Yorkshire walking and wheeling
Yorkshire is made for walking and wheeling, where every path tells a story and every view takes your breath away. From the rolling hills of the Dales to the rugged coastline of Whitby and Scarborough, the region offers accessible trails for all abilities.
Whether you’re wheeling along canal towpaths in Skipton, strolling through the historic streets of York, or hiking the windswept moors above Haworth, Yorkshire’s landscapes are as varied as they are unforgettable. With rail stations linking you to nature, heritage, and adventure, it’s the perfect place to explore at your own pace.
Yorkshire by water – Canal & River Trust trails to explore
Yorkshire’s waterways offer more than just scenic views, they’re a gateway to peaceful, accessible adventures thanks to the Canal & River Trust. From the lock-free stretch of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal between Gargrave and Skipton, perfect for a relaxing countryside walk, to the Leeds Dock to Thwaite Watermill route along the Aire & Calder Navigation, rich in industrial heritage and wildlife, these trails invite walkers and wheelers to unwind by water. With flat towpaths, historic landmarks, and nature at every turn, it’s a refreshing way to explore Yorkshire’s landscapes sustainably.
Guided adventures along the Settle to Carlisle Line
The Friends of the Settle to Carlisle Line offer a year-round programme of free guided walks that turn train travel into a gateway to Yorkshire and Cumbria’s most stunning landscapes. Starting and ending at stations along the iconic Leeds–Settle–Carlisle route, these walks range from gentle riverside strolls to full-day hikes across moorland and limestone country.
Ribblehead Viaduct | Settle to Carlisle Line
Highlights include the Crummackdale walk from Horton to Settle, the Kirkby Stephen circular, and the Hellifield to Settle route via Malham. With no booking required and routes designed to suit all abilities, it’s a brilliant way to explore the region’s natural beauty and heritage.
See the programme of guided walks here.
Coastal walks by rail
The Yorkshire Coast Community Rail Partnership has created a series of scenic walks that start from local railway stations, making it easy to explore the coast and countryside sustainably. Highlights include circular walks from Driffield and Scarborough, and linear trails like Bempton to Filey and Filey to Scarborough, offering everything from clifftop views to peaceful rural paths.
Step into the Penistone Line
The Penistone Line is your ticket to adventure, with over 20 walking trails that connect stations to Yorkshire’s stunning countryside, heritage sites, and welcoming villages. Start with the Castle Hill circular walk from Berry Brow, or take on the full Penistone Line Trail from Sheffield to Huddersfield. The Penistone Line Walks & Trails page offers a variety of routes for all abilities, while Denby Dale Walkers Are Welcome provides even more station-linked walks through scenic villages and rolling hills. Whether you’re after a short stroll or a full-day hike, these rail-connected trails make exploring Yorkshire easy, sustainable, and unforgettable.
Penistone Viaduct | Photo: Paul Cartright
Wander the Esk – a river walk through the Moors
The Esk Valley Walk is a stunning 35-mile trail that follows the River Esk from its source in the North York Moors to the coast at Whitby. Winding through peaceful woodlands, heather-covered moorland, and charming villages like Grosmont and Egton Bridge, the route offers a rich mix of nature and heritage. With railway stations dotted along the way connecting to the beautiful Esk Valley Railway, it’s easy to walk sections of the trail and return by train, making it perfect for both long-distance walkers and those seeking a scenic day out.
Esk Valley Railway
Please check your route before setting off for any disruptions or path closures.