The best walks and hikes around Harrogate
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42,101
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1,041
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Hikes around Harrogate explore the varied landscapes at the edge of the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region is characterized by river valleys, serene reservoirs, and notable sandstone rock formations. Trails navigate through ancient woodlands and across open moorland, with the Yorkshire Dales National Park located just 13 miles (20 km) away.
Best hiking trails around Harrogate
- The most popular hiking route is the Fewston & Swinsty Reservoir loop, a 6.8 mile (10.9 km) trail that takes…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
4.8
(90)
755
hikers
10.9km
02:51
80m
80m
Embark on a moderate hike around the tranquil waters of Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs, a 6.8-mile (10.9 km) route that offers continuous waterside views. You will gain 247 feet (75…
4.8
(119)
572
hikers
13.5km
03:46
260m
260m
Embark on a moderate 8.4-mile (13.5 km) hike through the scenic Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a journey that typically takes around 3 hours and 45 minutes. You will…
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4.6
(37)
234
hikers
7.65km
02:09
150m
160m
Embark on The Druid's Temple & Sole Beck loop from High Knowle, a moderate hike that takes you through the varied landscapes of the Swinton Estate. This 4.8-mile (7.7 km)…
4.6
(24)
211
hikers
Embark on the Thruscross Reservoir and Cloggers Lane loop, an easy hike that takes you around the tranquil waters of Thruscross Reservoir. This circular route spans 4.7 miles (7.5 km)…
4.8
(20)
120
hikers
9.06km
02:26
110m
110m
Embark on a moderate 5.6-mile (9.1 km) hike through the Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This loop takes approximately 2 hours and 26 minutes…
4.6
(16)
129
hikers
5.89km
01:31
30m
30m
Embark on an easy hike along The River Ure & Aldborough loop from Boroughbridge, a gentle 3.7-mile (5.9 km) route with minimal elevation gain of just 98 feet (30 metres).…
3.8
(10)
39
hikers
6.43km
01:45
90m
90m
Embark on the Brimham Rocks Boundary Walk, an easy hiking route that guides you through a landscape shaped by ancient forces. This 4.0-mile (6.4 km) loop features remarkable Millstone Grit…
4.8
(9)
98
hikers
17.2km
05:10
510m
510m
Embark on a difficult 10.7-mile (17.2 km) hiking loop from Lofthouse that takes you through the dramatic landscapes of Nidderdale, featuring a significant 1662 feet (507 metres) of elevation gain.…
5.0
(7)
74
hikers
10.5km
02:46
90m
90m
Embark on the Scar House & Angram Reservoirs loop, a moderate hike spanning 6.5 miles (10.5 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 291 feet (89 metres). You can expect…
4.6
(8)
43
hikers
2.98km
00:51
70m
70m
The Aislabie Walk offers an easy hiking experience through varied scenery, perfect for a quick outing. You will cover 1.9 miles (3.0 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 230…
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Tips from the Community
A hidden gem and interesting story behind the construction of the Temple. Beautiful views and an interesting undulating walk through stunning countryside.
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Quintessentially pretty market town, arrive early to find suitable parking, best place is next to the showground on the southern side of the bridge over the River Nidd. Honesty box only (no payment cards), cheap at £1 up to 4 hours and £2 all day (spring 2025 prices). The southern end of Nidderdale around Pateley Bridge has one of the densest concentrations of public footpaths in North Yorkshire, so loads of routeing options. See the North Yorks public rights of way map at https://maps.northyorks.gov.uk/connect/analyst/mobile/#/main?mapcfg=Out_and_About
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If you can stomach getting up very early for hikes and runs, then you will have the place to yourself. Absolutely stunning at around 6-7am in the early morning May sunshine.
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Undoubtedly the most scenic of the Washburn reservoirs with the moorland backdrop to the north. The circular route around the reservoir from the car park is about 5 miles, the track on the southwestern side runs along the edge of plantations and offers some shade from the sun and shelter from the elements. The track on the northeastern side is more exposed, and if you do the whole circuit you will cross over Far Comb Hill and the plantation along the edge of the reservoir at Whit Moor - a great route.
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Small bridge at the southern end of the dam allows you to peer over and see the overflow for Fewston Reservoir and the sloping masonry weirs that channel overflow down into Swinsty Reservoir. Great views of both reservoirs northwest to Fewston and southeast to Swinsty.
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Easy to access and walk along the water's edge, levels quite low in spring of 2025 (see photos).
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The track along this part of the reservoir is very good quality and clearly well-trodden: wide and flat, and provides welcome shade when the sun is scorching.
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More Information
Exploring the Skell Valley
Some of the finest walks around Harrogate explore the historic and picturesque Skell Valley. Experience Studley Royal Park and the ruins of Fountains Abbey, awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status as ‘a feat of human creative genius’. The park’s landscaped grounds have been immaculately curated around the 1,000-year-old abbey ruins.
Take a magical stroll around the incredible water gardens, keeping an eye out for stags wrestling each other with their antlers. Over 300 red, sika and fallow deer roam the grounds. The gothic St Mary’s Church is another architectural masterpiece waiting to be discovered here. Nearby, the idyllic Seven Bridges Valley offers you utterly delightful walking, following the meandering River Skell over the five remaining arched packhorse bridges.
Sandstone forged splendour
The spectacular Brimham Rocks and their surroundings make for some of the best hikes around Harrogate. A site of special scientific interest, its 454 acres (184 ha) contain heathlands, birch woodland and the famous 320 million-year-old sandstone rock formations. The impossible shapes they assume are sensational, the result of aeons of erosion by ice, water and wind.
Closer to Harrogate is Nidd Gorge, a deep, sandstone ravine with sheer wooded banks. Perfect for an afternoon ramble, it rewards nature lovers with a veritable patchwork of habitats. In summer, a diverse array of butterflies flutter between the trees and wild flowers abound.
Natural beauty in Nidderdale
Some of the best hiking trails around Harrogate can be found in Nidderdale. In fact, there are 125 square miles (200 km2) on which to exercise your right to roam. The prominent hill of Great Whernside (not to be confused with county-high-point Whernside to the west) offers a unique panorama across Nidderdale and back to the vastness of the Yorkshire Dales.
Experience the remote moorland and undulating hills of Mashamshire, perfect for stargazing under a vast night sky. Pack your tent and set out for an adventure into this secluded countryside. The archetypal V-shaped valleys, carved by 100,000 years of glacial movement, await your hiking boots. Explore winding paths and waterfalls in the rolling woodland or discover the curious and mystical structures found on the moors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails to choose from around Harrogate?
Yes, there are over 1,000 hiking routes to explore in the Harrogate area. The trails range from easy strolls to challenging long-distance paths, covering everything from serene reservoir loops to rugged moorland treks.
What do other hikers think of the trails in the Harrogate region?
The trails around Harrogate are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the region's varied scenery, from the dramatic landscapes of the Nidderdale AONB to the well-maintained paths through historic parklands.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks near Harrogate?
Certainly. The area offers many gentle walks suitable for all ages. A great option is the Hackfall Forest loop, a short and easy walk through a beautiful ancient woodland with interesting follies to discover along the way.
Can I take my dog on the trails around Harrogate?
Many trails in the Harrogate area are dog-friendly, but it's important to be mindful of the landscape. When walking through farmland or on moorland, especially during lambing season (spring) and bird nesting season (March-July), dogs should be kept on a lead. The walk along the River Ure from Boroughbridge is a pleasant, relatively flat route that's great for a walk with your canine companion.
Are there any challenging, long-distance hikes available?
Yes, the region is home to several demanding long-distance trails. For a serious challenge with significant elevation gain, consider the Thrope Edge and How Stean Gorge loop. This difficult 10.7-mile (17.2 km) hike offers fantastic views and takes you through the dramatic limestone ravine known as 'Yorkshire's Little Switzerland'.
What are some good circular walks in the area?
Circular routes are very common around Harrogate. For a walk that combines history with nature, The Druid's Temple & Sole Beck loop is an excellent choice. This moderate 4.7-mile (7.6 km) trail explores a fascinating 19th-century folly designed to resemble a prehistoric stone circle.
Where can I find a walk with impressive rock formations?
The area is famous for its geology, particularly at Brimham Rocks, a site managed by the National Trust. You can explore the unique sandstone formations on the Brimham Rocks & Brimham Moor loop, an easy 4-mile (6.4 km) circuit that takes you right through the heart of this dramatic landscape.
Are there any good walks around the local reservoirs?
Yes, the reservoirs in Nidderdale offer fantastic waterside walking. Beyond the popular Fewston and Swinsty, you can explore the more remote Scar House & Angram Reservoirs loop. This 6.5-mile (10.5 km) moderate walk provides stunning views across the water and the surrounding moorlands.
What is the best time of year to hike around Harrogate?
You can hike around Harrogate year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Spring and summer bring wildflowers and lush green valleys, while autumn provides beautiful colours in the woodlands. Winter can be spectacular with crisp, frosty mornings, but be sure to check weather conditions and wear appropriate gear, as trails can be muddy and moorland paths exposed.
Can I find a hike that ends near a pub or cafe?
Many routes start or finish in villages with excellent pubs and cafes. The town of Pateley Bridge is a great starting point for several hikes and has numerous options for refreshments. Similarly, How Stean Gorge has a popular cafe, making it a perfect spot to relax after exploring the gorge and surrounding trails.
Are there any less-crowded reservoir walks?
For a quieter experience, the Thruscross Reservoir loop is a great alternative. This easy 4.7-mile (7.5 km) trail is more rugged and remote than other reservoir paths in the area, offering a greater sense of tranquility.
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