The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Clapham Cum Newby

Embark on a challenging hike around Ingleborough, starting from the charming village of Clapham. This difficult 10.3-mile (16.6 km) loop takes you through varied landscapes, from pleasant woodlands and the meandering Clapham Beck to the dramatic limestone gorge of Trow Gill. You will ascend a significant 1834 feet (559 metres) to the broad summit plateau, a journey that typically takes around 5 hours and 5 minutes to complete.

When planning your visit, remember that parking is available in Clapham, making it a convenient starting point for this popular route. The initial descent from Ingleborough's summit can be rough, especially if steps are wet, so consider bringing hiking poles for added stability. Always check local weather conditions before you set out, particularly for the exposed sections of the trail.

This route offers a unique opportunity to experience the geological wonders of the Yorkshire Dales. As you climb, you will encounter striking formations like Gaping Gill, where Fell Beck disappears into the earth. The panoramic views from Ingleborough's summit are a highlight, stretching across the Dales and, on clear days, even reaching the distant Lakeland Fells, showcasing the region's natural beauty.

Embark on the Ingleborough from Clapham loop, a moderate hike covering 9.4 miles (15.1 km) with an elevation gain of 1841 feet (561 metres). This scenic route typically takes around 4 hours and 43 minutes to complete, offering a rewarding experience in the Yorkshire Dales. You'll begin on a flat path through the Ingleborough Estate Nature Trail, passing Clapham Beck and serene waterfalls. The terrain soon becomes more varied, leading you through the dramatic limestone gorge of Trow Gill, where you might encounter a short, easy scramble. As you ascend towards Ingleborough, the path turns rocky with stone steps, eventually opening up to the mountain's broad, flat summit plateau. The descent offers a mix of grassy trails and impressive limestone pavements, showcasing the diverse landscape of the Dales.

To plan your visit, be aware that the trail requires good fitness and sure-footedness, especially on the undulating and rocky sections. While the initial path is even, the ascent involves eroded sections and stone steps. Navigation on the summit plateau can be difficult in poor visibility, so carrying a compass is strongly recommended as paths may not be obvious. The limestone can also be slippery, particularly when wet, so appropriate footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.

This route is celebrated as one of the best ascents of Ingleborough, the second-highest mountain in the Yorkshire Dales, and is a popular choice for those tackling the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge. The trail is a geological marvel, showcasing diverse limestone formations like dramatic gorges, extensive pavements, and impressive scars. You'll also encounter historical elements, including the remnants of an Iron Age hill fort on the summit, adding a rich layer of context to your journey through this varied landscape.