4.6
(913)
6,745
hikers
260
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Downholme are characterized by a landscape of forests and gentle hills, providing a peaceful setting for outdoor exploration. The region features modest elevations, with prominent hills offering rewarding views. Waterways such as the River Swale, Gill Beck, and Church Gill meander through the terrain, carving scenic valleys. Downholme's location near the Yorkshire Dales National Park ensures an unspoiled natural environment.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.7
(3)
35
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
24
hikers
4.50km
01:13
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
5.0
(4)
31
hikers
6.56km
01:49
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
19
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
6.65km
01:56
180m
170m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. 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
Hudswell Woods is a wonderful area to walk through. Near Richmond, it's pretty much accessible to just about anyone who can walk. Very green, beautiful flowery meadows in the spring and summer. There is also a small rounded hill, Round Howe, at the eastern end of the woods. Enjoy your stroll!
1
0
Right next to Pillimire Bridge is this Old Waterwheel. It's difficult to find more information on it, but Historic England has it listed as a Grade-II listed building. Apparently, it dates back to the 17th century and used to generate electricity for the nearby Skelton Hall.
1
0
There is a sign on the bench with a quote from Alfred Wainwright, in which he speaks highly of the city of Richmond. As a Coast to Coast walker you will also see that it is only 76.5 miles (123km) more to Robin Hood's Bay... so you already have 113.5 miles (more than 182km) in your legs.
1
0
In this wood, Robert Willance, a notable of Richmond, on a horseback hunt in 1606, chased by the descending fog, is said to have urged his horse to bring him home quickly, falling 200 feet in the process. His horse did not survive; the horseman miraculously did: he escaped with a broken leg.
0
0
This church, registered as a monument, dates back to the 12th century. In 1683 a lot of work was done on the church and in the 19th century the choir was rebuilt. Walkers can go to the back of the church for snacks, drinks and ... blister plasters. Of course you pay correctly (there is a clear price list) via the honesty box.
1
0
A seat with a great view. Good place to stop for a coffee.
0
0
Willance's Leap is above Whitcliffe Scar. In 1606, a horseman named Robert Willance plunged over the cliff edge in a mist. Willance's horse was killed by the fall, but he survived with two broken legs. To keep alive until help arrived, he cut open the horse's body and crawled inside. This saved his life, but he lost a leg. The leg was buried in the churchyard
0
0
There are over 80 easy hiking trails around Downholme, offering a variety of experiences. The komoot community rates these routes highly, with an average score of 4.6 stars from nearly 900 reviews, praising the peaceful woodlands and scenic river paths.
Yes, many easy trails in Downholme are suitable for families. Routes often feature gentle terrain through woodlands and along rivers, providing safe and enjoyable walks for all ages. Consider the Hudswell Woods – Dog Swimming Spot on the River loop from Hudswell for a pleasant, shorter option.
Downholme is generally dog-friendly, with many trails suitable for walks with your canine companion. The Hudswell Woods – Dog Swimming Spot on the River loop from Richmond is a popular choice, offering riverside paths where dogs can enjoy the water. Always keep dogs under control, especially near livestock, and follow local signage.
Yes, you can find easy trails that lead to waterfalls. The St. Edmund's Church – Orgate Force Waterfall loop from Marske is an easy 4.5 km path that explores gentle terrain and features a charming waterfall.
Easy hikes around Downholme primarily feature a tranquil landscape of forests and gentle hills. You'll often find yourself walking through peaceful woodlands, alongside the meandering River Swale and its tributaries like Gill Beck, and enjoying modest elevations that offer rewarding views of the surrounding countryside.
Yes, many of the easy hiking trails around Downholme are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the View of the River Swale – Whitcliffe Wood loop from Hudswell, which takes you through woodlands and provides scenic river views.
On easy trails, you can enjoy various viewpoints and historical markers. The Willance's Leap Monument – Whitcliffe Wood loop from Whitcliffe Scar takes you past a notable monument. For panoramic views, the Downholme Viewing Point is an excellent spot to see the patchwork of forests, fields, and waterways. You can also explore nearby attractions like Calver Hill Summit Cairn for views.
The region around Downholme is beautiful year-round. Spring brings fresh greenery and wildflowers, while autumn offers vibrant foliage in the extensive woodlands. Summer provides longer daylight hours for leisurely walks, and even winter can be pleasant for crisp, quiet hikes, though conditions may vary.
While not directly on every easy route, Downholme is close to several historical sites. You can find castles like Bolton Castle and Richmond Castle nearby, which can be combined with a shorter, easy walk in their vicinity.
The extensive woodlands and waterways around Downholme provide a rich habitat for wildlife. Hikers might spot various bird species, small mammals, and diverse flora, especially in the wetland areas and along the riverbanks. The tranquil environment makes it a great place for nature observation.
Yes, the River Swale is a prominent feature of the Downholme landscape, and several easy trails follow its course or offer views of it. The View of the River Swale – Whitcliffe Wood loop from Hudswell is specifically designed to showcase these river vistas.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.