The best walks and hikes around Gilling East
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Hikes around Gilling East explore the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in North Yorkshire. The landscape is characterized by rolling hills, extensive woodlands, and streams like the Holbeck. The terrain offers a mix of well-marked field paths and forest tracks, with many Gilling East circular walks starting from the village or nearby car parks like Yearsley Woods.
Best hiking trails around Gilling East
- The most popular hiking route is Higher Fish Pond and Piper Hill loop from Yearsley Woods Car Park — Howardian Hills, a 4.6 mile (7.4 km) trail that takes around 2 hours to complete. This route circles through Yearsley Woods, passing one of its fish ponds.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Lower Fish Pond and Ampleforth Abbey loop from Memorial Garden — Howardian Hills, a moderate 6.4 mile (10.3 km) path. The trail combines woodland scenery with views of Ampleforth Abbey.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Higher Fish Pond and Lower Fish Pond loop from Yearsley Woods Car Park — Howardian Hills, a 3.5 mile (5.6 km) trail leading through Yearsley Woods, often completed in about 1 hour 30 minutes.
- Hiking around Gilling East is defined by rolling hills, dense woodlands, and paths alongside fish ponds. The network of trails provides options for different ability levels, from short, easy walks to more moderate hikes.
- The routes in Gilling East are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 850 reviews. More than 5,800 hikers have used komoot to explore Gilling East's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
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Embark on the Higher Fish Pond and Piper Hill loop, a moderate hike through the picturesque North Yorkshire countryside. This 4.6-mile (7.4 km) route takes you past serene fishponds and through extensive woodlands, offering tranquil lakeside settings and views over the rolling Howardian Hills. You will encounter a varied landscape with gentle crests, valleys, and some steeply sloping escarpments, gaining about 371 feet (113 metres) in elevation. The paths are generally accessible, and the hike typically takes around 2 hours and 1 minute to complete, requiring a good level of fitness.
Your journey begins conveniently from the Yearsley Woods Car Park, which serves as the starting point for this popular loop. This car park provides direct access to the trail, making it easy to begin your adventure into the Howardian Hills. While the research doesn't specify public transport options or fees, planning to arrive by car and parking at the designated car park is the most straightforward approach. Always check local conditions before you head out, especially regarding weather, to ensure a pleasant hiking experience.
This loop is celebrated as the most popular hiking route in the Yearsley area, earning an average rating of 4.5 stars from the hiking community. Its appeal lies in the combination of peaceful woodlands, beautiful fishponds, and the quintessential rolling landscapes characteristic of the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This trail offers an excellent opportunity to experience the diverse natural beauty that defines this protected region.
4.3
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35
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10.3km
02:44
100m
110m
Embark on a moderate hiking adventure through the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with the Lower Fish Pond and Ampleforth Abbey loop. This scenic route spans 6.4 miles (10.3 km) and features an elevation gain of 340 feet (104 metres), offering a pleasant journey through light-dappled woodlands and open pastures where sheep graze. You will enjoy lovely views of the historic Ampleforth Abbey and College, and pass by the picturesque Lower Fish Pond, whose waters can appear strikingly blue on sunny days. Expect varied terrain, including some paved sections, natural trails, and uneven footpaths, making for an engaging hike that typically takes about 2 hours and 43 minutes to complete.
To begin your hike, you can find parking conveniently located near the Memorial Garden, which serves as a popular starting point for this loop. Alternatively, Ampleforth Abbey provides a visitor car park and public toilets, along with a tea room if you wish to enjoy some refreshments before or after your walk. Be prepared for potentially muddy sections along the trail, especially if there has been recent rain; bringing gaiters might be a good idea to keep your feet dry and comfortable.
This trail offers a wonderful opportunity to explore a region known for its natural beauty and historical significance. The route not only showcases the serene landscapes of the Howardian Hills but also provides a close-up experience with Ampleforth Abbey, a prominent landmark with a rich heritage. The combination of diverse scenery, from tranquil ponds to rolling hills, makes this loop a notable choice for anyone looking to connect with nature and history in a single outing.
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4.6
(5)
14
hikers
Embark on an easy hike through the picturesque Howardian Hills, exploring the Higher Fish Pond and Lower Fish Pond loop. This tranquil route covers 3.5 miles (5.6 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 354 feet (108 metres), typically taking about 1 hour and 33 minutes to complete. You will wander through extensive woodlands with tall, mature trees, experiencing varied terrain including forest paths, gravel, and some undulating sections. The highlight is the serene Lower Fish Pond, where wooden piers allow you to walk out over the water, offering lovely views and often swans. On sunny days, the water can appear strikingly blue, creating a beautiful scene.
Starting conveniently from Yearsley Woods Car Park, this easy loop is perfect for a leisurely stroll. It is suitable for all fitness levels, making it a popular choice for families and dog walkers. The trail is dog-friendly, with opportunities for your canine companion to be off-leash in designated areas. Thanks to its heavy tree cover, the route offers good shelter on rainy days, making it a viable option for hiking throughout the year. You can enjoy this peaceful escape any time of day.
This trail stands out for its accessibility and its unique blend of woodland and waterside tranquility within the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The wooden piers at the Lower Fish Pond provide a distinct viewing experience of the lake. Beyond the ponds, you can also catch lovely views of the surrounding Howardian Hills over the treetops. It is a notable example of the region's natural beauty.
1.0
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9
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8.53km
02:19
130m
130m
Embark on a moderate hike through the tranquil woodlands of the Howardian Hills AONB with the All Saints Church and Peel Wood loop from Yearsley. This 5.3-mile (8.5 km) trail, featuring 418 feet (127 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 19 minutes to complete. You will wander through extensive forests of ancient oaks, Scots Pines, and conifers, experiencing the undulating terrain characteristic of this rolling countryside. The paths are generally easily accessible, though you should be prepared for some ascents and descents, and they can be muddy after rain. Keep an eye out for serene fishponds with wooden piers, offering peaceful spots for contemplation amidst the dense tree cover.
Planning your visit to this popular loop is straightforward; the trail is well-regarded for its easily accessible paths, making it suitable for various skill levels if you have good fitness. While specific details about All Saints Church and Peel Wood directly on the loop are not widely documented, the surrounding Yearsley Woods area provides a peaceful retreat. The trail is a local favorite, often allowing dogs off-leash, making it a great option for a family-friendly adventure. Remember that forest trails can become muddy, especially after rainfall, so appropriate footwear is advisable.
This trail stands out for its blend of natural beauty and historical suggestion within the picturesque Howardian Hills AONB. The wider Yearsley Woods area hints at potential remnants of Iron Age earthworks and elements of a medieval deer park, adding a historical aura to your woodland stroll. You will find yourself immersed in a quiet and peaceful atmosphere, stepping into a different world among towering trees and vibrant foliage. The opportunity for wildlife spotting, including deer and various birds, further enhances the rewarding experience for those seeking a tranquil outdoor escape.
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2
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4.35km
01:13
80m
80m
Hike the easy 2.7-mile (4.3 km) The Scar and The Avenue Loop in Howardian Hills, featuring views from The Scar and Gilling Castle.
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Tips from the Community
Beautiful forest paths, but make sure you navigate you’re way as they all look the same.
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This is a lovely short stretch between Gilling and Ampleforth Abbey: some pastures (lots of sheep, always nice), along The Holbeck (a stream) and eventually lovely views of the Ampleforth Abbey from above before descending to the Ampleforth College and Abbey grounds. Warning! Take the second footbridge over The Holbeck. The first one appears to be on a waymarked local route, but if you cross over to the northern bank, you will come against an electrified fence in the field, and you cannot walk through that. Stay on the southern bank until you come across the second footbridge, and that is safe to follow.
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This is one fabulous place to be: a very picturesque and beautiful little lake, with little piers on its banks in a few places. The tracks and paths around it are well-managed (thus easy to run on). On a sunny day, the waters get amazingly blue colours and the scene is truly Impressionistic!
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There is a wonderful view from The Scar over the trees to the north to Wass Moor and Beacon Bank, and there is a seat provided, too.
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This is a lovely little lake in Yearsley Woods to jog your way up to. Note, all the maps I've seen show two ponds here - however, only this one remains in reality; the other one has been drained since and is essentially a marshland now.
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From The Avenue, you have a great view of Gilling Castle at its end, but I am afraid there is no access to the grounds: get as close as you can for a good view, but then retrace your steps. The Castle used to be the home of the Fairfax family, but now is a prep department for the Ampleforth College.
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There is a wonderful view from The Scar over the trees to the north to Wass Moor and Beacon Bank, and there is a seat provided, too.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many circular walks that start and end in Gilling East?
Yes, the area is well-suited for circular hikes. Many routes begin directly from the village or nearby starting points like Yearsley Woods. These trails allow you to explore the rolling countryside of the Howardian Hills and return to your starting point without needing to retrace your steps.
Where can I find family-friendly walks around Gilling East?
For a shorter, accessible walk that's great for families, consider the The Scar and The Avenue loop from Park House. It's a relatively short and easy trail, making it manageable for little legs while still offering lovely scenery.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails near Gilling East?
Most trails in the Howardian Hills are dog-friendly, but it's important to be mindful of the countryside code. You'll be walking through farmland with livestock, so always keep your dog on a lead in these areas. The extensive woodlands, such as Yearsley Woods, are particularly popular for walks with dogs.
What are the parking options for hikes starting in the area?
For walks exploring Yearsley Woods, there is a popular car park that serves as a starting point for many trails. Be aware that it can get busy, especially on weekends. For routes starting in Gilling East itself, on-street parking is available but can be limited, so arriving early is recommended.
Are there any easy or short walks available?
Yes, there are plenty of options for easier hikes. A great choice is the Higher Fish Pond and Lower Fish Pond loop. This trail is under 4 miles and takes you on a pleasant circuit through the popular Yearsley Woods.
Can I see Ampleforth Abbey on a walk from Gilling East?
Absolutely. You can incorporate views of the impressive Ampleforth Abbey and College into your hike. The Lower Fish Pond and Ampleforth Abbey loop is a moderate route that combines woodland scenery with sights of this historic Benedictine monastery.
What is the terrain like on the trails around Gilling East?
The landscape is typical of the Howardian Hills, featuring rolling hills, wooded valleys, and open farmland. You can expect a mix of well-maintained footpaths across fields, forest tracks through areas like Yearsley Woods, and quiet country lanes. Most routes involve some gentle ascents and descents.
Are there any long-distance footpaths that pass through Gilling East?
Yes, the Ebor Way, a 70-mile long-distance path connecting Helmsley to Ilkley, runs directly through Gilling East. You can walk sections of this trail to explore nearby villages like Hovingham and Cawton, offering a great option for a more extensive day of hiking.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Gilling East?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the beautiful, rolling countryside of the Howardian Hills, the tranquility of the extensive woodlands, and the well-marked network of paths. The variety of routes, from easy strolls to more challenging treks, is also a frequently mentioned highlight.
How many hiking trails are there to choose from around Gilling East?
There is a wide variety of routes to explore, with over 280 trails mapped on komoot in the region. These range from short, easy walks suitable for all abilities to more demanding moderate hikes, ensuring there's a path for every type of hiker.
Are there any walks that feature historical landmarks?
Yes, many walks blend natural scenery with local history. The All Saints Church and Peel Wood loop from Yearsley is a moderate hike that takes you past historical points of interest while exploring the local woodlands and countryside.
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