4.5
(1852)
15,056
hikers
412
hikes
Hiking around Bank Newton offers easy hiking trails through a landscape characterized by the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, its historic locks, and the surrounding rolling countryside of North Yorkshire. The area provides a mix of flat waterside paths and gentle ascents through fields. Situated on the fringes of the Yorkshire Dales, it offers access to scenic rural views.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
4.9
(7)
44
hikers
5.25km
01:23
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(7)
21
hikers
6.99km
01:54
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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19
hikers
5.67km
01:27
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
hikers
5.89km
01:31
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
5.61km
01:30
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Good, solid, traffic free route with no navigational challenges, meaning that you can just keep running!
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Much of St Mary's Church in Thornton dates from the 15th century. It's a fine sight that's passed on the Pendle Way during the section between Barnoldswick and Earby. The building, like other churches in the wider Craven region, has no chancel arch.
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Nice bridleway that used to be used as a through route for farm vehicles track but isn't any longer, so has turned to singletrack in parts, is rocky in others, with a bit of mud for good measure
1
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Nice bit of singletrack towpath that hasn't been sanitised
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0
Bank Newton offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 170 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are more than 420 hiking routes in the area, catering to various preferences.
Easy hikes around Bank Newton primarily feature flat waterside paths along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, offering smooth walking surfaces. You'll also find gentle ascents through rolling countryside and pastoral fields, providing a mix of canal-side tranquility and open rural views.
Yes, many easy routes around Bank Newton are circular. For example, the Anchor Lock – Higherland Lock loop from Gargrave is a popular circular trail that follows the canal towpath. Another option is the Higherland Lock – Canal Lock loop from Gargrave, which also explores the canal network.
The Leeds & Liverpool Canal itself is a major feature, with its historic locks providing interesting sights, such as the flight of six locks (Locks 36 to 41) near Bank Newton. While not directly on every easy trail, the wider region offers natural monuments like Malham Cove and Janet's Foss, which can be explored via other routes in the area.
Yes, the easy hiking trails, especially those along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal towpath, are generally very suitable for families. Their flat and well-maintained surfaces make them ideal for children. Routes like the Anchor Lock – Higherland Lock loop from Gargrave offer engaging scenery with canal boats and locks.
Most easy hiking trails around Bank Newton, particularly the canal towpaths and public footpaths through fields, are dog-friendly. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially when near livestock or busy areas, and to follow the Countryside Code.
The rolling countryside and canal paths of Bank Newton are enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer lush green landscapes and warmer weather, while autumn brings beautiful colors. Even in winter, the paths can be pleasant, though conditions may be muddy or icy, so appropriate footwear is advised.
Yes, the nearby village of Gargrave, often a starting point for many easy routes, offers options for refreshments. You can find cafes and pubs there to enjoy a break before or after your hike.
Parking is generally available in and around the villages that serve as starting points for these trails, such as Gargrave. Specific parking details may vary by route, but public car parks are usually present in these settlements.
Bank Newton is accessible via public transport, with nearby Gargrave having a train station on the Airedale Line, connecting it to Leeds and Bradford. Local bus services also operate in the wider North Yorkshire area, providing connections to various trailheads.
The easy trails in Bank Newton are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 1,800 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the tranquil canal-side walking, the picturesque rolling countryside, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable and accessible outdoor experience.
Yes, for a varied experience, consider the Haw Crag Summit and Quarry – Higherland Lock loop from Gargrave. This easy 4.3-mile path combines the peaceful canal-side towpath with views towards Haw Crag and a quarry, offering a blend of waterside and slightly elevated landscapes.


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