The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Westerdale

Our guide features 7 family-friendly hiking trails around Westerdale. These routes are designed to be enjoyable for all ages, offering a mix of moderate and some more challenging options to suit different family preferences.

The trails around Westerdale offer a diverse landscape, from expansive moorlands with heather and peat to ancient woodlands along the River Esk. You'll encounter gentle paths, some inclines, and occasionally boggy areas, especially after rain. The region is part of the North York Moors, so expect varied and beautiful scenery.

Yes, many of the family-friendly routes in Westerdale are circular, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. For example, the Alan Clegg Memorial Cairn – Skinner Howe Cross Road loop from Westerdale is a moderate circular option that's just under 8 km, perfect for a family day out.

Westerdale is rich in natural beauty and historical points. You might spot significant natural monuments like Carlton Bank Summit Trig Point or the distinctive The Wainstones. For a historical touch, the ancient Hunters Sty Bridge over the River Esk is a notable feature. The Ana Cross also offers lovely views over the moors.

Many trails in the Westerdale area are dog-friendly, allowing your furry companions to join the adventure. However, as much of the area is moorland and farmland, it's crucial to keep dogs on a lead, especially during lambing season or when livestock is present, and to protect ground-nesting birds. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.

Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for family hikes, with blooming wildflowers and longer daylight hours. Autumn brings beautiful colours to the landscape. Even winter can be magical, though trails may be muddy or icy, requiring appropriate gear. The heather blooms spectacularly in late summer, transforming the moors into a purple carpet.

The family-friendly routes vary in length and duration. You can find shorter walks, like the Alan Clegg Memorial Cairn – Skinner Howe Cross Road loop at around 7.7 km (approx. 2 hours), to longer, more challenging options such as the Ledging Hill via Westerdale Head loop, which is about 17 km and takes around 4.5 hours. There are options to suit various energy levels.

The komoot community highly rates the trails around Westerdale, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the peaceful moorland atmosphere, and the sense of adventure these routes provide for families. Many appreciate the well-maintained paths and the opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes of the North York Moors.

Public transport options directly into Westerdale village can be limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules in advance, as services to more remote areas like Westerdale are often infrequent. Many visitors choose to arrive by car, utilizing available parking near trailheads.

Westerdale itself is a small, quiet village. While there might not be numerous cafes directly on every trailhead, the broader North York Moors area has charming pubs and cafes in nearby villages where you can find refreshments. It's always a good idea to pack snacks and drinks, especially for longer hikes, and check opening times for establishments in advance.

While some routes are challenging, you can experience significant elevations. The Rosedale East Mine Chimney – Kildale loop, for instance, involves over 445 meters of ascent, offering rewarding views. For the highest points in the wider North York Moors, you'd look towards Urra Moor, which is accessible from the region.