” Says John Kelly from Happy Hiker.

 

lake and sheep

 

WESSENDEN VALLEY WALK

Not too far from the first location at Malham, Wessenden Valley is a location for the more experienced walkers but is a perfect option for those looking for a challenge this winter. With route lengths ranging from 15km to 34km, it’s going to be an early morning If you want to cram all this excitement into one day. Your canine companions can join you as you explore the rugged landscapes and listen to the subtle chirps from the moor animals.

This walk doesn’t just boast breath-taking views, as you venture around the linear trail, you’ll discover four man-made reservoirs that encompass the beauty and tranquillity of the area.

 

large rocks

 

ILKLEY MOOR AND THE TWELVE APOSTLES

With a name that sounds like something from a film, this walk deserves a BAFTA. You can’t fault this location for its lack of gorgeous views across the Yorkshire countryside and photo opportunities like no other. Start your journey at West View Park and follow the path along to Ilkley Crag, not forgetting to admire the views along the way. The small gradient will finally lead you to the standing circle of twelve stones; The Twelve Apostles, history and beauty all rolled into one. With plenty to take in and many refreshment pit-stops on the way, bring the family along to this location for an adventurous day out.

 

tree walk

 

THORP PERROW ARBORETUM

Hayley from Thorp Perrow Arboretum spoke to us about the garden: “Thorp Perrow Arboretum covers 100 acres and is currently home to 5 National Plant Collections and 51 Champion Trees. Situated in the Yorkshire Dales, not far from the historic town of Bedale, Thorp Perrow is an exciting place to explore offering something for everyone and is home to some of the largest and rarest trees and shrubs in England. The Arboretum also embraces the Milbank Pinetum planted by Lady Augusta Milbank in the mid-nineteenth century, and the medieval Spring Wood dating back to the 16th century. A walk around the Arboretum can be a journey of plant discovery that takes you around the continents of the world; with many of the tree and shrub species planted having origins in China, Japan, North America, Chile, and Europe.”

Relaxed and tranquil, Thorp Perrow Arboretum is a place for those looking to explore as well as enjoy the wonders of this historic location. First and foremost a family home, this location offers a lot more than just shelter, with 100 acres worth of gardens to explore, waterfalls, ancient trees and worldly plants, this is a walk of discovery.

There are plenty of other great walks that we haven’t mentioned, as Lyndsey AKA Girl About Yorkshire explains:

I love Yorkshire’s unique and incredible landscapes. Nothing makes me feel quite as alive as a good hike across the Yorkshire Dales. Not forgetting the great local pubs with their roaring fires where you can stop off for a wine or three. I am incredibly lucky to live right on the edge of the Dales and to have so many scenic walks right on my doorstep. I try to get out every morning for a hike across Ilkley Moors. You really can’t beat a leisurely walk around the Bolton Abbey Estate on a crisp winter’s day; it’s a great walk for families with small children. If the kids aren’t in tow, then the walk from Bolton Abbey to Burnsall along the River Wharfe is spectacular. But I would have to say my favourite Yorkshire Walk would be at Ingleton Falls. The waterfalls here are breath-taking and the scenery is just magnificent

Yorkshire is a location that can offer you everything, if you’re looking to experience one of the walks we’ve mentioned and explore the beauty of the location, then make sure you check out our range of rooms and lodges and explore one of the best Country house hotels in Scarborough.

 

 

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