The best walks and hikes around Cridling Stubbs
4.6
(268)
2,049
hikers
99
hikes
Hikes around Cridling Stubbs explore a landscape shaped by historic waterways, nature reserves, and pastoral countryside. The terrain is generally gentle, featuring paths along rivers like the Aire and canals, with some routes entering the limestone-influenced Brockadale Nature Reserve. This network of public footpaths provides a variety of walking routes near Cridling Stubbs.
Best hiking trails around Cridling Stubbs
- The most popular hiking route is Flooded River Crossing – Brockadale Nature Reserve loop from Kirk Smeaton, a 5.1 mile…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
9
hikers
3.61km
00:57
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(15)
89
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.4
(17)
89
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
20
hikers
3.37km
00:53
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
24
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A song that, originally from the American gospel tradition, has traveled the world, is a perfect fit for this church, which the parish has entrusted to the patron saint of "All Saints." "Oh when the Saints go marching in, oh when the Saints go marching in, oh Lord, I want to be in that number, oh when the Saints go marching in." Over the decades, new versions of the lyrics have been created repeatedly; the original text cannot be verified due to the early oral tradition. Many artists have taken up the gospel song and released their own interpretations, such as Bruce Springsteen with his session band at a concert in Dublin: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i6eKkirEcgE
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Impossible to continue walk as river in flood!
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Brockadale Nature Reserve, nestled in West Yorkshire, is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Its rich biodiversity includes ancient woodlands, wildflower meadows, and pristine wetlands. Please note that access and regulations may change, so it's essential to check the most recent information before visiting.
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Nicknamed the key to the north, Pontefract Castle has played a very large role in Yorkshire's history. A great place to stop and learn all about it.
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From its construction in 1070 to its destruction after the Civil Wars, this once-fearsome fortress dominated Yorkshire and beyond, earning the nickname, "Key to the North". From battles and sieges, starvation and destruction to royal infidelity and the cultivation of liquorice, you'll be surprised at what these walls have seen! 14th and 15th century outer church The outer church is of 14th and 15th century origins and is largely ruinous. Alterations were made to the ruins in 1838. The outer church is of a cruciform plan; built of Ashlar sandstone with some rendering. The ruined nave with north and south porches contains the newer structure. The ruined structure has an octagonal tower added in the 18th century. There is a heavily ruined aisled chancel with a 19th-century inserted sanctuary. The south aisle of the nave has four bays with a porch in the second. The nave has a south clerestorey with four windows of twin trefoiled lights with a continuous hoodmould. The west end of the nave is buttressed flank with a four-centred arched doorway. The North nave is as the south with a two-story porch in the second bay. The central tower has paired windows each with two trefoiled lights with a quatrefoil in the arch and hoodmoulds. The tower has a clock face in an ogee crocketed canopy
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Well worth a visit From its construction in 1070 to its destruction after the Civil Wars, this once-fearsome fortress dominated Yorkshire and beyond, earning the nickname, "Key to the North". From battles and sieges, starvation and destruction to royal infidelity and the cultivation of liquorice, you'll be surprised at what these walls have seen!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many walking routes to choose from around Cridling Stubbs?
Yes, there are over 100 hiking routes in the area. The trails range from easy strolls along canals to more moderate treks through nature reserves, so there's plenty of variety for all fitness levels.
What do other hikers enjoy about the trails near Cridling Stubbs?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the mix of landscapes, from the peaceful riverside paths along the River Aire to the woodland trails within Brockadale Nature Reserve. The well-maintained public footpaths are also frequently mentioned.
Are there any good circular walks in the area?
Absolutely. Many of the most popular routes are loops. For a scenic circular walk that starts from a different access point to the main reserve car park, consider the Flooded River Crossing – Brockadale Nature Reserve loop from Wentbridge. It offers a great way to experience the reserve's varied terrain.
Can I bring my dog on hikes around Cridling Stubbs?
Yes, many trails in the area are suitable for walking with dogs. However, in places like Brockadale Nature Reserve, you may encounter grazing livestock such as cows and horses, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead to ensure everyone's safety.
Are there any easy, family-friendly trails suitable for beginners?
Yes, there are plenty of gentle options. The area has around 40 easy-rated hikes. A great choice for a shorter, accessible walk is the Brockadale Nature Reserve loop from Kirk Smeaton, which is a relatively flat and manageable trail for families and beginners.
Where is the best place to park for a walk?
For walks in Brockadale Nature Reserve, there is a free car park off Leys Lane. It can get busy, but parking on the roadside is usually possible if the car park is full. Other trailheads will have different parking situations, often relying on local village or street parking.
What are the main natural features to see while hiking?
The landscape is defined by its waterways, like the River Aire and the Aire and Calder Navigation canal. The main natural highlight is the Brockadale Nature Reserve, a Yorkshire Wildlife Trust site known for its Magnesian Limestone geology, ancient woodland, and diverse plant life.
Are there any historic sites I can see on a walk?
Yes, some routes incorporate local history. For instance, you can find trails that lead towards the historic ruins of Pontefract Castle. Other walks might take you across historic structures like the Ferrybridge Old Bridge, offering a glimpse into the region's past.
Can I get to any trailheads using public transport?
Yes, some routes are accessible via public transport. For example, you can start hikes from towns with train stations like Pontefract, which allows you to connect urban areas with the surrounding countryside footpaths without needing a car.
What are some of the best places for hiking near Cridling Stubbs?
Several key areas offer excellent hiking opportunities:
- Brockadale Nature Reserve: A highly-rated local favourite, offering a variety of well-marked circular trails through woodland and along the river.
- The River Aire Walking trail: Provides lovely, flat walks along the river, perfect for a peaceful and scenic outing.
- Aire and Calder Navigation Walk: A beautiful and quiet walk along the canal towpath, ideal for long, gentle strolls.
Are there any challenging hikes in the Cridling Stubbs area?
The terrain around Cridling Stubbs is generally gentle to moderate. While there are a couple of routes rated as difficult, the vast majority of trails are not technically challenging. The challenge on moderate routes usually comes from the distance and some gentle inclines within the nature reserves.
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