4.5
(196)
1,730
hikers
18
hikes
Hiking around Skipwith offers a diverse landscape characterized by lowland heath, woodlands, and wetlands, primarily within the Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve. The region features gentle terrain with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for easy walks. The River Ouse also forms part of the scenic backdrop, providing additional natural features. These natural environments support a variety of plant and animal species, and the area includes remnants of historical significance.
Last updated: July 14, 2026
4.8
(13)
89
hikers
7.26km
01:49
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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16
hikers
3.60km
00:54
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
3.73km
00:56
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Lovely woodland, nice spot for a stroll.
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Off-road parking, could easily fit 10-12 or so cars in here.
2
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Smaller parking area, with space for around half a dozen cars or so.
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If you follow the small woodland path around the far northern edge of the Common, just next to South Moor Field, you will be rewarded with a stroll through a fabulous Silver Birch wood, and a huge number of mature Oak trees. This is a little off the beaten track through the centre of the Common, but the paths are easily navigable and not overgrown (even in Summer).
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Remnants of RAF Riccall are clearly visible around this loop. The base has a rich history and served as a heavy bomber (Handley Page Halifax) operational conversion unit during the Second World War. Three runways were constructed to form an "A" shape, which allegedly had to be rebuilt after they started to subside and sink into the soft ground. The entire common is riddled with patches of concrete and asphalt that represent the remains of the taxiways and flight pan.
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Northwest section of the Common is known as Danes Hills, so named because it is believed that this is where the where the Viking army buried their dead after their defeat at the Battle of Stamford Bridge. If you are lucky, you may see some long-horn cattle roaming around. Not sure which farm they belong to, but there are signs warning dog-walkers that cattle are roaming, so they haven't strayed here by accident.
2
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Off-road parking for at least a dozen cars, easily accessible from the A19 next to Riccall.
2
0
Skipwith offers a good selection of easy hiking trails, with over 15 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are 18 hiking routes available in the area, catering to various preferences.
The easy hikes around Skipwith primarily feature gentle terrain with minimal elevation changes. You'll explore a diverse landscape characterized by lowland heath, woodlands, and wetlands, particularly within the Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve. The paths are generally well-maintained, making them suitable for leisurely walks.
Yes, Skipwith is an excellent destination for family-friendly walks due to its gentle terrain and varied natural environment. The Danes Hills, Skipwith Common – Log Pile by the Path loop from Riccall is a shorter, easy 2.0-mile (3.2 km) path that's ideal for families. Additionally, the Trans Pennine Trail: Selby to York Cycle Path offers a safe, traffic-free option suitable for walks with children.
Many of the trails in Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the diverse habitats with your canine companion. However, as it's a nature reserve with sensitive wildlife and grazing animals, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, preferably on a lead, especially near livestock or ground-nesting birds. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
Yes, many of the easy trails in Skipwith are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For example, the The Natterjack loop from Skipwith is an easy 3.7 km (2.3 miles) circular hike that takes you through the common's varied landscapes.
The easy trails around Skipwith offer a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. You can explore the diverse habitats of Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve, including heathland, woodlands, and wetlands. Look out for remnants of RAF Riccall, an old airfield from World War II, and ancient burial mounds around the 'Dnees Hills' area. The RAF Riccall Bomber Memorial at Skipwith Common is a notable landmark.
There are designated parking areas available for visitors to Skipwith Common. The main car park is typically located near the entrance to the National Nature Reserve, providing convenient access to many of the easy hiking trails. Specific parking details can often be found on local signage or online maps for the common.
While Skipwith is a rural area, some public transport options may serve nearby villages. However, direct access to Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve by public transport can be limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for routes connecting to Skipwith village or nearby towns like Riccall, from where you might have a short walk to the common.
Skipwith offers enjoyable hiking experiences year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and active wildlife, while summer provides longer daylight hours for exploration. Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, and even in winter, the common offers peaceful, crisp walks, though paths can be muddy. Always check weather conditions before heading out.
Yes, the village of Skipwith itself, located adjacent to the common, has local amenities including a pub where you can find refreshments after your hike. For more options, nearby villages and towns offer a wider selection of cafes and pubs, perfect for a post-walk meal or drink.
The easy trails in Skipwith are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 160 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, diverse habitats, and the peaceful atmosphere of Skipwith Common. Many appreciate the well-marked paths and the opportunity to see local wildlife.
Absolutely. If you're looking for a shorter, easy walk, the Longhorn Cattle – Optical Society loop from Skipwith is a great option. It's a 2.2-mile (3.6 km) trail that can typically be completed in under an hour, offering a pleasant stroll through the open areas of Skipwith Common.
For easy hikes in Skipwith, comfortable walking shoes or boots are recommended, as paths can be uneven or muddy, especially after rain. In winter, layers are essential to stay warm, along with waterproof outer layers. A hat, gloves, and sturdy, waterproof footwear will enhance your comfort during colder months. Always check the weather forecast before your visit.


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