Best Walks Near Middleham
Discover scenic walking routes across the Yorkshire Dales.
Ten beautiful walks to explore near Middleham
Staying in Middleham places you within easy reach of some of the most spectacular walking routes in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. From dramatic limestone cliffs to quiet river valleys and historic villages, the region offers a variety of landscapes that make it one of the best places for walking in England.
Below are ten memorable walks across the Yorkshire Dales, all within comfortable reach of Middleham.
1. Malham Cove and Gordale Scar
Start: Malham
Distance: ~7 miles
One of the most iconic walks in the Yorkshire Dales, this route takes in the dramatic limestone amphitheatre of Malham Cove, the striking ravine of Gordale Scar and the beautiful waterfall of Janet’s Foss.
2. Aysgarth Falls
Start: Aysgarth
Distance: ~4 miles
A scenic woodland walk along the River Ure featuring the famous Aysgarth Falls, a series of broad cascades surrounded by forest paths and views across Wensleydale.
3. Muker Meadows, Swaledale
Start: Muker
Distance: ~3 miles
A gentle circular walk through the traditional hay meadows of Swaledale, famous in summer for wildflowers, dry-stone walls and historic field barns.
4. Bolton Castle and Redmire
Start: Redmire
Distance: ~6 miles
A rewarding countryside walk combining views across Wensleydale with a visit to Bolton Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in North Yorkshire.
5. Ingleton Waterfalls Trail
Start: Ingleton
Distance: ~4.5 miles
A spectacular route through wooded valleys and rocky gorges, passing a series of impressive waterfalls along the River Twiss and River Doe.
6. Ribblehead Viaduct and Whernside
Start: Ribblehead
Distance: ~8 miles
A classic Yorkshire Dales walk combining the dramatic setting of the Ribblehead Viaduct with a climb up Whernside, the highest of the Yorkshire Three Peaks.
7. Grassington and Linton Falls
Start: Grassington
Distance: ~4 miles
A charming walk through one of the prettiest villages in the Yorkshire Dales, following the River Wharfe past the beautiful Linton Falls.
8. Kettlewell to Starbotton
Start: Kettlewell
Distance: ~5 miles
A peaceful riverside walk through Upper Wharfedale, passing traditional stone villages and open valley landscapes typical of the Yorkshire Dales.
9. Hawes and Hardraw Force
Start: Hawes
Distance: ~3 miles
A short but rewarding walk leading to Hardraw Force, the highest single-drop waterfall in England, hidden within a dramatic rocky gorge.
10. Swaledale Moorland Walk
Start: Reeth
Distance: ~6 miles
A classic moorland walk above Swaledale offering sweeping views across the valley, old mining remains and quiet upland scenery.
Exploring the Yorkshire Dales from Middleham
Many of these Yorkshire Dales walks can be reached within a short drive from Middleham, making the town an excellent base for exploring the surrounding countryside. Whether you're looking for gentle valley strolls or longer hill walks, the landscapes of the Dales offer endless opportunities to explore on foot.
For guests staying at The Old Manse, a day spent walking through the Yorkshire Dales is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the beauty of North Yorkshire.
