The best walks and hikes around Bentham

Bentham offers a wide selection of hiking trails, with over 250 routes recorded on komoot. These range from easy riverside strolls to more challenging moderate hikes through woodlands and up local hills.

Yes, Bentham is well-suited for families and those seeking easier walks. There are 93 easy routes available. A good option is the Lingshaw Woods – Bowtham Wood loop from Bentham, a 4.0-mile (6.4 km) trail that takes you through local woodlands.

While Bentham is known for its gentle landscapes, there are 36 difficult routes for those seeking a challenge. Additionally, 126 moderate trails offer longer distances and more elevation gain. Consider the Aspland Beck Bridge – Bracken Hill Summit loop from Bentham, a moderate 13.8-kilometer (8.6 mi) hike that includes an ascent to Bracken Hill.

Many of the trails around Bentham are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Bracken Hill Summit – Aspland Beck Bridge loop from Burton in Lonsdale offers a 12.6-kilometer (7.8 mi) moderate circular route with scenic views.

Bentham's trails often feature river valleys, dense woodlands, and local summits. You can explore impressive natural features like the Baxenghyll Gorge Waterfall or the dramatic Trow Gill. The region is also close to the Yorkshire Dales, offering diverse natural scenery.

Bentham is generally dog-friendly, with many public footpaths and bridleways suitable for walks with your canine companion. Always keep dogs under control, especially near livestock, and be mindful of local signage regarding leads. Many trails pass through open countryside and woodlands, providing ample space for dogs.

The best time for hiking in Bentham is typically from spring to autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and the days are longer. Spring brings wildflowers, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Summer is popular, but trails can be busier. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear for potentially wet and muddy conditions.

Bentham has a railway station on the Leeds to Morecambe line, making it accessible by train. Local bus services also connect Bentham with surrounding villages and towns. It's advisable to check current timetables for specific routes to ensure they align with your hiking plans.

Parking is available in Bentham town centre, often near the main street or public facilities. For trails starting outside the town, small car parks or roadside parking might be available in nearby villages or at specific trailheads. Always park responsibly and considerately, especially in rural areas.

The hiking experience in Bentham is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1300 reviews. Hikers often praise the region's varied terrain, from tranquil river paths to peaceful woodlands and accessible hills, offering diverse scenery for all ability levels.

Bentham and its surrounding villages offer several pubs and cafes where you can stop for refreshments or a meal. While not every trail will have an establishment directly on route, many walks start or end near such amenities, particularly in the town centre or larger villages. It's a good idea to plan your route with potential stops in mind.