Kirklington-Cum-Upsland
Kirklington-Cum-Upsland
The best walks and hikes around Kirklington-Cum-Upsland
4.4
(309)
2,218
hikers
77
hikes
Hiking around Kirklington-Cum-Upsland offers diverse landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts in North Yorkshire. The region features ancient woodlands like Hackfall Wood, the meandering River Ure, and the rolling Hambleton Hills, providing varied terrain for walking routes. Hikers can expect a mix of open countryside, forested sections, and gentle climbs and dips, with viewpoints offering panoramas of valleys and meadows.
Best hiking trails around Kirklington-Cum-Upsland
- The most popular hiking route is Hackfall Wood and Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park loop from Masham, a 11.4 miles (18.3 km) trail that takes 5 hours to complete. This moderate route explores ancient woodland and a unique garden.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Church of St Andrew and Mowbray Castle loop from Azerley — Nidderdale, a moderate 7.2 miles (11.7 km) path. This trail leads through countryside, passing historical sites.
- Local hikers also love the River Ure – Hackfall Wood loop from Masham, a 7.6 miles (12.3 km) trail leading through riverside paths and woodland, often completed in about 3 hours 20 minutes.
- Hiking around Kirklington-Cum-Upsland is defined by ancient woodlands, the scenic River Ure, and rolling hills. The network of trails offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to more challenging treks.
- The routes in Kirklington-Cum-Upsland are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from more than 290 reviews. More than 2,000 visitors have used komoot to explore Kirklington-Cum-Upsland's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
4.3
(3)
17
hikers
18.3km
04:59
260m
260m
Embark on the Hackfall Wood and Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park loop from Masham, a moderate hiking route that spans 11.4 miles (18.3 km) with an elevation gain of 869 feet (265 metres). This journey, taking around 4 hours and 58 minutes, guides you through ancient woodlands filled with hidden follies and waterfalls, offering a truly wild and historical atmosphere. You will also discover the vibrant, cultivated beauty of the Himalayan Garden, home to a vast collection of rhododendrons and azaleas, alongside striking contemporary sculptures.
When planning your visit, be aware that this trail requires good fitness due to its undulating terrain and some steep sections. The paths within Hackfall Wood can become very muddy, especially after rain, so proper footwear is essential. While parking is generally available in Masham, where the loop begins, be prepared for varied conditions that might make parts of the route challenging for those with severe mobility issues.
This route offers a unique transition from the untamed beauty of an ancient woodland to the meticulously designed landscapes of an award-winning garden. The Hackfall Wood section is particularly notable for its
3.8
(4)
17
hikers
11.7km
03:04
110m
110m
Embark on the Church of St Andrew and Mowbray Castle loop from Azerley, a moderate hike through the picturesque Nidderdale AONB. This 7.2-mile (11.7 km) route, with an elevation gain of 346 feet (105 metres), typically takes around 3 hours and 4 minutes to complete. You'll traverse well-defined footpaths and tracks through open fields and ancient woodlands, offering views of rolling hills and serene waterways, including the River Ure. A significant portion of the trail winds through Hackfall Wood, an 18th-century landscape garden where winding paths reveal romantic follies and dramatic viewpoints. Be prepared for some steeper sections and potentially muddy paths, especially within Hackfall Wood, where you'll encounter numerous stiles and steps. The terrain can become rougher in places, featuring craggy woodland flight steps.
For this moderate hike, sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes with good treads are recommended for comfort and stability, particularly given the varied nature of the paths and potential for mud after rain. While much of the route uses well-defined footpaths and bridleways, some sections utilize quiet country roads. Exercise caution on short stretches that use faster roads where there isn't much verge for pedestrians. The numerous stiles and steps, especially within Hackfall Wood, require a good level of fitness.
This loop is notable for its journey through Hackfall Wood, a Grade I listed Historic Garden and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Within the wood, you'll discover Mowbray Castle, not a true medieval fortress, but an 18th-century mock ruin or folly designed as an eye-catcher to enhance the picturesque landscape. The wood itself was meticulously landscaped by William Aislabie to create a
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4.5
(47)
166
hikers
12.2km
03:20
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(15)
162
hikers
6.79km
01:45
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(16)
83
hikers
7.86km
02:03
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Grade II listed bridge that crosses the River Burn
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Tremendous views unfold from this elevated vantage point where the River Ure winds its way through a lush green valley. From here you can enjoy sweeping panoramas of rolling hills and vibrant meadows with the river carving a graceful path through the picturesque landscape.
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The River Ure in Yorkshire is about 74 miles (119 km) long from its source to where it joins the River Ouse. It starts near Ure Head on Abbotside Common and joins the Ouse at Cuddy Shaw Reach near Linton-on-Use. Along its meandering journey are numerous well-known beauty spots, including Aysgarth Falls, and it is bordered by plenty of beautiful walking paths, including the Rippon Rowel Walk.
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Masham is a small market town that is built around a large square. It has held a market charter since 1250 and thrived due to the easy access of the flocks of sheep from nearby Fountains and Jervaulx Abbeys. There is still a sheep fair every September where huge numbers of sheep are bought and sold.
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Masham Market Place is one of the largest in England. It has elegant Georgian houses that stand around its periphery and an ancient cross with cobbled area at its centre.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Kirklington-Cum-Upsland?
There are over 75 hiking trails in the Kirklington-Cum-Upsland area. These routes offer a diverse range of experiences, from gentle riverside paths to more challenging woodland and hill treks, catering to various fitness levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes in Kirklington-Cum-Upsland?
The terrain around Kirklington-Cum-Upsland is quite varied. You'll find a mix of open countryside, ancient forested sections like Hackfall Wood, and paths along the meandering River Ure. Many routes also feature gentle climbs and dips, especially in the rolling Hambleton Hills, offering diverse walking experiences.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in the area?
Yes, there are many easy walks suitable for families. For example, the area offers 34 easy routes. A pleasant option is the Masham Market Square – Black Sheep Brewery loop from Masham, which is an easy 6.8 km (4.2 miles) trail that takes about 2 hours to complete.
Where can I find historical sites or interesting landmarks along the trails?
The region is rich in history. You can explore a moated site at Upsland Farm, a scheduled monument, or visit the nearby market town of Masham, which dates back to 1250. For a hike that includes historical interest, consider the Church of St Andrew and Mowbray Castle loop from Azerley — Nidderdale, which passes historical sites. You can also visit the Masham Market Square itself.
Are there any circular walks available in Kirklington-Cum-Upsland?
Yes, many of the trails in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. A popular circular route is the Hackfall Wood and Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park loop from Masham, which is a moderate 18.3 km (11.4 miles) trail.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Kirklington-Cum-Upsland?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 290 reviews. Hikers often praise the beautiful ancient woodlands, the scenic paths along the River Ure, and the varied terrain that offers something for everyone, from gentle strolls to more challenging treks.
Are there any routes that feature the River Ure?
Absolutely. The River Ure meanders through the region, offering numerous scenic walking paths. A great option to experience the riverside is the River Ure – Hackfall Wood loop from Masham, a moderate 12.3 km (7.6 miles) trail that combines riverside paths with woodland exploration.
Can I find walks with good viewpoints in the area?
Yes, the region offers excellent viewpoints, particularly from elevated sections of the Hambleton Hills. These vantage points provide sweeping panoramas of the River Ure winding through lush green valleys, rolling hills, and vibrant meadows. On clear days, it's even possible to see the Humber estuary and York Minster from certain spots.
Are there any amenities or places to eat near the hiking trails?
The nearby market town of Masham serves as a charming starting or ending point for many hikes and offers various amenities. You'll find cafes, pubs, and shops there. The Masham Market Square is a central hub for these services.
What is the best season for hiking in Kirklington-Cum-Upsland?
While hiking is enjoyable year-round, spring and autumn are particularly beautiful. Spring brings fresh greenery and wildflowers, while autumn offers stunning foliage in woodlands like Hackfall Wood. Summer is also popular, but trails can be busier. Winter walks can be tranquil, but require appropriate gear for potentially muddy or icy conditions.
Are there any challenging hikes with significant elevation gain?
While many routes feature gentle climbs, the region does offer more challenging options. Some trails can have elevation gains up to 3,000 feet, providing a good workout for experienced hikers. The varied terrain ensures there are routes for those seeking a more strenuous adventure.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails?
Many trails in the Kirklington-Cum-Upsland area are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through livestock areas or nature reserves, and to check specific route details for any restrictions.
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