Easy hikes and walks around Barlow

Barlow offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 119 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are more than 180 hiking routes available in the area, catering to various preferences.

Easy hikes around Barlow are primarily characterized by flat, accessible paths with minimal elevation changes. You'll often find yourself walking alongside canals, such as the Selby Canal, and tranquil ponds, offering a relaxed outdoor experience through rural landscapes.

Yes, many of the easy trails in Barlow are circular, making them convenient for day trips. Popular options include the Selby Canal Towpath – Selby Canal loop from Selby, which is 4.2 miles long, and the Swans at Barkby Thorpe – Barmby Barrage loop from Hemingbrough, covering 4.9 miles.

Among the top-rated easy trails are the Selby Canal Towpath – Selby Canal loop from Selby, known for its scenic canal-side walking, and the Swans at Barkby Thorpe – Barmby Barrage loop from Hemingbrough, which offers open views and passes by the Barmby Barrage.

Absolutely. The easy hiking trails in Barlow are ideal for families due to their gentle gradients and flat terrain. Routes like the Pond loop from Camblesforth are short and accessible, perfect for a leisurely stroll with children.

Many of the easy trails in Barlow are dog-friendly, especially those along canal towpaths and open rural areas. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature conservation areas, and to check specific route details for any restrictions.

While hiking, you can explore various points of interest. The Selby Canal itself is a highlight, offering historical context. You might also pass by the RAF Burn Airfield or the RAF Riccall Bomber Memorial at Skipwith Common, which provide glimpses into local history.

Easy hikes in Barlow vary in length, but many are designed for shorter outings. For example, the Brayton Tunnel, Selby Canal – Burn Bridge on Selby Canal loop from Selby is about 3.5 miles (5.6 km) and takes approximately 1 hour 25 minutes, while the Selby Canal Towpath – Selby Canal loop from Selby is 4.2 miles (6.8 km) and takes around 1 hour 43 minutes.

The trails in Barlow are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 170 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil canal-side paths, the flat and accessible terrain, and the peaceful rural environment, making them perfect for relaxed walks.

Yes, you can find places to refuel. For instance, Birkin Tea Room is a nearby option where you can enjoy refreshments after your hike.

The flat and accessible nature of Barlow's easy trails makes them enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking alongside canals and through open fields, while autumn provides scenic views with changing foliage. Even in winter, the well-maintained towpaths can be suitable for a crisp walk.

While the terrain is generally flat, the easy trails offer picturesque views of the waterways and surrounding rural landscapes. The Swans at Barkby Thorpe – Barmby Barrage loop from Hemingbrough, for example, provides open vistas and views of the Barmby Barrage itself, which is a notable feature on the River Derwent.