The best walks and hikes around Walton
4.4
(519)
3,723
hikers
215
hikes
Hiking around Walton is characterized by riverside paths along the River Wharfe and gentle, rolling countryside. The area features a network of trails connecting villages like Boston Spa and Thorp Arch, often utilizing former railway lines and historic bridges. The terrain is generally flat with minimal elevation, making it suitable for a wide range of fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Walton
- The most popular hiking route is Boston Spa loop, a 5.3 miles (8.6 km) trail that takes about…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.7
(15)
92
hikers
8.58km
02:12
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(10)
89
hikers
5.67km
01:29
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.9
(7)
59
hikers
6.28km
01:38
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.2
(5)
21
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
26
hikers
6.21km
01:36
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Beware of the tree roots that have lifted the path along the route
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Lovely little cafe specialising in cakes (hence the name!). Also excellent coffee using North Star beans and good savouries. Quite small but a few outside tables and dog friendly too. I think they take bookings.
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This historic bridge dates back to 1770 and links the West Yorkshire village of Boston Spa with Thorpe Arch. It's a particularly pretty stone bridge that creates a lovely scene as you're passing by the River Wharfe. If you're passing over the bridge, you're afforded fantastic views up and down the waterway.
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A beautiful spot to approach, the tranquil Wharfe where the river's expanse is embraced by a serene canopy of trees. Nestled along the course of the Wharfe, Boston Spa stands as a quaint village that, during the 18th century, lured travellers with the allure of a limestone sulphur spring. Embracing the river's edge near the weir or venturing further upstream, at Jackdaw Crag, grants access to these captivating waters.
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The northern bank of the River Wharfe holds a rich history of horse racing. The present-day Racecourse is situated upon land that once belonged to the Montagu family of Ingmanthorpe Hall. This expanse of land was leased to the race committee, with the inaugural meeting taking place on the 30th of March 1891. Starting in 1906, the committee embarked on a journey to enhance the course's amenities, commencing with the construction of the enduring 'Bramham' Grandstand – an edifice that stands resolute to this day.
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Spanning the waters of the River Wharfe to the southern reaches of Wetherby, this abandoned railway bridge forms a connection between the Ebor Way and the Wetherby Railway Path. In the earlier years of the 2000s, the neighbouring village of Thorp Arch was designated as the favoured site for Leeds United Football Club's training grounds.
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Scramble up the side but don't come down the other side immediately there is a less steep way down further on
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the terrain like on the hiking trails around Walton?
The terrain around Walton is generally gentle and flat, characterized by riverside paths along the River Wharfe and walks along disused railway lines. You can expect rolling countryside with very little significant elevation change, making it accessible for most fitness levels.
Are there many circular walks available?
Yes, the area has a great network of circular trails. Many routes are designed as loops, starting and ending in villages like Boston Spa or Thorp Arch. This makes logistics simple as you can easily return to your starting point without needing to retrace your steps.
Can I find easy, family-friendly hikes in Walton?
Absolutely. With over 100 easy-rated routes, Walton is an excellent choice for family outings. A good option is the Thorp Arch Bridge – Stone Viaduct loop from Thorp Arch, which offers a pleasant walk with minimal difficulty.
Are the hiking trails suitable for dogs?
Most of the trails in the Walton area are well-suited for walking with dogs, especially the wide paths along the river and former railway lines. However, always be prepared to encounter livestock in fields, in which case you should keep your dog on a lead.
How many hiking trails are there around Walton?
There are nearly 200 different hiking routes to explore around Walton. The trails range from short, easy strolls to more moderate, longer walks, offering plenty of options for everyone.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Walton?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful riverside scenery, the well-maintained paths, and the interesting local history, such as the old railway viaducts.
Are there any challenging hikes in the area?
While the region is mostly known for gentle walks, there are a few more challenging options. You can find a handful of routes rated as difficult, which typically involve longer distances rather than steep climbs. These provide a good test of endurance for more experienced hikers.
Can I see any waterfalls on the hikes near Walton?
The local landscape is defined by its gentle rivers and rolling hills, so you won't find significant waterfalls on the main hiking trails. The primary water features are the River Wharfe and the historic viaducts and bridges that cross it.
Are there any routes with historical significance?
Yes, many trails follow routes of historical interest. You can walk along former railway lines and cross impressive structures like the Wetherby Railway Viaduct. These paths offer a glimpse into the area's industrial past while enjoying the natural surroundings.
What is a good walk for seeing the local scenery?
For a route that captures the essence of the local scenery, try the Thorp Arch Bridge – Pudding Lab loop from Boston Spa. This trail combines pleasant riverside sections with views of the surrounding countryside and woodland.
How long do the hikes around Walton typically take?
Hike durations vary widely. You can find short, easy walks that take about an hour, such as those around Boston Spa. There are also more moderate, longer excursions of 10 km or more that can take over two and a half hours to complete.
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