10 Scenic Routes To Explore On A Yorkshire England Map

In the heart of Northern England lies Yorkshire, a treasure trove of scenic beauty, history, and adventure. Known for its picturesque landscapes, this county is a paradise for those who love to explore the great outdoors. Whether you're an avid hiker, a casual tourist, or someone seeking tranquility amidst nature, Yorkshire has a route for everyone. Here are ten scenic routes that you must explore on your Yorkshire map:

1. The Yorkshire Dales

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The Yorkshire Dales National Park spans nearly 680 square miles, offering some of the most breathtaking views in the UK.

• Route: Start from Grassington to Pateley Bridge or take a loop around Malham Cove, Gordale Scar, and Janet's Foss.
• Highlights: Malham Cove, a stunning limestone cliff, and the quaint villages with traditional stone houses.

🌳 Note: The Dales are dotted with innumerable walking trails, but don't miss out on exploring hidden gems like the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail.

2. The North Yorkshire Moors Railway

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A journey through time and scenery, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway is more than just a means of transport.

• Route: Travel from Pickering to Whitby, passing through Goathland (famous as 'Hogsmeade Station' from Harry Potter).
• Highlights: Rolling moors, historic stations, and the dramatic coastal cliff landscapes as you near Whitby.

🚂 Note: This route also makes a charming drive, with plenty of spots to stop for photo opportunities and tea rooms.

3. The Pennine Way

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The Pennine Way stretches over 268 miles, but there are beautiful sections within Yorkshire alone worth exploring.

• Route: Start at Edale and walk towards Keld or take a shorter loop within the Yorkshire Dales.
• Highlights: The serene solitude of the moors, incredible views from the peaks, and encounters with local wildlife.

👣 Note: The Pennine Way is tough but deeply rewarding; ensure to equip yourself with proper hiking gear.

4. Hadrian’s Wall Path

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Although not entirely within Yorkshire, the Yorkshire part of Hadrian's Wall offers some of the best preserved sections.

• Route: From Walltown Crags to Bowness-on-Solway, Yorkshire sections provide rich historical sites and beautiful landscapes.
• Highlights: Roman milecastles, sweeping views over rolling hills, and the atmospheric Roman remains.

🏛️ Note: The route is quite rugged; good walking boots are a must for navigating the often uneven ground.

5. Cleveland Way

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A gem in the North York Moors National Park, this path takes you through heather moors, coastal cliffs, and pastoral villages.

• Route: Helmsley to Filey via Whitby, creating a loop back to Helmsley.
• Highlights: The moorland to cliff edge transitions, particularly breathtaking at Roseberry Topping.

🐑 Note: This trail can get very muddy in parts; water-resistant boots are recommended.

6. The Wold's Way

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This lesser-known path offers an intimate encounter with the quieter, more secluded parts of Yorkshire.

• Route: From Hessle Haven to Filey Brigg, through the scenic Wolds.
• Highlights: Chalky hills, historic villages like Thixendale, and panoramic views of rural Yorkshire.

🌾 Note: Less trodden than other trails, making it perfect for those seeking solitude.

7. Brontë Country

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A must for literature enthusiasts, this area inspired the settings for many of the Brontë sisters' works.

• Route: From Haworth to Top Withens, considered to be the inspiration for the Earnshaw family home in Wuthering Heights.
• Highlights: The rugged moorlands, the Parsonage Museum, and the serene beauty of Penistone Hill.

📘 Note: The trail can be windy and changeable; pack layers to adjust to the weather.

8. The White Rose Way

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This long-distance footpath offers a mix of scenery from urban to rural Yorkshire.

• Route: Start in Leeds and head towards Scarborough, passing through various landscapes.
• Highlights: The transition from city to countryside, with stops at charming villages and scenic views.

🌹 Note: Good signage makes this route easy to follow, but maps are still advisable.

9. The Howgill Fells

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These fells provide an escape into the wild, less-trodden beauty of Yorkshire.

• Route: Circular walk around Cautley Spout, the highest cascade in England, and along the fells.
• Highlights: Dramatic rolling hills, excellent solitude, and the chance to spot rare bird species.

🐦 Note: Dress for all weather conditions, as the weather can change quickly.

10. Nidderdale Way

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Nidderdale Way circles around the charming Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

• Route: Start and end at Pateley Bridge, exploring Lofthouse and the upper Nidderdale.
• Highlights: Walking through lush valleys, past reservoirs, and into the heart of Yorkshire's quiet countryside.

🌊 Note: The trail can be combined with a visit to nearby attractions like Brimham Rocks.

By exploring these scenic routes, you'll find that Yorkshire's beauty is not just in its sweeping landscapes but in the myriad of experiences and tales etched into its terrain. Each route provides a unique perspective on the region's rich tapestry of history, nature, and folklore. So, pack your walking gear, grab your map, and step into the vibrant Yorkshire outdoors where every path tells a story, and every view promises a memory.

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How long does it take to complete the Yorkshire Dales National Park route?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>The duration varies depending on the route; a full circuit around Malham Cove could take a day, whereas longer loops might require 2-3 days.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Are there accommodations along the North Yorkshire Moors Railway?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, many charming inns, B&Bs, and guesthouses are scattered along the route, providing excellent stopovers.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Is the Pennine Way suitable for beginners?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>While the Pennine Way is challenging due to its length and terrain, some shorter sections within Yorkshire are suitable for beginners if approached with caution.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>