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United Kingdom
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Richmondshire

Kirby Hill

The best walks and hikes around Kirby Hill

4.5

(313)

2,826

hikers

87

hikes

Hiking around Kirby Hill, located within the Vale of York, is characterized by gently rolling agricultural landscapes and accessible trails. The region features picturesque views of expansive fields and quiet country lanes, with the River Ure providing numerous waterside paths for walking. Most hiking trails in this area of North Yorkshire have minimal elevation change, contributing to their accessibility for various fitness levels.

Best hiking trails around Kirby Hill

  • The most popular hiking route is Richmond Town Centre – Ruins…

Last updated: June 24, 2026

4.8

(55)

543

hikers

#1.

Richmond Town Centre – Ruins of Easby Abbey loop from Richmond

8.53km

02:24

170m

170m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Tips from the Community

Tracey Price
July 25, 2025, Easby Abbey Ruins

Great tea barn just past the Abbey car park

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The top of the tower is accessible and offers some great views across Richmond and the Castle Grounds

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The wall paintings are wonderful - always a joy to see. The bike ride alongside the Swale is perfect. Watch out for herons, which can often be seen fishing on a rock. The ice cream at the parlour as you arrive at the station is delicious. The deli just inside is also fabulous…….

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Biggest ruins I've seen, no entry fee, lots of interesting places to see, my favourite part was the roof underneath the refectory

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Muddy path when wet, wear sensible shoes

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Legend has it that at the end of the eighteenth century, a tunnel was discovered at Richmond Castle that was believed to lead to Easby, where there is a ruined abbey. It is said that the entrance to this tunnel was uncovered by soldiers but the passageway beyond was so narrow and full of rubble that they couldn’t fit through it. So a little drummer boy was lowered in and the boy was told to walk along the tunnel, banging his drum, whilst above ground the soldiers would follow his drumming and learn where the tunnel led. All was well at first. The soldiers walked along, listening carefully, and were led out of the castle, across the marketplace and down towards the river. It is told that they managed to follow the drumbeats all the way to Easby woods but all of a sudden the drumming stopped, still some distance from Easby and the abbey. The drumming never resumed and the Drummer Boy was never seen again. A marker of the tunnel above ground is the Drummer Boy’s Stone, on the path to Easby, pinpointing the spot where it’s said that the drumbeats of this poor unfortunate lad were last heard.

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Brian
February 27, 2024, Richmond Town Centre

Easy short delightful walk, with history included!!

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DirkWi
August 5, 2023, View of Richmond

There is a sign on the bench with a quote from Alfred Wainwright, in which he speaks highly of the city of Richmond. As a Coast to Coast walker you will also see that it is only 76.5 miles (123km) more to Robin Hood's Bay... so you already have 113.5 miles (more than 182km) in your legs.

Translated by Google

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many hiking trails are available around Kirby Hill?

There are over 80 hiking trails around Kirby Hill, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels. You'll find everything from easy strolls to more moderate excursions, all within the picturesque Vale of York.

What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking near Kirby Hill?

Hiking around Kirby Hill is characterized by gently rolling agricultural landscapes, expansive patchwork fields, and quiet country lanes. The region also features numerous waterside paths along the River Ure, providing serene walking opportunities with minimal elevation change.

Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the area?

Yes, many trails around Kirby Hill are suitable for families due to their minimal elevation change and accessible paths. An excellent option is View of the River Swale – Whitcliffe Wood loop from Hudswell, an easy 6.6 km path that offers pleasant views and passes through Whitcliffe Wood.

Can I find circular walking routes around Kirby Hill?

Absolutely. The network of trails around Kirby Hill is well-known for its numerous circular walks. For example, the Richmond Town Centre – Ruins of Easby Abbey loop from Richmond is a popular circular route that allows you to explore historic sites.

What historical sites or attractions can I visit along the hiking trails?

Several trails lead to or pass by significant historical sites. You can explore the Ruins of Easby Abbey and Richmond Castle. The View of Old Stone Structures loop from Gilling with Hartforth and Sedbury also takes you through areas with interesting historical elements.

Are the hiking trails around Kirby Hill suitable for beginners?

Yes, many trails are ideal for beginners. The region's characteristic minimal elevation change makes most routes accessible. The View of the River Swale – Whitcliffe Wood loop from Hudswell is an easy option, perfect for those new to hiking.

What do other hikers say about the trails in Kirby Hill?

The trails in Kirby Hill are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 280 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, accessibility, and the picturesque views of the agricultural landscapes and riverside paths.

Are there any longer, more challenging hikes for experienced hikers?

While most trails feature minimal elevation, there are longer routes for those seeking a more extended excursion. The Ruins of Easby Abbey – Richmond Town Centre loop from Gilling with Hartforth and Sedbury is a moderate 15.8 km trail that offers a good challenge and takes around 4 hours 20 minutes to complete.

Can I find trails that offer views of valleys or specific natural features?

Yes, several routes provide scenic views. The View of Holmedale Valley – Ravensworth Castle loop from Gilling with Hartforth and Sedbury is a moderate trail that offers beautiful vistas of the Holmedale Valley and passes by Ravensworth Castle.

What is the best time of year to go hiking in Kirby Hill?

Given the gently rolling landscapes and minimal elevation changes, hiking around Kirby Hill is enjoyable throughout much of the year. The accessible nature of the trails means they can be explored in various seasons, though spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with mild weather and vibrant scenery.

Are there any trails that follow rivers or offer waterside walking?

Yes, the River Ure is a significant natural feature in the area, and numerous waterside paths provide pleasant walking opportunities. The View of the River Swale – Whitcliffe Wood loop from Hudswell offers views of the River Swale, providing a lovely waterside experience.

Most popular routes around Kirby Hill

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