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Best lake hikes in North Yorkshire
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Best lake hikes in North Yorkshire

Want a hike where the views are as smooth as the water's surface? These lake-side paths will have you reflecting on nature's beauty.

Here are some great hikes to explore in North Yorkshire.

Most popular hikes

1

Easy

Nidderdale Way

North Yorkshire, England · star 4.5 (8) · 86.7 km · Est. 5 days

2

Easy

St Bernard's Way

North Yorkshire, England · star N/A (0) · 762.4 km · Est. 38 days

3

Easy

Jorvic Way

North Yorkshire, England · star 4.5 (2) · 106.3 km · Est. 5 days

4

Medium

Gormire Lake from Sutton Bank National Park Centre

North Yorkshire, England · star 5.0 (3) · 5.4 km · Est. 1 hrs 24 min

5

Easy

Aislabie Walk

North Yorkshire, England · star N/A (0) · 28.6 km · Est. 2 days

6

Easy

Malham Cove - Malham Tarn and Gordale Scar

North Yorkshire, England · star 5.0 (1) · 12.2 km · Est. 2 hrs 55 min

7

Medium

Tributaries Walk

North Yorkshire, England · star 5.0 (1) · 155.0 km · Est. 9 days

8

Easy

Castle Howard Walk

North Yorkshire, England · star 4.8 (4) · 8.0 km · Est. 1 hrs 42 min

9

Easy

Ripon Rowel Walk Leg 1 - Ripon to South Stainley

North Yorkshire, England · star N/A (0) · 14.4 km · Est. 3 hrs 5 min

10

Medium

Giggleswick to Middleham in North Yorkshire

North Yorkshire, England · star N/A (0) · 61.8 km · Est. 4 days

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Reviews for lake hikes in North Yorkshire

David Lazenby avatar

Nidderdale Way

David Wildlife Photographer · reviewed 10 months ago

star star star star star

Great trail right on my doorstep.

No reviews available for St Bernard's Way.

Ian Richards avatar

Jorvic Way

Olive · reviewed 7 months ago

star star star star star

Karl avatar

Gormire Lake from Sutton Bank National Park Centre

Swana2k · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

The descent down to the lake through the woods is most tricky part. Completed it with kids but was sunny/dry day, it would have been much harder in the wet! Lake & views make this route well worth it

No reviews available for Aislabie Walk.

Frequently asked questions for hikes in North Yorkshire

What is the climate like for hiking in England?

In England, hiking in the spring (March to May) sees milder temperatures and flourishing wildlife, however trails may be muddy due to showers. Summer (June to August) offers the most stable weather with longer daylight hours but trails can be crowded, especially in national parks. Autumn (September to November) can be wetter but displays vibrant fall colours.

Winter hiking (December to February) is more challenging due to short days and colder, often unpredictable weather. Snowfall can make some trails inaccessible. Always check the weather forecast and equip accordingly. Experienced hikers may enjoy the tranquility and stark beauty of the winter landscape. 

Ultimately, the best time to hike in England depends on personal preferences and preparedness. England's official tourist site (https://www.visitengland.com/) provides in-depth information about various hiking trails and their seasonal characteristics. Be sure to research specific areas as climate can vary across the country.

Do I need a permit to hike in England?

In England, the "Right to Roam" allows hikers access to certain public lands without a permit. Some areas like national parks or Sites of Special Scientific Interest may have specific rules. Before hiking, check with the landowner, National Trust, or local council. Information on access rights can be found on the Natural England website (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/open-access-land-management-rights-and-responsibilities).

Is wild camping allowed in England?

Wild camping in England is generally not allowed without landowner permission, except in some parts of Dartmoor National Park. Breaching this can result in fines. It's advised to use official campsites or seek landowner consent for a more immersive experience. For more, visit the Dartmoor National Park's website (https://www.dartmoor.gov.uk/visiting/planning-your-visit/camping).

Are there mountain rescue services in England?

In emergencies while hiking in England, dial 999 and ask for the police, then request Mountain Rescue. The Mountain Rescue England and Wales (MREW) is a volunteer-run organization that provides assistance in upland and lowland areas. More information can be found on their website (https://www.mountain.rescue.org.uk/).

Are there dangerous plants in England?

England's diverse hiking trails present a range of flora. Expect bluebells in ancient woodlands, gorse on coastal paths, and heather on moorlands. In protected areas, refrain from picking or damaging plants. The Woodland Trust provides more details on the UK's native species (https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/plants/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in England?

While hiking in England, you may encounter a variety of wildlife including deer, foxes, badgers, and numerous bird species. Beware of ticks in tall grass and midges in damp, shaded areas. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (https://www.rspb.org.uk/) offers useful information on encountering wildlife responsibly.

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