4.5
(659)
5,048
hikers
162
hikes
Hiking around Hipswell, North Yorkshire, offers varied terrain for outdoor enthusiasts. The region is characterized by ancient woodlands, picturesque riverside paths, and open landscapes. Hikers can explore routes that provide views of historical landmarks like Richmond Castle and traverse areas of lush greenery. The network of trails caters to different fitness levels, making it an accessible destination for walking.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
4.3
(12)
79
hikers
6.08km
01:44
140m
140m
Hike the easy 3.8-mile Richmond and Hudswell Woods Circular, exploring ancient woodlands, riverside paths, and views of Richmond Castle.
4.7
(71)
715
hikers
6.60km
01:48
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.5
(20)
92
hikers
14.4km
04:04
300m
300m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
25
hikers
5.14km
01:31
140m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
42
hikers
9.60km
02:34
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The top of the tower is accessible and offers some great views across Richmond and the Castle Grounds
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The wall paintings are wonderful - always a joy to see. The bike ride alongside the Swale is perfect. Watch out for herons, which can often be seen fishing on a rock. The ice cream at the parlour as you arrive at the station is delicious. The deli just inside is also fabulous…….
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Biggest ruins I've seen, no entry fee, lots of interesting places to see, my favourite part was the roof underneath the refectory
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Legend has it that at the end of the eighteenth century, a tunnel was discovered at Richmond Castle that was believed to lead to Easby, where there is a ruined abbey. It is said that the entrance to this tunnel was uncovered by soldiers but the passageway beyond was so narrow and full of rubble that they couldn’t fit through it. So a little drummer boy was lowered in and the boy was told to walk along the tunnel, banging his drum, whilst above ground the soldiers would follow his drumming and learn where the tunnel led. All was well at first. The soldiers walked along, listening carefully, and were led out of the castle, across the marketplace and down towards the river. It is told that they managed to follow the drumbeats all the way to Easby woods but all of a sudden the drumming stopped, still some distance from Easby and the abbey. The drumming never resumed and the Drummer Boy was never seen again. A marker of the tunnel above ground is the Drummer Boy’s Stone, on the path to Easby, pinpointing the spot where it’s said that the drumbeats of this poor unfortunate lad were last heard.
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Hudswell Woods is a wonderful area to walk through. Near Richmond, it's pretty much accessible to just about anyone who can walk. Very green, beautiful flowery meadows in the spring and summer. There is also a small rounded hill, Round Howe, at the eastern end of the woods. Enjoy your stroll!
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There are over 160 hiking trails in the Hipswell area, offering a wide range of options for different fitness levels. You'll find everything from easy strolls to more challenging routes.
Yes, Hipswell offers many easy trails perfect for beginners or families. Over 60 routes are classified as easy. For example, the Richmond and Hudswell Woods Circular is an easy 3.8-mile path through ancient woodlands and along riverside paths. Another accessible option is the Ruins of Easby Abbey – Richmond Town Centre loop from Richmond, which is 4.1 miles and explores historical sites.
Hipswell's hiking trails feature diverse and scenic landscapes. You can expect to traverse ancient woodlands, follow picturesque riverside paths, and explore open countryside. Areas like Hudswell Woods are known for their lush greenery and beautiful flowery meadows in spring and summer, with views of landmarks like Richmond Castle.
Absolutely. Many trails offer views of or pass by significant historical sites. You can see Richmond Market Town and Castle, or explore the Ruins of Easby Abbey. The Hudswell Woods – Richmond Castle loop from Richmond is a great option to combine natural beauty with historical exploration.
The spring and summer months are particularly beautiful for hiking in Hipswell, when Hudswell Woods are vibrant with lush greenery and flowery meadows. However, the varied terrain and ancient woodlands offer rewarding experiences year-round, with autumn providing stunning foliage and winter offering crisp, quiet walks.
Yes, Hipswell has many excellent circular routes. A popular choice is the Richmond and Hudswell Woods Circular, which is an easy 3.8-mile loop. Another option is the Richmond Castle – Hudswell Woods loop from Richmond, offering a 3.2-mile moderate hike.
The hiking trails around Hipswell are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 600 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse terrain, the beauty of the ancient woodlands, and the picturesque riverside paths. The combination of natural scenery and historical landmarks like Richmond Castle is also a common highlight.
Many trails in Hipswell are suitable for dogs, but it's always recommended to check specific route details and local signage for any restrictions, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock. Generally, the ancient woodlands and riverside paths offer pleasant walks for you and your canine companion.
While specific pubs directly on every trail are not listed, the Hipswell area, particularly near Richmond, offers options. You might find cafes or pubs in nearby towns and villages. For example, the Dales Bike Centre & Café is a nearby option for refreshments.
The elevation gain varies significantly across Hipswell's trails, catering to different fitness levels. Easy routes like the Richmond and Hudswell Woods Circular have a moderate gain of around 140 meters. More challenging routes, such as the Hudswell Woods – Richmond Castle loop from Richmond, can have an elevation gain closer to 300 meters.
Many paths in the Hipswell area are easily accessible, particularly those starting from towns like Richmond. While specific public transport links to every trailhead are not detailed, the general accessibility of the region suggests that key starting points for popular routes can often be reached via local bus services. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for specific routes.
While the guide highlights popular routes, the extensive network of over 160 trails means there are many less-traveled paths to discover. Exploring the ancient woodlands and lesser-known riverside sections can often lead to quiet, picturesque experiences away from the main routes, offering a sense of discovery.


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