4.4
(967)
5,972
hikers
10
hikes
Hiking around East Witton offers access to diverse landscapes within the Yorkshire Dales National Park and Nidderdale National Landscape. The region features the rolling, pastoral scenery of Wensleydale, alongside the tranquil valleys of the River Cover and River Ure. Elevated areas like Witton Fell provide viewpoints and moorland environments, while trails often lead through country lanes, forest tracks, and fields.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
5.0
(9)
28
hikers
9.69km
02:38
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
18
hikers
4.08km
01:04
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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11
hikers
14.7km
04:17
380m
380m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
6
hikers
19.0km
05:22
380m
380m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
8.23km
02:16
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Delightful spot on the river with stepping stones to cross.
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The Six Dales Trail only launched in 2010. It starts in Otley and meanders across the entire Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) to finish here at Middleham. So you are either at the start of the trek or the finish, depending on what direction you are hiking. The trail is 38 miles long (61 km) and is a fully waymarked route with heather moorland, rivers, parkland, and the famous Jervaulx Abbey. Here at Middleham is the fantastic Middleham Castle, which is well worth a visit.
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Stark Bank Road, between Jervaulx and Ellingstring, rises steeply to the south; when at the top end, look to the north for superb views of Wensleydale. Apparently, this might have been an ancient route from the coal mines at Colsterdale to Jervaulx Abbey.
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This church was built between 1809 and 1813, paid for by the Earl of Aylesbury, who was the squire of Jervaulx. During the Victorian era, a lot of the interior was redone. I find the stained-glass windows in the church to be "totally exquisite".
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A picturesque footbridge over the peacefully flowing River Burn. This river has its source above Colsterdale and goes later to join the River Ure near Masham.
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This enchanting bridge over offers terrific views of the River Cover. It's a curious and unusual name for a bridge; apparently, it might be a corruption of the Scandinavian name "Ulla".
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The castle is a big landmark as you approach the town.
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There are over 10 dedicated hiking routes around East Witton that start conveniently from bus stations, making it easy to explore the beautiful Wensleydale area without a car.
The trails around East Witton offer a diverse range of terrain, from the rolling, pastoral scenery of Wensleydale to riverside paths along the River Cover and River Ure. Some routes, like the Stark Bank Climb, involve more significant uphill sections, providing rewarding views over the landscape.
Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for families. The Jervaulx Abbey Ruins loop from East Witton is a gentle 4 km walk that takes you through country lanes and fields to the historic abbey, offering a pleasant and manageable outing.
Absolutely. Many of the routes are designed as circular loops, bringing you back to your starting point. For example, the Middleham Castle loop from East Witton offers a moderate 10 km circular hike through the countryside, returning to the village.
You can explore significant historical sites. The Middleham Castle loop takes you past the impressive Middleham Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress. Another popular route, the Jervaulx Abbey Ruins loop, leads directly to the historic Jervaulx Abbey.
While the immediate bus station trails focus on the Wensleydale landscape and historical sites, the wider region is known for its water features. Notable waterfalls like Aysgarth Lower Falls are within the broader area, though not directly on all bus station routes. You'll enjoy peaceful riverside walks along the River Cover and River Ure on many routes.
Spring and autumn are particularly beautiful for hiking in Wensleydale, with pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while winter can provide crisp, clear days, though some paths may be muddy or icy. Always check local weather conditions before you set out.
Many of the trails in the East Witton area are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the countryside with your canine companion. However, please be mindful of livestock in fields and keep dogs on a lead where necessary, especially during lambing season. Always follow the Countryside Code.
The bus station hiking trails around East Witton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the convenience of car-free access, the stunning Wensleydale scenery, and the historical points of interest like Jervaulx Abbey and Middleham Castle.
Yes, East Witton village itself offers amenities for post-hike refreshments. The The Blue Lion – Jervaulx Abbey loop, for instance, starts and ends near local establishments, providing a convenient stop for a meal or a drink after your walk.
For those seeking a more challenging experience, the Jervaulx Abbey – Cover Bridge Inn loop from East Witton is a difficult 19 km route with significant elevation gain, offering a strenuous but rewarding day out through varied landscapes.


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