The best walks and hikes around Easby

Easby offers a diverse range of hiking trails, from gentle riverside paths along the tranquil River Swale to more challenging routes connecting to the broader North York Moors. You'll find a blend of historical sites and natural landscapes, with options suitable for various fitness levels. In total, there are over 100 hiking routes in the area.

Yes, Easby is well-suited for family walks. A popular and relatively flat 2-mile circular walk from Richmond to Easby Abbey follows the old railway line and crosses the River Swale, making it ideal for a gentle stroll. For a slightly longer but still easy option, consider the Richmond Castle – Hudswell Woods loop from Richmond, which is 3.2 miles (5.1 km) and offers pleasant views.

Easby is rich in history. A central attraction is the magnificent Ruins of Easby Abbey, a preserved Premonstratensian monastery by the River Swale. Within the abbey precinct, you can also visit St. Agatha's Church, known for its rare 13th-century wall paintings. Just a short distance away, the historic market town of Richmond features Richmond Castle, dating back to 1071.

Yes, many of the trails around Easby are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. A good example is the Ruins of Easby Abbey – Richmond Town Centre loop from Colburn, a 6.9-mile (11.1 km) route that takes you through the historic abbey area and into Richmond.

The hiking routes in Easby are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the blend of historical sites like Easby Abbey with the serene riverside paths along the River Swale, as well as the accessibility of the trails for various abilities.

Many trails around Easby are suitable for dog walking, especially the pleasant riverside paths and the circular walk from Richmond to Easby Abbey. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, particularly near livestock or in nature conservation areas, and to follow the Countryside Code.

While Easby itself offers lovely riverside views, the broader region provides more dramatic vistas. Nearby Easby Moor is crowned by Captain Cook's Monument, offering extensive views. Further afield, Roseberry Topping, known as the 'Yorkshire Matterhorn,' provides spectacular panoramic views from its summit. Richmond Castle also offers elevated views of the surrounding area.

For those seeking a longer and more challenging experience, the region connects to the North York Moors. A moderate option closer to Easby is the Hudswell Woods – Richmond Castle loop from Richmond, which is 9.0 miles (14.4 km) and includes some elevation gain as it explores woodlands and passes the castle.

Parking is generally available in the nearby market town of Richmond, which serves as a common starting point for walks to Easby Abbey. From Richmond, you can easily access the popular 2-mile circular walk to the abbey. Specific parking details for other trailheads may vary, so it's advisable to check local signage.

The historic town of Richmond, a key hub for accessing Easby's trails, is served by local bus routes connecting it to larger towns and transport links in North Yorkshire. From Richmond, many trails, including those to Easby Abbey, are easily accessible on foot.

Beyond Easby Abbey and Richmond Castle, the area offers more. You can visit The Drummer Boy's Stone, a local historical marker. For a different perspective of the castle, consider the Ruins of Easby Abbey – Richmond Bridge and Riverbank loop from Richmond, which offers views of the castle from the riverside. The wider North Yorkshire region also boasts other castles like Kiplin Hall & Gardens and Ravensworth Castle Ruins.

Easby is beautiful year-round, but spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the riverside paths and historical sites. Autumn brings vibrant colors to the landscapes. Even in winter, the trails can be enjoyed, though appropriate clothing and footwear are essential. The Easby Abbey ruins are free to enter during daylight hours throughout the year.

The nearby market town of Richmond, often a starting or ending point for hikes to Easby Abbey, offers a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants. This makes it an excellent place to refuel and relax after your walk. Many routes, such as the Richmond Town Centre – Ruins of Easby Abbey loop from Richmond, conveniently begin and end in the town centre.