The best walks and hikes around Crayke
4.5
(296)
1,751
hikers
124
hikes
Hikes around Crayke explore the rolling countryside on the edge of the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The landscape is a mix of well-wooded hills, arable fields, and pastoral land. Many routes feature historical landmarks and pass near serene bodies of water like the Oulston Reservoir.
Best hiking trails around Crayke
- The most popular hiking route is St Cuthbert's Church and Oulston Reservoir loop from Crayke Plant Nursery and Café — Howardian Hills, a 8.3 mile (13.3…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
4.3
(11)
40
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.5
(2)
11
hikers
5.22km
01:24
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.2
(5)
17
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
You can also get a different view of the reservoir if you approach along the footpath from east of Pond Head Farm .
1
0
Very small sleepy hamlet dominated by the village green and mature trees, one of which is encircled by a wooden bench around the base of its trunk - ideal place for a quick pit stop.
1
0
This church is stunning, and my online research attests to "just needs a bride and groom". The church dates from around 1490s, and is likely to have been built on the site of a previous Anglo-Saxon church. It was restored in the 19th century. Inside, there are a number of historical wonders: a 15th century font and a 16th century pulpit. A fantastic place to see, and has that sense of Christendom that I like. "A proper church", if you ask me.
1
0
There is a plant nursery with a nice café here at Mill House; it's a great place to stop by and relax those weary legs of yours for a few minutes. This is sometimes called Dutch House; after the Dutch horticulturalist Sjaak Kastelijn, who works at the nursery here.
1
0
A very striking and short passage here between these two tall hedges. When I was here, it was quite windy and the tall plants were swaying - it was quite poetic! A very unusual place, this - grassy underfoot, and the very tall hedges keep you completely secluded from the rest of the world.
1
0
The actual access to the reservoir is prohibited (a locked gate), so this is the closest and best you can get to. It's lovely place to stay at - very peaceful. Because it's inaccessible to the public, it also seems wild and serene. A great place to look at.
1
0
Crayke is a small village with a great vantage point over the Vale Of York. Climbing up here beings great views to the south and it a little taster of the Howardian Hills to the north and east. Crake has its own castle which is a grade I listed building. It is privately owned and on the site of a Norman Motte and Bailey Castle. It is believed there has been a fortress on this high position since the Roman times. Crayke Castle is not the only interesting building though, this small village has 28 grade II listed buildings. The local pub, the Durham Ox is 300 years old and is beautiful inside with flagstone floors and ornately carved oak panelling.
0
0
More Information
FAQs about hiking around Crayke
-
What is the difficulty of hiking trails around Crayke?
Hiking trails around Crayke range from easy to moderate. You'll find options suitable for various fitness levels, from leisurely strolls to more challenging routes requiring good fitness. -
Are there family-friendly or easy trails in Crayke?
Yes, Crayke offers several easy and family-friendly trails. A great example is the Crayke Castle – St Cuthbert's Church loop from Crayke, which is an easy 5.44 km route perfect for a relaxed outing. -
What kind of scenery can hikers expect around Crayke?
Hikers in Crayke can expect a blend of rural charm and historical interest. Trails often feature picturesque countryside views, winding around sites like St Cuthbert's Church and Crayke Castle, and offering glimpses of Oulston Reservoir. -
What are some popular hiking routes in Crayke?
Among the most popular routes are the St Cuthbert's Church and Oulston Reservoir loop from Crayke Plant Nursery and Café — Howardian Hills, and the View of Oulston Reservoir – Crayke Castle loop from Easingwold. -
How long do hiking routes typically take in Crayke?
Hikes in Crayke vary in length. Shorter trails like the Crayke Castle – St Cuthbert's Church loop can take around 1 hour 29 minutes, while longer routes such as the View of Oulston Reservoir – Crayke Castle loop may take up to 4 hours 47 minutes. -
What are the main points of interest to see while hiking around Crayke?
Key points of interest include the historic Crayke Castle, the charming St Cuthbert's Church, the tranquil Oulston Reservoir, and the scenic landscapes within the Howardian Hills AONB. -
Is Crayke a good destination for hiking overall?
With an average community rating of 4.4 out of 5 from hundreds of hikers, Crayke is highly regarded as an excellent hiking destination offering diverse trails for all abilities. -
What types of terrain will I encounter on hikes in Crayke?
You'll encounter a mix of terrain, including natural paths, asphalt, paved sections, and gravel. Many routes also feature footpaths and minor roads, ensuring varied surfaces throughout your hike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks around Crayke?
Yes, the area offers several easier options suitable for families. For a short and engaging walk with historical points of interest, consider the Crayke Castle – St Cuthbert's Church loop from Crayke. It's a gentle 5.4 km (3.4 mi) walk that is perfect for a family outing.
What are the typical circular walks like around Crayke?
Circular walks around Crayke are characterized by rolling hills and paths through farmland and woods. They range from easy to moderate difficulty. A good example of a moderate circular route is the St Cuthbert's Church – View of Crayke loop from Crayke, which is about 11 km (6.8 mi) and offers a great overview of the landscape.
Are the hiking routes around Crayke suitable for dogs?
Many of the footpaths around Crayke are suitable for dogs, but they often cross fields with livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead. Always check for local signage. After your walk, you can look for dog-friendly pubs in the surrounding villages.
Where can I find parking for walks starting in Crayke?
Parking in Crayke village is limited, with most options being on-street. Please park considerately, respecting local residents and ensuring access is not blocked. Some routes may start from nearby villages or designated car parks like those in Yearsley Woods, which is a popular starting point for many local trails.
What are some key points of interest I might see on a walk?
The walks around Crayke are rich in history and natural beauty. Key landmarks include the 15th-century Crayke Castle, which is visible from many trails, and the historic St. Cuthbert's Church. Many routes also offer scenic views of the serene Oulston Reservoir and the wider Howardian Hills.
I'm a beginner. Are there easy walks for me in Crayke?
Absolutely. The region has over 50 easy-rated walks. These routes typically follow well-defined public footpaths with gentle inclines, making them perfect for beginners. They allow you to enjoy the beautiful countryside without tackling strenuous terrain.
Are there any pubs or cafes on the walking routes?
While many trails are rural, some routes start or finish in villages like Crayke or Easingwold where you can find traditional pubs and cafes. For example, the St Cuthbert's Church and Oulston Reservoir loop conveniently starts from the Crayke Plant Nursery and Café.
What is the hiking like in the Howardian Hills AONB?
Hiking in the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty involves exploring a unique landscape of rolling, well-wooded hills, lush valleys, and picturesque villages. The area is crisscrossed with public footpaths and long-distance trails like the Centenary Way, offering varied and scenic walking experiences.
Is there a walking route between Crayke and Easingwold?
Yes, there are footpaths connecting Crayke and the nearby market town of Easingwold. The View of Oulston Reservoir – Crayke Castle loop from Easingwold is a longer, 18 km (11.2 mi) hike that incorporates both locations and showcases the beautiful countryside between them.
How many hiking trails are there around Crayke?
There are over 130 hiking routes to explore around Crayke. These range from short, easy strolls to more challenging moderate treks, ensuring there's a trail for every ability level.
What do other hikers say about the routes in Crayke?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the beautiful views across the Howardian Hills, and the mix of historical landmarks and natural scenery on the trails.
Are there any long-distance hiking options from Crayke?
Yes, the area is crossed by a portion of the Foss Walk, a 28-mile (45 km) long-distance path that runs from York to Easingwold. You can join a section of this trail for an extended hike with expansive views across the Vales of York and Mowbray.
Most popular attractions around Crayke
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
