The best walks and hikes around Arkendale

There are over 230 hiking routes to explore around Arkendale. The trails range from easy, family-friendly strolls to more challenging day hikes, with the majority being easy or moderate.

Yes, circular walks are very popular here. A great option is the Knaresborough Viaduct – Knaresborough War Memorial loop from The Pastures. This moderate 8.4 km walk offers excellent views of the iconic viaduct and follows paths along the River Nidd.

For an easy walk that's great for all ages, consider the Bird Hide – Staveley Nature Reserve loop from Staveley. It's a short, flat 4.8 km trail around the reserve's lakes, perfect for spotting wildlife without too much effort.

Many trails in the Arkendale area are suitable for dogs, especially the paths through Nidd Gorge and along the River Ure. However, always be prepared to keep your dog on a lead, particularly when crossing fields with livestock or in nature reserves during bird nesting season.

The area is well-suited for pub walks. The village of Arkendale itself has the Blue Bell Inn, which can serve as a starting or ending point for local rambles. Many routes pass through or near villages with traditional pubs, allowing you to easily combine a good hike with refreshments.

The trails within Staveley Nature Reserve are generally very accessible. For example, the Staveley Nature Reserve – Bird Hide loop from Staveley is a moderate 9.9 km route on mainly flat paths that circle the reserve's lakes, making it suitable for most fitness levels.

For impressive views, head towards Knaresborough. The walk to Saint Robert's Cave – Knaresborough Viaduct loop from The Pastures provides fantastic photo opportunities of the Knaresborough Viaduct spanning the River Nidd.

Yes, the region is rich in history. You can explore the ruins of Fountains Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or visit the unique rock formations at Brimham Rocks. A walk near Knaresborough can also take you past Saint Robert's Cave, a medieval hermit's home carved into the cliffside.

The hiking routes around Arkendale are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the scenic riverside paths along the Nidd and the well-maintained trails in the nature reserves.

For a quieter experience, explore the trails within Nidd Gorge. This steep-sided valley contains several woodlands with a network of paths along the river, offering a serene escape. Another peaceful option is the Bird Hide loop from Staveley, which is a shorter and often less crowded walk through the nature reserve.

Arkendale is close to the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), which offers expansive moorlands and secluded dales. For a different experience, you could visit the Howardian Hills National Landscape, a highly-regarded forested area with rolling hills and charming villages.

For walks starting in towns like Knaresborough or near attractions like Brimham Rocks and Fountains Abbey, you will find designated pay-and-display car parks. For routes starting in smaller villages like Staveley, on-street parking is often available, but please park considerately.