4.4
(389)
2,563
hikers
148
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Barton-Le-Willows offer access to diverse landscapes in North Yorkshire. The region is characterized by the River Derwent, the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and the expansive Vale of York. Hikers can explore a mix of riverside paths, open countryside, and woodlands, with gentle elevation changes. These natural features provide varied terrain suitable for easy walks.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
4.4
(48)
254
hikers
7.49km
02:00
80m
80m
Embark on an easy hike through woodlands and open fields on the Riders Lane and River Derwent loop. This 4.7-mile (7.5 km) route, with a gentle 269 feet (82 metres)…
5.0
(1)
14
hikers
4.46km
01:11
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(2)
2
hikers
4.30km
01:12
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
3.69km
00:57
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Howsham Mill, attributed to John Carr of York, is a well-preserved example of an 18th-century watermill. The mill uses both a restored waterwheel and Archimedes screw to generate electricity, providing a sustainable energy solution for the local area, and the site is part of a larger effort to promote environmental awareness and education, showcasing how renewable energy can be implemented in a historical setting.
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The wood is part of a larger circular trail, including Kirkham Priory and the River Derwent, offering varied scenery and views. Very easy forest track running through the centre of the wood.
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The remains of this Augustinian priory include a gatehouse adorned with the De Roos family heraldry. You can also learn about the priory's role in World War II, including Winston Churchill's secret visit and its use in training and testing for D-Day.
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The section between Howsham and Kirkham is scenic, surrounded by mixed deciduous woodland, the river is home to white-clawed crayfish, brown trout, and water voles, and there are great vantage points from which to view the weirs at Howsham Mill and Kirkham.
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Do read the signs rather than assuming as I did.. it's a permissive footpath, not a bridleway despite initial appearances. Stick to the road if you're cycling! If I'd been out for a walk or trail run, they're beautiful surroundings!
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This is a particularly lovely section along the flowing River Derwent located just inside the borders of the beautiful Howardian Hills AONB. It's an incredibly green area and carpeted with seasonal wildflowers. You're also afforded views of the nearby Castle Howard, adding to the pleasant experience.
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The current Howsham Mill is on the site of an earlier mill built in 1755 that milled flour for the Howsham Estate for almost 200 years. The mill fell into ruins in the mid 1900s before being picked up by the Renewable Heritage Trust and restored to all its glory in 2006. Today, the mill is an events space, environmental education centre and produces energy in the form of hydroelectricity.
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An incredibly green, beautiful (and flowery in many places) walk on the northern banks of River Derwent. The views towards Castle Howard and its grounds only add to the experience.
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There are over 50 easy hiking trails around Barton-Le-Willows, offering a variety of landscapes from riverside paths to woodlands and open countryside. In total, komoot lists 148 routes in the area, with 54 specifically graded as easy.
Easy hikes in this area typically feature gentle elevation changes, making them suitable for all fitness levels. You'll find paths along the River Derwent, through tranquil woodlands like Howsham Wood, and across the rolling countryside of the Howardian Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Yes, many of the easy trails are suitable for families. For instance, the Owl sculpture in Howsham Wood loop from Westow is a short 2.8-mile (4.5 km) path through woodlands, perfect for a leisurely family outing. The gentle terrain and engaging natural features make these routes enjoyable for all ages.
Many easy trails around Barton-Le-Willows are dog-friendly, especially those through open countryside and woodlands. Always keep dogs under control, particularly near livestock or in nature reserves. Routes like the Riders Lane and River Derwent loop from Kirkham Priory offer pleasant riverside walking for you and your canine companion.
Yes, several easy routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Archimedes Screw – Howsham Mill and Weir loop from Barton-le-Willows, which is 4.1 miles (6.6 km) and takes you through riverside scenery and past the historic Howsham Mill.
You can explore several historical sites on easy hikes. The Riders Lane and River Derwent loop offers views of the historic Kirkham Priory ruins. Additionally, the area is close to Sheriff Hutton Castle Ruins and the impressive Castle Howard Estate, which can be incorporated into longer walks or visited separately.
Easy walks in Barton-Le-Willows showcase diverse natural beauty. You'll encounter the tranquil River Derwent, picturesque rapeseed fields, and the varied landscapes of the Howardian Hills. Nearby, Askham Bog is a significant nature preserve known for its ancient fenlands and rich wildlife, including roe deer and rare plant species.
The easy trails in Barton-Le-Willows are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from nearly 400 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful riverside paths, the scenic woodlands, and the accessibility of the routes for various fitness levels, making them perfect for a relaxing outdoor experience.
While specific routes passing directly by pubs are not detailed, Barton-Le-Willows and nearby villages offer local pubs and cafes where you can refresh after your walk. It's a good idea to check local listings for establishments along or near your chosen trail.
The easy trails around Barton-Le-Willows are enjoyable year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers lush greenery, and autumn provides beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the paths can be pleasant, though conditions may vary, so always check the weather forecast before heading out.
Parking is generally available in or near the starting points of many trails. For example, routes originating from Kirkham Priory or Barton-le-Willows village often have nearby parking options. Always look for designated parking areas to ensure easy and convenient access to the trailheads.
Yes, some walks in the wider area incorporate views of the impressive Stamford Bridge Railway Viaduct. This red brick viaduct with 15 arches spans the River Derwent and offers picturesque views, forming part of tranquil, traffic-free crossings. You can find routes that pass near this landmark for a scenic experience.


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