4.5
(1406)
11,101
hikers
60
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around High And Low Bishopside are situated within the Nidderdale National Landscape, characterized by tranquil reservoirs, rolling farmland, and gritstone moorlands. The region's terrain includes sheltered glacial valleys, wooded areas, and the River Nidd, offering diverse natural features for exploration. Notable landmarks like Brimham Rocks provide unique rock formations and expansive views. This area offers a variety of paths suitable for families, ranging from gentle riverside strolls to routes through woodlands and past reservoirs.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.8
(128)
572
hikers
13.5km
03:46
260m
260m
Embark on a moderate 8.4-mile (13.5 km) hike through the scenic Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a journey that typically takes around 3 hours and 45 minutes. You will…
4.7
(12)
46
hikers
5.49km
01:43
200m
200m
Embark on the Wath Lane and River Nidd loop for an easy 3.4-mile (5.5 km) hike that blends serene riverside paths with elevated vistas. You will gain about 653 feet…

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1.0
(1)
14
hikers
19.9km
05:26
290m
290m
Embark on the Nidderdale Way: Gouthwaite Reservoir Loop, a difficult hiking route that takes you through the heart of Nidderdale National Landscape. This challenging trail covers 12.4 miles (19.9 km)…
4.5
(6)
25
hikers
17.3km
04:44
270m
270m
The Gouthwaite Reservoir and Ramsgill loop from Wath offers a picturesque hiking experience through Nidderdale. You will follow the shoreline of Gouthwaite Reservoir, enjoying views of the water, the River…
3.5
(2)
8
hikers
4.45km
01:16
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around High And Low Bishopside
Quintessentially pretty market town, arrive early to find suitable parking, best place is next to the showground on the southern side of the bridge over the River Nidd. Honesty box only (no payment cards), cheap at £1 up to 4 hours and £2 all day (spring 2025 prices). The southern end of Nidderdale around Pateley Bridge has one of the densest concentrations of public footpaths in North Yorkshire, so loads of routeing options. See the North Yorks public rights of way map at https://maps.northyorks.gov.uk/connect/analyst/mobile/#/main?mapcfg=Out_and_About
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If you can stomach getting up very early for hikes and runs, then you will have the place to yourself. Absolutely stunning at around 6-7am in the early morning May sunshine.
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Great views both up and downstream, with parking on both sides of the bridge. The car park on the southern side, next to the cricket pitch and showground, is quite big and now relies on an honesty box for payment.
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Drinking water is available for free and there is toilets and hot drinks and cold
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A lovely historic spot with some great information boards, a perfect place to take a break - watch out for the ground-nesting bees in the spoil heaps during summer months!
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A fantastic National Trust site, where the main attraction is the staggering rock formations. It is also worthwhile walking through the woodlands especially when the Bluebells are in season.
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A fantastic National Trust site, where the main attraction is the staggering rock formations. It is also worthwhile walking through the woodlands especially when the Bluebells are in season.
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A small but quaint town in the Yorkshire Dales.
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High And Low Bishopside, nestled in the Nidderdale National Landscape, offers a fantastic selection of family-friendly routes. You'll find over 60 trails, with more than 25 specifically rated as easy, making them perfect for families with children.
The region is rich in diverse natural beauty. Families can discover the dramatic gritstone formations at Brimham Rocks, enjoy tranquil walks around several reservoirs like Gouthwaite Reservoir, or follow the scenic River Nidd. Don't miss the intriguing limestone gorge of Trollers Gill, steeped in local folklore.
Absolutely! Many trails are designed as circular routes, perfect for a family day out. For a gentle, accessible option, consider the Eagle Hall and Fishpond Wood loop from Pateley Bridge, which offers a pleasant, shorter distance through woodlands.
The komoot community highly rates the trails in this area, with an average score of 4.46 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the stunning views of the Nidderdale National Landscape, and the variety of landscapes, from riverside strolls to unique rock formations, making it enjoyable for all ages.
Yes, many of the trails in High And Low Bishopside are dog-friendly, allowing your furry companions to join the adventure. However, please remember to keep dogs on a lead, especially around livestock and in nature conservation areas, to protect wildlife and farm animals.
While the area is known for its reservoirs and the River Nidd, you can also find charming water features. Consider exploring areas like Fell Beck Ford and Weir or the Waterfall and Stream in Nidderdale National Landscape for delightful sights along the way.
Spring and summer offer vibrant wildflowers and lush greenery, ideal for pleasant walks. Autumn brings spectacular colours to the landscape, while winter can provide crisp, clear days, though some paths might be muddy or icy. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
The charming market town of Pateley Bridge, often called the 'Capital of Nidderdale,' serves as a central hub with parking facilities and public transport links. Many routes, such as the Wath Lane and River Nidd loop, start from or are easily accessible from Pateley Bridge.
Beyond the natural beauty, families can visit the intriguing Druid's Temple, a 19th-century folly styled after ancient stone circles, which offers an atmospheric and educational experience. The historic town of Pateley Bridge itself is also a delightful place to explore.
The family-friendly trails in High And Low Bishopside generally feature gentle paths, often along riverside, through woodlands, or around reservoirs. While some routes might have slight inclines, they are typically manageable for most fitness levels. Expect a mix of well-trodden earth paths, gravel tracks, and occasional paved sections.
For families with older children looking for a bit more of a challenge, the Brimham Rocks & Glasshouses village loop from Pateley Bridge offers a moderate, longer distance with rewarding views and the unique rock formations of Brimham Rocks to explore.
Yes, Pateley Bridge offers various cafes, pubs, and shops where you can grab a bite or stock up for a picnic. Many trails also pass through scenic spots perfect for a family picnic amidst the beautiful Nidderdale landscape.


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