The best walks and hikes around Beadlam
4.5
(845)
5,406
hikers
231
hikes
Hikes around Beadlam explore the southern edge of the North York Moors National Park. The area is characterized by rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and river valleys like Riccal Dale. Its location near the market town of Helmsley provides access to a network of trails through a classic English countryside landscape.
Best hiking trails around Beadlam
- The most popular hiking route is Rievaulx Bank and Newgate Bank loop from Helmsley — North York Moors National Park, a 14.1 mile (22.7 km) trail that takes around 6 hours 7 minutes to complete. This challenging route features significant elevation gain across the moorland banks.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Riccal Dale and Nawton Tower loop from Nawton — North York Moors National Park, a moderate 9.1 mile (14.7 km) path. The route follows parts of the Riccal Dale valley before ascending through woodland.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Fairy Staircase – Duncombe Park Mansion loop from Helmsley, a 4.4 mile (7.1 km) trail leading through Duncombe Park, often completed in about 1 hour 54 minutes.
- Hiking around Beadlam is defined by heather moorland, expansive dales, and paths through historic parklands. The trail network provides options for various fitness levels, from gentle woodland walks to more demanding moorland hikes.
- The routes in Beadlam are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 780 reviews. More than 5,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Beadlam's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 27, 2026
3.3
(4)
10
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
4
hikers
14.7km
03:58
190m
190m
Hike the moderate 9.1-mile Riccal Dale and Tabular Hills Loop through diverse landscapes and wildflower-rich woodlands.
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4.8
(36)
159
hikers
7.19km
01:56
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(30)
155
hikers
10.7km
02:54
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(19)
94
hikers
10.1km
02:43
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The A170 is a busy road so if cycling try to minimise the distance you have to ride along it
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following on the trip there is a beautiful downhill forest path
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Duncombe Park is a 300-acre (120-hectare) country estate and one of Yorkshire’s finest historic homes. It is the current home of the Duncombe family, or Baron Feversham. The estate sits in a beautiful setting above the meandering River Rye and is noted for its woodland walks and wildlife. It has been designated a National Nature Reserve due to the rare insects and fungi that thrive in the ancient woodlands. The trails in the park itself are open to the public seven days a week, and tickets can be bought from the Birds of Prey Centre for a nominal fee of £1 at the time of writing. The house itself, however, is closed to the public but does host public events such as weddings.
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The Helmsley market as being going for 600 years and takes up most of the parking at the Market Place on Fridays.
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There has been a church in Helmsley since before the Norman conquest and the churchyard was used as a market place in Anglo-Saxon times. A church was recorded in the Domesday Book in 1086. There was much rebuilding in the 19th century between 1866 and 1869 funded by the Earl of Feversham. Many changes were made in the rebuilding, and Norman and later features were lost, including the font, which was replaced in 1868; the original medieval font is now in the church at Pockley.
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A beautiful market square. The monument on the square is striking.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails to choose from around Beadlam?
Yes, there are over 200 marked hiking routes in the Beadlam area. The trails range from easy strolls to challenging moorland treks, with the majority being of moderate difficulty.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the Beadlam area?
The region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the classic English countryside scenery, which includes rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and the expansive heather moorland of the North York Moors.
Are there any good circular walks starting from Beadlam or Helmsley?
Absolutely. Many trails in the area are loops. For a moderate circular route, consider the Duncombe Park Mansion – Helmsley Market Cross loop from Helmsley. It's a 6.1-mile (9.8 km) walk through historic parkland.
Can I bring my dog on hikes near Beadlam?
Dogs are welcome on many trails, but it's essential to keep them on a lead, especially when crossing farmland with livestock or during bird nesting season on the moors (typically spring and early summer). Always check for local signage on your chosen route.
What are some family-friendly walks in the area?
For an easier walk suitable for many families, the Fairy Staircase – Duncombe Park Mansion loop from Helmsley is a great option. This 4.4-mile (7.1 km) trail is relatively flat and takes you through the scenic Duncombe Park.
Where can I find hikes with the best views?
For panoramic views over Ryedale, the trails on Beadlam Rigg are excellent. For a more challenging hike that rewards you with stunning moorland vistas, the Rievaulx Bank and Newgate Bank loop offers significant elevation and expansive scenery.
Are there any long-distance hiking trails accessible from near Beadlam?
Yes, the area is a gateway to two national trails. The 109-mile Cleveland Way National Trail starts in the nearby market town of Helmsley. The 48-mile Tabular Hills Walk also passes through Helmsley, connecting it to Scalby.
What kind of scenery can I expect in Riccal Dale?
Riccal Dale is a beautiful, secluded valley known for its peaceful woodland paths that follow the River Riccal. A good way to experience it is on the Riccal Dale and Nawton Tower loop, which combines the valley floor with ascents through the surrounding woods.
Are there any walks that include historical sites?
Many routes feature historical landmarks. The nearby market town of Helmsley is the starting point for several walks that take you past the ruins of Rievaulx Abbey and Helmsley Castle. The Helmsley — Market Town – Helmsley Market Cross loop from Helmsley is a moderate walk that explores the area around the historic town.
Where is a good place to park for walks starting in Helmsley?
Helmsley has several pay-and-display car parks, with the largest being the Cleveland Way Car Park. It's a convenient starting point for many popular routes, including those heading towards Rievaulx Abbey and into the North York Moors. Arrive early on weekends as it can get busy.
Are there any quiet, scenic walks for a peaceful day out?
For a quieter experience, explore the trails around Hood Grange Wood or Oulston Reservoir. These areas tend to be less crowded than the main routes from Helmsley and offer serene woodland and waterside scenery.
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