Yorkshire in autumn is a place transformed. The dales, which in summer shimmer with buttercups and dry-stone walls, suddenly dress themselves in copper and gold, while the moors take on a brooding splendour under skies the colour of pewter. The trees along the rivers turn to flames, villages seem to huddle closer together, and even the sheep look faintly more dramatic when framed by mist and falling leaves.
The thing about Yorkshire is that it’s enormous – larger than some countries, as locals will be happy to remind you – which means there’s no shortage of paths to wander once the air sharpens and the ground begins to crackle underfoot. You can tramp across heathered ridges where the wind whips colour from your cheeks, or dawdle through valleys where rivers meander lazily past woods glowing in October sunshine. There are ruined abbeys that look especially romantic when half-obscured by drifting leaves, and market towns where a pint by the fire feels like the natural conclusion to a day’s ramble.
Autumn walking here is a sensory feast: the smell of woodsmoke and damp bracken, the crunch of acorns, the sight of deer slipping between trees, and the sudden, warming prospect of tea and cake in a stone-built café. Whether you fancy a gentle riverside amble or a lung-stretching hike over high ground, Yorkshire serves it all up with a flourish – and in autumn, it feels as though the county has been waiting all year to show off.
1. Bolton Abbey Walk and The Devonshire Arms
Route details
- Distance: 7 miles (11 km) circular
- Time: 3–3.5 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate – mainly riverside paths with some gentle climbs
- Start/finish: Bolton Abbey Estate, near Skipton, North Yorkshire
- Transport: By car via the A59 (well-signposted, with estate car parks available). Nearest train station is Ilkley, with regular buses to Bolton Abbey.
The walk
If autumn had a stage set, it would probably look like the Bolton Abbey Estate. This circular riverside walk along the Wharfe offers golden beech trees, mirror-like reflections, and the romantic ruins of a medieval priory.
The path begins near the estate entrance, following the river upstream past grassy banks and stone bridges. The famous stepping stones across the Wharfe are the star turn – cross them if you’re feeling steady, or use the footbridge if you’d rather stay dry. From here, the trail leads into rich woodland that glows with russet and amber hues in October, with paths cushioned by fallen leaves.
Looping back, the ruins of Bolton Priory rise hauntingly above the river. Take a moment here to absorb the history, monks once farmed, fished, and worshipped in these grounds, before returning through fields and riverside paths to the estate village.
Scenic highlights
- The photogenic stepping stones across the River Wharfe.
- Towering autumn woodland along the Strid Wood section.
- The evocative ruins of Bolton Priory.
- Riverside meadows with views of the Dales beyond.
Pub stop
Just a short stroll from the estate sits The Devonshire Arms Hotel & Spa at Bolton Bridge. This centuries-old coaching inn combines old-world charm with a touch of elegance. Inside, you’ll find oak beams, crackling fires, and a fine selection of local ales – often Timothy Taylor’s Landlord. The food is a highlight too; hearty Yorkshire classics sit alongside refined seasonal dishes, all perfect after a walk among the autumn leaves.
Practical info
- Getting there: Bolton Abbey is on the A59 between Skipton and Harrogate. Buses run from Skipton and Ilkley.
- Facilities on the route: Car parks, toilets, cafés and pubs at Bolton Abbey estate. None once on the woodland paths.
- Points of interest nearby: Bolton Priory ruins, the Strid gorge, and the Dales Way long-distance path.
- Map and Route link
2. Hardcastle Crags walk and The White Lion
For autumn drama, it’s hard to beat Hardcastle Crags. This steep, wooded valley near Hebden Bridge is a riot of colour in October, with oak, beech and birch trees glowing gold and copper. The circular walk here combines shaded riverside paths, mossy boulders and wooden bridges with a stop at the striking Gibson Mill – a piece of industrial history in the heart of the valley.
Route details
- Distance: 5 miles (8 km) circular plus other shorter waymarked trails
- Time: 2.5–3 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate — woodland trails with uneven rocky paths and short climbs
- Start/finish: Hardcastle Crags car park (National Trust), near Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire
The walk
Start from the National Trust car park and follow the woodland trails that hug Hebden Water. The path winds past tumbling streams and over wooden bridges, with the forest floor thick with fallen leaves. In autumn the whole valley feels like a natural theatre, with light flickering through the canopy and the air scented with woodsmoke and damp moss.
The focal point is Gibson Mill, a 19th-century cotton mill now restored as a visitor centre and café. Its stone walls are reflected in the mill pond, surrounded by fiery autumn trees. From here, the trails climb higher onto the valley sides, where views open out across the gorge and you can look down on the canopy of colour below.
The route loops back along quieter woodland paths, always accompanied by the sound of rushing water. It’s a walk that feels timeless — a mix of natural beauty and echoes of Yorkshire’s industrial past.
Highlights
- Woodland trails carpeted with golden autumn leaves
- Rushing streams and waterfalls along Hebden Water
- Gibson Mill, a beautifully restored cotton mill
- Sweeping views across the valley from higher trails
Pub stop
After the walk, head into Hebden Bridge and settle at The White Lion Hotel. This 17th-century coaching inn oozes character, with low beams, open fires and cosy corners. Local ales from breweries like Timothy Taylor and Vocation are usually on tap, and the menu ranges from hearty roasts to lighter bar snacks – exactly what’s needed after a muddy woodland ramble.
Practical info
Getting there
- By car via Hebden Bridge, with pay-and-display parking at Hardcastle Crags (National Trust).
- Hebden Bridge has a train station with direct services from Leeds and Manchester, plus bus and taxi links to the crags.
Facilities on the route
- Visitor centre and café at Gibson Mill.
- Toilets at the car park and at Gibson Mill.
- Pubs, shops and cafés in Hebden Bridge.
Points of interest nearby
- Hebden Bridge town centre
- Heptonstall village and church ruins
- Rochdale Canal towpath walks
Route map
Hardcastle Crags circular walk
3. Hawnby walk and The Owl Inn
Tucked away in a quiet fold of the North York Moors, Hawnby feels like the kind of village you stumble on by accident. Stone cottages cluster in the valley, with heather-clad ridges above and wooded slopes dropping down to the River Rye. This circular walk captures everything that makes the area special; big moorland views, glowing woodland, and a timeless stillness where you’ll likely see more sheep than people.
Route details
- Distance: 6 miles (9.5 km) circular
- Time: Around 3 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate, a mix of moorland tracks, woodland paths and steady valley climbs
- Start/finish: Hawnby village, North York Moors
The walk
From the heart of Hawnby, a quiet lane leads out through farmland before rising up onto the open moor. In autumn the bracken glows copper and the heather fades to smoky purple, while the trees that line the valley turn to bright gold. The path soon dips into shaded woodland, where small streams tumble over mossy stones and the air feels cool and still.
The route loops back onto higher ground, where the views open across to Bilsdale and the moorland ridges beyond. The sense of space here is striking – rolling hills, empty tracks, and the occasional curlew calling in the distance. Returning to the village, the stone cottages and peaceful setting feel like stepping back in time.
Highlights
- Wide, sweeping views over Bilsdale and the moorland ridges
- Wooded valleys glowing with autumn colour
- Quiet tracks and bridleways well off the beaten path
- The timeless charm of Hawnby village
Pub stop
End the walk at The Owl Inn, right in the centre of Hawnby. With its flagstone floors, roaring fires and a menu full of Yorkshire staples, from game pie to slow-cooked lamb shank; it’s everything a village pub should be. Local ales from the nearby Helmsley Brewery often feature, making it the perfect place to raise a glass to the day’s walk.
Practical info
Getting there
- Best reached by car via the B1257 from Helmsley.
- Parking is available in the village near the pub.
- Public transport is very limited, so plan ahead if not driving.
Facilities on the route
- Pub and limited parking in Hawnby village.
- None once you’re out on the walk.
Points of interest nearby
- Helmsley Castle
- Rievaulx Abbey
- Sutton Bank and the Kilburn White Horse
Route map
Hawnby circular walk
4. Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey walk and The Black Swan
This is one of those walks that feels like two trips in one – a ramble through classic North York Moors countryside and a journey back into medieval history. Starting from Helmsley’s handsome market square, the route winds across fields and through woodland to the haunting ruins of Rievaulx Abbey, before looping back with fine valley views. It’s a walk that combines heritage, scenery and the charm of one of Yorkshire’s prettiest towns.
Route details
- Distance: 7 miles (11 km) circular
- Time: 3–3.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate, a mix of woodland, farmland and valley paths with gentle climbs
- Start/finish: Helmsley market square, North York Moors
The walk
Set out from Helmsley, where the ruins of the castle rise above the market town, and follow paths through fields and quiet woodland. The route heads into the Rye Valley, where the landscape grows more dramatic with every step.
Soon the arches and columns of Rievaulx Abbey appear, standing tall against a backdrop of golden oaks and copper beeches. Founded in 1132, the abbey was once one of the greatest monastic houses in England, and even in ruin it has a presence that stops you in your tracks. Take time here to wander among the remains and soak up the atmosphere before continuing the circuit.
From the abbey, the path climbs gently through woodland and farmland, offering wide views back across the valley. The final stretch leads you past rolling fields and hedgerows before bringing you back into Helmsley, a fitting end to a walk that blends history and landscape in equal measure.
Highlights
- The evocative ruins of Rievaulx Abbey, framed by autumn colours
- Autumn scenery along the Rye Valley
- Views of Helmsley Castle at the start and finish
- A mix of farmland, woodland and valley paths typical of the Moors
Pub stop
Back in Helmsley, reward yourself at The Black Swan, a historic coaching inn on the market square with parts dating back to the 15th century. Inside you’ll find low beams, open fires and plenty of Yorkshire hospitality. Local ales flow behind the bar, and the menu makes the most of regional produce – from hearty pies to traditional Sunday roasts.
Practical info
Getting there
- By car via the A170 from Thirsk or Pickering. Parking available in Helmsley.
- Nearest train stations: Thirsk and York, with connecting buses to Helmsley.
Facilities on the route
- Shops, cafés, pubs and toilets in Helmsley.
- Facilities and café at Rievaulx Abbey (English Heritage site).
Points of interest nearby
- Helmsley Castle
- Duncombe Park
- National Centre for Birds of Prey
Route map
Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey circular walk
5. Malham Cove Walk and The Buck Inn
Route details
- Distance: 3 miles (5 km) circular
- Time: 2–2.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate – some steep stone steps and uneven limestone pavement
- Start/finish: Malham village, North Yorkshire
- Transport: Malham is reachable by car via the A65 from Skipton (parking available in the National Park car park). The nearest train station is at Skipton, with buses connecting to Malham in season.
The walk
Few walks deliver quite such drama in so short a distance as this circuit from Malham village. The route leads you past bubbling becks and through ancient drystone-walled fields before climbing to the foot of Malham Cove, a towering white limestone amphitheatre that looks like something out of a fantasy film.
The real workout comes with the climb up the stone steps that zig-zag to the top of the Cove. At the summit, you’re rewarded with the weird and wonderful limestone pavement, where clints and grykes form a natural chessboard. In autumn, the cracks are stuffed with fiery rowan and sycamore leaves, and the views across the Dales glow golden in the low light.
From here, the path loops gently back down via grassy tracks and quiet lanes, giving you time to savour the scenery and enjoy the crunch of leaves underfoot. It’s a walk that packs a lot into a couple of hours without ever feeling rushed.
Scenic highlights
- The sheer face of Malham Cove, rising 70 metres high.
- The famous limestone pavement, a natural wonder shaped by ice and rain.
- Wide views across the rolling Yorkshire Dales, particularly striking in autumn light.
- A picturesque village start and finish, framed by stone cottages and becks.
Pub stop
Back in Malham, reward yourself at The Buck Inn. This 17th-century coaching inn sits right in the heart of the village and is the sort of place that feels made for walkers: roaring fire in the grate, muddy boots welcome, and a pint of Black Sheep or Timothy Taylor on tap. The menu majors on Yorkshire staples – think steak and ale pie, fish and chips, or a warming bowl of soup – perfect after clambering up all those steps.
Practical info
- Getting there: Malham lies north of Skipton, reached via narrow lanes from the A65. Limited bus services from Skipton.
- Facilities on the route: Pubs, cafés and toilets in Malham. None once on the path.
- Points of interest nearby: Malham Cove, Gordale Scar, Janet’s Foss waterfall.
- Map and Route Link
6. Rosedale Abbey walk and The Coach House Inn
Rosedale Abbey may look like a sleepy dale village today, but the landscape tells another story. In the 19th century it was alive with the clang of ironstone mining, and this walk takes you through that history while also showing off the dale at its most peaceful. Broad tracks, sweeping views and autumn colours make it a fine circular route that mixes tranquillity with echoes of the past.
Route details
- Distance: 7 miles (11 km) circular
- Time: 3–3.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate, the old railway line offers easy walking, while the valley climbs are more demanding
- Start/finish: Rosedale Abbey village, North York Moors
The walk
From the centre of Rosedale Abbey, the path rises steadily onto the line of the old ironstone railway. Built in the 19th century to haul ore across the moors, the track has long since fallen silent. Today it’s a broad grassy path with wide views over the dale, a striking reminder of how industry and landscape once overlapped.
In autumn, the slopes of the valley glow bronze with bracken and russet with beech, while sheep graze quietly where miners once worked. Old kilns and trackbeds still dot the route, adding interest as you walk along the ridge.
The path eventually loops back down to the dale floor, where the River Seven meanders through meadows. Back in the village, little remains of the abbey beyond a single stone pillar, but Rosedale Abbey itself makes for a charming finish – quiet lanes, stone cottages and a setting that feels far from the modern world.
Highlights
- Wide, open views across Rosedale Dale from the railway track
- Traces of the industrial past, including old kilns and trackbeds
- Striking autumn colours on the valley slopes
- The peaceful charm of Rosedale Abbey village
Pub stop
Round off your walk at The Coach House Inn, right in the heart of the village. With its low beams, open fires and a proper pint at the bar, it’s the kind of pub that feels instantly welcoming. Local cask ales are usually on tap, and the menu is geared to walkers, generous pies, stews and hearty dishes that hit the spot after a few hours on the moors.
Practical info
Getting there
- Reachable by car from Pickering via the A170 and local lanes.
- Parking is available in the village.
- Public transport is limited, so driving is the best option.
Facilities on the route
- Pub, tearooms and parking in Rosedale Abbey.
- No facilities once on the moorland section.
Points of interest nearby
- Ryedale Folk Museum in Hutton-le-Hole
- Pickering Castle
- North York Moors Railway
Route map
Rosedale Abbey circular walk
And so there you have it – six fine excuses to lace up your boots, forget about emails, and go striding off into the kind of scenery that makes you wish you owned a dog (or perhaps a tweed hat, at the very least). Autumn in Yorkshire doesn’t do things by halves: it gives you moors that brood magnificently, valleys that glow like embers, and woodlands that look as if they’ve been painted by an enthusiastic watercolourist. Best of all, it offers the promise of a cosy pub or café at the end of it all, where you can sit with muddy boots, a warm drink, and the smug satisfaction of having spent a day somewhere entirely splendid.
