4.3
(329)
2,901
hikers
99
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Easby offer a diverse landscape, characterized by tranquil riverside paths along the River Swale and access to the expansive moorland and ancient woodlands of the North York Moors National Park. The region features a blend of gentle, flat sections, often utilizing disused railway lines, and more undulating terrain leading to historical sites. Hikers can explore the picturesque ruins of Easby Abbey and the historic Richmond Castle, which are frequently integrated into scenic routes. This area…
Last updated: May 26, 2026
4.6
(5)
30
hikers
11.1km
02:59
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
31
hikers
9.10km
02:27
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(2)
10
hikers
8.15km
02:11
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
6.39km
01:44
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
13.3km
03:43
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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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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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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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.
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The trails around Easby are designed with families in mind, offering manageable distances and gentle paths that are perfect for all ages. Many routes follow serene riverside paths along the River Swale or utilize disused railway lines, providing flat and easy-going sections. The area's rich history and natural beauty offer plenty to keep children engaged.
Yes, Easby offers a great selection of easy family-friendly hikes. Out of nearly 100 routes in the area, 36 are specifically rated as easy, ensuring plenty of choices for families with younger children or those looking for a relaxed stroll.
Easby is rich in history, and many family-friendly hikes incorporate fascinating landmarks. You can explore the impressive ruins of Easby Abbey, a Premonstratensian abbey set by the River Swale. Many routes also lead to Richmond Castle, offering a glimpse into medieval history. For example, the Ruins of Easby Abbey – The Drummer Boy's Stone loop from Richmond takes you past both the Abbey and The Drummer Boy's Stone, adding a touch of local legend to your walk.
Absolutely! Circular routes are ideal for families, and Easby has several excellent options. A popular choice is the Ruins of Easby Abbey – Richmond Town Centre loop from Colburn, which allows you to start and end in the same location after exploring both the historic abbey and the charming town centre.
Many of the family-friendly trails around Easby are suitable for dogs, especially those that follow riverside paths or disused railway lines. However, as some routes may pass through farmland or nature reserves, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead and be mindful of local signage and wildlife. Always ensure you clean up after your pet.
Spring and summer are particularly lovely for family hikes in Easby, with milder weather and blooming landscapes. The riverside paths are especially pleasant during these seasons. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, while winter can provide crisp, clear days, though some paths might be muddy. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
Yes, several trails provide wonderful viewpoints that families will enjoy. While the guide focuses on easier routes, many offer scenic vistas of the River Swale and the surrounding countryside. For a route that combines historical interest with views, consider the Ruins of Easby Abbey – View of Richmond Castle loop from Richmond, which offers picturesque glimpses of Richmond Castle.
Parking is generally available near popular starting points for hikes around Easby. For routes involving Easby Abbey, there is often parking available nearby. For example, if you're planning to visit both the Abbey and Richmond, you might find parking in Richmond town centre, which serves as a convenient base for walks like the Ruins of Easby Abbey – Richmond Bridge and Riverbank loop from Richmond.
The family-friendly trails around Easby are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the beautiful scenery, the historical points of interest like Easby Abbey, and the well-maintained, accessible paths that make them enjoyable for all ages.
While many of the trails themselves are natural, routes that pass through or start near Richmond town centre will offer access to various amenities, including cafes, pubs, and public restrooms. It's always a good idea to plan your route and check for facilities in advance, especially with children. The Richmond Castle – Richmond Town Centre loop from Richmond, for instance, keeps you close to town amenities.
Many of the flatter sections, particularly those along the River Swale or on disused railway lines, can be suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. However, specific accessibility can vary. It's recommended to check individual route details for terrain information and elevation profiles to ensure they meet your specific needs. Generally, routes with minimal elevation gain and wide, paved or well-compacted paths are the best options.


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