The 5 Most Amazing Peaks around Goathland

While Goathland is known for its moorlands rather than towering mountains, several elevated points offer stunning views and historical significance. These include Simon Howe Bronze Age Cairn, a viewpoint featuring ancient standing stones and a well-preserved Bronze Age round cairn. Another significant spot is Dalby Forest Crossroads Rest Area, which marks the highest point in Dalby Forest at 248 meters. Spires Bank Summit also provides excellent views of the surrounding North Yorkshire Moors.

Yes, Simon Howe Bronze Age Cairn is a notable historical site. It features a well-preserved Bronze Age round cairn, a stone row, and a standing stone, offering a glimpse into the ancient past of the moorlands.

The landscape around Goathland is defined by expansive heather moorlands, which are particularly vibrant when they bloom purple in summer. You'll also encounter rolling hills, wooded valleys, and unique geological features like the Whinstone Ridge, a 2km long, V-shaped chasm formed by quarrying. Dramatic waterfalls like Mallyan Spout, plunging 70 feet into a ferny ravine, are also a highlight.

The highest points in the Goathland area reach approximately 293 meters (around 961 feet). One such point is High Woof Howe (Derwent Head Rigg) Summit, which stands at 290 meters.

Many of the walks across the moorlands and to elevated viewpoints are suitable for families. For example, the area around Dalby Forest Crossroads Rest Area is considered family-friendly, offering trails within the forest. The general terrain of rolling hills and moorland paths provides accessible options for walks with children, though some paths can be boggy in places.

The area offers diverse outdoor activities. You can enjoy various waterfall hikes, including routes to Mallyan Spout. There are also numerous MTB trails and cycling routes that traverse the moorlands and forests, offering options for different skill levels.

The North York Moors are beautiful year-round, but the summer months are particularly popular when the heather bursts into purple bloom, creating a stunning landscape. Spring and autumn also offer pleasant walking conditions with vibrant colors. Some paths can be waterlogged and boggy, especially after rain, so appropriate footwear is always recommended.

Goathland village itself offers parking facilities. For specific trailheads or access points to the moorlands and elevated features, it's advisable to check local signage or visitor information, as parking options can vary. Many popular walks start directly from the village.

While Goathland's peaks are not towering mountains, the expansive moorlands offer opportunities for longer, more challenging hikes. Routes that traverse vast stretches of open moorland, especially those connecting multiple elevated features, can provide a good challenge due to distance, varied terrain, and potential exposure to weather conditions. Always plan your route and be prepared for changing weather.

Visitors frequently praise the spectacular 360-degree views from spots like Simon Howe Bronze Age Cairn and Spires Bank Summit. The sense of wildness and vastness across the heather moorlands, especially when in bloom, is a major draw. Many also appreciate the diverse routing options and the opportunity to experience the natural beauty and historical elements of the North York Moors.

Goathland village is accessible by public transport, including bus routes. The North Yorkshire Moors Railway also has a station in Goathland, which can be a scenic way to arrive. From the village, many walking trails and access points to the elevated areas are within walking distance.