The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Coneysthorpe
4.4
(528)
3,396
hikers
13
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Coneysthorpe are set within the Howardian Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in North Yorkshire. The region features picturesque rolling hills, lush valleys, and extensive woodlands, providing a varied landscape for outdoor activities. Hikers can explore areas characterized by serene woodland paths, open fields, and views over the Vale of Pickering. The terrain includes gentle paths suitable for families, with manageable distances and elevation changes.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Coneysthorpe
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Freer's Banks and Waite Wood – Fryton Moor loop from Coneysthorpe, an easy 3.7 miles (6.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 36 minutes to complete, offering peaceful woodland and open field sections.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Temple of the Four Winds – Castle Howard loop from Coneysthorpe, a moderate 4.9 miles (7.8 km) path. This route explores the grounds of the Castle Howard estate, including architectural follies.
- Local hikers also love the Coneysthorpe Chapel – Thurtle Wood Forest Trail loop from Coneysthorpe, a 5.4 miles (8.7 km) trail leading through Thurtle Wood and past Coneysthorpe Chapel, often completed in about 2 hours 21 minutes.
- Hiking around Coneysthorpe is defined by rolling hills, diverse woodlands like Coneysthorpe Banks Wood, and the expansive Castle Howard estate. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy family walks to more challenging moderate routes.
- The routes in Coneysthorpe are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 480 reviews. More than 3,200 hikers have used komoot to explore Coneysthorpe's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.0
(1)
4
hikers
20.1km
05:23
240m
240m
Hike the challenging 12.5-mile Castle Howard and Centenary Way Loop through the Howardian Hills, with views of Castle Howard.
5.0
(3)
17
hikers
13.2km
03:29
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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20
hikers
7.82km
02:04
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
14
hikers
5.95km
01:36
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
18
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Fryton Lane ends here, where it meets Fryton West Wood. Off-road parking for a couple of cars. Far-reaching views to the north across the Vale of Pickering. Great track to the east, through Fryton East Wood, which is blanketed in bluebells in Spring.
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If you are following the footpaths to the east of the main Castle Howard grounds, you won't be able to get close to this folly (railings prevent access as it is within the Castle Howard grounds), but you will still have great views of it.
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If you approach this via the public footpaths from Bog Hall (i.e., you haven't paid to enter the Castle Howard grounds), then you won't see much more than the wall that surrounds the ruins.
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Unmissable and unfortunately not well served by public footpaths or bridleways, however, the main road has sufficiently wide verges to walk safely along. If you are heading north past the Obelisk Ponds, then there is a fantastic track on the east side of the road which is flanked by lime trees forming a wonderful avenue to walk along (see photos).
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Great views southwest across the Castle Howard estate. Descend the public bridleway south alongside Spring Wood to join a public footpath that runs west to Bog Hall, from which you can follow further public footpaths either north or south around the estate.
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Access Coneysthorpe Banks Woods from an off-road parking area (fits about 4-5 cars) at the west end of this segment. Great views north across Rye Dale and the Vale of Pickering.
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Grassy track over the New River, nice views of the estate and various follies from the bridge. Per historicengland.org: "c1740. By Daniel Garrett for Henry, 4th Earl of Carlisle. Sandstone ashlar. Banded rustication to cutwaters dividing 3 stepped segmental arches each with rusticated voussoirs and a mask keystone to central arch. Niches in tooled architraves with pulvinated friezes and consoles supporting pediments flank the main arch. Brackets support cornice surmounted by low parapet with central balustrade and coping. Ramped approaches have balustrading, rusticated piers to centre, and square-section end piers."
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Coneysthorpe?
There are over 10 family-friendly hiking routes around Coneysthorpe, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures. These trails are designed to be enjoyable for all ages, with manageable distances and gentle paths.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family-friendly hikes in Coneysthorpe?
The family-friendly trails around Coneysthorpe offer a mix of picturesque rolling hills, lush valleys, and extensive woodlands. You'll find easy paths through areas like Coneysthorpe Banks Wood and serene woodland walks in Stittenham Wood, providing a diverse and engaging experience for families.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, many of the family-friendly routes are circular, making them convenient for day trips. For example, the Freer's Banks and Waite Wood – Fryton Moor loop from Coneysthorpe is an easy circular option, perfect for families looking for a pleasant walk without retracing their steps.
What interesting sights or landmarks can families discover on these trails?
Families can explore a wealth of attractions. Many trails pass through or near the renowned Castle Howard Estate, where you can see architectural follies like the Temple of the Four Winds. The charming Coneysthorpe Chapel is also part of local walking tours, offering a glimpse into the village's history.
Are the family-friendly trails around Coneysthorpe suitable for toddlers or very young children?
Many of the trails are well-suited for families with young children due to their gentle gradients and manageable distances. Routes like the Freer's Banks and Waite Wood – Fryton Moor loop are classified as easy, making them ideal for little legs or those using carriers.
Can we bring our dog on these family-friendly hikes?
Generally, dogs are welcome on many of the public footpaths and trails around Coneysthorpe. However, it's always advisable to keep them on a lead, especially when passing through farmland or areas with livestock, and to check specific estate rules, such as those for the Castle Howard grounds, before your visit.
Where can we park when visiting for a family hike?
Parking is typically available in or near Coneysthorpe village, which serves as a common starting point for many routes. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route descriptions on komoot, or by checking local signage upon arrival.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Coneysthorpe?
Coneysthorpe is beautiful year-round, but spring and summer offer particularly pleasant conditions for family hikes. In spring, Stittenham Wood is known for its bluebells, and in summer, yellow rapeseed fields add to the beauty of views over the Vale of Pickering. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Coneysthorpe?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.36 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, well-marked paths, and the stunning views over the Vale of Pickering and the Castle Howard estate, making it a popular choice for family outings.
Are there any specific trails that offer great views for families?
Absolutely! Elevated points like Coneysthorpe Banks provide impressive vistas over Ryedale, the Vale of Pickering, and the expansive Castle Howard estate. Many routes, including the Temple of the Four Winds – Castle Howard loop, offer scenic viewpoints and opportunities to enjoy the picturesque landscapes.
What wildlife might we encounter on family walks?
The woodlands and natural areas around Coneysthorpe, such as Stittenham Wood and Coneysthorpe Banks Wood, are havens for wildlife. Families might spot various bird species, squirrels, and other small woodland creatures. Keep an eye out for deer, especially in quieter areas.
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