4.4
(1613)
13,448
hikers
349
hikes
Hiking around Darley And Menwith, located within the Nidderdale National Landscape, features diverse terrain including waterside views, woodlands, and expansive Dales scenery. The area is characterized by several reservoirs such as Fewston, Swinsty, and Thruscross, alongside rivers like the Wharfe. Elevation changes vary from gentle paths along water bodies to more challenging ascents within the Dales.
Last updated: September 27, 2026
4.7
(95)
845
hikers
10.9km
02:51
80m
80m
Embark on a moderate hike around the tranquil waters of Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs, a 6.8-mile (10.9 km) route that offers continuous waterside views. You will gain 247 feet (75…
4.5
(22)
183
hikers
Embark on the Thruscross Reservoir and Cloggers Lane loop, an easy hike that takes you around the tranquil waters of Thruscross Reservoir. This circular route spans 4.7 miles (7.5 km)…

4.7
(9)
39
hikers
Embark on a challenging yet rewarding hike through the varied landscapes of Nidderdale with the Simon's Seat and Rocking Hall loop. This difficult 13.3-mile (21.4 km) route, featuring an elevation…
4.0
(2)
16
hikers
14.5km
04:03
280m
280m
Embark on the Haxby Bridge and Fringill Dam loop, a moderate hiking route that takes you through the varied landscapes of the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You will…
6
hikers
24.3km
06:42
430m
430m
Hike the difficult 15.1-mile 6 Dales Trail and Nidderdale Way Loop, gaining 1400 feet through diverse Yorkshire Dales scenery.
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Very unusual, looks more like an older stone dwellinghouse rather than a church. More information at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Providence_Chapel,_Dacre and https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1298747?section=official-list-entry
1
0
Undoubtedly the most scenic of the Washburn reservoirs with the moorland backdrop to the north. The circular route around the reservoir from the car park is about 5 miles, the track on the southwestern side runs along the edge of plantations and offers some shade from the sun and shelter from the elements. The track on the northeastern side is more exposed, and if you do the whole circuit you will cross over Far Comb Hill and the plantation along the edge of the reservoir at Whit Moor - a great route.
0
0
Small bridge at the southern end of the dam allows you to peer over and see the overflow for Fewston Reservoir and the sloping masonry weirs that channel overflow down into Swinsty Reservoir. Great views of both reservoirs northwest to Fewston and southeast to Swinsty.
1
0
Easy to access and walk along the water's edge, levels quite low in spring of 2025 (see photos).
1
0
The track along this part of the reservoir is very good quality and clearly well-trodden: wide and flat, and provides welcome shade when the sun is scorching.
1
0
Different experience on each side of the reservoir. The track on the west / southwestern side is shaded and slightly elevated, running along the edge of plantations, and Scot Lane on the eastern side is a bit more exposed. A full circular route of the reservoir is around 5 miles or so.
1
0
The walk from the large car park at Thruscross Reservoir dam up the west side of the reservoir to Cloggers Lane is magical and gives far better views than the tracks along Scot Lane on the eastern side. The track meanders along the edge of coniferous plantations, giving dappled shade on a sunny day and unobstructed views across the reservoir.
1
0
There are over 350 hiking trails around Darley And Menwith, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. You'll find everything from easy strolls to challenging long-distance routes.
The trails in Darley And Menwith cater to all abilities. You'll find over 150 easy routes, more than 180 moderate trails, and around 15 challenging hikes for experienced adventurers. This variety ensures there's a suitable path for every hiker.
Yes, Darley And Menwith offers several family-friendly options. Many of the easy reservoir loops, such as the Thruscross Reservoir and Cloggers Lane loop, are suitable for families. These paths often feature minimal elevation gain and pleasant waterside views.
Many trails in Darley And Menwith are dog-friendly, especially those around the reservoirs and through woodlands. Always keep dogs under control, particularly near livestock, and check local signage for any specific restrictions, especially in nature conservation areas within the Nidderdale National Landscape.
Yes, Darley And Menwith is excellent for circular walks. Popular options include the Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs Trail, which offers a scenic loop around both bodies of water, and the Thruscross Reservoir and Cloggers Lane loop.
Hikers in Darley And Menwith will encounter diverse natural beauty, including tranquil waterside views around reservoirs like Fewston, Swinsty, and Thruscross, expansive Dales scenery, and peaceful woodlands. The area is part of the Nidderdale National Landscape, known for its varied terrain.
Yes, the region offers several interesting landmarks. You can find dramatic rock formations at Simon's Seat, which is part of a challenging loop from Thruscross Reservoir. The area is also close to historic sites like Fountains Abbey and the unique geological formations of Brimham Rocks.
Parking is generally available at key trailheads, particularly around the popular reservoirs. For example, the Thruscross Reservoir and Cloggers Lane loop starts from a dedicated car park. It's advisable to check specific route details for parking information.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 1,300 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil waterside paths, the varied Dales scenery, and the well-maintained trails that cater to different fitness levels.
For those seeking a challenge, Darley And Menwith offers more strenuous routes. The Simon's Seat and Rocking Hall loop is a difficult 21.4 km (13.3 miles) trail with significant elevation gain, providing expansive Dales views. Another option is the 6 Dales Trail and Nidderdale Way Loop, a 24.3 km (15.1 miles) route.
Hiking in Darley And Menwith is enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful seasonal colours. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter can be stunning with crisp air, though some paths may be muddy or icy.
Yes, many hiking routes in the wider Nidderdale area pass through or near villages with traditional pubs and cafes. While specific routes are not listed here, planning your hike to include a stop for refreshments is often possible, especially around the more populated areas or popular trailheads.


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