4.6
(2306)
19,394
hikers
510
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Chelker Reservoir offer accessible paths and scenic waterside views in North Yorkshire. The area features open countryside and provides a tranquil setting for connecting with nature. While the immediate reservoir area is characterized by its man-made lake, the broader region includes diverse natural features like limestone landscapes and hills. These routes are generally suitable for various fitness levels, focusing on gentle gradients and well-maintained paths.
Last updated: October 31, 2026
28
hikers
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
17
hikers
6.40km
01:43
70m
70m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.

4.8
(4)
20
hikers
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
6
hikers
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
6
hikers
4.16km
01:07
50m
50m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
The Wharfe drops into the Bolton Abbey estate as a broad, lively river, flowing past the priory ruins and the famous stepping stones. Just upstream lies The Strid, where the river is squeezed from about 30 feet wide to barely a stride across, flipping from shallow-and-wide to narrow-and-deep, a geological quirk that creates powerful, hidden currents beneath the rocks. After leaving Bolton Abbey, the Wharfe continues through Addingham, Ilkley, Burley-in-Wharfedale, Otley, Wetherby, and Tadcaster, before finally joining the River Ouse near Cawood. A funny (and slightly dark) fact, The Strid, that innocent-looking narrow gap on the Bolton Abbey estate, is famously said to have a 100% fatality rate for anyone who falls in. It looks like a place you could hop across… but absolutely isn’t. Local folklore insists no one has ever survived falling into it, thanks to the undercut caves and swirling tunnels beneath the surface
0
0
Be mindful of the fast flowing water, stepping stones are slid but suitable footwear advised and take your time. A very popular spot
0
0
The Addingham Suspension Footbridge is a scenic, historic pedestrian bridge spanning the River Wharfe near the village of Addingham in West Yorkshire, England. It serves as a popular focal point for local walkers, runners, and those exploring the scenic Wharfedale valley.
0
0
St Peter’s Church in Addingham, West Yorkshire, is a vibrant, active Church of England parish church that has served as a continuous site of Christian worship for over 1,100 years.
0
0
This is a really impressive piece of architecture, £15 to park at car park, in the summer there are some stepping stones
0
0
Bolton Abbey is the ruins of a 12th century Augustinian Monastery which was known as Bolton Priory. It was closed in 1539 as part of Henry VIII dissolution of the monasteries.
1
0
Bolton Abbey founded in the 12th-century. It is an Augustinian monastery, Bolton Priory, and there is a surrounding 26,100-acre estate with loads of lovely walks along the River Wharfe.
0
0
A useful cut through to avoid traffic, it does involve walking for a short distance and carrying the bike over the bridge.
0
0
There are over 230 easy hiking trails around Chelker Reservoir, offering a wide range of options for different preferences and fitness levels. In total, the area features more than 520 routes, with a significant portion designed for easy exploration.
Easy hikes around Chelker Reservoir primarily feature picturesque waterside paths and open countryside views. While the reservoir itself is man-made, the surrounding North Yorkshire region offers a tranquil setting with diverse natural features, including distant hills and expansive landscapes. You'll find a blend of natural beauty and historical elements, especially when venturing towards areas like Bolton Abbey.
Yes, many of the easy routes are suitable for families. The paths are generally well-maintained with gentle gradients. For example, the Bolton Abbey Ruins – Cavendish Pavilion loop from Bolton Abbey is a popular choice, offering historic sights and riverside scenery that families often enjoy.
Yes, Chelker Reservoir and the surrounding areas are generally dog-friendly. Many trails allow dogs, but it's always recommended to keep them on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature conservation areas. Always ensure you clean up after your pet to help keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.
Yes, there are several circular easy walks. Many routes, particularly those originating from nearby Bolton Abbey, are designed as loops. An example is the Bolton Abbey Ruins – Bolton Priory Ruins loop from Bolton Abbey, which allows you to explore historical landmarks and return to your starting point.
While Chelker Reservoir itself is a scenic body of water, many easy hikes in the vicinity lead to significant historical sites. The Bolton Abbey Estate is a prominent attraction, featuring the impressive Bolton Abbey Ruins and landmarks like The Strid. Routes such as the Bolton Abbey Stepping Stones – Bolton Abbey Ruins loop from Bolton Abbey offer direct access to these historical points.
Yes, parking facilities are available. While specific details for Chelker Reservoir's immediate car park should be checked locally, nearby popular starting points like Bolton Abbey and Addingham offer dedicated parking areas, making access to easy trails convenient.
Public transport options are available to access the wider area. While direct public transport to Chelker Reservoir might be limited, nearby towns like Addingham and the Bolton Abbey Estate are more accessible by bus services, from where you can connect to various easy walking routes. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for the most current information.
The easy trails around Chelker Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1800 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil waterside paths, the open countryside, and the accessibility of routes, especially those leading to historical sites like Bolton Abbey.
Yes, particularly around the Bolton Abbey area. The River Wharfe flows nearby, and some easy routes incorporate its banks. The Bolton Abbey Stepping Stones – Bolton Abbey Ruins loop from Bolton Abbey is a prime example, allowing you to experience the famous stepping stones across the river.
Yes, beyond Chelker Reservoir, the wider region of North Yorkshire offers other reservoirs with easy walking options. Nearby Embsay Reservoir and Barden Reservoir also provide additional waterside paths and gentle walking opportunities, expanding your choices for easy hikes in the area.
The area around Chelker Reservoir is enjoyable year-round. Spring brings fresh greenery, summer offers pleasant weather for waterside strolls, and autumn provides beautiful foliage. Even in winter, with appropriate gear, the open landscapes can be quite scenic. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.