Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a casual stroller or a complete walking novice seeking invigorating adventures in the wilderness, the North York Moors has the perfect route for you. With its vast heathland, charming woodland, and the delightful scent of rainfall on fresh grass, you’ll find your happiness here. 

At Middlewood Farm, we truly believe that The North York Moors is the most glorious place in the country to lose yourself, but with our guide to walking routes in the vast heathland, you’re guaranteed not to get lost.

Levisham Moor and Hole of Horcum (5 miles)

The Hole of Horcum is steeped in ancient folklore that has shaped our perception of the area. It is said that the Hole of Horcurm was home to Wade the Giant, who one day became so angry with his wife that he scooped out a handful of earth to throw at her, thus creating the 400ft deep valley that is known and loved today. 

If you look close enough, you can even find Wade’s stones; two standing stones that are said to mark the head and foot of his grave, making it the perfect walk for history lovers and families. 

The walk begins in Saltergate, standing over the Hole of Horcum itself. You will then follow the track over Levisham Moor that presents you with a front row view of vast moorland as well as the stunning scenery of the sweeping amphitheatre. 

When you reach Dundale Pond, the route will circle backwards around the opposite side of the valley, through Dendale Griff. Follow the trail all the way back to Saltergate, but don’t forget to stop and admire the magnificence of this treasure before you head on home. 

This walk is suitable for dogs, but they should be kept on a short lead.

Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey (7 miles)

If you’re a fan of historic ruins nestled in vast sweeps of woodland with plenty of spots to have a picnic, then the walk from Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey could be the perfect journey for you. 

This peaceful route is carefully signposted to help you along your way, but this doesn’t detract from the calmly immersive feeling of being amongst the greenery of England’s countryside. Additionally, if you choose to go in the early brushes of springtime, you may be lucky enough to find bluebells along the route. 

To enjoy this route, start in the market town of Helmsley and follow the signposts along your way to discover the well concealed charms of God’s own county. Don’t forget to pack plenty of picnic food and cold drinks to refresh your energy halfway through this 7 mile round walk.

White Horse Walk (3 miles)

The White Horse walk will take you on a short and sweet adventure along Sutton Bank, past the iconic White Horse that stands in the hills of Kilburn. This fascinating man-made miracle was cut into the limestone of Roulston Scar by John Hodgeson in 1857 and has been a proud landmark of the North York Moors ever since. 

The White Horse walk is a louped route that starts and finishes at Sutton Bank National Park Centre. You’ll be taken past Cleveland Way, and around the cliffs of both Roulston Scar and Ivy Scar until you reach the White Horse. You will then loop back around, through woodland paths and back to Sutton Bank National Park Centre where you’ll find food and drinks at their Park Life Cafe.

Wainstones Walk (8 miles)

Wainstones is a large formation of organically carved sandstone rocks in the Cleveland Way. This 8 mile walk might look like a challenging trek, but the rewards of embarking on an adventure of this size are immeasurable. 

Using the public parking provided, start your day with a healthy snack and bottle of water, and begin your wander along the moorland track through Cold Moor and Urra Moor. You may need to bring a change of warm socks as the track can often be boggy and slippery. 

Then, take the stone track through Cleveland Way. It is up the steep ascent of this magnificent trail that you’ll find the Wainstones. This is the ideal spot to take a small break, perch on the stones and absorb panoramic views of the heather moorland that defines the vast landscape of the North York Moors.

Roseberry Topping (3 miles)

Roseberry Topping is one of the more famous hills in North Yorkshire and can be recognised by its mountain-like peak. This hill has an amazing slice of history attached to it. Both Bronze-Age and Iron-Age remains have been found in its vicinity and it was known to be a favourite childhood spot of famed British Explorer, Captain Cook. 

You can begin your descent from Newton-under-Roseberry car park, and then simply follow the track and climb the steps until you reach the stone path near the base of Roseberry Topping. Once you’re through the gate at Roseberry Common, you’ll be able to follow the path to the summit and back down again. 

Once you have completed your excursion, you’ll want somewhere cosy and quiet to rest your feet and have a hearty meal and at Middlewood Farm, you can do just that. Our 5-star accommodation lies just off the Cleveland Way, with the coastal town of Whitby at our fingertips. 

To make the most of all that the North York Moors has to offer, book one of our luxury glamping pods, holiday caravans or camping spots today.