Inspirational North Yorkshire Moors walks you should try

The North York Moors National Park is an area of natural beauty best explored by walking or hiking. We have a great list of truly uplifting and inspirational North Yorkshire moors walks that you and your family will enjoy. The moors are easily reached by car with plenty of pay and display car parks situated at various villages in and around the national park. However, you can just as easily get a train or coach trip into the moors.

Best Walking Routes

The North Yorkshire moors are home to pine forests, beautiful rolling hills, heather moorland and plenty of wildlife, not to mention the various castles, pretty villages and hamlets you’ll find scattered throughout this charming national park. The Grosmont Circular route is a perfect place to start for beginners. At just 4.5 miles long, it is suitable for families especially those with younger children who may not want to walk too far. Taking around 3.5 hours to complete, this route will take you on a gentle walk through flower fields, woodland and across bridges over streams.

The Roseberry Topping route begins at Newton-under-Roseberry, a small village in the Redcar and Cleveland borough. This trail takes you on a 2 mile ascent to the famous Roseberry Topping hill, a popular and distinctive half-conical shaped hill with a jagged cliff edge. This route is short if a little strenuous on the way up, but you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views from the summit. There are also some great places to camp nearby.

Another fantastic route near Helmsey is the Rievaulx Terrace and Temples walk. At just 1 mile, this is a relaxing route set in a remote valley that takes you through peaceful woodland surrounded by wildlife. You’ll pass some stunning and intriguing architecture in the form of the Tuscan and Ionic temples. Of course you’ll also see the ruins of Rievaulx Abbey, once one of the wealthiest monasteries in Britain, now a stunning and tranquil attraction with beautiful grounds to wander. Begin the route at the visitor centre where you’ll find toilets and a café nearby. If you enjoy looking around beautiful old buildings, be sure to stop by the medieval Helmsey Castle. With over 900 years of history, this place is a great day out for the whole family as there are plenty of fun activities for the children. Another great attraction near to Rievaulx is the Kilburn White Horse, a huge figure cut into the hillside of Sutton Bank dating from 1857. It’s an unusual but spectacular view so take a trip to see it up close or just look out for it as you travel around the area, either way it’s certainly worth seeing!

Robin Hood’s Bay to Ravenscar is another brilliant walk. As a little longer at 7 miles long, you begin at the car park above Robin Hood’s Bay and then make your way towards the village to join the Cleveland Way. The first half of the walk is along the cliff top. The terrain here is a little uneven with a steep climb to Ravenscar but otherwise it is an easy walk with superb views of the bay. The return journey past Robin’s Bay beach is sure to leave you feeling relaxed and inspired by the stunning surroundings. Don’t forget to stop for a cuppa at one of the little cafés found at Ravenscar and nearby Boggle Hole. This is a walk not to be missed!

Other Outdoor Activities

For a little extra fun, nearby Flamingo Land is a zoo and theme park in one that the kids will love to visit after a short walk in the countryside. However, there is so much to do here, you might want to make a whole day of it! Situated off the A169 Malton to Pickering Road the park isn’t too far from Helmsey.

There are some great camping sites near Flamingo Land for you to try!

Another outdoor activity is Go Ape at Dalby Forest. The kids can burn off their energy as they zip line through the tree tops (while connected to a safety harnessed of course) and cross numerous rope bridges! You’ll find great campsites within easy reach of both of these fantastic attractions.

Equipment and Safety

When going on a walking holiday, it is a good idea to take some essential equipment to ensure everyone’s safety. Be sure to take suitable footwear that is sturdy and waterproof to withstand any type of terrain you may cross as well as plasters just in case those blisters do appear! Drink plenty of fluid as you walk. No matter what the weather is like, dehydration will rapidly put an end to what should be an enjoyable walk. Pay particular attention to young children who may tire easily. Take waterproof clothing in case it should rain and ideally where light layers of clothing so you can quickly cool down or warm up according to the weather.

The North York Moors National Park is a place of outstanding natural beauty with plenty of inspiring walking routes to suit everybody. For an ideal family camping holiday, make the moors top of your destination list!

You'll find an unmissable camping break on the North York Moors here.