The best walks and hikes around North Duffield
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1,445
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Hikes around North Duffield explore a landscape defined by flat terrain, expansive flood meadows, and serene riverside paths. The region is situated near the Lower Derwent Valley National Nature Reserve, offering walks through wetlands and along historic disused railway lines. With minimal elevation change, the walking trails in North Duffield are generally accessible and focus on the area's natural features and birdlife.
Best hiking trails around North Duffield
- The most popular hiking route is Hiking loop from North Duffield, a 7.4 mile (12.0 km) trail that takes around 3 hours to complete. This moderate route provides a longer exploration of the countryside surrounding the village.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Hiking loop from North Duffield, an easy 2.2 mile (3.6 km) path. This short loop is a good option for a quick walk and can be completed in under 1 hour.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Southwood Drain loop from Bubwith, a 2.1 mile (3.4 km) trail leading through the nearby landscape, often completed in about 50 minutes.
- Hiking around North Duffield is defined by walks along riverbanks, across wet meadows, and on the flat tracks of former railway lines. The network of public footpaths provides options for both short, easy strolls and more moderate distance hikes.
- The routes in North Duffield are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from more than 150 reviews. More than 1,400 hikers have used komoot to explore North Duffield's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
16
hikers
3.60km
00:54
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
3.73km
00:56
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
hikers
3.38km
00:51
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
7
hikers
11.7km
02:57
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
2.11km
00:32
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Part of the long-gone Selby to Driffield line that formed part of a railway which connected the East Coast Main Line and the Yorkshire Coast Line. It crossed largely flat terrain and the Yorkshire Wolds and serviced the towns of Selby, Market Weighton, and Driffield. The line closed for regular passenger traffic on 20 September 1954, but a service of one regular non-stop train each way plus occasional summer excursions ran until June 1965. The line was abandoned after the last freight train ran later that year.
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Off-road parking, could easily fit 10-12 or so cars in here.
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Smaller parking area, with space for around half a dozen cars or so.
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Remnants of RAF Riccall are clearly visible around this loop. The base has a rich history and served as a heavy bomber (Handley Page Halifax) operational conversion unit during the Second World War. Three runways were constructed to form an "A" shape, which allegedly had to be rebuilt after they started to subside and sink into the soft ground. The entire common is riddled with patches of concrete and asphalt that represent the remains of the taxiways and flight pan.
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Skipwith Common is a National Nature Reserve (NNR) and covers an area of 500 acres. The reserve is lowland heath and alongside wildlife is also connected to history with a World War 2 aircraft station situated there and home to ancient burial sites.
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The Longhorn Cattle spend Summer in the common and overwinter in Skipwith Village. They are very docile even if you walk between Mum and Her Calf usually more interested in the grass
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many circular walks starting from North Duffield?
Yes, the area is well-suited for circular walks. You can find loops of varying lengths, from short, easy strolls to more substantial hikes. For a longer exploration of the surrounding countryside, consider the 7.4-mile hiking loop from North Duffield, which offers a good overview of the local landscape.
What are some good options for easy, family-friendly walks?
The region's flat terrain makes it ideal for families. Many paths are short and have minimal elevation. The 2.2-mile hiking loop from North Duffield is a great choice for a quick, accessible walk that can be completed in under an hour.
Are the walking trails around North Duffield suitable for dogs?
Yes, many trails in the area are great for walking with dogs. The Bubwith Old Railway Path is a popular, flat, and often mud-free option. Nearby nature reserves like Brayton Barff and Barlow Common Nature Reserve are also highly regarded by local dog walkers for their woodland paths.
Where can I find walks with good opportunities for wildlife and bird watching?
The Lower Derwent Valley National Nature Reserve is the premier location for wildlife spotting. The North Duffield Carrs section, just east of the village, has dedicated hides for observing the rich birdlife, especially during winter. The reserve is internationally important for its breeding and wintering bird populations.
Are there any pub walks or places to eat and drink near the trails?
Yes, you can combine a walk with a visit to a local pub. The village of Skipwith is close to several walking routes and is home to The Drovers Arms, a well-regarded option for a meal after your hike. It's a good idea to check their opening times in advance.
What is the Bubwith Old Railway Path like for a walk?
The Bubwith Old Railway Path offers a very peaceful and easy walk. It follows the route of a former railway line, so it's flat, straight, and well-signposted. This makes it perfect for a leisurely stroll, a family outing, or a dog walk away from traffic.
Where is the best place to park for walks in the area?
For walks exploring the Lower Derwent Valley, there is a dedicated car park at North Duffield Carrs, which provides direct access to the nature reserve and its bird hides. For other routes, you will typically find on-street parking in villages like North Duffield or Bubwith, but please park considerately.
Are there any walks through woodlands or forests?
While the immediate area is known for its wetlands, nearby options like Brayton Barff offer beautiful woodland walks. It's a popular local spot with numerous paths winding through the trees, providing a different kind of scenery compared to the riverside trails.
What are some longer, more challenging hikes in the region?
For those seeking a longer day out, the area offers moderate hikes that connect various local features. The Southwood Drain – Common End Plantation loop from Bubwith is a 7.2-mile route that provides a more extensive tour of the landscape.
What do other hikers say about the trails around North Duffield?
The walking routes around North Duffield are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, flat paths, the abundant wildlife in the nature reserves, and the easy-to-follow trails along disused railway lines.
How many hiking trails are available around North Duffield?
There is a wide variety of routes to explore. In total, you can discover over 140 hiking trails in the region, ranging from short, easy loops perfect for an afternoon stroll to more moderate, longer-distance paths.
Can I walk along the River Derwent?
Yes, several public footpaths follow the course of the River Derwent, particularly through the Lower Derwent Valley National Nature Reserve. These riverside paths are central to the hiking experience in the region, offering serene views across the flood meadows.
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