The best walks and hikes around Northallerton

Yes, the area offers several gentle walks perfect for families. A great option is the Old Stone Bridge Over Stream – Bishop Rufus Palace loop from Romanby, a short and flat trail that follows fields and streams. For a very accessible walk, the path around Cod Beck Reservoir near Osmotherley is mostly flat and well-surfaced, making it ideal for all ages.

Most countryside trails around Northallerton are suitable for dogs, but it's important to be responsible. Keep your dog on a lead, especially when walking through farmland with livestock. In the nearby North York Moors National Park, be mindful of ground-nesting birds, particularly between March and July, and follow local signage.

The trails immediately around Northallerton are generally well-defined paths through farmland and along quiet country lanes with minimal elevation. As you venture closer to the North York Moors, the terrain becomes more challenging with steeper climbs and rugged moorland paths. After rain, some farm tracks and riverside paths can become muddy, so waterproof footwear is recommended.

There are over 140 hiking routes to explore around Northallerton. These range from short, easy strolls under an hour to more demanding all-day hikes, offering plenty of options for all fitness levels.

Many routes pass through or near villages with traditional pubs. The Hiking loop from Brompton is a great choice that starts and ends in a village where you can find refreshments. The nearby village of Osmotherley, a hub for many walks, is also well-known for its walker-friendly pubs.

For the most dramatic landscapes, head towards the North York Moors National Park. The section of the Cleveland Way near Osmotherley offers outstanding views from the hills across Teesside. A particular highlight is Bishop Rufus Palace loop from Northallerton, which provides a taste of the region's historical landscape. For a unique geological feature, the climb to The Wainstones rewards you with incredible rock formations and panoramic vistas.

Northallerton is an excellent base for accessing two famous long-distance paths. The 109-mile Cleveland Way National Trail passes nearby, with the village of Osmotherley serving as a key starting point for sections over the Cleveland Hills. For a serious challenge, the 40-mile Lyke Wake Walk also begins near Osmotherley, crossing the widest part of the North York Moors.

While Northallerton has a train station, reaching trailheads in outlying villages like Osmotherley often requires a bus or taxi. Local bus services connect Northallerton to surrounding villages, but schedules can be infrequent, especially on weekends. It's best to check the latest timetables in advance to plan your journey.

Yes, the region is rich in history. A popular walk from Osmotherley can lead you to the impressive ruins of Mount Grace Priory, the best-preserved Carthusian monastery in Britain. Another route, the Old Stone Bridge Over Stream – Bishop Rufus Palace loop from Northallerton, takes you past the historic site of Bishop Rufus's Palace.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the peacefulness of the countryside, the quiet country lanes, and the easy-to-follow paths through open farmland. The accessibility of more dramatic landscapes in the nearby North York Moors is also a frequently mentioned highlight.

For any hike, it's wise to bring water, snacks, and a fully charged phone. Given the changeable Yorkshire weather, waterproof clothing is essential, even if the forecast is good. Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or boots are a must, as some paths can be uneven or muddy. A map or GPS device is also recommended, especially for longer routes in the moors.

While the immediate vicinity of Northallerton is gentle, the nearby North York Moors offer plenty of challenges. Sections of the Cleveland Way, particularly the stretch from Osmotherley over the Cleveland Hills towards Clay Bank, involve steep ascents and rugged terrain. The demanding 40-mile Lyke Wake Walk is a classic challenge for seasoned long-distance hikers.