10 Secret Walks in the North York Moors

The North York Moors is one of England’s most enchanting landscapes, where rolling heather hills, dramatic valleys, and hidden woodlands come together in a place steeped in history and folklore.

While many visitors head straight to the well-known trails, those willing to wander a little further will discover a collection of secret walks that reveal the true heart of this national park.

These hidden paths lead through quiet dales, forgotten ruins, and timeless villages where the rhythm of life has barely changed in centuries. Walking here is about slowing down, breathing in the fresh moorland air, and feeling a deep connection to the land.

Along the way, you might hear the call of curlews, catch the scent of wildflowers, or stumble upon an ancient stone cross weathered by centuries of wind and rain.

These secret walks offer something beyond the guidebooks: a sense of discovery, solitude, and wonder. Whether you’re seeking peaceful riversides, windswept ridges, or woodland glades, the North York Moors has a hidden corner waiting for you.

1) The Hidden Valley of Farndale

Farndale is often known for its spring daffodils, but beyond the famous blooms lies a quieter valley walk that feels like stepping back in time. The narrow trail winds through meadows where the River Dove sparkles in the sunlight, and sheep graze lazily on the hillsides.

You pass stone walls covered in moss and wooden gates that creak as you push them open, giving the walk an intimate, lived-in charm.

As you wander deeper, the crowds thin out and the valley seems to fold around you like a protective cloak. The scent of wild garlic drifts from shaded banks in summer, and butterflies dance over the long grass.

Here, the moorland edges meet gentle farmland, creating a patchwork of colours and textures that shift with the light. It is a place that encourages lingering, whether you sit on a stone bridge or lean against a tree to watch the river flow.

In autumn, Farndale feels especially magical, with golden leaves drifting down and the crisp air sharpening your senses.

FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Hidden Valley of Farndale

Q1: When is the best time to walk in Farndale?

The best time to walk in Farndale is during spring when the wild daffodils line the valley floor. However, each season has its own charm, with summer offering wildflowers, autumn bringing fiery colours, and winter giving peaceful solitude. Visiting outside peak daffodil season also means fewer crowds, making the walk feel more private.

Q2: How long does the Farndale walk take?

The main Farndale daffodil walk takes around two hours, but longer routes can stretch the experience to half a day. Paths are generally well-marked, and the pace is easy, making it suitable for families and casual walkers. If you explore beyond the main track, you can link into other trails that climb onto the moors for wider views.

Q3: Is Farndale suitable for children?

Yes, Farndale is an excellent choice for children, thanks to its gentle paths and abundance of nature. The walk provides opportunities for kids to spot birds, insects, and farm animals along the way. Picnic spots beside the river also make it easy to break up the journey and keep little ones engaged.

2) The Forgotten Ruins of Rievaulx Woods

Tucked away near the ruins of Rievaulx Abbey lies a woodland walk that feels half-forgotten, yet rich in atmosphere. The path winds beneath towering trees, their roots curling like fingers over the damp earth.

Sunlight filters through the canopy in broken beams, illuminating moss-covered stones that whisper of long-gone buildings.

The woods are alive with birdsong, the calls echoing from hidden perches high above. As you move deeper, you catch glimpses of ruined walls and old stone structures overtaken by ivy.

These are the remnants of an industrial past, blending with nature until they appear more mythical than man-made. It is a place where history and wilderness meet in a dreamlike balance.

Walking here in the evening is particularly evocative, when shadows stretch long and the silence deepens. Every crack of a twig feels amplified, adding to the sense of mystery.

FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Forgotten Ruins of Rievaulx Woods

Q1: How do I find the woodland walks near Rievaulx Abbey?

The woodland paths begin close to the abbey ruins, with several signposted routes leading into the trees. While the abbey itself is well known, the woodland trails receive far fewer visitors, keeping them peaceful. Maps from local visitor centres can help you plan a loop that combines both the ruins and the woods.

Q2: Are the Rievaulx Woods walks difficult?

The walks in Rievaulx Woods are moderate, with some uneven ground and gentle climbs. Most people with average fitness will find them manageable, especially if they take their time. Good walking shoes are recommended, particularly after rain when the paths can become muddy. The sense of discovery more than makes up for the effort.

Q3: Can I visit the woods without visiting the abbey?

Yes, the woodland trails can be enjoyed separately from the abbey, though combining both creates a memorable day out. The woods are free to explore, and parking nearby makes them accessible.

3) Hawnby Ridge and the Quiet Moors

High above the little village of Hawnby, a ridge walk opens up vast horizons across the North York Moors. The path begins gently, passing stone cottages and winding lanes before climbing steadily towards the open heights.

Soon, the air feels sharper, and the land stretches out in a patchwork of heather and rolling hills.

The ridge itself is a place of sweeping views where the sky seems endless. On a clear day, you can see miles in every direction, with the Vale of York shimmering in the distance.

The soundscape is minimal here: the call of grouse, the whistle of the wind, and the soft crunch of boots on gravel. It is a walk that brings perspective, reminding you of the sheer scale of the moors.

In late summer, the ridge turns purple with heather, a sight that feels almost otherworldly. The colours shift as clouds pass overhead, painting the hills in shades of violet and gold.

FAQs/Things to know when visiting Hawnby Ridge and the Quiet Moors

Q1: Where does the Hawnby Ridge walk start?

The walk typically starts in Hawnby village, where you can park and follow paths leading upwards to the ridge. The village is small and welcoming, making it a good base for exploring the area. Local signs help guide the way, though carrying a map gives extra confidence.

Q2: How long does it take to walk the ridge near Hawnby?

The walk can take between two and four hours, depending on your chosen route and pace. Shorter loops keep to the ridge, while longer circuits descend into the valleys for a fuller experience.

Q3: Is Hawnby Ridge good for photography?

Yes, Hawnby Ridge is excellent for photography, especially in late summer when the heather is in bloom. The wide skies and shifting weather patterns create dramatic light that changes by the minute.

4) The Whispering Pines of Cropton Forest

Cropton Forest is a place of tall, dark pines that seem to whisper secrets as the wind moves through their branches. The path begins on wide forest tracks before narrowing into hushed trails where sunlight filters in slanted shafts.

Walking here feels like entering a cathedral made of trees, with the air heavy with the scent of resin and earth.

The forest is alive in subtle ways, from the sudden dart of a deer to the tapping of a woodpecker echoing through the stillness. In summer, ferns unfurl along the paths, and in autumn the ground is strewn with a quilt of golden needles.

Every turn brings a new pocket of silence or a sudden clearing where the light bursts in. It is a walk that sharpens the senses and slows the pace.

At dusk, Cropton Forest feels especially atmospheric, the trees taking on a shadowy grandeur. You may catch sight of an owl gliding silently between branches, or hear the distant rustle of unseen animals.

FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Whispering Pines of Cropton Forest

Q1: Is Cropton Forest suitable for beginners?

Yes, Cropton Forest is ideal for beginners because the main paths are wide and easy to follow. There are also shorter loops for those who prefer a gentle stroll rather than a full hike. The forest offers plenty of benches and natural resting points along the way. This makes it a welcoming place for first-time walkers and families.

Q2: What wildlife can be seen in Cropton Forest?

Cropton Forest is home to deer, badgers, and a wide variety of birds. Owls are often heard at dusk, while smaller birds like finches and tits flit through the treetops. Insects thrive in the undergrowth, and butterflies can be seen in sunny clearings. Wildlife lovers will find plenty to observe in this diverse woodland.

Q3: When is the best season to visit Cropton Forest?

Each season offers something different in Cropton Forest. Spring brings bright new growth and birdsong, summer provides shaded walks under thick canopies, autumn offers golden colours, and winter has stark beauty with frosted branches.

5) The Ancient Stones of Blakey Ridge

Blakey Ridge is a high, windswept stretch of moor that feels like the roof of the world. The walk here follows a path past heather-clad slopes and weathered stones, many of which hold ancient stories.

The ridge is steeped in history, with standing stones and old boundary markers giving clues to the past.

The wind is a constant companion, carrying the cry of curlews and the rustle of grasses. The landscape opens in every direction, with distant hills rolling away into the horizon.

On clear days, the light feels sharp and clean, while in mist the ridge becomes otherworldly, like walking in a dream. This combination of exposure and history makes Blakey Ridge unforgettable.

The sense of time is strong here, as if the ridge has been watching over the moors for thousands of years. Every step connects you to walkers from long before, shepherds, travellers, and storytellers alike.

FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Ancient Stones of Blakey Ridge

Q1: How do I get to Blakey Ridge?

Blakey Ridge is reached by road, with parking available near the Lion Inn, one of the highest pubs in England. From there, walking trails spread across the ridge and link with other moorland routes. The location makes it accessible while still feeling remote. It is a perfect starting point for a moorland adventure.

Q2: What makes Blakey Ridge unique?

Blakey Ridge is unique because it combines sweeping moorland views with visible traces of ancient history. The standing stones and markers are tangible links to the people who once lived here. Its elevation also gives it a commanding perspective over the moors, unlike many lower trails. This blend of archaeology and natural drama is what sets it apart.

Q3: Is Blakey Ridge suitable in bad weather?

Blakey Ridge can be challenging in poor weather because of its exposure to wind and rain. Visibility may drop quickly in fog, so carrying a map and compass is essential. Walkers should wear proper gear, especially waterproofs and sturdy boots. While rewarding, it is best enjoyed when the conditions are clear.

6) The Secret Waterfalls of Westerdale

Hidden in the folds of Westerdale are small waterfalls that most visitors never see. The walk begins along quiet farm tracks, with fields stretching wide and the occasional farmhouse nestled against the hills.

Soon, the sound of water guides you towards shaded glens where streams tumble over rocks.

The waterfalls here are not grand in scale but delicate and enchanting. Pools gather at their bases, reflecting the sky through a canopy of trees. Ferns and moss thrive in the damp air, and the constant murmur of water creates a soothing soundtrack. It is a place for those who value peace and detail over spectacle.

Each waterfall feels like a private discovery, tucked away in a landscape shaped by time. Sitting beside the water, you sense how these small features bring life to the valley.

FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Secret Waterfalls of Westerdale

Q1: How do I find the waterfalls in Westerdale?

The waterfalls are reached by walking from the village of Westerdale and following streams into the smaller valleys. They are not widely signposted, so a good map helps guide the way. Part of the charm is their hidden nature, rewarding those willing to explore. Local walking groups sometimes share detailed routes for those unfamiliar with the area.

Q2: Are the waterfalls large?

The waterfalls in Westerdale are small but picturesque rather than dramatic. Their beauty lies in the intimacy of shaded glens and the play of light on flowing water. This makes them perfect for walkers who enjoy quiet, contemplative spots. While not towering cascades, they hold a unique charm of their own.

Q3: Can I swim in the pools?

Swimming is not recommended in most of the pools because they are shallow and rocky. The water can also be very cold, even in summer. However, paddling and resting beside them is a lovely way to enjoy their atmosphere. Visitors are encouraged to respect the fragile environment and leave no trace.

7) Baysdale’s Lost Monastic Valley

Baysdale is a valley with a history tied to a Cistercian nunnery, now long gone but still lingering in the land. The walk begins at the valley head, where stone ruins lie quietly among the grass. From there, paths lead through meadows and alongside a sparkling beck.

The valley is strikingly quiet, with only the sound of running water and birdsong breaking the silence. Old stone bridges and forgotten tracks hint at centuries of use, yet today the valley feels secluded and unhurried.

It is a place where the past and present merge in a subtle, almost ghostly way. Walking here feels both peaceful and poignant.

In spring, wildflowers brighten the meadows, while in autumn the valley glows with warm colours. The ruined nunnery remains are modest, yet their presence deepens the atmosphere of the walk.

FAQs/Things to know when visiting Baysdale’s Lost Monastic Valley

Q1: What remains of the nunnery in Baysdale?

Only fragments of stone walls and foundations remain of the Cistercian nunnery in Baysdale. While small, these ruins add a strong sense of history to the valley. Their simplicity makes them feel part of the landscape rather than apart from it. Visiting them connects walkers to a forgotten chapter of moorland history.

Q2: Is Baysdale suitable for long walks?

Yes, Baysdale can be part of longer routes that link with surrounding moorland tracks. The valley itself is fairly short, but it opens into paths that climb onto the higher ground. This makes it flexible for both short, gentle walks and full-day hikes. Walkers of all levels can find something rewarding here.

Q3: What makes Baysdale different from other valleys?

Baysdale stands out because of its unique blend of monastic history and natural charm. The quiet ruins add depth to the walk, while the beck and meadows bring lightness. Few valleys in the North York Moors feel so tied to a single story. This gives Baysdale a personality that feels distinct and memorable.

8) The Moorland Edge of Bransdale

Bransdale is one of the least visited valleys in the North York Moors, lying quietly between the more popular dales. The walk begins along a narrow lane where stone cottages huddle against the hillsides. Soon the path rises onto the moorland edge, where wide views unfold across the valley floor.

The contrast between farmland below and open heather above is striking. The soundscape shifts from birdsong to the low whistle of wind moving across the moors.

Sheep graze on the slopes, their calls carrying faintly across the air. The sense of openness makes every step feel expansive and freeing.

In late summer, the moor is alive with purple heather, a colour that seems to glow under shifting skies. Autumn brings mist that lingers in the valley while the ridge remains clear, giving dramatic contrasts.

FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Moorland Edge of Bransdale

Q1: How remote is Bransdale compared to other valleys?

Bransdale is one of the most remote valleys in the North York Moors, with fewer visitors than Farndale or Rosedale. Its quietness comes from being tucked away without major roads running through it. This makes it perfect for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. The sense of escape is part of its enduring charm.

Q2: Are there facilities in Bransdale?

Facilities in Bransdale are limited, with no cafes or shops within the valley. Walkers should bring their own food and water, as it is a place best enjoyed self-sufficiently. Parking is available at certain spots, but spaces are few. The lack of amenities helps keep the valley peaceful and unspoiled.

Q3: What type of walk suits Bransdale best?

Bransdale is ideal for walkers who enjoy quiet routes and wide open landscapes. It suits those comfortable with self-guided walks rather than marked tourist trails. The walks here can be tailored, from shorter ridge strolls to longer moorland loops. Its flexible terrain offers something for both casual and committed hikers.

9) The Hidden Gorge of Newtondale

Newtondale is a dramatic gorge carved deep into the landscape, often overlooked despite its striking beauty. The walk begins near Levisham, where woodland paths lead down into the valley. Soon you are surrounded by towering cliffs and dense vegetation, creating an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the moors.

The gorge is alive with sound: trickling water, bird calls, and the rustle of leaves in the breeze. In places, rock faces rise sheer on either side, making the path feel enclosed yet adventurous.

The vegetation shifts between damp mosses, bracken, and hardy trees clinging to the slopes. It feels both wild and intimate at the same time.

At intervals, the walk opens to reveal stunning views across the gorge. In spring, wildflowers brighten the undergrowth, while autumn paints the trees in rich colours.

FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Hidden Gorge of Newtondale

Q1: How challenging is the Newtondale walk?

The Newtondale walk can be moderately challenging due to steep sections and uneven paths. Walkers should be prepared for climbs and descents within the gorge. Good footwear is essential, especially after rain when rocks and soil become slippery. Despite the effort, the rewards are some of the most dramatic views in the moors.

Q2: Can you see wildlife in Newtondale?

Yes, Newtondale is excellent for wildlife spotting, from deer in the undergrowth to birds of prey soaring overhead. Smaller species like butterflies and dragonflies thrive in its sheltered spots. The gorge’s varied habitats make it a haven for different animals throughout the year. Patient walkers are often rewarded with memorable sightings.

Q3: Is Newtondale suitable for families?

Newtondale can be suitable for families with older children who enjoy adventurous walks. The terrain may be too steep for younger kids or pushchairs. Families who attempt it should take their time and bring plenty of water and snacks. For those prepared, it can be an exciting and rewarding family outing.

10) The Wild Ridge of Danby Rigg

Danby Rigg is a high ridge that feels raw and elemental, offering sweeping panoramas across the moors. The path begins near Danby village and climbs steadily upwards, with each step revealing more of the horizon. Soon, the ridge opens wide, exposing a wild, untamed landscape.

Heather dominates the terrain, with paths weaving through its purple sweep. On windy days, the ridge feels exhilarating, as gusts whip across the open ground.

The cry of grouse and the occasional kestrel overhead add to the sense of wilderness. The sheer openness makes the walk unforgettable.

Danby Rigg is also home to ancient cairns and burial mounds, reminders of human presence stretching back thousands of years.

FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Wild Ridge of Danby Rigg

Q1: What makes Danby Rigg special?

Danby Rigg is special because it combines wild landscapes with ancient archaeology. The cairns and burial sites remind walkers of the long human history here. Its position also offers wide views in all directions, making it one of the most scenic ridges in the moors. This blend of nature and history sets it apart.

Q2: Is Danby Rigg easy to access?

Yes, Danby Rigg can be accessed from Danby village, where parking and facilities are available. From there, clear paths lead up to the ridge. The walk involves steady climbing but is manageable for most people. Its accessibility makes it a popular yet still peaceful choice.

Q3: When is the best time to visit Danby Rigg?

The best time to visit Danby Rigg is late summer, when the heather is in full bloom. The purple moorland under wide skies creates stunning views. Spring and autumn are also rewarding, with fresh colours or golden sunsets. Each season gives the ridge a different character worth experiencing.

The North York Moors is a landscape rich in hidden paths and secret corners, offering far more than its famous spots suggest.

From the hushed woods of Rievaulx to the windswept height of Danby Rigg, each of these ten walks reveals a different side of the moors. Together, they showcase the variety of experiences waiting here: waterfalls tucked in quiet valleys, ridges that seem to touch the sky, and ruins that whisper of centuries past.

Walking these lesser-known trails allows you to slow down, notice the small details, and feel truly connected to the land.

The moors are not just about scenery but about atmosphere, memory, and discovery. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned walker, these secret walks promise new perspectives and quiet moments of wonder.

Download the official APP!

Gain access to over 1,600 hidden gems and their co-ordinates all over the UK when you download our app. Add gems to your bucket-list and tick them off as you go along, as well as earn rewards/badges when you visit a certain amount.