4.5
(552)
3,820
hikers
62
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Lockton offer access to the diverse landscapes of the North York Moors National Park. The region features expansive open moorland, deep valleys, and extensive woodlands, including Dalby Forest and Cropton Forest. A prominent natural feature is the Hole of Horcum, a large natural amphitheater measuring 120 meters deep and 1.2 kilometers wide. These varied environments provide a range of easy walking experiences.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.4
(8)
35
hikers
3.93km
01:09
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(7)
37
hikers
4.08km
01:11
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(2)
17
hikers
7.00km
01:55
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(4)
30
hikers
7.16km
01:58
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
95
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Bridestones are unique rock formations located in Dalby Forest, North Yorkshire. Originally formed by movement of glaciers during the last Ice Age, the sandstone formations date back 150 million years ago.
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The Bridestones are the remnants of a sandstone cap, deposited during the Jurassic period, some 150 million years ago. The formations consist of alternating layers of hard sandstone and softer calcareous layers. Erosion by wind, frost, and rain over millennia has created the unique and bizarre shapes seen today. The term "Bridestones" may have originated from the Old Norse words "brink-stones" or "edge stones" The Bridestones are steeped in folklore and legend, connecting them to ancient cultures and mythical beings. Some legends suggest the Bridestones were ancient meeting places for Druids, while others tell tales of giants who once roamed the moors. One legend speaks of a young couple who eloped and found shelter among the rocks, whose love caused the stones to form a protective arch. Another story tells of Nan Moor and Jack Stone, guardians of the stones, who lived in a rock house and were possibly married there. The Bridestones are sometimes associated with the Celtic goddess Brigantia.
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Fabulous quiet area to the north of Dalby, but be aware that in the height of summer, the public footpath running through Holm Woods along Stain Dale is heavily overgrown with ferns, grasses, brambles, cow parsnip and nettles. Not to mention the cobwebs, spiders and deer ticks (2 of which hitched a ride home with me).
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The coffee cart is located in the car park for the hole or Horcum. Parking can be paid at the metres. This is a great place to make part of your hike or start and end your hike from. The coffee cart takes card as well as cash. They do have asked a array of drinks including seasonal offerings. They also had a small selection of cakes as well as some crisps and biscuits. Perfect fora refreshment as part of your hike. The staff were absolutely lovely and accommodating.
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Near the bend on Saltergate Bank (A169), you get spellbinding views of The Hole of Horcum (to the south-west). In the other direction, to the north-east, if you let your gaze follow the road, you can see the white structures of RAF Fylingdales on the moors in the distance. An amazing place.
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The Hole of Horcum is a 120 m deep, 1.2 km wide natural amphitheatre sunk into the valley of Levisham Beck. Legend has it that it was created by a giant grabbing a handful of earth to throw at his wife. It’s actually created by spring sapping - erosion of the bedrock by underground water, which then causes collapse. This repeated process causes the hole.
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Bridestones are very oddly-shaped rocks (created by the glacier movement during the last Ice Age) on Staindale Moor. The ones on this side of the Reserve are High Bride Stones. Lovely views too of Dovedale inside which these are. On a good weather day, there is no better place to be.
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Heath landscape around a natural amphitheater
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Lockton offers a good selection of easy hiking trails, with 16 routes specifically graded as easy. In total, there are over 60 hiking routes in the area, catering to various skill levels.
Yes, many of the easy trails around Lockton are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Hole of Horcum loop from Saltergate, which offers stunning views of the natural amphitheater.
Easy hikes around Lockton showcase the diverse landscapes of the North York Moors National Park. You'll encounter expansive open moorland, deep valleys, and extensive woodland paths, particularly in areas like Dalby Forest and Cropton Forest. The dramatic geological formation of the Hole of Horcum is a prominent feature on many routes.
Yes, many easy trails are suitable for families. Routes like the The Bridestones – High Bride Stones loop from Bridestones Car Park are shorter and less strenuous, making them ideal for younger hikers. The varied scenery, from woodlands to open moorland, keeps walks engaging for all ages.
While the Hole of Horcum is a major natural attraction, you can also find other points of interest. The Mallyan Spout Waterfall is a notable natural monument in the wider area, though it may require a slightly longer walk to reach. Many routes offer views of the dramatic landscape, including the 'Devil's Punchbowl' formation.
The easy trails in Lockton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the panoramic views, the sense of wilderness on the moorland, and the tranquility of the woodland paths. The well-defined paths and diverse scenery are frequently highlighted.
Yes, the region has historical significance. You might encounter ancient Iron Age earthworks along the rim of the Hole of Horcum. While not directly on an easy route, the nearby Goathland railway station is a charming historical site that can be visited in conjunction with a hike.
Parking is available at various points depending on your chosen route. For example, the The Bridestones – Low Staindale loop from Bridestones Car Park starts directly from a car park, making access convenient. Other routes may have roadside parking or designated car parks nearby.
Lockton itself is a village, and while public transport options might be limited directly to trailheads, local bus services connect to nearby towns and villages within the North York Moors National Park. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information on routes serving the area.
The best time for easy hikes around Lockton is generally from spring to autumn. During these seasons, the weather is milder, and the moorland is vibrant with heather in late summer. Winter hikes are possible but require appropriate gear due to potentially colder, wetter, and windier conditions.
Lockton and nearby villages offer a few options for refreshments. You can find local pubs and cafes where you can enjoy a meal or a drink after your hike. It's a good idea to check opening times, especially outside of peak season.
The duration of easy hikes varies. Shorter routes, like the View of the Hole of Horcum – View of the Hole of Horcum loop from Lockton (4.1 km), can be completed in just over an hour. Longer easy trails, such as the View of the Hole of Horcum – Hole of Horcum Bridleway loop from Lockton (7.2 km), might take closer to two hours, depending on your pace.


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