4.3
(532)
3,385
hikers
11
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Henderskelfe offer access to the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, characterized by varied terrain including light-dappled woodlands, farmland paths, and riverbank footpaths. The region encompasses the extensive grounds of the Castle Howard estate, featuring historic parkland and monuments. Hikers can explore a landscape of gentle undulations and open views. The area provides diverse natural features suitable for various walking experiences.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.4
(12)
222
hikers
12.0km
03:09
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(17)
141
hikers
7.54km
02:00
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
4.3
(14)
130
hikers
6.83km
01:48
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
25
hikers
12.7km
03:22
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
13
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Henderskelfe
The Pyramid at Castle Howard was built in 1728. It is hollow inside and contains a colossal bust of Lord William Howard, the 3rd Earl's great-great-great grandfather.
0
0
If you are following the footpaths to the east of the main Castle Howard grounds, you won't be able to get close to this folly (railings prevent access as it is within the Castle Howard grounds), but you will still have great views of it.
0
0
If you approach this via the public footpaths from Bog Hall (i.e., you haven't paid to enter the Castle Howard grounds), then you won't see much more than the wall that surrounds the ruins.
0
0
Unmissable and unfortunately not well served by public footpaths or bridleways, however, the main road has sufficiently wide verges to walk safely along. If you are heading north past the Obelisk Ponds, then there is a fantastic track on the east side of the road which is flanked by lime trees forming a wonderful avenue to walk along (see photos).
0
0
Great views southwest across the Castle Howard estate. Descend the public bridleway south alongside Spring Wood to join a public footpath that runs west to Bog Hall, from which you can follow further public footpaths either north or south around the estate.
0
0
Grassy track over the New River, nice views of the estate and various follies from the bridge. Per historicengland.org: "c1740. By Daniel Garrett for Henry, 4th Earl of Carlisle. Sandstone ashlar. Banded rustication to cutwaters dividing 3 stepped segmental arches each with rusticated voussoirs and a mask keystone to central arch. Niches in tooled architraves with pulvinated friezes and consoles supporting pediments flank the main arch. Brackets support cornice surmounted by low parapet with central balustrade and coping. Ramped approaches have balustrading, rusticated piers to centre, and square-section end piers."
0
0
Easily accessible as a public footpath runs north/south right past the tower. One of a number of towers that radiate east/west from the Castle Howard Gatehouse (aka Temperance Inn).
0
0
Great woodland route to follow that lasts miles if you start way west at Wath Wood just south of Hovingham, runs all the way east through Fryton West Wood, Fryton East Wood, Slingsby Banks Wood and Coneysthorpe Banks Wood, part of which is the Centenary Way. Useful off-road parking areas where both Slingsby Bank and Fryton Lane meet the woods. Great views north across Rye Dale and the Vale of Pickering, and large areas of the woods are blanketed with bluebells in spring. The route is a bit muddy in parts, but easy hiking.
0
0
There are 11 bus-accessible hiking trails around Henderskelfe, offering a variety of experiences from easy strolls to more moderate walks through the picturesque Howardian Hills AONB.
Yes, there are 5 easy routes perfect for beginners or families. A great option is The Pyramid at Castle Howard loop from Coneysthorpe, which is just over 7.5 km and offers gentle terrain within the Castle Howard estate.
Many routes offer views of the historic Castle Howard estate. You can explore highlights such as the Temple of the Four Winds, Castle Howard, or the impressive Castle Howard itself. The area is rich in history and architectural marvels.
For a more extended moderate hike, consider the Castle Howard Obelisk – Obelisk Ponds loop from Coneysthorpe. This route covers over 12.6 km and offers diverse landscapes within the Howardian Hills AONB.
The Henderskelfe area, nestled within the Howardian Hills AONB, offers a varied landscape. You can expect light-dappled woodlands, meandering riverbank footpaths, and farmland paths with extraordinary views. The nearby North York Moors also contribute to the region's diverse natural beauty.
Yes, all the bus-accessible routes listed are circular, meaning you will finish your hike at the same bus stop where you started. This makes planning your public transport journey straightforward.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning landscapes of the Howardian Hills, the historical charm of the Castle Howard estate, and the well-maintained trails that make for enjoyable car-free adventures.
The diverse natural environment, especially within the Castle Howard estate and the Howardian Hills AONB, provides opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for local birds and other creatures in the woodlands and along the paths.
While hiking from bus stops, you can encounter natural features and viewpoints. For instance, the Pretty Wood, King's Oak and the Four Faces Monument is a notable natural monument in the wider area, and many trails offer scenic vistas across the AONB.
The trails are enjoyable year-round. Spring brings wildflowers, summer offers lush greenery, and autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Even in winter, the landscapes can be beautiful, though some paths might be muddy, so appropriate footwear is always recommended.
Yes, several routes within the Castle Howard estate will lead you past unique architectural features. For example, the Castle Howard Obelisk loop from Coneysthorpe takes you past the impressive Obelisk, a significant landmark within the estate.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.