Best Walks in the Yorkshire Dales

The Yorkshire Dales offers some of the most iconic walking routes in the UK, from dramatic limestone cliffs to peaceful riverside trails. Below are some of our favourite walks to help you plan your visit.

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What are the best walks in the Yorkshire Dales?

The best walks in the Yorkshire Dales include:

• Malham Cove, Gordale Scar & Janet’s Foss Circular
• Pen-y-Ghent Circular Walk
• Burnsall to Grassington Riverside Walk
• Muker to Gunnerside Walk (Swaledale)
• Smardale Gill Viaduct Walk

These routes range from easy riverside walks to more challenging hill climbs, offering some of the most scenic landscapes in the UK.

Here are the best walks in the Yorkshire Dales:

Walk	Distance	Difficulty	Time
Malham Cove	8 miles	Moderate	3-4 hours
Pen-y-Ghent	6.3 miles	Moderate	2-3 hours
Burnsall to Grassington	8 miles	Easy	3 hours
Muker to Gunnerside	7 miles	Moderate	2-3 hours

Malham Cove, Gordale Scar & Janet’s Foss Circular

Distance: ~8 miles
Time: 3–4 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Start Point: Malham Village
One of the most famous walks in the Yorkshire Dales, this circular route takes you past three of the area’s most impressive natural landmarks.

• Walk beneath the towering limestone cliffs of Malham Cove
• Cross the unique limestone pavement above the cove
• Explore the dramatic ravine at Gordale Scar
• Finish at Janet’s Foss, a picturesque waterfall

Malham Cove Walk Summary
​The Malham Cove walk is an 8-mile circular route starting in Malham village, taking around 3–4 hours. It features limestone cliffs, waterfalls, and dramatic scenery, making it one of the most popular walks in the Yorkshire Dales.

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Pen-y-Ghent Circular Walk

Distance: ~6.3 miles
Time: 2–3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Start Point: Horton-in-Ribblesdale
Part of the famous Yorkshire Three Peaks, this route offers incredible panoramic views across the Dales.

• A steady climb to one of the region’s most recognisable peaks
• Spectacular views from the summit
• A rewarding but manageable challenge

Pen-y-Ghent Walk Summary
​Pen-y-Ghent is a 6.3-mile circular walk taking 2–3 hours. It is a moderate hike with a steady ascent and offers panoramic views, making it one of the best short mountain walks in the Yorkshire Dales.

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Burnsall to Grassington Riverside Walk

Distance: ~8 miles
Time: 3 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Start Point: Burnsall or Grassington
This gentle riverside walk follows the River Wharfe through classic Dales scenery.

• Peaceful riverside paths
• Traditional stone villages
• Ideal for beginners or relaxed days out

Riverside Walk SummaryThe Burnsall to Grassington walk is an easy 8-mile riverside route taking around 3 hours. It is one of the most accessible walks in the Yorkshire Dales, ideal for beginners and families.

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Muker to Gunnerside (Swaledale Walk)

Distance: ~7 miles
Time: 2–3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Start Point: Muker
A beautiful walk through Swaledale, famous for its wildflower meadows and traditional farming landscapes.

• Stunning seasonal wildflowers
• Historic barns and dry stone walls
• Quiet, less crowded route

👉 One of the most picturesque valley walks in the Dales 

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Smardale Gill Viaduct Walk

Distance: ~4–5 miles
Time: 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Start Point: Newbiggin-on-Lune
A gentle and accessible walk along a former railway line.

• Walk across the dramatic Smardale Gill viaduct
• Easy terrain, ideal for families
• Rich wildlife and peaceful surroundings

👉 A great introduction to walking in the Dales

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The Dales Way (Long Distance Route)

Distance: 80 miles (multi-day)
Difficulty: Moderate
Route: Ilkley to Bowness-on-Windermere
For those looking for a bigger adventure, the Dales Way is one of England’s most प्रसिद्ध long-distance walks.

• Follows rivers and valleys through the Dales
• Can be completed in sections or as a full route
• Ideal for multi-day hiking experiences

👉 One of the UK’s classic long-distance walking routes 

Combine Walking with Adventure

Many of these walks are located close to our activity sites, making it easy to combine hiking with:

• Canyoning at Hell Gill
• River trips on the River Ure

Plan Your Visit from Barnard Castle

Many of these routes are easily accessible from Barnard Castle, making it an ideal base for exploring the Yorkshire Dales.

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Book Your Experience

Looking to combine walking with a guided outdoor experience?
We offer bespoke adventure days tailored around your visit.
 Book your adventure today

Yorkshire Dales Walking FAQs

What is the most famous walk in the Yorkshire Dales?
The most famous walk in the Yorkshire Dales is the Malham Cove circular route, which includes Gordale Scar and Janet’s Foss. It is popular due to its dramatic limestone scenery and accessibility.

Are the Yorkshire Dales good for beginners?
Yes, the Yorkshire Dales offer many beginner-friendly walks, including riverside routes such as Burnsall to Grassington, which feature gentle terrain and clear paths.

What is the hardest walk in the Yorkshire Dales?
One of the more challenging walks is Pen-y-Ghent, part of the Yorkshire Three Peaks, which involves a steep ascent and exposed terrain.

When is the best time to walk in the Yorkshire Dales?
The best time to walk in the Yorkshire Dales is between spring and early autumn, when weather conditions are more stable and landscapes are at their most scenic.