Easy hikes and walks around Lillings Ambo
4.4
(400)
2,800
hikers
177
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Lillings Ambo are situated within the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, characterized by rolling hills, valleys, and ancient woodlands. The landscape features a network of paths along the River Derwent and through Jurassic limestone terrain. This region offers varied terrain suitable for easy walks, including open fields and shaded forest trails.
Best easy hiking trails around Lillings Ambo
- The most popular easy hiking route is Strensall Common loop from Strensall, a 3.4 miles…
Last updated: May 19, 2026
5.0
(6)
30
hikers
5.46km
01:23
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
19
hikers
4.88km
01:14
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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10
hikers
5.69km
01:26
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
5.73km
01:35
100m
100m
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.
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Tips from the Community
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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In the 12th century there was already a church on this site, which was largely replaced by a new church in the 15th century. An old pillar survives in an archway next to the organ, and the old south door and its archway are also still there, although they have been relocated. Much of the choir, with the east window, the piscina and the sedilia, remains of the 15th century church.
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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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The magnificent All Saints Church, set in the countryside between Huntington and New Earswick, standson a site that has been some form of Christian place of worship for the past 1,000 years. It's a striking building, boasting beautiful Perpendicular Gothic architecture. Admire its beauty from the outside, or walk inside and discover its equally impressive interior.
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You're passing the Birkdale Farm Fishing Ponds here, visible only from certain spots, though, as a lot of the time trees block the view. It's a lovely part of the world: it feels very much away from everything else in the world, and is very impressively green. Suddenly, the world seems to just come to a standstill, and it's just you and the natural world. I absolutely loved walking through here.
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An interesting spot here: a weir on the River Derwent, with Howsham Mill on the opposite bank of the river. The 18th century Howsham Mill had previously fallen into disrepair, but has now been restored.
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This is a very beautiful church. Although rebuilt in Victorian times, there are parts of it still from the 12th century, e.g., the arched south door and masonry outside the nave. Outside the church, on one of the walls, you will also find a sundial, which is, at least in my experience, a rather unusual find!
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This is a lovely fishing lake right next to Birkdale Farm. It certainly offers a sense of peace and solitude here, in the lovely setting of the surrounding woodlands and hills. There is a boating hut on the bank, plenty of easy spaces for a picnic and space for parking nearby. If you would like to fish, one can hire fishing rods from the farm.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Lillings Ambo?
There are over 75 easy hiking trails around Lillings Ambo, offering a variety of landscapes within the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. In total, komoot features over 170 hiking routes in the area.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes near Lillings Ambo?
The easy trails around Lillings Ambo feature a mix of rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and picturesque riverside paths along the River Derwent. You'll encounter diverse landscapes, from open fields to shaded forest trails, characteristic of the Jurassic limestone terrain of the Howardian Hills.
Are there easy circular walks around Lillings Ambo?
Yes, many of the easy routes around Lillings Ambo are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Strensall Common loop from Strensall is a popular easy circular trail, as is the All Saints Church, Huntington loop from Haxby.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Lillings Ambo?
The easy trails in Lillings Ambo are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 390 reviews. More than 2,700 hikers have explored the area, often praising the peaceful woodlands, gentle gradients, and scenic riverside sections.
Are the easy trails around Lillings Ambo suitable for families?
Yes, many easy trails in the Lillings Ambo area are well-suited for families due to their minimal elevation gain and manageable distances. Routes like the Strensall Common loop from Strensall offer a relaxed outing for all ages.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails?
Many trails in the Lillings Ambo area are dog-friendly, especially those through woodlands and open fields. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, particularly near livestock or in nature conservation areas. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
What historical or natural landmarks can I see on easy hikes near Lillings Ambo?
You can discover several interesting landmarks. Some trails may lead you near the impressive Castle Howard estate or the atmospheric ruins of Kirkham Priory. Other natural highlights include Pretty Wood and various ponds and natural features within the Howardian Hills AONB.
Are there any easy routes that pass by water features or lakes?
Yes, some easy routes incorporate water features. For instance, the Birkdale Farm Fishing Ponds – Birkdale Farm loop from Bulmer takes you past fishing ponds. The River Derwent also features prominently in the area, with numerous paths offering scenic riverside strolls.
Where can I find parking for easy hiking trails near Lillings Ambo?
Parking availability varies by trailhead. Many villages and popular starting points for trails, such as Strensall or Haxby, offer public parking options. It's advisable to check specific route details for recommended parking locations before you set out.
What is the best time of year for easy hikes around Lillings Ambo?
The Howardian Hills are beautiful year-round. Spring brings wildflowers and lush greenery, while autumn offers stunning foliage. Summer is ideal for longer days, and even winter can be pleasant for a crisp walk, though some paths might be muddy. Always check local weather conditions before your hike.
Are there any cafes or pubs along the easy hiking routes in Lillings Ambo?
While Lillings Ambo itself is a small village, many easy routes pass through or near other villages and towns in the wider area, such as Haxby or Bulmer, where you can often find local pubs and cafes for refreshments. It's a good idea to check the route map for amenities along your chosen path.
How long do the easy hikes typically take around Lillings Ambo?
Most easy hikes around Lillings Ambo are designed for a relaxed pace and typically range from 1 to 2 hours to complete. For example, the Strensall Common loop from Strensall takes about 1 hour 23 minutes, while the Archimedes Screw – Howsham Mill and Weir loop from Barton-le-Willows is around 1 hour 40 minutes.
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