Stank Houses Loop

Starting near North Yorkshire, England, the Stank Houses Loop is a delightful 7 km (approximately 4.35 miles) trail with no significant elevation gain, making it accessible for a wide range of hikers. The trailhead is conveniently located near the village of Kilburn, which is easily accessible by both car and public transport. If you're driving, you can park at the Kilburn White Horse car park. For those using public transport, the nearest train station is Thirsk, from where you can take a local bus or taxi to Kilburn.

### Trail Overview

The Stank Houses Loop is a medium-difficulty trail that offers a variety of landscapes, from open fields to dense woodlands. The loop format means you’ll end up right where you started, making logistics simpler. The trail is well-marked, but it’s always a good idea to have a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to ensure you stay on track.

### Key Landmarks and Points of Interest

Kilburn White Horse: One of the first landmarks you'll encounter is the Kilburn White Horse, a large hill figure carved into the limestone of Sutton Bank. This iconic feature is visible from miles around and offers a great photo opportunity.

Stank House Farm: About 2 km (1.24 miles) into the hike, you’ll pass by Stank House Farm. This historic farmstead dates back several centuries and offers a glimpse into the agricultural history of the region. The farm is still operational, so you might see livestock grazing in the fields.

Woodland Sections: As you continue, you’ll enter a series of woodlands that are home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and numerous bird species. Keep an eye out for the native flora, such as bluebells in the spring and a variety of fungi in the autumn.

Sutton Bank National Park Centre: Around the halfway point, you’ll come across the Sutton Bank National Park Centre. This is a great spot to take a break, use the facilities, and learn more about the local geology and wildlife through the informative displays.

### Historical Significance

The area around the Stank Houses Loop is rich in history. The Kilburn White Horse itself was created in 1857 and has been maintained by local volunteers ever since. The surrounding villages have a long history dating back to the medieval period, and you may notice remnants of old stone walls and farm buildings along the way.

### Wildlife and Nature

The trail offers a diverse range of habitats, from open fields to dense woodlands. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of species, including kestrels, owls, and woodpeckers. The woodlands are also home to small mammals like hedgehogs and squirrels. In the spring and summer, the fields are often filled with wildflowers, attracting a plethora of butterflies and bees.

### Getting There

By Car: If you’re driving, set your GPS to Kilburn White Horse car park. The car park is well-signposted and offers ample parking space.

By Public Transport: For those using public transport, the nearest train station is Thirsk. From Thirsk, you can catch a local bus or taxi to Kilburn. The bus ride offers scenic views of the North Yorkshire countryside, making it a pleasant start to your hiking adventure.

### Final Tips

While the trail is relatively flat, it can get muddy in sections, especially after rain, so waterproof hiking boots are recommended. Always carry a map and a navigation tool like HiiKER to ensure you stay on the right path. Bring plenty of water and some snacks, as there are limited facilities along the trail apart from the Sutton Bank National Park Centre.

Enjoy your hike on the Stank Houses Loop, a trail that beautifully combines natural beauty, historical landmarks, and a touch of local wildlife.