The best walks and hikes around Bank Newton

Yes, the area is well-suited for circular hikes. Many routes combine the flat, easy-going Leeds and Liverpool Canal towpath with paths through rolling fields and pastures. A popular option is to walk towards the nearby village of Gargrave and loop back, often incorporating a section of the Pennine Way for more varied terrain and elevated views.

The canal walks are a defining feature of the region. The Leeds and Liverpool Canal towpath offers miles of flat, accessible walking, making it ideal for a relaxed day out. A key point of interest is the Bank Newton flight of six locks, where you can watch narrowboats navigate the waterway. The scenery is a pleasant mix of tranquil water and green countryside.

Absolutely. The level towpaths along the canal are perfect for families looking for an easy, safe, and engaging walk. The constant presence of canal boats and wildlife keeps things interesting for younger children. For a slightly more adventurous but still manageable family outing, consider the Anchor Lock – Higherland Lock loop from Gargrave, which is a relatively short and easy walk.

Yes, the trails around Bank Newton are generally dog-friendly, especially the open towpaths along the canal. However, many routes pass through fields with grazing livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead and under control in these areas to ensure the safety of the animals and your pet.

For a longer and more strenuous hike, you can explore routes that venture further into the rolling countryside away from the canal. The Haw Crag Summit and Quarry loop from Coniston Cold offers more elevation gain and takes you through varied pastoral landscapes. Additionally, Bank Newton's proximity to the Pennine Way provides access to more rugged and demanding sections of this famous national trail.

The primary attraction is the impressive flight of six locks on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal at Bank Newton itself. If you venture towards East Marton, you can see the unusual 'Double Arched Bridge'. For a more dramatic landscape, the geological wonders of Malhamdale, including Malham Cove and Gordale Scar, are a short drive away and offer spectacular scenery.

Yes, the nearby village of Gargrave has several pubs and cafes that are popular with walkers. For a unique treat, you could plan a route that passes through East Marton, such as the Sally's Ice Cream & Sweet Shop – Canal Lock loop, which conveniently passes a well-known local ice cream parlor.

For walks starting in Bank Newton, there is limited on-street parking available in the hamlet itself, so arriving early is recommended. Alternatively, many walkers choose to start in the larger village of Gargrave, which has more parking options, including a public car park, and then walk towards Bank Newton along the canal.

The village of Gargrave has a train station with services connecting to Skipton and Leeds, making it a convenient starting point for hikes in the area. From Gargrave, you can easily access the canal towpath and walk to Bank Newton. Bus services also connect Gargrave to surrounding towns and villages.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers frequently praise the peaceful atmosphere of the canal towpaths and the beautiful rolling scenery of the Yorkshire countryside. The mix of flat canal sections and gentle hills is often highlighted as a major plus.

There is a wide variety of options available. You can find over 400 routes around Bank Newton on komoot, with a good balance between easy, moderate, and difficult trails to suit all fitness levels and preferences.

While the immediate circular walks from Bank Newton are not known for waterfalls, a short drive will take you to Malhamdale. This area, part of the Yorkshire Dales, features several spectacular waterfalls, including the famous Janet's Foss, set in a picturesque wooded glen, and the dramatic cascade within Gordale Scar.