Shorter Walks for All

The Yorkshire Dales is perfect for short walks. The variety of walks in this category are endless; some will visit historical sites such as Castle Bolton or Bolton Abbey, others make their way along the many rivers and steams. They all have lovely views in common and add a little to our understanding of the Dales, its geography and its history.

There is no official classification for these Shorter Walks except that they are less than four and a half miles long and generally keep to a flatter gradient; great for anyone only wanting to be out for a few hours and ideal for families with young children and older couples.

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Ribblehead, a short walk

The Ribblehead viaduct is one of the most impressive engineering projects in England. It is also sat in wonderful scenery and this short Ribblehead walk will do it full justice. The extension to Blea Moor tunnel only adds to it.

Burton Leonard near Ripon

Burton Leonard near the town of Ripon is a pleasant low level village set within a set of open fields. The walk is not one to travel miles to do but for those living nearby it should not be missed.

Skipton Castle and Woods

The walk through Skipton Castle and Woods is a pleasant way to get a feel for the medieval origins of the town without walking to far. The walk starts in the woods and returns over the fields with good views over Skipton.

Walk to Hardraw Force

The walk to Hardraw Force from Hawes is along the River Ure. The 100 foot waterfall, set in some attractive woodland, make the walk worthwhile. There is a cafe and shop at the entrance to the waterfall (small charge).

The Lands of Bolton Castle

Mary Queen of Scots used to ride through the lands of Bolton Castle when she was being held captive in the 16th century. This short walk offers a flavour of what she must have looked at, a beautiful place.

Waterfalls above Askrigg

There is a beautiful series of waterfalls above Askrigg. A short wooded walks climbs the slopes above the village. Return via the farm lane which has lovely views across Wensleydale.

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Ingleborough Cave

The short walk to Ingleborough Cave is best taken through the mixed woodland of Clapdale. The walking is easy. There are plenty of pleasant places to enjoy the view over the lake and information on the trees, shrubbery and bird life.

Kilnsey Crag walk

Explore Kilnsey Crag with this short walk. The crag face is spectacular but there are also good views across the Wharfe above Conistone. Extend the walk by continuing along Mastilles Lane towards Malham.

Malham Cove

Malham Cove is a spectacular face of rock that is climbed by stone steps on its western fringe. The limestone pavements on it’s top are rightly world famous with good views over the stone walls and fields of the area.

Walk around Kirkby Malzeard

The village and lands around Kirkby Malzeard is hidden between Masham, Ripon and the Dales themselves. The village and buildings are lovely and the walk starts with an interesting section of woodland.

Walk at Kirkby Lonsdale

A short walk at Kirkby Lonsdale to explore this interesting market town. The walk heads for Devil’s Bridge before returning along a pleasant section of the River Lune. Finally the Radical Steps return you to town.

Prettiest village in the Dales?

Many would agree that West Burton, with its large village green and picture post card buildings, is the most attractive village in the Yorkshire Dales. This West Burton walk also takes you along the quiet valley of Waldendale.

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