The best walks and hikes around East Keswick
4.5
(1115)
11,180
hikers
12
hikes
Hikes around East Keswick explore the rural landscape of West Yorkshire, situated within the Leeds Green Belt. The region is characterized by rolling hills, serene waterways like the River Wharfe, and sections of woodland such as Old Wives Wood. Many walking routes near East Keswick also pass through agricultural fields and offer views of the nearby Harewood House estate.
Best hiking trails around East Keswick
- The most popular hiking route is East Keswick to Bardsey loop, a 5.5 mile (8.9 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 25 minutes to complete. This is one of several East Keswick circular walks that combines village paths with open countryside.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Harewood Village Hall – View of Harewood House loop from Collingham, a moderate 11.0 mile (17.8 km) path. The route passes through the grounds of the Harewood Estate, providing a view of Harewood House.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Old Wives Wood – West Plantation loop from East Keswick, a 5.2 mile (8.3 km) trail leading through local woodlands, often completed in about 2 hours 15 minutes.
- Hiking around East Keswick is defined by its rolling hills, quiet woodlands, and paths along the River Wharfe. The network of public footpaths offers options for different ability levels, from short loops to longer countryside walks.
- The routes in East Keswick are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 850 reviews. More than 9,500 hikers have used komoot to explore East Keswick's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
4.4
(10)
21
hikers
8.86km
02:24
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.1
(8)
41
hikers
17.8km
04:49
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(11)
33
hikers
8.32km
02:16
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
14.3km
03:47
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
10
hikers
3.40km
00:56
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The history of the pub dates back to 1685 following a devastating fire of Sicklinghall. The Scott family, principal land owners in the area built the inn as part of the rebuild of the village a benevolance which carried on into the 19th century when among other things they built the village school.
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This shop sells a variety of locally sourced food produce alongside collectables and soft furnishings from local designers
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The Village Hall car park provides the only off-road parking in the village.
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The Harewood Arms is a coaching inn with a history dating back to 1810 located opposite the entrance to Harewood House.
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Woodhall Bridge is a beautiful five-span wrought iron truss that spans over the River Wharfe. The bridge was constructed in 1868 as a railway bridge by Joseph Whitham and Son of Leeds, it now acts as a bridleway carrying pedestrians and cyclists over in a scenic woodland area. It's a beautiful place to stop and catch your breath before continuing your meander along the river.
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Nestled in the picturesque landscape of West Yorkshire, Bardsey village has roots dating back to the Domesday Book of 1086, where it appeared as "Berdesei" and "Bereleseie." The Bingley Arms, a historical establishment, lays claim to the title of Britain's oldest surviving pub. Adjacent to it stands the All Hallows Church, hailing from the 9th century. Within the church's hallowed walls, visitors encounter The Bardsey Millennium Tapestry, a collaborative creation by numerous village residents, culminating in its completion in the year 2001.
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Previously thought to be a Roman Fort, quarry, or burial site, Pompocali (known by various names across different eras) held a presumption of potentially being quarried by the Romans, although no substantiating evidence exists apart from the adjacent Roman road. Yet, regardless of its historical origins, Pompocali stands as an exquisite locale, offering splendid vistas and an opportunity to ascend its conical hills and mounds, enhancing the experience of this picturesque site.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the walks around East Keswick suitable for dogs?
Yes, many trails in the area are great for walking with dogs. The countryside offers plenty of open space. For a peaceful woodland walk, consider the trails in and around Old Wives Wood. As always, please be mindful of livestock in fields and keep your dog on a lead where required.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks near East Keswick?
Definitely. The area has several easier routes perfect for a family outing. You'll find shorter loops that explore the local woodlands and fields without too much elevation gain. The region offers 5 easy-rated trails, providing gentle options for all ages.
What are the parking options for starting a walk in East Keswick?
East Keswick is a small village, so parking is primarily on-street. It's best to park considerately in the village centre before starting your hike. For popular routes, arriving earlier in the day can make it easier to find a suitable spot.
Can I get to the walking routes using public transport?
Yes, East Keswick is accessible by bus services connecting it to nearby towns like Wetherby and the city of Leeds. This makes it possible to start a hike directly from the village without needing a car. Always check the latest bus timetables before you travel.
Are there any circular walks available?
The area is well-known for its excellent circular walks, which are a great way to explore without retracing your steps. Many routes start and end in the village, taking you through a mix of rolling hills, woodlands, and past neighbouring villages like Bardsey and Collingham.
What do other hikers enjoy about the trails around East Keswick?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained public footpaths, the peaceful atmosphere of the woodlands, and the beautiful views across the West Yorkshire countryside.
Are there any challenging, long-distance hikes in the area?
Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous day out, there are longer and more challenging options. The Harewood Village Hall – Harwood House loop from Kearby is a difficult-rated hike of nearly 20 km that offers a rewarding challenge with significant elevation.
Can I see Harewood House on any of the walks?
Several trails in the area pass through the wider Harewood Estate, offering distant views of the historic Harewood House. These routes combine countryside paths with scenic vistas of the estate's parkland.
What kind of scenery can I expect on a hike?
Hiking around East Keswick takes you through classic West Yorkshire scenery. Expect rolling hills, quiet country lanes, agricultural fields, and serene woodlands. A popular local nature spot is Ox Close Wood, a lovely natural setting managed by the East Keswick Wildlife Trust.
Are there any walks that follow a river?
While many trails are inland, the nearby River Wharfe offers lovely waterside walking opportunities. You can find routes that follow sections of the river, providing a different perspective on the local landscape, often with flatter and easier paths.
How many hiking trails are there around East Keswick?
You can explore over a dozen curated hiking routes around East Keswick. The trails range from easy strolls under an hour to more demanding hikes that can take up most of the day, ensuring there's a walk for every fitness level.
Are there any woodland walks in the area?
Yes, the region features several beautiful woodland areas. For a moderately challenging route through the woods, the Carthick Wood – West Plantation loop from East Keswick is a great choice, taking you through a mix of local woods and open fields over about 14 km.
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