The best hikes from bus stations around Stonebeck Down
4.6
(2279)
17,176
hikers
252
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Stonebeck Down offer access to a diverse landscape within the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region features expansive grouse moors, tranquil reservoir-side paths, and rolling farmland. Hikers will encounter limestone scenery, including gorges, and remnants of the area's industrial past. Meugher Peak, a remote summit, rises above large areas of grouse moor.
Best bus station hiking trails around Stonebeck Down
- The most popular bus station hiking route is Carlesmoor Beck and Combs Crags loop from Ramsgill, a 16.1 miles (25.9 km) trail that takes about 7 hours 15 minutes to complete. This difficult route features significant elevation gain and varied terrain.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Middlesmoor Climb – How Stean Gorge loop from Fountains Earth, a moderate 6.7 miles (10.7 km) path. This route incorporates the spectacular limestone ravine of How Stean Gorge and offers rewarding views from Middlesmoor.
- Local hikers also love the Ramsgill Village Green – View of Helks Wood Valley loop from Fountains Earth, a 9.0 miles (14.5 km) trail leading through varied Nidderdale landscape, often completed in about 4 hours 9 minutes.
- Hiking around Stonebeck Down is defined by expansive grouse moors, tranquil reservoirs like Gouthwaite, and impressive limestone features. The network offers options for various fitness levels, from easy paths to more demanding moorland treks.
- The routes in Stonebeck Down are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 2,000 reviews. More than 16,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Stonebeck Down's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
4.0
(1)
6
hikers
25.9km
07:15
500m
500m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(16)
61
hikers
10.7km
03:02
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
13
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
14.4km
04:06
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Stonebeck Down
Other adventures around Stonebeck Down
Tips from the Community
A victory memorial, not a roll of honour, hence it lists key WW1 dates and not names. It was originally a drinking fountain and was repurposed as a memorial in 1920.
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Very nice place for a pit-stop. The little waterfall created by the drop in the beck bed is unusual, most fords on the Nidderdale moors are flat and featureless crossings.
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This bridge appears on the 1890s OS 25‑inch maps as a crossing point, but is not named, so the bridge likely predates the modern estate track and was built when the moor was reorganised for shooting in the early 20th century.
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The village is located in Upper Nidderdale, North Yorkshire. It is a quiet place that is surrounded by beautiful countryside.
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This is a very sturdy-looking bridge in an amazing place and area. From the bridge, there are beautiful views of the picturesque Lul Beck, which is a tributary of the River Nidd, and of the Fountains Earth Moor, the owner of which is heather and wind.
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Combs Crags are a gritstone outcrop on Low Ash Head Moor. A curious rock formation, and amongst the rocks is a shooting hut. The views from above to the north - over Roundhill and Leighton Reservoirs and further to Colsterdale and its moors: phenomenal!
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Just north of Hawsett, there is a pretty cool ford on Carlesmoor Beck, with a little waterfall cascading down just below the ford. This is just below the confluence of Fortress Dyke and Wandley Gill, which gives the stream more speed and energy. It is cool, but after more rain, the water might be deep enough for you to need to take off your boots and cross barefoot.
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This shooting house, on Thrope Edge, stands in a very prominent position and can be seen from quite a distance from down below. Unusual tower, making it look a bit like a castle! The views of the valley with the River Nidd down below from up here are preposterously good!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many bus station hiking trails are available around Stonebeck Down?
There are over 250 hiking trails around Stonebeck Down that are accessible directly from bus stations. This includes a wide range of difficulties, with more than 70 easy routes, over 140 moderate options, and around 40 challenging trails for experienced hikers.
Are there easy hiking trails accessible by bus in Stonebeck Down?
Yes, Stonebeck Down offers over 70 easy hiking trails that you can start directly from a bus station. Many of these routes feature tranquil reservoir-side paths, such as those around Gouthwaite Reservoir, or gentle walks through rolling farmland, perfect for a relaxed outing.
Can I find circular hiking routes starting from bus stations in Stonebeck Down?
Absolutely. Many of the bus-accessible routes in Stonebeck Down are circular, allowing you to return to your starting point without retracing your steps. An example is the challenging Carlesmoor Beck and Combs Crags loop from Ramsgill, offering diverse scenery.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on bus-accessible hikes in Stonebeck Down?
Hikes from bus stations in Stonebeck Down traverse a diverse range of landscapes within the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You'll encounter expansive grouse moors, tranquil reservoir and river-side paths, rolling farmland, and impressive limestone scenery, including gorges and pavements.
Are there family-friendly hikes accessible by bus around Stonebeck Down?
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. Look for easier routes that follow reservoir perimeters or gentle paths through farmland. The area around Gouthwaite Reservoir, for instance, offers accessible paths and a bird viewing platform, which can be an engaging stop for children.
What are some notable attractions or points of interest along these bus-accessible routes?
Many routes offer access to significant natural and historical features. You might encounter spectacular limestone ravines like How Stean Gorge, or enjoy views from places like Combs Crags. Other highlights include the scenic Gouthwaite Reservoir and remnants of the area's industrial past.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Stonebeck Down?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience in Stonebeck Down, with an average score of 4.57 stars from over 2,000 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse and beautiful natural environment, the sense of wildness on the moors, and the accessibility of trails from public transport.
Are there any moderate difficulty trails from bus stations that offer great views?
Yes, many moderate trails provide rewarding views. For example, the Middlesmoor Climb – How Stean Gorge loop from Fountains Earth offers a climb with rewarding vistas over the landscape. The varied terrain ensures scenic outlooks throughout your journey.
Which bus-accessible routes are good for exploring the Gouthwaite Reservoir area?
The Gouthwaite Reservoir area is a popular choice for hikers. The Ramsgill Village Green – Gouthwaite Reservoir loop from Fountains Earth is a moderate route that takes you around this scenic reservoir, which is also a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Can I find routes that pass through villages or offer a glimpse of local life?
Yes, some bus-accessible routes incorporate local villages. The Ramsgill Village Green – View of Helks Wood Valley loop from Fountains Earth, for instance, starts near Ramsgill Village Green, allowing you to experience the local charm before heading into the natural landscape.
What is the best time of year to hike in Stonebeck Down from a bus station?
Stonebeck Down offers great hiking year-round, but the best time often depends on your preference. In late summer (August), the grouse moors turn a vibrant purple with heather. Spring brings fresh greenery, while autumn offers beautiful colors. Winter hikes can be stunning but require appropriate gear for potentially challenging conditions.
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