Up for a stroll? Explore 5 walks in the Yorkshire Dales that will give you beauty without the blisters.
The last few years have seen an explosion in hiking across the UK. And here in the Yorkshire Dales, the home of Stump Cross Caverns, more and more people are putting on their boots and taking in the sights.
It's partly because the Dales provide such a varied and beautiful landscape. From river walks to the famous Three Peaks, from quaint villages to long-distance trails, the Yorkshire Dales could well be known as the "Walkshire Trails". Heh.
But it's not all arduous yomps across the moors. The Yorkshire Dales are also a fantastic place to go for an easy walk, giving you the best of the landscape without blisters or sunburn.
This is especially welcome if you've got the little ones or four-legged friends in tow – or just want fresh air without fatigue.
Here, then, are five easy walks to inspire and invigorate.
1. The Ribblehead audio trail
Ribblehead is a popular destination for walkers thanks to the part it plays in the Dales Way and the Three Peaks. With its views of Ingleborough, Whernside and the Ribblehead viaduct, it's a hiker's paradise.
But Ribblehead isn't just for walkers looking to get the miles in. It's also a perfect spot for walks on the short and easy side.
One such walk is the Ribblehead audio trail. It focuses on the history and construction of the Ribblehead viaduct, built in the late 19th century to carry trains from Settle to Carlisle across the valley.
So, if you're looking to combine hiking with history, the Ribblehead audio trail is a great way to spend a couple of hours. Access the route and its accompanying audio at
yorkshiredales.org.
2. Burnsall
Situated on a bend of the River Wharfe and surrounded by fells, Burnsall is a village in Wharfedale rich in history and natural beauty.
Burnsall started life as an Anglo-Saxon settlement – and the local church is home to Viking and Anglo-Saxon stones.
The village is also home to a fantastic route that's accessible for wheelchair users and buggies – a 700-metre-long stretch of the Dales Way running from Burnsall to Loup Scar.
As well as providing spectacular views of Yorkshire fells, this river route is a bird-watcher's dream. Keen-eyed ramblers might spot wagtails, dippers, sandpipers and oystercatchers.
3. Janet's Foss
Janet's Foss is a small but perfectly formed waterfall located in picturesque woodland on the path from Malham to Gordale Scar.
Beloved by hikers and swimmers, Janet's Foss is a popular destination. For this reason, you may want to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
Walking there from Malham, you may see two tree stumps filled with pennies. Add your own and make a wish to Jennet, the queen of the fairies, who's said to live in a cave behind the cascades.
Walkers looking for an easy route have a range of options. Explore them on the
Reluctant Explorers website.
4. Malham Cove
Malham Cove is one of the wonders of the Yorkshire Dales – a sweeping, 70-metre-high limestone pavement. It's the product of millions of years of erosion by water and ice – like Stump Cross Caverns, a living, breathing example of the Dales' prehistoric past.
Visit today, and you may see climbers ascending the sheer rock face. But for those looking for something on the gentler side, Malham Cove gives you the best of the Dales in spades.
It's home, to take just one example, to a mile-long Miles without Stiles trail. This is ideal for wheelchair users, walkers with pushchairs and people looking for a gentle but jaw-dropping stroll.
The
walk takes about 25 minutes in each direction. Expect woodland, stone footpaths and views you won't forget.
5. Aysgarth Falls
Aysgarth Falls has long been a destination for nature lovers – from William and Dorothy Wordsworth in the 19th century to the film crew behind Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves in 1991.
Its three stepped falls are undeniably impressive. Meanwhile, the surrounding areas are filled with flowers, roe deer and even dormice.
There are many gentle walks around Aysgarth Falls, ranging from one to 2.7 miles. These run through Freeholder's Wood and offer views of the Middle Falls.
6. Walks near Stump Cross Caverns
Here at Stump Cross Caverns, we thank our lucky stars to be located in the green, green heart of the Yorkshire Dales. We're just a stone's throw from a range of easy walks to satisfy hikers of all ages and experience levels.
You can explore five of the best
walks in the Yorkshire Dales here on our website. When you're done, why not pop in for refreshments at our Time Cafe or take a trip through the enchanted chambers and passageways under our feet?
Tips for walking in the Yorkshire Dales
The Yorkshire Dales are only as good as the people who use them – and everyone has to play their part, whether they're going for a mile-long amble or an epic trek.
This means respecting the land and the community. Many people live and work in the Dales. Walkers should stick to the rights of way and shut gates behind them.
It's also important to leave no trace. No one wants this gorgeous landscape to be filled with litter – so make sure you leave nothing but footprints and take nothing but photos.
Dog walkers should be mindful of sheep between November and lambing season. This is because pregnant sheep can run and miscarry if dogs are off their leads.
Finally, take care when near rivers and lakes. They may look tranquil but are usually cold, deep and a devil to get out of!
Not sure what to bring? Hiking boots are advisable even for a short walk. Other than that, make sure you bring snacks, water and a copy of the route.
Take a trip to Stump Cross Caverns – a network of ancient
caves to explore right here in the Yorkshire Dales. Whether you walk, drive or cycle here, we guarantee you a warm Yorkshire welcome.
How about it? It's quick and easy to
book your tickets online.
