15 Best Walks in East Yorkshire (Hikes & Nice Walks)

15 Best Walks in East Yorkshire (Hikes & Nice Walks)

By will

Are you looking for the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life?

Then look no further than East Yorkshire!

This beautiful area of England has some of the best walks in the country, with miles of scenic trails just waiting to be explored.

Whether you’re a keen hiker or a more leisurely walker, you’ll find something to suit your tastes among these 15 best walks in East Yorkshire.

1. Yorkshire Wolds Way

Yorkshire Wolds Way in Stocking Dale
Photo by Martin Dawes

For those seeking a great hike in East Yorkshire, the Yorkshire Wolds Way is hard to beat.

This 79-mile National Trail stretches from Hessle near Hull to Filey on the coast, taking in some of England’s most picturesque countryside.

It passes through rolling chalk hills and lush valleys, with spectacular views out over the North Sea to the east.

The trail is well-signposted and easy to follow, so you can plan your walks according to how far you want to go each day.

There are plenty of quaint villages and market towns along the way, providing plenty of opportunities for refreshment and rest stops.

So why not gather your friends or family and set off on your own journey through this beautiful part of England?

2. Spout Hill

Spout Hill
Photo by N Chadwick

Spout Hill is a popular destination for hikers in East Yorkshire.

It’s a great spot to get some fresh air and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The route begins at the village of Scalby, nestled between Scarborough and Whitby, and is a moderate three-mile walk with some steep climbs.

As you ascend, you’ll traverse through fields and woodland, see plenty of local wildlife, and even catch glimpses of the coast on a clear day.

The summit of Spout Hill provides an exceptional panorama of Scarborough Bay and the North York Moors beyond it.

On a good day, you can even make out the silhouette of the iconic Whitby Abbey in the distance.

From here, you can take your time soaking up all that nature has to offer before winding your way back down towards Scalby village.

A hike up Spout Hill is an idyllic escape from everyday life – one that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and full of appreciation for this corner of England.

Whether it’s early morning or late afternoon, there’s nothing quite like taking in this stunning scenery with family or friends as you make your way around this iconic hill walk.

3. Foggathorpe Circular

Foggathorpe platforms
Photo by DS Pugh

The Foggathorpe Circular is one of East Yorkshire’s most beautiful hikes.

Starting in the rural village of Foggathorpe, this circular route takes you on a 7-mile journey through some of the region’s most picturesque countryside.

The route winds its way through tranquil fields and woodlands, as well as over rolling hills and open moorland.

With stunning views across the Vale of York and plenty of wildlife to spot along the way, it’s an unforgettable experience for any nature lover.

As you make your way around the trail, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to pause and take in your surroundings.

Whether it’s a restful spot beside a babbling brook or atop a grassy hilltop, you’ll be able to appreciate all that nature has to offer.

For those looking for something longer than a stroll, there are also several spots where you can extend your walk with optional side tracks that lead off into the nearby woods and moorland.

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Whatever your choice, this is one of East Yorkshire’s finest routes – so why not explore it today?

4. Risby Round

The Risby Round is an excellent choice for a walk in East Yorkshire.

This circular route takes you through the rolling hills, lush forests, and vibrant meadows that comprise this diverse landscape.

The path stretches for 8 miles, so it’s perfect for anyone looking to spend a few hours exploring the area.

For those wanting to take it at a leisurely pace, there are plenty of benches and rest stops along the way.

As you wind your way through nature, you’ll have plenty of time to appreciate the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Along with its beautiful landscapes, the Risby Round offers an escape from daily life – a chance to truly connect with nature and appreciate its calming beauty.

With its varied terrain and tranquil atmosphere, this is one walk that won’t soon be forgotten!

5. Welton Wold And Dale Via Chapel Hill

Experience a beautiful countryside walk in East Yorkshire with the Welton Wold and Dale via the Chapel Hill route.

This walk takes you through a variety of stunning landscapes, from rolling hills to woodlands, and is perfect for an afternoon in nature.

Starting at Welton Wold, you’ll cross the road onto Chapel Hill before heading up the fields and into a lovely woodland.

From here, you can take in views of the Valley of York as you make your way down to the River Derwent, where there’s plenty of wildlife to spot along the way.

As you climb out of the valley, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views across East Yorkshire.

After following the river up to Burnby Hall gardens, you’ll turn back towards Welton Wold, passing through a picturesque meadow full of buttercups and wildflowers.

By now it’s time to head back down the hill and enjoy a well-deserved rest after your enjoyable day out.

Whether you’re looking for an energetic hike or just want to experience some peace and tranquility in nature, this is an ideal walk for all ages.

6. Flamborough Coastal Circuit

Following the meandering paths of Welton Wold and Dale via Chapel Hill, why not explore the breathtaking coastal circuit around Flamborough?

This charming village is packed with stunning scenery, offering spectacular views of its rugged cliffs and expansive stretches of golden beach.

The circuit takes between two and three hours to complete and is a great way to take in the beauty of this unique corner of East Yorkshire.

You’ll find yourself mesmerized by the sight of the majestic chalk cliffs towering above you, while beneath your feet stretches a carpet of soft sand leading down to the rolling waves beyond.

The serenity here is truly calming; a perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

From its picturesque harbor to its colorful fishing boats, Flamborough’s seaside charm makes it an ideal spot for an afternoon stroll.

Along your route you’ll pass through quaint villages, lush green pastures, and captivating coves where you can take in some truly breathtaking views – so don’t forget your camera!

By the time you return to your starting point, you’ll feel energized and relaxed; ready for whatever comes next.

7. Around Spurn Head

The Spurn Head National Nature Reserve is a true gem of East Yorkshire.

With its sweeping sandy beaches, the wild grassland that stretches out to the horizon, and its sprawling marshland, it’s perfect for anyone looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of life.

A visit to Spurn Point will take your breath away; whether you explore by foot, bike, or boat, there’s something for everyone to discover.

For those seeking a more leisurely experience, why not take a stroll along the beach?

The sand is soft and inviting underfoot and you can relax in the sun whilst taking in stunning views across the Humber Estuary; perfect for peaceful contemplation.

There is also plenty of interesting wildlife to be spotted at Spurn Head – keep an eye out for seabirds such as oystercatchers and terns, as well as the odd seal or two!

For those wanting something more adventurous, there are plenty of trails around the nature reserve that are great for hiking or cycling.

Whichever path you choose, it’s sure to be full of spectacular sights and sounds – a treat for any nature lover!

8. The River Hull And Tophill Low Nature Reserve

Leaving Spurn Head, we embark on our journey to explore the River Hull and Tophill Low Nature Reserve.

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The reserve is located near South Cave, East Yorkshire, and is a beautiful area of wetland that is home to a variety of wildlife.

As we follow the paths along the river, we can appreciate its peaceful atmosphere as well as the beauty of its varied habitats.

We can take in views of marshlands, riverside meadows, reed beds, and woodland as we walk along the footpaths which cross through the reserve.

We can observe birds such as kingfishers and marsh harriers along with other wildlife including otters, water voles, and dragonflies.

It’s a wonderful way to spend an afternoon surrounded by nature’s tranquility.

The River Hull and Tophill Low Nature Reserve offer us a rich variety of sights, sounds, smells, and experiences that are sure to delight any nature lover or outdoor enthusiast.

Here we can take time to enjoy the beauty of this special place while connecting with nature in an unforgettable way.

9. The Lost River

The Lost River is a unique and beautiful walk in East Yorkshire.

Meandering through the rolling landscape of the Yorkshire Wolds, the pathway follows a small, tranquil river as it winds its way through an idyllic valley overlooked by far-reaching hills.

The Lost River is a delightful and peaceful escape from everyday life, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the route.

The path takes you over footbridges, past trees and wildflowers, alongside rustling reeds and meadows full of buttercups.

As you explore further along the banks of the Lost River, you’ll find yourself slowing down to take in all the sights and sounds of nature around you.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing stroll or an invigorating hike, this trail offers something for everyone – making it one of East Yorkshire’s best walks!

10. Warter

Next up on our journey through East Yorkshire’s best walk is Warter.

Steeped in history, this village was once the site of a mighty Norman castle.

The ruins still stand tall today, making it an impressive sight to behold.

From the castle, you can explore the many beautiful footpaths that line the banks of the River Derwent.

Take a leisurely stroll alongside the river and admire its tranquil beauty as you pass by fields of wildflowers and rolling countryside.

You may even spot some of the local wildlife such as otters, kingfishers, and deer!

The views from Warter are truly breathtaking and make for a great day out exploring nature at its finest.

This route is perfect for those looking for a peaceful walk with plenty to see along the way.

Whether you choose to venture into the woods or take an easy stroll along the riverbank, Warter is sure to give you an unforgettable experience of East Yorkshire’s stunning landscape.

11. Fridaythorpe

Fridaythorpe is a delightful village nestled in the heart of East Yorkshire’s Wolds.

This picturesque spot boasts some of the most beautiful walks in the region and there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating hike, Fridaythorpe has it all.

The village itself is home to quaint cottages, stunning churches, and a variety of quaint shops that offer local wares.

It’s here that you can discover the beauty of nature while walking around the village itself.

A number of trails lead out from the village and give walkers access to enchanting woodlands, rolling hills, and breathtaking views across the Wolds.

There are also plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting; you might even catch a glimpse of an elusive deer or two!

Whatever your preference, Fridaythorpe is sure to provide a memorable experience as you explore its captivating countryside.

12. Londesborough And Nunburnholme

From the vast expanses of Fridaythorpe, we take a journey to the captivating Londesborough and Nunburnholme.

Located in the East Riding of Yorkshire, these two picturesque villages are perfect for exploring on foot.

Enjoying a hilly landscape and lovely views of both nearby towns and distant countryside, it’s an ideal destination for hikers and walkers alike.

The village green at Nunburnholme is a great starting point for your walk.

Here you will find old churches, quaint pubs, and plenty of wildlife as you make your way through this quintessentially English village.

The surrounding hills will provide some challenging climbs but also plenty of rewarding vistas of the surrounding countryside.

The woodlands around Nunburnholme are brimming with bluebells in the springtime, making it a particularly beautiful walk.

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Heading further east along the winding roads of Londesborough will lead you to more stunning views – from rolling hills to wildflower meadows – all of which can be seen while walking along its ancient pathways.

With plenty of local nature reserves and historic sites to explore, there is something here for everyone who loves the outdoors – from leisurely strolls to hardcore hikes!

A visit to Londesborough is sure to leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed after a day out in East Yorkshire’s natural beauty.

13. Pocklington Canal

The Pocklington Canal is one of East Yorkshire’s most beautiful walks, boasting stunning views and peaceful countryside paths.

It’s a great way to take some time out and relax amidst nature.

The canal runs from Beverley to Howden, spanning around 22 miles in total.

As you walk along the path, you can watch the boats pass by while admiring the picturesque landscapes on either side.

The towpath is ideal for families with younger children as it’s flat and easygoing.

There are plenty of spots for picnics and wildlife spotting, too!

Along the route, you can also pause and explore some of the nearby attractions like Bishop Wilton Church or visit some pretty little villages like North Duffield.

This delightful walk has something for everyone – whether it be a leisurely stroll or a long hike – making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to escape from their everyday life and reconnect with nature.

14. Fordon

Leaving the tranquil waters of Pocklington Canal behind, the next destination for your East Yorkshire journey is Fordon.

This small village, located on the edge of the Wolds, offers an abundance of lush green landscapes and rolling hills to explore.

You won’t want to miss a visit to Fordon Hill Nature Reserve, where you can wander along ancient paths and take in views across the countryside.

Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you trek through wildflower meadows and woodlands – it’s not unusual to spot deer or rabbits in these parts!

The reserve also boasts a huge variety of birdlife, making it a must-visit spot if you’re a keen twitcher.

For those looking for an even more immersive experience, there are plenty of challenging hikes that will take you further into the heart of nature.

Take on the 6-mile Fordon Circular Walk at your own pace and explore some stunning scenery – from woodland trails to bubbling brooks – before returning back to Fordon via a different route.

With its spectacular views and peaceful atmosphere, this is one walk you won’t forget in a hurry!

15. Beverley Clump

Set among the rolling hills of the East Riding of Yorkshire, Beverley Clump is a stunningly beautiful area to explore.

Its vast expanse of grass and woodland makes it a top spot for peaceful walks, especially in spring when its meadows are full of wildflowers.

As you wander along the footpaths here, you’ll find plenty of wildlife to observe, from hares and lapwings to woodpeckers and buzzards.

The views from Beverley Clump are also breathtaking.

From its highest points, you can see for miles on a clear day, taking in the nearby village of Beverly as well as the distant spire of North Bar Tower.

It’s no wonder that this area is included on many lists of best walks in East Yorkshire – it’s an experience that will stay with you long after your visit has ended.

Best Walks in East Yorkshire – Final Thoughts

As a traveler, I can confidently say that East Yorkshire is home to some of the most beautiful walks in the United Kingdom.

From the tranquil Foggathorpe Circular to the scenic Pocklington Canal, there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking for an adventure or a peaceful stroll through nature, East Yorkshire has it all.

The Lost River is a must-see for those who enjoy wilder hikes, while Welton Wold and Dale via Chapel Hill is ideal if you’re after a more leisurely experience.

And don’t forget about Fordon and Beverley Clump – both offer stunning views!

Overall, I’m sure you’ll agree that East Yorkshire is a great place to explore on foot.

With its diverse array of walking routes, there’s something to suit every taste – so why not give it a try? You won’t regret it!

FAQs

What are some easy walks in East Yorkshire?

Some easy walks in East Yorkshire are Risby Round, Welton Wold, and Risby Lane.

What are the best circular walks in East Yorkshire?

Some of the best circular walks in East Yorkshire are Drewton circular, Long Plantation circular, and Folly Wood circular.

What are some good family walks in East Yorkshire?

Some good family walks in East Yorkshire are Risby Round, Welton, and Long Plantation Circular

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About the author

Will is an avid hillwalker and traveler. You may find him surfing in Cornwall or hiking in the Yorkshire Dales.