Walking in the Yorkshire Dales

Middle House

Places to Walk in the Yorkshire Dales

Askrigg sits at the gateway to some of the most rewarding walking routes in the Yorkshire Dales, making it an ideal starting point for guests who want to explore the landscape on foot. The area offers walks that showcase the natural beauty, history and tranquillity the Yorkshire Dales are famous for- all accessible directly from the town.

Local Walks

If you're staying at Middle House and are keen on exploring our local beauty, consider walking some of these tried and trsuted routes:

Askrigg Three Waterfalls Circular

This 3.5-mile circular walk from Askrigg takes around 1.5–2 hours and features the impressive Mill Gill Force and Whitfield Gill Force. It’s a rewarding moderate route that highlights the waterfalls and limestone scenery of Wensleydale.

Askrigg, Bainbridge, Brough Scar & Worton Circular

A 3.8-mile moderate walk combining ridge paths with wide views across the dale. Passing through Bainbridge and Worton, it offers a scenic mix of open countryside, local villages and elevated viewpoints.

River Ure Loop (Askrigg)

This easy, flat riverside walk follows the River Ure from Askrigg and is ideal for a gentle stroll. It’s perfect for wildlife spotting and enjoying the peaceful Dales landscape at a relaxed pace.

Semerwater Loop

A longer circular walk around Semerwater, one of the Yorkshire Dales’ few natural lakes. The route offers varied terrain, quiet paths and beautiful lakeside views, making it ideal for a longer day out.

Addlebrough Walk

Addlebrough is a classic Dales hike rising to 477 metres, with a trig point and sweeping views from the summit. Often starting from Thornton Rust, routes vary in length and can include nearby waterfalls and villages, but good maps and preparation are advised due to exposed sections.

A Little Further Out

Askriggis home to many wonderful places to walk in the Yorkshire Dales. But ifyou want to explore a little further afield, you might like to try:

Aysgarth Falls Walk

Oneof the most popular and picturesque places to walk in the YorkshireDales is Aysgarth Falls. Following quiet lanes, riverside paths andsections of the old railway line, this route rewards walkers with thedramatic limestone waterfalls of the River Ure, and can be tailored tosuit different abilities. From Middle House the walk is around 5 milesbut is mostly flat.

Leyburn Shawl

Forbreathtaking views without venturing far, a walk up to Leyburn Shawl isa must. This famous limestone escarpment offers panoramic views acrossWensleydale and beyond. For history enthusiasts, the Leyburn Shawlharbours a local legend about Mary Queen of Scots dropping her shawlthere during an escape attempt- giving the escarpment it’s name. It’sjust a 20-minute drive from Middle House and delivers spectacularscenery, particularly at sunrise or sunset.

Harmby Waterfall and Woodland Walk

Ashort 25 minute drive from Middle House will lead you to the hidden gemof Harmby Waterfall. Starting from Leyburn, this peaceful route followsthrough shaded trees before revealing the waterfall cascading into arocky pool below. It’s an ideal choice for a relaxed afternoon walk andperfect for those looking to enjoy nature at a slower pace.

River Ure Riverside Paths

Forsomething flatter and less demanding, the riverside paths along theRiver Ure offer peaceful walking with plenty of opportunities to spotwildlife. Within walking distance of Middle House and lining nearbyvillages and meadows, these paths providing a calm escape into thecountryside while remaining close to local amenities.

Toplan your routes, why not visit the Yorkshire Dales National Parkswebsite where you can view walks as well as download a handy walkingapp.

You might also like to check out these other walking routes, which are often of interest to our guests here at Middle House:

Explore the Yorkshire Dales on Foot

Walking around Askrigg allows visitors to experience the Yorkshire Dales at its most authentic: stone walls, rolling hills, rushing water and wide open skies. Whether you’re seeking a gentle stroll or a more invigorating hike, Askrigg's walking routes offer something for every pace and season, all just a stone’s throw from Middle House. Book your stay with us today!