The best walks and hikes around Burley
4.5
(737)
6,198
hikers
57
hikes
Hiking around Burley offers a diverse landscape, characterized by open moorland, rolling hills, and winding valley paths. The region features notable natural landmarks such as Ilkley Moor, known for its gritstone outcrops and ancient stone circles. Trails often traverse varied terrain, including both elevated sections with expansive views and more sheltered routes through valleys. This area provides a range of hiking experiences across its distinct geographical features.
Best hiking trails around Burley
- The most popular hiking route is The Tarn,…
Last updated: April 27, 2026
4.8
(49)
181
hikers
9.49km
02:55
330m
330m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
26
hikers
18.0km
05:12
450m
450m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(6)
48
hikers
8.01km
02:18
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(7)
63
hikers
6.53km
01:53
170m
170m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
25
hikers
5.73km
01:32
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Burley
Tips from the Community
Part of the newly formed Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve. The very top of what most people would refer to as Ilkley Moor. Some say this is where the ducks play football as per the Yorkshire Anthem ‘On Ilkla Moor Baht At’. There is also a theory that Rombald was a giant and the nearby cow and calf rocks were as a result of the giant throwing rocks around! Then to get more weird there apparently a UFO sighting up here too so be warned. Stay safe.
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There are six stones positioned across the south Pennines that can be visited on a 50 mile walk starting in Marsden and a ding in Ilkley. Three of the stones are on Ilkley moor. On this occasion as there has been a dry spell there was no puddle to accompany the poem but in winter I would imagine these stones could be under water and easily missed.
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This stone seat offers some good views and mentions about a stone trail
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A nice little stone circle on top of Ilkley moor
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Definitely worth a hike up to, has a cafe there and offers some great views
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It can be very windy up there but the views are great 👍
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God is not only a theme in theological books; many other authors also repeatedly address him in secular literature. Giovanni Guareschi, with his "invention" of Don Camillo, who converses with the crucified Christ at the high altar, is a very prominent example of this. Even in many crime novels, monks or priests are woven into the plots and naturally bring a spiritual perspective on God and humanity. This is also the case several times in the crime series about the "Healer of Canterbury," published under the pseudonym Celia L. Grace, which the author has set in 15th-century England. In one of these stories, titled "The Poisoners' Feast," Father Clement (the local priest of a village plagued by a series of murders) speaks generally about his parishioners: "May the Lord have mercy on us all. They are good people, they are generous, they attend Mass, they try to live good lives, it's just..." he peered into the darkness. "It's as if things go wrong because they go wrong, Mistress. That's what Augustine said, wasn't it? We want God, we pursue what is good, but we are never in balance with ourselves, not with our neighbors, not with the world, and not with God." (Celia L. Grace, "The Poisoners' Feast") Perhaps a brief rest before this small sacred monument offers those lingering here the opportunity to regain a little more balance with themselves, with their neighbors and the rest of the world, but above all with God—the Lord of heaven and earth.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Burley?
There are over 50 hiking routes around Burley, offering a diverse range of experiences across open moorland, rolling hills, and winding valley paths. These include options for various ability levels, from easy strolls to more challenging, longer trails.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Burley?
Hikes around Burley feature varied terrain, including open moorland, gritstone outcrops, and sheltered valley routes. You'll find both elevated sections with expansive views and paths winding through wooded areas and alongside streams. Notable features include the iconic Ilkley Moor.
Are there any easy hikes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Burley offers several easy routes. For example, the Cow and Calf Rocks – Ilkley Moor Stone Circle loop from Twelve Apostles is an easy 6.5 km trail. Another gentle option is the Cock Pit Farm Tea Rooms – The Coffee Pot Café loop from Askwith, which is about 5.8 km.
What are some popular landmarks or natural features to see while hiking?
Hikers often enjoy the iconic Ilkley Moor Stone Circle, which is featured on several routes. Other notable natural features include the gritstone outcrops like the Cow and Calf Rocks. You can also explore areas like The Tarn, Ilkley Moor, a picturesque viewpoint.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the area?
Yes, many routes around Burley are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Popular circular options include The Tarn, Ilkley Moor – Ilkley Moor Stone Circle loop from Ben Rhydding and the Winding Valley Path loop from Burley-in-Wharfedale.
Can I find hikes that pass by waterfalls or lakes?
Absolutely. The area around Burley features several beautiful waterfalls and lakes. You can explore highlights like Goit Stock Falls or Heber's Ghyll Wooden Bridges and Waterfalls. For lakes, consider routes near Fewston Reservoir Circular Path or Lindley Wood Reservoir.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Burley?
Hiking in Burley is enjoyable throughout the year, but each season offers a different experience. Spring brings wildflowers to the moorland, summer provides longer daylight hours, autumn showcases vibrant foliage, and winter can offer crisp, scenic walks, though conditions on the moor can be more challenging.
Are the hiking trails around Burley dog-friendly?
Many trails around Burley are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially when crossing farmland or during ground-nesting bird seasons on the moor, to protect wildlife and livestock.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Burley?
The trails in Burley are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 700 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscape, from open moorland to sheltered valleys, and the well-marked paths that lead to iconic landmarks like the Ilkley Moor Stone Circle.
Are there any challenging long-distance hikes available?
Yes, for those seeking a more challenging experience, there are longer and more difficult routes. An example is the Cowper's Cross – Ilkley Moor Stone Circle loop from Burley-in-Wharfedale, an 18 km path with significant elevation gain, offering panoramic views across the moorland.
Is public transport available to reach trailheads in Burley?
Burley-in-Wharfedale has train and bus connections, which can provide access to various starting points for hikes. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for specific routes and trailhead accessibility, as some more remote starting points may require private transport.
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