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Yorkshire And The Humber
North Yorkshire
Ryedale

Norton-On-Derwent

The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Norton-On-Derwent

4.3

(593)

3,806

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16

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Family friendly hiking trails around Norton-On-Derwent traverse a varied landscape, featuring tranquil riverside paths along the River Derwent, open fields, and picturesque woodlands. The region offers a mix of gentle inclines and more level terrain, suitable for families. It also serves as a gateway to the nearby Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the North York Moors National Park, providing diverse natural environments for outdoor activities.

Best family friendly hiking trails around Norton-On-Derwent

  • The most popular family friendly…

Last updated: July 7, 2026

2.0

(1)

5

hikers

#1.

River Derwent, Kirkham Prioy & Castle Howard loop from Malton

28.1km

07:23

240m

240m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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Hard

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Popular around Norton-On-Derwent

Yorkshire's Finest – A World Championship host for good reason

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Yorkshire's Finest – A World Championship host for good reason

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Tips from the Community

RichD
May 26, 2025, Four Faces Folly

Its four carved faces are looking in different directions, adding a touch of mystery to this visually striking monument.

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Anglican Church situated next to the market place in the centre of Malton.

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The Four Faces Folly was erected in the early 18th century. It was made for Charles Howard (as in 'Howardian' Hills), who was the 3rd Early of Carlisle. It's a Grade I listed monument. Great place to stop by!

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A pleasant walk within Long Plantation, a long woodland strip in between the fields here; lovely and gentle walk straight out of Malton. The trees help to block out the traffic noise from the nearby Broughton Road and A64.

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RobertK
January 15, 2023, Leoni Café

Excellent independent café with delicious food and own branded coffee. Highly recommended!

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51m
November 11, 2022, Four Faces Folly

The Four Faces folly on the Castle Howard estate was erected before 1727 and made by sculptor Nicholas Hawksmoor for Charles Howard, 3rd Earl of Carlisle. It's a Grade I listed monument.

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Building began at Castle Howard between 1699 and 1701, but construction was still going on when the architect John Vanbrugh died in 1726. In fact, the house still wasn’t complete when the Earl died in 1738. His son in law took over the build with different architectural style and it was eventually completed in 1801. The garden was also landscaped over these years. A great fire broke out in 1940 destroying the dome and many rooms. It's been a restoration project ever since, with the dome replaced in the early 1960's and the garden hall rebuilt in 1981. Today it's open to the paying public who can visit and tour the house and gardens. There are footpaths through the estate so you can also walk through for free and view the buildings and gardens.

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Natalie
August 10, 2022, Kirkham Priory

Kirkham Priory is an Augustinian Abbey, built in the 12th century. If you look carefully at the gothic medieval gatehouse you can see sculptures of St George and the dragon on the left and David and Goliath to the right. The Priory is on the banks of the river Derwent and the area was used as a test centre for WW2 landing vehicles for the D-Day landings. Soldiers even scaled the heights of the cloister walls with scrambling nets to practice moving from large ships to smaller boats. Even Sir Winston Churchill and King George VI came to visit with the troops were stationed here.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Norton-On-Derwent?

There are 16 family-friendly hiking trails around Norton-On-Derwent, offering a variety of experiences for all ages. Most of these routes are classified as easy or moderate, making them perfect for a family day out.

Are there many easy family walks suitable for beginners or young children?

Yes, Norton-On-Derwent offers 9 easy family walks, perfect for beginners or families with young children. These routes typically feature gentle paths and manageable distances. A great example is the Market Square – Leoni Café loop from Malton, which is an easy 7.1 km stroll.

What kind of landscapes can we expect on family hikes in this region?

Families can enjoy a diverse range of landscapes, from tranquil riverside paths along the River Derwent to picturesque woodlands and open fields. Many routes offer a mix of scenery, providing engaging views and varied terrain. The area also serves as a gateway to the nearby Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the North York Moors National Park.

What interesting sights can families discover along the trails?

Many family-friendly trails pass by fascinating points of interest. You might encounter historical sites like the impressive ruins of Kirkham Priory, or the unique Wharram Percy – Deserted Medieval Village. Some routes also offer views of grand estates like Castle Howard and its striking New River Bridge.

Are there any shorter routes ideal for families with young children or toddlers?

Absolutely. For families with younger children or toddlers, shorter routes are available. While specific toddler-friendly routes are not detailed, the region offers several easy walks under 10 km that can be adapted. The Market Square – Leoni Café loop from Malton is a good option at 7.1 km, providing a manageable distance for little legs.

Are there good options for parking near the family hiking trails?

Yes, many of the family-friendly hiking trails around Norton-On-Derwent, particularly those starting from towns like Malton, offer convenient parking options. It's always a good idea to check the specific route details on komoot for parking information at the trailhead.

Can we find places to eat or cafes near the family hiking routes?

Yes, especially for routes that start or pass through Malton or Norton-On-Derwent, you'll find various cafes and eateries. For example, the Market Square – Leoni Café loop from Malton specifically highlights a cafe, making it easy to grab a refreshment before or after your walk.

What do other families say about hiking in Norton-On-Derwent?

The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly hikes around Norton-On-Derwent, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse scenery, well-maintained paths, and the suitability of routes for various family abilities, making it a popular choice for outdoor adventures.

Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting on these family walks?

Yes, the varied landscapes of Norton-On-Derwent, including riverside paths, woodlands, and open fields, provide excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for local birdlife along the River Derwent and various woodland creatures in areas like the Long Plantation.

Are there any circular routes perfect for a family day out?

Many of the family-friendly routes in the area are circular, offering a convenient way to explore without retracing your steps. The Long Plantation Woodland Path – Woodland Trail Fork loop from Malton is a great example, providing a 9.2 km circular walk through woodlands and fields.

What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in this region?

Spring and summer are particularly lovely for family hikes, with milder weather and blooming flora. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, while winter walks can be magical, especially on crisp, clear days. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, regardless of the season.

Are there any routes that offer great viewpoints for families?

Yes, several routes provide scenic viewpoints. The region research mentions the Temple of the Four Winds, which offers expansive views of the surrounding hills, and the Lone Tree on Slingsby Heights, a notable viewpoint. Look for routes that traverse higher ground or open fields for the best vistas.

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