St John's Church and Stark Bank Road loop from Jervaulx Abbey — Nidderdale

Embark on a moderate hike through diverse landscapes on the St John's Church and Stark Bank Road loop. This 7.9-mile (12.7 km) route, which takes about 3 hours and 28 minutes to complete, features good tracks, gently rolling farmland, and riverside paths along the River Ure. You will pass through woodlands and open moorland, with some sections crossing farmland that can be muddy. The trail includes an ascent on Stark Bank Road, where you can enjoy superb views of Wensleydale from the top. With an elevation gain of 634 feet (193 metres), this hike requires good fitness and sure-footedness.

Your journey begins and ends at the historic Jervaulx Abbey, a privately owned site. The abbey relies on an honesty box for contributions, so be prepared to make a small donation to support its upkeep. While the research does not specify parking or public transport details, planning your visit to Jervaulx Abbey will be your first step. Be aware that some farmland sections can be muddy, especially after rain, so appropriate footwear is advisable.

This trail offers a rewarding journey through the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, combining historical exploration with scenic natural beauty. You will encounter St John's Church, built in 1809, and walk along Stark Bank Road, thought to be an ancient route connecting coal mines to Jervaulx Abbey. The route also incorporates a Norman bridge built over a Roman ford, Kilgram Bridge, and passes a 9th-century church and a 15th-century manor house, Danby Hall. Jervaulx Abbey itself, a ruined Cistercian monastery founded in 1156, is known for its wildflowers and historical significance in sheep rearing and cheese production.