The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Helmsley
4.5
(2032)
13,068
hikers
40
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Helmsley are situated at the southern edge of the North York Moors National Park and within the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region features diverse landscapes, including expansive heather moors, ancient woodlands, and river valleys carved by waterways like the River Rye. Limestone geology contributes to striking valleys and wildflower meadows, while the Howardian Hills offer gentler, rolling terrain. Duncombe Park, a National Nature Reserve, provides extensive parkland and woodland paths.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Helmsley
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Fairy Staircase – Duncombe Park Mansion loop from Helmsley, a 4.5 miles (7.2 km) trail that takes 1 hour 56 minutes to complete. This easy path leads through the beautiful grounds of Duncombe Park.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Helmsley Castle & Rievaulx Abbey loop, a moderate 10.6 miles (17.1 km) path. This route combines historical sites with natural beauty, leading to the ruins of Rievaulx Abbey.
- Local hikers also love the Helmsley — Market Town – Ash Dale - Tabular Hills Walk loop from Blaiskey Bank Springs SSSI, an 8.8 miles (14.2 km) trail leading through woodlands like Ash Dale Plantation, often completed in about 3 hours 49 minutes.
- Hiking around Helmsley is defined by heather moors, ancient woodlands, and river valleys. The network offers options for different ability levels, including easy family friendly routes and more challenging paths.
- The routes in Helmsley are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1700 reviews. More than 12000 hikers have used komoot to explore Helmsley's varied terrain.
Last updated: November 6, 2026
4.5
(56)
193
hikers
17.1km
04:43
280m
280m
Embark on the Helmsley Castle & Rievaulx Abbey loop, a moderate hike through the North York Moors National Park. This 10.6-mile (17.1 km) route features varied terrain, from well-trodden paths and woodland trails to country tracks and minor road sections. You will experience gentle climbs and descents, including some steeper parts and stone steps within woodlands, as you gain 921 feet (281 metres) in elevation. The trail offers sweeping views of Helmsley town and its castle, leading you through charming bluebell woods and open fields. A highlight is the tranquil ruins of Rievaulx Abbey, nestled in a wooded valley by the River Rye, which you can explore over approximately 4 hours and 43 minutes. You will also enjoy vistas from Rievaulx Terrace, offering impressive views high above the abbey. The route provides plenty of natural beauty, including wild garlic, primroses, and other wildflowers in season.
When planning your hike, be aware that the trail passes through fields where livestock like sheep and horses may be grazing. If you are hiking with a dog, you should keep it on a lead in these sections. The outward walk often forms part of the Cleveland Way National Trail, which is well-signposted, helping you navigate the route.
This trail connects two significant English Heritage sites, allowing you to explore the 900-year history of Helmsley Castle and immerse yourself in the tranquility of Rievaulx Abbey, once a powerful Cistercian monastery. A portion of the walk follows the beginning of the Cleveland Way National Trail, a renowned long-distance route. Rievaulx Terrace, a National Trust property, offers dramatically sited views over the abbey and is known for its wildflowers and temples. The route also provides opportunities for bird watching and experiencing a range of flora.
3.2
(5)
11
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.7
(43)
169
hikers
7.43km
02:00
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.6
(33)
193
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.6
(33)
178
hikers
10.7km
02:55
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
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Tips from the Community
The A170 is a busy road so if cycling try to minimise the distance you have to ride along it
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following on the trip there is a beautiful downhill forest path
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Duncombe Park is a 300-acre (120-hectare) country estate and one of Yorkshire’s finest historic homes. It is the current home of the Duncombe family, or Baron Feversham. The estate sits in a beautiful setting above the meandering River Rye and is noted for its woodland walks and wildlife. It has been designated a National Nature Reserve due to the rare insects and fungi that thrive in the ancient woodlands. The trails in the park itself are open to the public seven days a week, and tickets can be bought from the Birds of Prey Centre for a nominal fee of £1 at the time of writing. The house itself, however, is closed to the public but does host public events such as weddings.
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The Helmsley market as being going for 600 years and takes up most of the parking at the Market Place on Fridays.
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There has been a church in Helmsley since before the Norman conquest and the churchyard was used as a market place in Anglo-Saxon times. A church was recorded in the Domesday Book in 1086. There was much rebuilding in the 19th century between 1866 and 1869 funded by the Earl of Feversham. Many changes were made in the rebuilding, and Norman and later features were lost, including the font, which was replaced in 1868; the original medieval font is now in the church at Pockley.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Helmsley?
Helmsley offers a fantastic selection of family-friendly hiking trails. Our guide features over 40 routes, with 9 classified as easy and 25 as moderate, ensuring there's something suitable for families of all ages and abilities.
What kind of landscapes can we expect on family hikes near Helmsley?
Family hikes around Helmsley offer a diverse range of landscapes. You can explore the expansive heather moors of the North York Moors National Park, wander through ancient woodlands, or follow scenic riverside paths along the River Rye. The gentler, rolling hills of the Howardian Hills AONB also provide beautiful contrasting scenery.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, many family-friendly routes around Helmsley are circular, making them convenient for day trips. For example, the Fairy Staircase – Duncombe Park Mansion loop is an easy 4.5-mile (7.2 km) circular trail that takes you through the beautiful grounds of Duncombe Park.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions we can see on a family hike?
Helmsley's family hikes often pass by fascinating historical sites and natural features. You could explore the historic ruins of Helmsley Castle, or visit the evocative Rievaulx Abbey. For natural beauty, consider routes that offer views of The Wainstones, a distinctive rocky outcrop, or the tranquil Gormire Lake.
Are the family-friendly trails around Helmsley suitable for dogs?
Many trails in the Helmsley area are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through livestock fields or nature reserves. Duncombe Park, for instance, offers lovely walks where dogs are generally welcome. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Helmsley?
Spring and summer are ideal for family hikes, with wildflowers blooming and warmer weather. Autumn offers stunning foliage, particularly in the woodlands. Even in winter, many trails are accessible, though conditions can be muddy, so appropriate footwear is essential.
Are there any easy routes with good viewpoints?
Absolutely! While many routes offer views, the dramatic escarpment of Sutton Bank, just eight miles west of Helmsley, provides far-reaching views across the Vales of York and Mowbray. You can find easier trails in the vicinity that still offer these spectacular vistas.
Where can we find parking for family hikes in Helmsley?
Helmsley has several public car parks, making it a convenient starting point for many trails. Specific routes may also have smaller parking areas nearby. Always check the route details on komoot for recommended parking spots.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family-friendly hiking in Helmsley?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse scenery, the well-maintained paths, and the combination of natural beauty with historical attractions like Helmsley Castle and Rievaulx Abbey, making it perfect for family outings.
Are there any cafes or facilities along the family hiking routes?
Helmsley itself offers a good selection of cafes, pubs, and shops for refreshments before or after your hike. Some longer routes, like the Helmsley Castle & Rievaulx Abbey loop, pass by villages or attractions where you might find facilities. It's always a good idea to pack snacks and drinks, especially for younger hikers.
Can we spot any wildlife on family hikes around Helmsley?
The diverse landscapes around Helmsley are home to a variety of wildlife. In Duncombe Park, you might spot diverse bird species and ancient trees. The woodlands and river valleys are rich in biodiversity, offering opportunities to see local birds, insects, and sometimes even deer, especially during quieter times of day.
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