The best walks and hikes around Kirkby Malzeard

You can explore nearly 300 hiking routes around Kirkby Malzeard. The area offers a great mix of trails, with about 140 moderate routes, 130 easy options suitable for most fitness levels, and around 30 challenging hikes for those seeking a tougher workout.

The trails are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the variety of scenery, from the peaceful riverside paths along the River Laver to the ancient, atmospheric woodlands like Hackfall Wood. The well-maintained paths through the quintessential North Yorkshire countryside are also a frequent highlight.

Yes, there are many options for families. A great choice is the Kirkby Malzead – Goose Pond loop from Kirkby Malzeard. It's a gentle 4.6-mile (7.3 km) walk through open fields that's perfect for an afternoon outing.

Many trails in the area are suitable for dogs, but it's important to be mindful of the landscape. You'll be walking through farmland with livestock and near sensitive wildlife habitats, especially in the Nidderdale AONB. Always keep your dog on a lead where indicated by signs and be prepared for stiles.

The majority of popular routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. A good example of a moderate circular hike is the Mowbray Castle – Hackfall Wood loop from Kirkby Malzeard, which combines historical ruins with beautiful woodland scenery.

The region is rich with natural beauty. A top highlight is Brimham Rocks, a spectacular collection of natural rock sculptures managed by the National Trust. For a different experience, explore Hackfall Wood, a historic woodland with follies, grottoes, and waterfalls set in a steep gorge of the River Ure.

Yes, you can find waterfalls within Hackfall Wood. This historic woodland garden was designed to include picturesque features, and its paths lead you through a gorge with several cascades. The Hackfall Wood – River Ure loop from Grewelthorpe is a great route for experiencing them.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll find gentle, level paths along the rivers Laver and Stock Beck, rolling hills through open farmland, and steeper, sometimes muddy, tracks within woodlands like Hackfall. Sturdy footwear is recommended for most hikes.

For fantastic panoramic views over Nidderdale, a visit to Brimham Rocks is a must. The high moorland setting provides a stunning vantage point. For beautiful valley scenery, the Hackfall Wood – View of the River Ure Valley loop from Grewelthorpe offers lovely glimpses of the River Ure Valley from within the woods.

Absolutely. Many trails pass by sites of historical interest. You can explore the remains of a motte-and-bailey castle on the Mowbray Castle – Hackfall Wood loop from Grewelthorpe. The entire Hackfall Wood is a Grade I listed garden, designed in the 18th century.

Parking is available in Kirkby Malzeard village for walks starting from there. For routes exploring Hackfall Wood, there is a dedicated car park near Grewelthorpe. If you plan to visit Brimham Rocks, the National Trust site has a large pay-and-display car park.

Public transport to Kirkby Malzeard and the surrounding trailheads is limited due to the rural nature of the area. Bus services connect to nearby towns like Ripon, but they may not be frequent. It is best to check local bus timetables in advance. Most visitors find it easiest to access the area by car.