The best walks and hikes around Broughton

This guide focuses on hiking in and around the village of Broughton in North Yorkshire, England, within the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It does not cover other locations named Broughton, such as those in Ohio, USA, or other parts of the UK.

Yes, the area is very welcoming for beginners and families. There are over 90 easy routes to choose from. A great option is the Broughton Lane Path – Woodland Trail Fork loop from Broughton, which is a gentle circular walk of about 4.3 km through pleasant woodlands.

Most trails in the Howardian Hills are dog-friendly, but it's essential to keep your dog under control, especially near livestock. The region features many paths through open fields and woodlands where a well-behaved dog can enjoy the walk. Always check for local signage regarding leads.

Hikes around Broughton showcase the classic landscape of the Howardian Hills AONB. You can expect to walk through a mix of ancient woodlands, across rolling open fields with wide-ranging views, and along quiet country lanes. The terrain is defined by its gentle, undulating hills rather than steep mountains.

Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous day out, there are several longer and more challenging routes. For example, the Church of St Michael's and All Angels' and Sheep Walk loop from Swinton is a demanding 20.4 km hike that takes over 5 hours, offering a thorough exploration of the countryside.

There is a wide variety of options, with nearly 180 different hiking routes available around Broughton. These range from short, easy strolls to challenging all-day treks, ensuring there's a trail for every fitness level and preference.

The trails in this region are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful atmosphere of the woodlands, and the beautiful rural scenery.

Many routes in the area pass through or near villages like Broughton, Swinton, and Malton, which have traditional pubs perfect for a post-hike meal or drink. Planning a circular route that starts and ends in one of these villages is a great way to ensure you can visit a pub.

You can hike in Broughton year-round, but late spring and summer are particularly beautiful when the woodlands are lush and the fields are green. Autumn offers stunning colours in the trees, while winter provides crisp, quiet walks, though paths can be muddy.

For routes starting in villages like Broughton or nearby Malton, there is typically on-street parking available, but please park considerately. Some popular trailheads or nature reserves may have small, dedicated car parks. It's always best to arrive early on weekends to secure a spot.

The larger nearby town of Malton has a train station and is a good hub for accessing the Howardian Hills. From Malton, local bus services can take you closer to trailheads and surrounding villages, though services can be infrequent. It's advisable to check timetables in advance.

Absolutely. The area is perfect for shorter loops. For a very accessible and pleasant walk, consider the Woodland Trail Fork loop from Malton. It's only 3.6 km and provides a lovely taste of the local woodland scenery without a major time commitment.