The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Westow
4.4
(633)
4,066
hikers
19
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Westow are characterized by gentle riverside paths, tranquil woodlands, and open countryside views. The region offers a mix of natural features, including the River Derwent and Jeffry Bog Nature Reserve. Elevations are generally low, making the terrain accessible for various fitness levels. These routes provide opportunities to explore both natural beauty and historical sites.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Westow
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Riders Lane and River Derwent loop…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.5
(53)
265
hikers
7.49km
02:00
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(13)
92
hikers
11.0km
02:55
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.9
(12)
37
hikers
11.1km
02:57
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
15
hikers
4.46km
01:11
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
6.17km
01:39
70m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Picnic bench at this site as well as a toilet. No always open.
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Visually striking, the Church of St John, Howsham is a Grade I listed church built by the architect George Edmund Street. It's a unique and interesting church with a distinctive bell tower and geometrical gothic design. Also features a painted ceiling and stained glass windows by Clayton and Bell, with "plate-traceries which are indeed stars as seen from within".
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Small pond and ford at the southern end of Howsham Wood, on the public footpath between Howsham and Westow.
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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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The wood is part of a larger circular trail, including Kirkham Priory and the River Derwent, offering varied scenery and views. Very easy forest track running through the centre of the wood.
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The remains of this Augustinian priory include a gatehouse adorned with the De Roos family heraldry. You can also learn about the priory's role in World War II, including Winston Churchill's secret visit and its use in training and testing for D-Day.
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The section between Howsham and Kirkham is scenic, surrounded by mixed deciduous woodland, the river is home to white-clawed crayfish, brown trout, and water voles, and there are great vantage points from which to view the weirs at Howsham Mill and Kirkham.
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Do read the signs rather than assuming as I did.. it's a permissive footpath, not a bridleway despite initial appearances. Stick to the road if you're cycling! If I'd been out for a walk or trail run, they're beautiful surroundings!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Westow?
There are 19 family-friendly hiking routes around Westow, offering a variety of experiences suitable for all ages. These include 8 easy trails and 11 moderate options, ensuring there's something for every family.
Are there any easy, short walks suitable for families with young children or strollers?
Yes, Westow offers several easy and relatively short walks perfect for families. For instance, the Owl sculpture in Howsham Wood loop from Westow is an easy 4.5 km trail through woodlands, ideal for a pleasant family outing. The Riders Lane and River Derwent loop from Kirkham Priory is another easy option, offering tranquil riverside paths.
What kind of natural features can we expect to see on family hikes in Westow?
The family-friendly trails around Westow showcase diverse natural beauty. You can enjoy picturesque riverside paths along the River Derwent, explore serene woodlands like Howsham Wood, and discover the unique environment of Jeffry Bog Nature Reserve. Many routes also offer expansive countryside views.
Are there any circular family walks in the Westow area?
Yes, many of the family-friendly routes around Westow are circular, making them convenient for day trips. Examples include the Owl sculpture in Howsham Wood loop from Westow and the Riders Lane and River Derwent loop from Kirkham Priory, both designed as loops for easy navigation.
What historical landmarks or attractions can families visit while hiking near Westow?
Families can combine hiking with cultural exploration. The Kirkham Priory – Kirkham Priory Ruins loop from Crambe takes you past the significant historical ruins of Kirkham Priory. Additionally, nearby attractions like Castle Howard offer grand architecture and grounds to explore, and the Four Faces Folly provides an interesting point of interest.
Are there any specific trails that are particularly good for wildlife spotting?
For wildlife spotting, the Jeffry Bog Nature Reserve – Wooden Gate at Firby loop from Westow is an excellent choice. Nature reserves often provide the best opportunities to observe local flora and fauna in their natural habitats.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Westow?
The family-friendly trails around Westow are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 585 ratings. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the scenic riverside sections, and the peaceful woodland environments, making them ideal for family outings.
Are there any trails that feature unique sculptures or points of interest for kids?
Yes, the Owl sculpture in Howsham Wood loop from Westow is a perfect example. This trail features a charming owl sculpture, which can be a fun discovery for children and adds an element of adventure to the walk.
What is the typical difficulty level for family hikes in this area?
The family-friendly hikes around Westow are generally easy to moderate. You'll find 8 easy routes with gentle paths and manageable distances, and 11 moderate options that might be a bit longer but still suitable for active families. There are no difficult trails listed in this selection.
Are there any trails that offer good viewpoints of the surrounding countryside?
Many trails in the Westow area provide lovely countryside views. For specific viewpoints, you might enjoy the vistas along routes that pass by areas like the View of Fryton and the Vale of Pickering or the Lone Tree on Slingsby Heights, offering expansive panoramas of the North Yorkshire landscape.
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