Walking Into February

Be it walking, rambling or even fell running, Leeds is perfectly placed for it. You’ll find plenty of adventures right here on our doorstep, but if you’re willing to go a little further afield, you’ll be rewarded with natural wonders, stunning views and more than likely, a mighty fine pint at the end of your trek. But where should you go? We’ve got some ideas for you…

Steeton to Ilkley

Take the train to Steeton & Silsden Station for this exploration of Wharfedale and its wonderful rocky landmarks. This walk will take you past Wingate Nick, as well as the Sepulchre, Doubler, Swastika and Panorama Stones. Take in a stunning view of Airedale in one direction and Wharfedale in the other. The moderate, 7.25-mile walk should take around 3 hours, and you’ll finish in Ilkley where you can grab a bite to eat or do some shopping before you head home.

Check out the Steeton to Ilkley route.

Thirsk Circular Route

Jump on the train to Thirsk and take the short walk to the market to begin your adventure. This leisurely 3.5-mile walk will take around 2 hours and blends wonderful scenery with hidden historical gems and incredible architecture. Along the way, you’ll see stunning views of the Hambleton Hills, and the huge Parish Church St Mary’s which dates back to 1430. You’ll also have the chance to explore the World of James Herriot Museum. Your walk will lead you back to the town centre, where you can spend some time before you go home.

Check out the Thirsk Circular route.

Farndale Daffodil Walk

Spring walks don’t get much better than this. Farndale is just over an hour up the A1 from Leeds, and every year, this secluded town in the North York Moors is covered in daffodils, carpeting the meadows and river banks with such brilliant colour. It makes it one of the most picturesque places in Yorkshire come springtime, and they’ve put together a special three and a half mile walk to help you enjoy it. Along the way, you’ll be able to take in the views from Low Mill, High Mill and Bitchagreen.

Check out the Farndale Daffodil Walk route. 

Fountains Abbey

The stunning backdrop of Fountains Abbey is a wonderful place to kick off a breezy spring walk, but there’s much more to see on this five mile route around North Yorkshire. You’ll pass by the likes of Fountains Hall, Studley Royal Water Garden and the Deer Park. It’s pretty as a picture here, with snowdrops, pale yellow primroses and even wild garlic – keep an eye out for ducklings and goslings too.

Check out the Fountains Abbey Circular route.

The Lonely Howgills

If you want a nice, long 10 mile walk through the Yorkshire Dales that offers brilliant views without pushing you too hard, head up to The Lonely Howgills, on the boundary of North Yorkshire and Cumbria. Reminiscent of walks in the Lake District, it’s an underrated space that offers beautiful landscapes, particularly as you look across the Eden Valley and along the River Rawthey. The highlight here is Cautley Spout, England’s highest above-ground waterfall.

Check out the route around The Lonely Howgills.