The best walks and hikes around Hambleton
4.3
(296)
2,237
hikers
147
hikes
Hikes around Hambleton explore the rural landscape of the Selby district in Yorkshire. The region is characterized by gentle terrain, with a mix of agricultural fields and pockets of woodland. Waterways such as the Selby Dam and other small rivers provide for level, waterside walks. This combination of open farmland and wooded areas creates a varied environment for hiking.
Best hiking trails around Hambleton
- The most popular hiking route is Bishop Wood Car Park – Chased by a Monstrous Killer loop from Dutchman's Car park, a 4.4 mile (7.1 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 45 minutes to complete. This is an easy route through woodland with very little elevation change.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Selby Abbey – Selby Canal loop from Thorpe Willoughby, a moderate 7.8 mile (12.5 km) path. The route follows the Selby Canal and passes near the historic Selby Abbey.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the View of Burton Hall Bridge – Woodland Clearing loop from Hambleton, a 8.6 mile (13.8 km) trail leading through a mix of fields and woods, often completed in about 3 hours 30 minutes.
- Hiking around Hambleton is defined by level riverside paths, quiet woodland trails, and walks through open farmland. The network of routes offers options suitable for different fitness levels, from short, easy strolls to longer, moderate hikes.
- The routes in Hambleton are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from more than 250 reviews. More than 1,900 hikers have used komoot to explore Hambleton's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
4.0
(6)
43
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
49
hikers
3.16km
00:50
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
3.5
(4)
13
hikers
12.5km
03:11
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
11
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
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
Tips from the Community
Paperhouse Bridge is a listed canal bridge carrying the farm access track at Paper House Farm over the Selby Canal. It is directly referenced in the Historic England listing for the adjacent Paperhouse Tunnel, which “butts up against the northern elevations of the listed Grade II Paper House Bridge”
0
0
Lund Tunnel is a canal culvert completed by 1778, designed by the engineer William Jessop for the Aire & Calder Navigation Company. It was part of a set of four (originally five) flood‑relief tunnels built to stop the Selby Canal from being overwhelmed by water from the surrounding low‑lying farmland.
0
0
One of two ways to access Bishop Wood. There is a small parking area just off Bishopdyke Road that leads you up Hammersyke Road into the woods. The other is Scalm Lane car park on the southern side of the woods.
2
0
Muddy but free off-road parking for more than a dozen cars, with a variety of tracks through the woods.
1
0
Spectacular abbey for such a small town. Interesting info board describing the 19th Century cholera epidemic and associated graveyard, much like the one just outside the walls opposite York Station.
1
0
Nice little park just south of Selby Abbey.
2
0
Selby Canal is a very pleasant walk. From Selby to Burton Hall Bridge is around 2.5 miles each way.
2
0
Burton Hall Bridge. Walking from Selby to this point is a very pleasant walk, just over 2.5 miles each way.
3
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Hambleton is this guide about?
This guide focuses on the village of Hambleton and its surrounding area within the Selby district of North Yorkshire. It is characterized by gentle, flat terrain, woodland, and canalside paths, not the more rugged Hambleton Hills which are further north.
Are there many hiking trails to choose from in Hambleton?
Yes, there are over 130 routes to explore around Hambleton. The area offers a great variety, from short woodland strolls to longer waterside walks, with the majority being easy or moderate in difficulty.
What do other hikers enjoy about the trails in Hambleton?
The trails in this area are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere of the woodland paths and the easy, level walking along the Selby Canal.
Are the walks around Hambleton suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. The terrain is generally flat with very little elevation change, making it ideal for families. The woodland trails are particularly good for shorter legs, offering plenty of natural interest without being too strenuous.
Can I bring my dog on these hikes?
Yes, the area is generally dog-friendly. The woodland and canal paths are great for walking with dogs. However, you will cross some agricultural fields, so be prepared to keep your dog on a lead, especially when livestock is present.
Where can I find an easy, circular walk?
Most trails in this area are easy and circular. For a classic Hambleton experience combining fields and woods, consider the Woodland Clearing – View of Burton Hall Bridge loop from Thorpe Willoughby. It's a moderately long but very flat route.
Are there any longer hikes for a full day out?
Yes, for a longer outing, the View of Burton Hall Bridge – Woodland Clearing loop from Hambleton is a great option. At nearly 14 km, it takes around 3.5 hours and explores the mix of farmland and woods typical of the region.
What are the parking options for these trails?
Many routes start from villages like Hambleton or Thorpe Willoughby where on-street parking may be available. For woodland walks, dedicated car parks like Dutchman's Car Park for Bishop Wood are convenient starting points.
Is it possible to reach the trails using public transport?
Yes, the towns and villages in the area, such as Selby and Thorpe Willoughby, are served by local bus routes. The Selby Abbey – Selby Canal loop from Thorpe Willoughby is a good choice as it starts from a well-connected village.
Are there any walks with historical interest?
Yes, several routes pass by local points of interest. A walk along the Selby Canal offers a glimpse into the area's industrial heritage, and some trails pass near the magnificent Selby Abbey, which is well worth a visit.
What is the terrain like on these hikes?
The terrain is one of the key features of hiking here. Expect very gentle and flat paths. The routes primarily follow woodland trails, agricultural field edges, and level canal towpaths. There are almost no significant hills to climb.
Where can I find a quiet walk away from the crowds?
For a quieter experience, try exploring the network of paths through the local woodlands on a weekday. The Stone Bridge Over Canal – View of Burton Hall Bridge loop from Thorpe Willoughby follows a mix of canal paths and field tracks that are often less busy.
Most popular routes around Hambleton
Most popular attractions around Hambleton
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
