The best walks and hikes around Norton-Le-Clay
4.5
(200)
1,890
hikers
99
hikes
Hiking trails near Norton-le-Clay explore the gentle, rolling countryside of North Yorkshire. The area is characterized by its network of public footpaths that cross farmland and follow the banks of the River Ure and Ripon Canal. Most routes in the immediate vicinity are relatively flat, making them accessible for a wide range of fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Norton-le-Clay
- The most popular hiking route is The River Ure & Aldborough loop from Boroughbridge, a 3.7 mile (5.9 km)…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.6
(17)
138
hikers
5.89km
01:31
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.2
(6)
29
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(8)
51
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
21
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
10
hikers
17.6km
04:34
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This board marks the site of the medieval ford where Thomas of Lancaster attempted to break through the Royalist line with a mounted charge. It stands beside the modern road just before the footpath that leads down to the south bank of the Ure — exactly where the ford once lay.
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Milby Lock is a historic working lock on the River Ure at Boroughbridge, forming the eastern end of the Milby Cut — an 18th‑century navigation channel engineered to bypass the old Boroughbridge mill weir. It remains fully operational today, is accessible by public footpath, and sits beside one of the interpretation boards for the 1322 Battle of Boroughbridge.
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A bridge at Myton has existed since the early 12th century, though the medieval versions repeatedly collapsed or were destroyed. By 1354, the medieval bridge had collapsed again, and for centuries the crossing was unreliable. The current iron bridge was commissioned by Henry Miles Stapylton of Myton Hall and completed in 1868. This was also the site of the Battle of Myton (1319), sometimes called “The White Battle,” a disastrous defeat for an English militia force led largely by clergy, overwhelmed by experienced Scottish raiders on 20 September 1319. It was fought in the meadows beside the River Swale at Myton‑on‑Swale, and its outcome forced Edward II to abandon his siege of Berwick.
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Forget cafe next door - here you get all you need from a quick cafe stop: fast service, hot coffee and tasty bakes
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The map is situated close to the church and shop
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The Devil's Arrows are three aligned standing stones. The standing stone alignment consists of some of the tallest standing stones in the United Kingdom. Erected during the Stone Age and distinctively grooved by millennia of rainfall, the tallest southernmost stone is 22.5 feet (6.85 m) in height, making this the second tallest menhir in the United Kingdom.
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A great place to stop for a coffee and cake or a bacon butty.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hiking terrain like around Norton-le-Clay?
The landscape is defined by gentle, rolling countryside typical of North Yorkshire. Most trails follow public footpaths across farmland or along the flat banks of the River Ure and Ripon Canal. While the immediate area is mostly easy-going, you can find more challenging, hilly terrain in the nearby Howardian Hills or North York Moors.
Are there many trails to choose from near Norton-le-Clay?
Yes, there are over 100 hiking routes in the region. These range from short, easy strolls to more demanding full-day hikes, offering plenty of options for all fitness levels.
What do other hikers think of the trails in this area?
The routes around Norton-le-Clay are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the scenic riverside paths, the quiet farmland, and the easy navigation on well-established footpaths.
Can I find any circular walks starting near Norton-le-Clay?
Absolutely. Many routes are designed as loops. For a longer, rewarding circuit, the Hiking loop from Boroughbridge offers a moderate 7.6-mile walk primarily on flat riverside and field-edge paths, making for a great day out.
Are there any family-friendly hikes in the area?
Yes, the region is well-suited for family walks. A great option is The Devil's Arrows loop from Boroughbridge. It's a short, easy walk of about 2.4 miles through open fields, perfect for little legs.
Are the trails suitable for hiking with a dog?
Most public footpaths in the area are great for walking with a dog. However, many trails cross active farmland, so you should be prepared to keep your dog on a lead, especially around livestock. Riverside paths offer good opportunities for dogs who enjoy water.
Can I combine a hike with some local history?
Definitely. The region is rich in history. The Aldborough Roman Site – St Andrew's Church, Aldborough loop from Boroughbridge is an easy walk that takes you directly past the remains of the Roman town of Isurium Brigantum.
Are there any particularly long or challenging hikes available?
For those seeking a challenge, the Ripon Canal Basin – Ripon Cathedral loop from Boroughbridge is a demanding hike of over 16 miles. It's a fantastic long-distance day out that takes in both the scenic canal and the historic city of Ripon.
How can I get to the trailheads using public transport?
Many of the popular trails start in nearby towns like Boroughbridge and Ripon, which are accessible by local bus services from surrounding areas. From there, trailheads are often within walking distance of the town centre.
Where can I find good parking to start a walk?
The larger towns that serve as gateways to the trails, such as Boroughbridge and Ripon, have public car parks. It's best to park in these designated areas and then walk to the start of your chosen route.
What are some notable natural areas to explore nearby?
The Howardian Hills National Landscape is a highly regarded area of rolling, forested countryside sprinkled with charming villages. It's a wonderful destination for finding scenic walks just a short drive from Norton-le-Clay.
What is the best time of year to hike around Norton-le-Clay?
Hiking is possible year-round. Spring and summer offer lush green landscapes and pleasant weather. Autumn provides beautiful colours, while crisp winter days can be invigorating, though some paths, especially near rivers, can become muddy after rain.
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