The best walks and hikes around Cawton
4.5
(684)
4,535
hikers
224
hikes
Hiking around Cawton, a village in North Yorkshire, offers access to the Howardian Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region is characterized by rolling hills, valleys, ancient woodlands, and open farmlands. Trails often incorporate paths alongside waterways such as the River Rye, providing diverse scenery for outdoor activities. This landscape provides a range of hiking experiences for various fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Cawton
- The most popular hiking route is Middle Way and Horse Coppice loop from…
Last updated: April 27, 2026
4.5
(18)
77
hikers
7.27km
01:57
80m
90m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.2
(5)
17
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.5
(4)
16
hikers
12.3km
03:12
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
3.46km
00:54
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
1
hikers
11.7km
03:04
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Great views from the track known as Green Lane, out of the west end of the village and running across Cawton Heights.
0
0
A really easy track to follow from Cawton to Hovingham, and judging from others' photos, one that really ought to be visited through the different seasons. My photos are from a hot sunny weekend in May, when the countryside was a blaze of yellow with flowering rapeseed.
0
0
Public footpath goes over this bridge and then (if traversing northwards) turns east towards Home Farm. Lots of lambs in spring, very scenic.
0
0
Walk west along Brookside and turn left to access the Ebor Way to Cawton.
0
0
A great segment on Ebor Way across the countryside west of Hovingham. Wide tracks, rolling hills (Hovingham High Wood on the slopes to the south) and green fields (best in the summer), and almost immediate peace out of the villages of Hovingham and Cawton. Pure joy to run.
0
0
The beautiful Hovingham Park, with a 18th century bridge over a waterfall plus Hovingham Hall on its east end, is just straight out of Hovingham and a fantastic place to be, whether on your own, on a longer walk or with family. Marr's Beck winds its way lazily through these grounds.
1
0
A great segment on Ebor Way across the countryside west of Hovingham. Wide tracks, rolling hills (Hovingham High Wood on the slopes to the south) and green fields (best in the summer), and almost immediate peace out of the villages of Hovingham and Cawton. If you’re of that kind of temperament and you find yourself here at sunset, you’ll reacquaint yourself with your inner poet.
4
0
Brookside is a little street in Hovingham, although perhaps 'beckside' would be better since this is in Yorkshire. I absolutely love this spot! There's a lovely bridge over Marrs Beck here, and in another place there's a little shallow ford right in the village. Very picturesque and rather enchanting.
3
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Cawton?
Cawton and the surrounding Howardian Hills offer a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 220 routes documented on komoot. This includes 77 easy trails, 129 moderate options, and 18 more challenging routes, ensuring there's something for every fitness level.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks near Cawton?
Yes, Cawton has several easy routes suitable for families. A popular choice is the Hovingham Estate loop from Hovingham, a gentle 3.5 km (2.2 miles) trail that takes approximately 54 minutes to complete. It passes through the scenic parkland of the Hovingham Estate, offering a pleasant stroll for all ages.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Cawton?
Hiking around Cawton immerses you in the diverse landscapes of the Howardian Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You'll encounter rolling hills and valleys, ancient woodlands, open farmlands, and picturesque paths alongside waterways like the River Rye. The varied terrain provides a beautiful backdrop for your outdoor adventures.
Are there any circular walks available in the Cawton area?
Many of the trails around Cawton are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Middle Way and Horse Coppice loop from Hovingham is a moderate 7.3 km (4.5 miles) circular trail offering scenic views within the Howardian Hills.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions to see on a hike near Cawton?
The area around Cawton is rich in points of interest. You can explore historical sites like Castle Howard or the City of Troy Maze. The Stonegrave Minster and Cawton loop from Hovingham specifically allows hikers to visit Stonegrave Minster and parts of the Ebor Way.
Are there any trails that follow the River Rye?
Yes, some routes in the Cawton area incorporate riverside paths, offering tranquil views of the River Rye. The Cawton and River Rye loop from Stonegrave is a moderate 11.7 km (7.3 miles) trail that provides an excellent opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the river and the Howardian Hills.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Cawton?
The hiking trails around Cawton are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 670 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse scenery, well-maintained paths, and the peaceful atmosphere of the Howardian Hills.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes around Cawton?
For those seeking a longer trek, the Hovingham and Stonegrave loop from Caulkley Bank is a moderate 12.3 km (7.7 miles) trail that showcases extensive views of the Howardian Hills and charming villages, typically taking around three hours and twelve minutes to complete.
Can I find viewpoints with panoramic views on hikes near Cawton?
Absolutely. The rolling terrain of the Howardian Hills provides numerous opportunities for scenic vistas. The Caulkley Bank Trig Point is a specific highlight known for its views, and many routes, such as the Middle Way and Horse Coppice loop, offer expansive views across the landscape.
What is the typical duration for hikes in the Cawton area?
Hiking durations vary significantly depending on the route's length and difficulty. Easy walks like the Hovingham Estate loop can be completed in under an hour, while moderate trails such as the Cawton and River Rye loop typically take around three hours. Longer routes can extend beyond this, offering full-day excursions.
Are there any historical sites or castles accessible from the hiking trails?
Yes, the region boasts several historical sites and castles. Beyond the trails, you can visit Helmsley Castle or the grand Castle Howard. Some routes may pass near or offer views of these significant landmarks, adding a cultural dimension to your hike.
Most popular attractions around Cawton
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
