4.3
(593)
3,806
hikers
16
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Norton-On-Derwent traverse a varied landscape, featuring tranquil riverside paths along the River Derwent, open fields, and picturesque woodlands. The region offers a mix of gentle inclines and more level terrain, suitable for families. It also serves as a gateway to the nearby Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the North York Moors National Park, providing diverse natural environments for outdoor activities.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
2.0
(1)
5
hikers
28.1km
07:23
240m
240m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
11
hikers
13.2km
03:33
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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2
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
11
hikers
7.12km
01:52
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
6
hikers
17.9km
04:45
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Norton-On-Derwent
Its four carved faces are looking in different directions, adding a touch of mystery to this visually striking monument.
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Anglican Church situated next to the market place in the centre of Malton.
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The Four Faces Folly was erected in the early 18th century. It was made for Charles Howard (as in 'Howardian' Hills), who was the 3rd Early of Carlisle. It's a Grade I listed monument. Great place to stop by!
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A pleasant walk within Long Plantation, a long woodland strip in between the fields here; lovely and gentle walk straight out of Malton. The trees help to block out the traffic noise from the nearby Broughton Road and A64.
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Excellent independent café with delicious food and own branded coffee. Highly recommended!
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The Four Faces folly on the Castle Howard estate was erected before 1727 and made by sculptor Nicholas Hawksmoor for Charles Howard, 3rd Earl of Carlisle. It's a Grade I listed monument.
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Building began at Castle Howard between 1699 and 1701, but construction was still going on when the architect John Vanbrugh died in 1726. In fact, the house still wasn’t complete when the Earl died in 1738. His son in law took over the build with different architectural style and it was eventually completed in 1801. The garden was also landscaped over these years. A great fire broke out in 1940 destroying the dome and many rooms. It's been a restoration project ever since, with the dome replaced in the early 1960's and the garden hall rebuilt in 1981. Today it's open to the paying public who can visit and tour the house and gardens. There are footpaths through the estate so you can also walk through for free and view the buildings and gardens.
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Kirkham Priory is an Augustinian Abbey, built in the 12th century. If you look carefully at the gothic medieval gatehouse you can see sculptures of St George and the dragon on the left and David and Goliath to the right. The Priory is on the banks of the river Derwent and the area was used as a test centre for WW2 landing vehicles for the D-Day landings. Soldiers even scaled the heights of the cloister walls with scrambling nets to practice moving from large ships to smaller boats. Even Sir Winston Churchill and King George VI came to visit with the troops were stationed here.
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There are 16 family-friendly hiking trails around Norton-On-Derwent, offering a variety of experiences for all ages. Most of these routes are classified as easy or moderate, making them perfect for a family day out.
Yes, Norton-On-Derwent offers 9 easy family walks, perfect for beginners or families with young children. These routes typically feature gentle paths and manageable distances. A great example is the Market Square – Leoni Café loop from Malton, which is an easy 7.1 km stroll.
Families can enjoy a diverse range of landscapes, from tranquil riverside paths along the River Derwent to picturesque woodlands and open fields. Many routes offer a mix of scenery, providing engaging views and varied terrain. The area also serves as a gateway to the nearby Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the North York Moors National Park.
Many family-friendly trails pass by fascinating points of interest. You might encounter historical sites like the impressive ruins of Kirkham Priory, or the unique Wharram Percy – Deserted Medieval Village. Some routes also offer views of grand estates like Castle Howard and its striking New River Bridge.
Absolutely. For families with younger children or toddlers, shorter routes are available. While specific toddler-friendly routes are not detailed, the region offers several easy walks under 10 km that can be adapted. The Market Square – Leoni Café loop from Malton is a good option at 7.1 km, providing a manageable distance for little legs.
Yes, many of the family-friendly hiking trails around Norton-On-Derwent, particularly those starting from towns like Malton, offer convenient parking options. It's always a good idea to check the specific route details on komoot for parking information at the trailhead.
Yes, especially for routes that start or pass through Malton or Norton-On-Derwent, you'll find various cafes and eateries. For example, the Market Square – Leoni Café loop from Malton specifically highlights a cafe, making it easy to grab a refreshment before or after your walk.
The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly hikes around Norton-On-Derwent, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse scenery, well-maintained paths, and the suitability of routes for various family abilities, making it a popular choice for outdoor adventures.
Yes, the varied landscapes of Norton-On-Derwent, including riverside paths, woodlands, and open fields, provide excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for local birdlife along the River Derwent and various woodland creatures in areas like the Long Plantation.
Many of the family-friendly routes in the area are circular, offering a convenient way to explore without retracing your steps. The Long Plantation Woodland Path – Woodland Trail Fork loop from Malton is a great example, providing a 9.2 km circular walk through woodlands and fields.
Spring and summer are particularly lovely for family hikes, with milder weather and blooming flora. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, while winter walks can be magical, especially on crisp, clear days. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, regardless of the season.
Yes, several routes provide scenic viewpoints. The region research mentions the Temple of the Four Winds, which offers expansive views of the surrounding hills, and the Lone Tree on Slingsby Heights, a notable viewpoint. Look for routes that traverse higher ground or open fields for the best vistas.


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