Best attractions and places to see around Martons Both, located in North Yorkshire, England, include natural features and historical points of interest. The area is situated within or close to the Yorkshire Dales National Park, offering a landscape of moors, valleys, and hills. It provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
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amazing how a cross can mean so much to people visiting it each year
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This is a strenuous route with long climbs, a stream crossing, and open moorland that will be boggy if wet. Stunning views from Embsay Crag across to Pendle Hill and from Rylston Cross. Nice place to stop for lunch
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Run round the reservoir on decent tracks or better still head up onto the moor behind to Crookrise or Embsay Crag - both great routes with amazing views
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There's a good trail on the ground either from Flasby (the more interesting route) or Skipton side, and a rocky summit with a trig point - the perfect destination for a fell run
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The area around Martons Both is rich in natural beauty and offers several notable viewpoints. You can visit Sharp Haw Summit, a 1,171-foot hill offering scenic views from a bench just below its peak. Another excellent spot is Rylstone Cross, which provides spectacular views, including those of Rylstone village. Additionally, Embsay Reservoir is surrounded by proud hills and offers pleasant views, often with sailing boats during summer.
Yes, Martons Both and its surroundings have historical significance. Rylstone Cross itself has a rich history, with the current cross erected in 1995, replacing a wooden one from 1783. Marton House is a Grade II listed building in Martons Both, recognized for its historical importance. St Peter's Church in East Marton is a small Dales church, and the area between the church and the river historically shows platforms marking medieval buildings.
The region around Martons Both is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, and gravel biking. For challenging cycling, consider the High Hill Lane Climb, known for its steep gradients. The broader Yorkshire Dales National Park offers extensive opportunities for exploration.
Yes, Embsay Reservoir is considered family-friendly, offering easy walks around its perimeter. It's a great spot for a leisurely stroll with scenic views. The wider Yorkshire Dales National Park also features many accessible paths suitable for families.
You can find a variety of hiking routes around Martons Both, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging trails. For easy hikes, explore options like the Anchor Lock – Higherland Lock loop from Gargrave or the Greenberfield Locks loop from Barnoldswick. You can find more details and routes on the Easy hikes around Martons Both guide.
Martons Both offers diverse cycling opportunities. For road cycling, routes like the Hellifield Village Entrance – Halton West Countryside Views loop from Thornton in Craven are popular. If you prefer gravel biking, consider the Barden Moor Track loops from Skipton. More detailed routes can be found in the Road Cycling Routes around Martons Both and Gravel biking around Martons Both guides.
The area around Martons Both, particularly within the Yorkshire Dales National Park, is generally enjoyable for outdoor activities during spring, summer, and early autumn when the weather is milder and days are longer. Summer months are ideal for seeing sailing boats on Embsay Reservoir. However, the landscape offers unique beauty in all seasons, with winter walks providing a different, often tranquil, experience.
The Yorkshire Dales National Park is a vast natural area encompassing thousands of square miles of moors, valleys, hills, and villages. It's significant for its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and numerous opportunities for hiking and cycling. Within the park, you can find iconic sites like the ruins of Bolton Abbey Estate, the dramatic Gordale Scar near Malham Village, and the distinctive 5-arched bridge at Burnsall Village.
Yes, for experienced and fit cyclists, the High Hill Lane Climb is a challenging route. It features sections reaching up to a 24% gradient, with the first third being particularly tough. It forms part of the Pennine Cycleway and offers excellent views back over Settle and towards Malham.
Visitors frequently appreciate the stunning scenic views from elevated points like Sharp Haw Summit and Rylstone Cross. The well-maintained trails for hiking and running, especially within the Yorkshire Dales National Park, are also highly valued. The tranquil atmosphere and the character of places like Embsay Reservoir also contribute to a positive visitor experience.
Yes, there are easy walking paths available. Embsay Reservoir offers an easy walk around its perimeter on tracks and paths. Many parts of the Yorkshire Dales National Park also feature gentle routes suitable for various fitness levels. For specific easy hiking routes, refer to the Easy hikes around Martons Both guide.


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