The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Stokesley
4.5
(1579)
14,804
hikers
14
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Stokesley are situated at the edge of the North York Moors National Park, offering diverse landscapes for outdoor exploration. The region features the dramatic Cleveland Hills and the iconic Roseberry Topping, providing varied elevations and panoramic views. The picturesque River Leven flows through the area, creating opportunities for gentle riverside walks and paths through rolling pastures. This combination of moorland, hills, and river valleys makes Stokesley a compelling destination for family-friendly outdoor activities.
Best family…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.3
(6)
56
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.0
(1)
40
hikers
5.94km
01:30
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
9
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
9
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
7
hikers
23.5km
06:34
440m
440m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Until 1912, Roseberry Topping had a smooth, sugarloaf‑like peak. A geological fault combined with underground mining caused a massive collapse, giving the summit its modern jagged profile. The climb up from the car park is steep and can be very busy, even before sunrise in winter where you can see a small procession of torches slowly ascending.
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Great views of the eastern flank of Roseberry Topping from the track leading to Little Roseberry.
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Gribdale Gate is a small, free, 24‑hour Forestry England car park on Dikes Lane near Great Ayton, offering around 40 spaces and direct access to Roseberry Topping, Captain Cook’s Monument, and Coate Moor
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Great views and early on a Sunday morning is best to beat the crowds. The obelisk is hollow and originally had a doorway you could walk through, before it was sealed during a 19th‑century restoration. A lightning strike in 1960 almost split the monument down the middle after the lightning conductor installed in 1895 rusted away. Earlier lightning strikes in the 19th century had already blown off the original doorway and obliterated the cast‑iron plaques. Fun fact - allegedly - the monument contains a hidden time capsule. When the foundation stone was laid in 1827, commemorative items were placed inside, including a portrait of Captain Cook and a glass plate etched with details of the event.
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Directly in front of the monument, take a stroll about 30-50 paces and you will have some very decent views of the area!
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Walking boots is a must as the terrain is very uneven and can get slippy if it’s been raining
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mostly cobble stoney surface..be careful with footing
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Stokesley?
Our guide features 11 family-friendly hiking trails around Stokesley, with 7 of these being easy-grade routes perfect for all ages. These paths offer manageable distances and gentle terrain, ensuring an enjoyable outing for everyone.
What is the best time of year for family hikes in Stokesley?
Stokesley and the surrounding North York Moors offer beautiful hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while summer provides warmer weather for longer days out. Autumn showcases stunning foliage, and even winter can be magical with crisp air and fewer crowds, though some paths might be muddy. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any dog-friendly family hiking trails near Stokesley?
Yes, many trails around Stokesley are dog-friendly, especially those on public footpaths and bridleways. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, particularly during lambing season or when near livestock, and to protect ground-nesting birds in the North York Moors National Park.
Are there any circular family walks in the Stokesley area?
Yes, many of the family-friendly routes around Stokesley are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the G and Tea Café loop from Stokesley is an easy 5 km circular walk, perfect for a relaxed family outing.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family-friendly hikes around Stokesley?
The family-friendly hikes around Stokesley generally feature gentle terrain with minimal elevation gain, making them suitable for children. You can expect a mix of riverside paths along the River Leven, routes through rolling pastures, and well-maintained tracks. While some routes might have slight inclines, they are designed to be accessible for families.
What interesting landmarks or natural features can we see on these trails?
The trails around Stokesley offer glimpses of charming local scenery and natural features. You can explore historical sites like the 17th-century Stokesley Packhorse Bridge. While more challenging, the iconic Roseberry Topping Summit is a prominent landmark visible from many areas, and its distinctive shape is a sight to behold. For a gentler experience, the Great Ayton Village Centre – Waterfall Park loop offers scenic parkland.
Is there parking available for family hikes near Stokesley?
Yes, parking is generally available in and around Stokesley and at the starting points of many trails. For specific routes, it's advisable to check local parking options in villages like Great Ayton or in Stokesley town centre, which often have public car parks. Always be mindful of local parking regulations.
Are there any cafes or pubs along the family-friendly routes for refreshments?
Stokesley and nearby villages like Great Ayton offer a good selection of cafes and pubs where families can stop for refreshments. Some routes, like the G and Tea Café loop from Stokesley, are even named after local establishments, indicating convenient spots for a break.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Stokesley?
The hiking trails around Stokesley are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the area for its beautiful, accessible paths, the charming market town atmosphere, and the stunning views of the North York Moors, making it a fantastic destination for family outings.
Can we reach any of the trailheads using public transport from Stokesley?
Stokesley has local bus services that connect to nearby villages and towns, which may provide access to some trailheads. For specific routes, it's best to check local bus timetables and routes to plan your journey to the starting point of your chosen hike.
Are there any permits or special regulations needed for hiking in the North York Moors near Stokesley?
Generally, no permits are required for hiking on public footpaths and bridleways within the North York Moors National Park. However, it's important to follow the Countryside Code, which includes keeping dogs under control, taking your litter home, and respecting private land and livestock. Always stay on marked paths to protect the natural environment.
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