The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Danby
4.5
(1178)
9,401
hikers
65
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Danby are set within the North York Moors National Park, offering a diverse landscape of open moorland, river valleys, and historic features. The region is characterized by rolling hills, wooded areas, and the meandering River Esk. This terrain provides a variety of paths suitable for families, ranging from gentle riverside strolls to more expansive moorland walks.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Danby
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Castleton via Commondale loop…
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.0
(3)
9
hikers
18.2km
04:55
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
3.5
(2)
11
hikers
8.67km
02:27
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(3)
6
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.0
(4)
6
hikers
12.5km
03:21
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(9)
53
hikers
8.15km
02:19
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Stump Cross is likely an iron or bronze age standing stone, sometimes described as a menhir and consistent with other ancient monuments in the area. These were variously used as boundary markers, waymarkers or served as ceremonial sites. One of several stump crosses on the moors and the name is thought to derive from a later Christian reinterpretation, where prehistoric stones were sometimes rebranded as “crosses” to try and eradicate pagan associations.
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Danby Beacon is one of the highest points on the North York Moors, a historic signal station and landmark with sweeping views over the Esk Valley and surrounding moorland. It has been used for centuries as a warning beacon, a radar site in WWII. Plenty of off-road parking available, although it is quite rutted and very bumpy.
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Useful landmark village with numerous routeing options and a useful supermarket for resupplying if you need to, but generally not quite as inspiring as Danby and Lealholm to the east, the latter of which is very picturesque.
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There has been a beacon here since the 17th century - part of a signal system to warn against a French invasion. In case the French fleet was seen, the fire was lit here first. Later, in the 1930s, a radar station was built here to spot enemy aircraft. The current beacon was built in 2008 and is 16.4 feet (5 m) tall. No longer a spot to watch out for a French invasion but instead a perfect vantage point to admire spectacular sunsets!
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Great views of the Esk Valley, accessible via the Moors railway, definitely rewarding.
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Castleton is a lovely village with great views of the surrounding moorland right from its Main Street. It's a great place to stop for some food (the village has both a supermarket and a number of cafés and tearooms) and, just outside the village, there is a train station, too, so getting here without a car is perfectly possible as well.
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Danby Beacon dates back to the 17th century, when Britain was facing a French invasion. In the 1930s, the area was the site of one of the first radar stations to protect the North East during the WW2. It functioned here until the 1960s. It's a great place to stop here on your run. There is also a good information board about the Danby Moor Estate and its natural habitat.
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A very pretty and pleasant view from here of both the reservoir and the jetty here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Danby?
There are over 65 hiking routes around Danby, with more than 20 specifically categorized as easy, making them perfect for family outings. These trails offer manageable distances and gentle paths for everyone to enjoy.
What makes the family-friendly trails around Danby suitable for children?
The family-friendly trails in Danby are generally easy-going with manageable distances and gentle paths, designed for all ages. Many routes feature interesting natural sights and landmarks that keep younger hikers engaged, such as the unique ice formations on the Ice Beds Trail mentioned in the region's natural features.
What is the best time of year for family hikes in Danby?
Spring, summer, and fall are all excellent for family hikes in Danby. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while summer offers warm weather perfect for exploring. Fall showcases stunning foliage. Winter can be beautiful but may present challenging conditions, so always check local weather and trail reports.
Are there any trails with waterfalls suitable for families near Danby?
Yes, the Danby area is rich with waterfalls. While specific family-friendly routes directly to them aren't listed in this guide, the region boasts over 30 waterfall hiking trails within a 50-mile radius, including popular spots like Buttermilk Falls, Sutherland Falls, and Hamilton Falls. You can find more details on these and other natural monuments in the area, such as Mallyan Spout Waterfall.
Can we find trails with good viewpoints for families in Danby?
Absolutely! Many trails in the Danby area offer scenic viewpoints. For example, the The Moors National Park Centre – Danby Castle loop from Danby provides lovely vistas. The region itself, nestled between the Taconic and Green Mountains, offers stunning valley panoramas. You can also explore highlights like Burton How Summit for great views.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can we explore on these family hikes?
Beyond the natural beauty, you can discover historical and geological points of interest. The The Moors National Park Centre – Danby Castle loop from Danby takes you past the historic Danby Castle. Other notable landmarks in the wider area include Ana Cross and the unique geological site of the world's largest underground marble mine.
Are there circular routes suitable for families in Danby?
Yes, there are several excellent circular routes perfect for families. For instance, the Castleton via Commondale loop — North York Moors National Park offers a moderate, family-friendly circular hike. Another option is the Danby Dale and Castleton Rigg loop from Castleton — North York Moors National Park.
Are the family-friendly trails around Danby dog-friendly?
Many trails in the Danby area are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific trail regulations before you go. Generally, dogs are welcome on a leash in the Green Mountain National Forest and on many local paths. Please remember to clean up after your pet to keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.
Is parking available for these family hikes?
Yes, parking is generally available near the starting points of many family-friendly trails in Danby. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route pages on komoot or at local visitor centers, such as The Moors National Park Centre.
Can I reach family-friendly hiking trails in Danby using public transport?
While some areas may have limited public transport options, many of the trailheads around Danby are more easily accessible by car. It's advisable to check local bus schedules or consider carpooling if you plan to rely on public transport to reach specific starting points.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family-friendly hikes in Danby?
The family-friendly hikes around Danby typically feature gentle paths through woodlands, open moorland, and along river valleys. You can expect varied terrain, from well-maintained tracks to slightly uneven natural surfaces. Routes like the Danby Low Moor and Scaling Dam Reservoir loop offer a mix of landscapes.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family-friendly hiking in Danby?
The Danby area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to tranquil forests, and the well-maintained paths that make it accessible for families. The stunning views and opportunities to spot local wildlife are also frequently highlighted.
What should we wear for hiking with kids in Danby?
For family hikes in Danby, it's best to dress in layers, as weather can change. Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are essential. Depending on the season, waterproof jackets and trousers are recommended. Don't forget hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water, especially for children.
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