The best walks and hikes around Pickering

Yes, there are several options suitable for families. For a shorter outing, the Wooden Steps on Forest Trail – Pickering Castle loop is a great choice. It's just over 2 miles (3.4 km) and takes about an hour, offering a pleasant walk with a view of the historic castle.

Dogs are welcome on most trails around Pickering, especially in the open landscapes of the North York Moors. However, you'll be walking through areas with farmland and potential wildlife, so it's essential to keep your dog under control, and on a lead where signposted.

The landscape is classic North York Moors. Expect to find rolling hills, deep forested valleys, and open moorland. Many routes follow the paths of local streams and rivers, and you'll often find yourself walking through historic parkland and woodland.

Most of the popular routes are designed as loops, so you can start and finish in the same place without retracing your steps. A great example of a moderate circular hike is the St Hilda's Church, Ellerburn – Thornton-le-Dale village loop, which covers beautiful countryside and a picturesque village.

Yes, several trails offer fantastic views of the heritage railway line. The North Yorkshire Moors Railway – Wooden Steps on Forest Trail loop is specifically popular for this, as it runs through the forest with vantage points overlooking the tracks.

Trails in the area range from well-defined paths through forests and parkland to more rugged tracks across open moorland. While many are well-trodden, some sections, particularly after rain, can become muddy. It's always a good idea to wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots.

Yes, there are a few difficult-rated hikes for those seeking a challenge. These routes often involve more significant elevation changes and may cover rougher terrain. The Newbridge and Blansby Park loop is a long, moderate hike at over 9 miles, offering a good day out with some elevation gain.

The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the beautiful woodland scenery, the variety of the terrain, and the unique opportunity to see the steam trains of the heritage railway.

There are over 25 curated hiking routes around Pickering available on komoot. These range from short, easy strolls to longer, more demanding full-day hikes, ensuring there's a trail for every fitness level and interest.

The area is rich in natural beauty. A short drive from Pickering, you can find the Bridestones, a collection of unique sandstone rock formations managed by the National Trust. For a stunning waterfall, the Mallyan Spout Waterfall near Goathland is a highly-rated local favorite, accessible via a scenic, though sometimes challenging, trail.

For a day hike, you should bring water, snacks, a map or fully charged phone with the route downloaded, and a waterproof jacket, as the weather in the North York Moors can change quickly. Sturdy walking boots are essential due to the varied terrain and potential for muddy paths.