The best walks and hikes around Whenby
4.4
(466)
3,005
hikers
202
hikes
Hiking trails around Whenby are primarily found within the Howardian Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The landscape features a mix of woodlands, open farmland, and rolling hills, with elevations generally under 200 meters. The region is characterized by its rural setting, offering routes that pass through small villages and past historical sites. This area provides a variety of paths suitable for different hiking preferences.
Best hiking trails around Whenby
- The most popular hiking route is Sittenham Wood and…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
4.0
(11)
20
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.6
(5)
25
hikers
9.37km
02:32
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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11
hikers
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.3
(3)
5
hikers
18.6km
05:04
270m
270m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.0
(3)
5
hikers
11.7km
03:07
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
One of only a few such mazes left in the country and the only one in Yorkshire.
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Cautionary tale for those taking the Coulton - Swathgill - Potter Hill Farm public footpath: I travelled west from Coulton in May and the footpath immediately to the west of the main road in Coulton is heavily overgrown with nettles, even wearing long trousers I got quite a few stings. Undeterred, I pushed on and the footpath is not marked as it transits the massive field to the west of Coulton (I simply walked along the tractor tramlines through the middle of the crops, so didn't trample them), then the section of footpath running from east to west just south of Swathgill is heavily overgrown with brambles and nettles (see photos), and very narrow as it descends down a small hill, the fence at the side of the footpath is dilapidated in parts, meaning wire trails (hidden) through the undergrowth. Other than that it's brilliant!!!
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Worth stopping on your ride here - this is a gem! "City of Troy" here is the only surviving instance (in North Yorkshire) of an ancient game. A similar name is given to these kinds of maze games in Scandinavia (Trojeborg = Troy Town), which shows early association between these parts of the world. There is a plaque with further information here as well as a bench to rest on to enjoy this place. The views are also quite lovely, particularly down the Bonnygate Lane road.
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"City of Troy" here is the only surviving instance (in North Yorkshire) of an ancient game. A similar name is given to these kinds of maze games in Scandinavia (Trojeborg = Troy Town), which shows early association between these parts of the world. There is a plaque with further information here, as well as a bench to rest on to enjoy this place after. The views are also quite lovely, particularly down the Bonnygate Lane road.
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A beautiful building just off the road here. An old windmill that underwent some renovation a few years back, and has been converted into accommodation. In a wonderful spot, you can imagine the fantastic views you would get from the top!
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You're passing the Birkdale Farm Fishing Ponds here, visible only from certain spots, though, as a lot of the time trees block the view. It's a lovely part of the world: it feels very much away from everything else in the world, and is very impressively green. Suddenly, the world seems to just come to a standstill, and it's just you and the natural world. I absolutely loved walking through here.
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This castle - well, its ruins - dates back to the 12th century when it was built by Bertram de Bulmer as a motte and bailey castle. It had a long history, and changed hands on a number of occasions. After 1547, the castle was occupied only periodically, and started going into decline. Nowadays, the castle is on private land, and you would need to contact the landowner to get access to the interior, but the public footpath gives excellent views of it, which is sufficient for most.
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A lovely segment here down (or up from) Ganthorpe, with some picturesque ponds just outside Ganthorpe. There are pleasant views of Owlers Wood (east) and Cum Hag Wood (north-east) on this walk. A perfect stroll on your next weekend.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Whenby?
There are over 200 hiking routes around Whenby, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored more than 2,800 of these routes.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Whenby?
The Howardian Hills, where Whenby is located, are beautiful year-round. Spring brings wildflowers and lush greenery, while autumn offers stunning foliage. Summer is ideal for longer days, and winter can provide crisp, quiet walks, though paths may be muddy. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Whenby?
The trails around Whenby are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 400 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful rural setting, the mix of woodlands and open farmland, and the charming villages encountered along the way.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners near Whenby?
Yes, Whenby offers 84 easy hiking routes. These trails typically feature gentle gradients and shorter distances, perfect for a relaxed stroll. Many of these routes explore the rolling hills and agricultural land of the Howardian Hills.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced trekkers in the Whenby area?
For those seeking a more strenuous experience, there are 11 difficult hiking routes around Whenby. One such challenging option is the City of Troy and Yorkshire Lavender Farm loop from Dalby, which covers over 18 km with significant elevation changes.
Are there circular hiking routes available around Whenby?
Many of the hiking routes around Whenby are circular, allowing you to start and end your journey in the same location. Examples include the popular Sittenham Wood and Sheriff Hutton Castle loop and the All Saints' Church and Birkdale Farm Fishery loop.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails near Whenby?
Many trails in the Howardian Hills are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through farmland with livestock or near roads. Always check specific route details for any restrictions and ensure you clean up after your pet.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Whenby?
Yes, the region offers numerous family-friendly walks, particularly among the 84 easy routes. These often feature relatively flat terrain and shorter distances, perfect for children. The varied landscape of woodlands and open fields provides engaging scenery for all ages.
What kind of natural attractions or landmarks can I see while hiking near Whenby?
While hiking around Whenby, you can discover various natural and historical landmarks. Highlights include the tranquil Lower Fish Pond and Higher Fish Pond, Yearsley Woods. You might also encounter unique features like the Pretty Wood, King's Oak and the Four Faces Monument.
Are there any historical sites or points of interest along the trails?
Absolutely. The region is rich in history. Many routes pass by historical sites such as Castle Howard, a magnificent stately home, and the intriguing City of Troy Maze. The Sittenham Wood and Sheriff Hutton Castle loop specifically explores the grounds around Sheriff Hutton Castle.
Are there hiking trails accessible by public transport in Whenby?
While Whenby itself is a small rural village, some nearby trailheads in larger villages like Terrington or Sheriff Hutton may be accessible by local bus services. It's advisable to check local bus timetables in advance, as services can be infrequent in rural areas.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails around Whenby?
Parking is often available in the villages that serve as starting points for many trails, such as Sheriff Hutton or Terrington. Look for designated village car parks or consider parking responsibly on street where permitted. Always be mindful of local residents and access routes.
Are there any trails that pass by pubs or places to eat?
Many routes in the Howardian Hills pass through or near charming villages, which often host traditional pubs or cafes. These can be perfect for a refreshment stop during or after your hike. For example, the Centenary Way and Terrington Loop passes near Terrington, which may offer such amenities.
Most popular routes around Whenby
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