Embrace the frosty sparkle of the Yorkshire Dales at its most enchanting with these 5 beautiful winter walks.
Winter is a special time here in the Yorkshire Dales.
Across the region, the crowds begin to dwindle, the horizons open up and the landscape takes on that sleepy sparkle. Think frosted meadows, smoky riverside mists and dappled sunlight drifting across the limestone. Lovely.
And if you like a good trudge, you're in for a wintry treat. There's nothing quite like a brisk walk to shake the cobwebs away and discover the Dales at their frost-bitten best.
To get you inspired, here are five magical winter walks chosen for their beauty, accessibility and a touch of seasonal magic and myth. And – bonus – all are within easy reach of Stump Cross Caverns.
So, get your thermals, flask and walking boots ready. We're going on an adventure!
1. Linton Falls and Linton Church Circular
Distance: 2 miles
Difficulty: easy
Parking: National Park Visitor Centre – Grassington
Are you and the family looking for a short, gentle walk with maximum winter drama? Linton Falls is the perfect route.
The River Wharfe surges through a narrow channel here, and in winter the falls roar with real force – especially after heavy rain. It's truly mesmerising to watch the white waters churn against the dark stone while cold air tingles on your face.
From Grassington, follow the clearly marked footpath down to the falls and cross the wooden footbridge. The riverside path leads you to the pretty village of Linton, where the 12th-century St Michael and All Angels Church sits surrounded by ancient yew trees. When the frost is perched over the churchyard grass, this place feels like something straight out of a Christmas card.
You'll return through fields and quiet lanes, enjoying the far-reaching winter views across the Upper Wharfe valley. This route may be short and sweet, but no less soul-soothing for it.
2. Trollers Gill and Parcevall Hall Loop
Distance: 4 to 5 miles
Difficulty: moderate
Parking:
Parcevall Hall Gardens
This slightly more challenging route blends North Yorkshire's stark winter beauty with a pinch of spooky folklore.
Trollers Gill, a narrow limestone ravine, is tucked away above Skyreholme, and the wintertime only makes it feel even more wonderfully atmospheric. Bare branches overhang the stony gorge, icy puddles fuse between the rocks and the towering cliffs frame the sky like something out of a fantasy novel.
Local legend claims the Gill is home to the Barguest, Yorkshire's infamous demonic black dog. Some say that one look into his eyes will turn you to stone and trap you in the Gill forever.
Don't worry. We promise that, on a clear winter's day, you're far more likely to meet quietly grazing sheep than any hellhounds.
The climb through the gorge warms the legs nicely, and the surrounding farmland offers sweeping winter panoramas. Just be mindful to take extra care in wet conditions.
3. The Valley of Desolation to Simon's Seat
Distance: 6 miles
Difficulty: moderate to challenging
Parking: Bolton Abbey Riverside Car Park
Don't be fooled by its foreboding name – the Valley of Desolation is one of the most beautiful corners of the Dales, especially in winter. Here, the bare birch trees glow silver in the low sunlight, and the waterfalls that tumble through the valley glitter on frosty mornings.
The climb to Simon's Seat is steady but rewarding, and on a crisp, clear day, the views from the summit are nothing short of breathtaking. Think endless moorland, snow-dusted peaks and a skyline that seems to stretch forever.
It's a truly spectacular payoff for a route that demands good footwear, warm layers and a bit of determination. If you're looking to snap out of hibernation, this is the place to make it happen.
4. Embsay Crag Winter Climb
Distance: 3 miles
Difficulty: moderate
Parking: Embsay Reservoir car park
Our favourite winter walks are short, spiky and wonderfully refreshing. Embsay Crag manages to be all three.
The path rises quickly from the reservoir to the rocky outcrop, but we promise the 750-foot ascent feels relatively short. It's absolutely manageable with steady pacing.
From the top, you get your reward in the form of sweeping views across Skipton, the moors and the reservoirs glinting below. On a cold, sunny day, the landscape looks almost otherworldly, with pale blue light stretching across the water and frost catching on the surrounding heather.
This is an ideal option if you're short on daylight or just fancy a brisk, rewarding outing before a scenic drive to a cosier spot. (Like the Time Cafe at Stump Cross Caverns. Hint, hint.)
5. Hebden to Burnsall Riverside Loop
Distance: 3 miles
Difficulty: easy to moderate
Parking: Burnsall or Hebden car park
This gentle riverside wander is a winter favourite.
Starting from either village, follow the clear pathway along the River Wharfe as it winds through fields, past stone walls and under ancient bridges. On cold mornings, mist often rises from the water, curling through the air like smoke – a beautiful sight.
Burnsall's historic bridge is particularly striking in the colder months, and the quiet fields around Hebden feel wonderfully peaceful. It's an easy-to-follow route that's ideal for a relaxed, family-friendly stroll. There are plenty of scenic spots for festive photography, too.
Make it a magical winter day out at Stump Cross Caverns
After a chilly adventure in the Yorkshire Dales, there's nothing better than knowing there's somewhere nearby offering a warm welcome. And you won't find a warmer welcome than the welcome at Stump Cross Caverns.
In our cosy Time Cafe, you'll find hearty homemade dishes, indulgent hot chocolates and the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to linger all afternoon.
Or why not set off on another adventure – this time underground? Descend the 65 steps into the limestone world of the caverns and you'll feel like you've stepped back in time by a million years or so.
Fancy it? You'll get the best price when you book your tickets online.
Not done exploring yet? Discover more of our favourite walking routes in the Yorkshire Dales.
