The best walks and hikes around Cononley

Yes, the area offers several gentle walks suitable for families. For a very flat and accessible option, consider the Leeds and Liverpool Canal – Holy Trinity Church, Skipton loop from Low Bradley. The towpath provides an easy-going surface perfect for all ages, with plenty to see along the water.

Many trails around Cononley are suitable for walking with dogs. However, the landscape is classic Yorkshire countryside with grazing sheep and ground-nesting birds, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead, especially on open moorland and near livestock. After your walk, some local pubs may welcome dogs, but it's always best to check their policy in advance.

Yes, Cononley has its own railway station with services connecting to Skipton, Leeds, and Bradford. This makes it a great base for exploring the Aire Valley without a car. Many walks can be started directly from the village, allowing you to step off the train and onto the trail.

There is on-street parking available within the village of Cononley, but it can be limited, especially on weekends. Please park considerately, respecting local residents and ensuring access is not blocked. For some routes starting outside the village, like those near Lothersdale, you may find small designated car parks or lay-bys near the trailhead.

Absolutely. The area is well-suited for loop trails that bring you back to your starting point. A good example is the Outdoor Gym loop from Cononley, which offers a pleasant 6.4-kilometer route with minimal climbing, making it a great way to explore the immediate surroundings of the village.

The trails around Cononley are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning views across the Aire Valley, the mix of terrain from riverside paths to open moorland, and the quintessential Yorkshire scenery with its rolling hills and stone walls.

Yes, for those seeking a more significant challenge, the region connects to long-distance paths. You can tackle a challenging section of the famous Pennine Way by starting in Cononley and heading towards Ickornshaw, which offers a strenuous but rewarding day of hiking with expansive views.

The area is rich with rewarding viewpoints. The hike to Pinhaw Beacon is a local favourite, offering panoramic views from its trig point. For a different perspective, the Wainman's Pinnacle – Lund's Tower on Earl's Crag loop takes you to two prominent 19th-century follies that stand out on the skyline.

You'll find a wide variety of options for hiking, with over 400 routes mapped around Cononley. These range from easy, flat strolls to challenging hill climbs, ensuring there's a trail for every fitness level and preference.

While the immediate Cononley area is known more for its rolling hills and river valleys, a short drive will take you to some of Yorkshire's most famous waterfalls. The highly-rated Janet's Foss, near Malham, is a beautiful waterfall in a wooded glen, and it can be combined with a visit to the magnificent natural amphitheatre of Malham Cove.

The terrain is varied. You'll encounter gentle riverside paths along the River Aire, grassy tracks through open meadows, and steeper, sometimes boggy, paths on the open moorland. Sturdy, waterproof footwear is recommended for most routes, especially after wet weather.