Thornton-le-Dale - Dalby Forest - Howl Dale - Thornton-le-Dale

Christine Bibby

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Thornton-le-Dale, considered to be one of the prettiest villages in North Yorkshire, is an excellent start and finish for a walk. It is easily reached by bus from almost any direction and has a large car park close by. The start of the walk goes past tea rooms and bakery shops, then past a stunningly beautiful thatched cottage. Follow Thornton Beck up to Ellerburn and maybe visit the Norman church of St Hilda's and pay a visit to the Cosy Nook tea room. See the Lumber Jill's sculpture near the start of the Dalby Forest Drive and enjoy the view. This is an excellent place for a lunch break. Turn west through mixed woodland and pass through the farm at Low Kingsthorpe, turning south-west to follow Howl Dale before picking up the path by Haggs House to return to Thornton-le-Dale through fields. Now is decision time: ice cream or tea and cake in the village centre.

England - North England - Yorkshire - North York Moors

Features

Birds, Butterflies, Cafe, Church, Flowers, Food Shop, Gift Shop, Good for Kids, Great Views, Pub, Public Transport, River, Tea Shop, Toilets, Wildlife, Woodland

1/7/2025 - lee holmes

A Scenic Hike Around Thornton-le-Dale with a Detour Through Dalby Forest adding an extra 3 miles. If you're looking for a hike that combines quintessential English countryside charm with the serene beauty of a sprawling forest, look no further than the circular route around Thornton-le-Dale, extended with a detour through Dalby Forest. This hike offers a fantastic mix of picturesque village scenes, open fields, and dense woodland trails, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Starting Point: Thornton-le-Dale The hike begins in the idyllic village of Thornton-le-Dale, often described as one of Yorkshire's prettiest villages. The traditional stone cottages, babbling beck, and the famous thatched-roof cottage by the village green set a delightful tone for the journey. It's worth taking a moment to explore the village before heading out—perhaps grabbing a coffee or snack from one of the charming cafes. Into the Countryside The initial leg of the hike meanders through rolling farmland and quiet country lanes. The gentle ascent provides stunning views of the North York Moors in the distance. Keep an eye out for local wildlife; the area is home to everything from curious sheep to vibrant bird species. The Dalby Forest Detour After a few miles, the route transitions into Dalby Forest—a true highlight of this hike. Known as 'The Great Yorkshire Forest', Dalby offers an enchanting contrast to the open fields. Towering pine trees, mossy undergrowth, and winding paths create a magical atmosphere, especially if sunlight filters through the canopy above. This section is where you can add extra miles to your hike, depending on how adventurous you feel. Whether you choose to follow the well-marked trails or venture onto quieter paths, there's a sense of peace and seclusion here that's hard to find elsewhere. Highlights in the forest include sparkling streams, small waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints over the moorland. Back to Thornton-le-Dale The route loops back to Thornton-le-Dale, where you can reward yourself with a hearty meal or refreshing drink at a local pub. The warmth of the village provides the perfect conclusion to a day well spent. Overall Experience What makes this hike truly fantastic is the diversity of landscapes and the sense of immersion in nature. The combination of Thornton-le-Dale's timeless charm and Dalby Forest's tranquil majesty ensures there's never a dull moment. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just someone looking for a peaceful escape, this route offers something special. Pro Tips: - Wear sturdy boots, especially after rain, as some paths can get muddy. - Bring a map or GPS device, as the forest trails can be a bit labyrinthine. - Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots in Dalby Forest. This hike is a perfect blend of effort and reward, leaving you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for the natural beauty of Yorkshire. Highly recommended!

2/16/2022 - Meera Lawrence

I did this walk on a day it has been raining for 48 hours. I started from the Pickering Premier Inn, walking along the main road to Thornton and peeling off from the route at the end of Howl Dale Wood to head west. It was incredibly muddy, so good boots were a must, but the route was varied and easy to navigate. The church was lovely. I felt intrepid, walking on a day when most people stayed in. Thank you to the author for sharing. Another family I met at the church were also hunting for the cafe. I'm guessing it's only open in high season.

5/24/2019 - John Glover

Proceeded on this walk last week. There is a sign at the Cosy Nook Tea Room saying closed for all of 2019.