The best walks and hikes around Nunnington
4.5
(1052)
7,078
hikers
323
hikes
Hiking around Nunnington offers varied landscapes within the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region features rolling hills, tranquil river valleys along the River Rye, and diverse woodlands. Prominent natural features include Caulkleys Bank, providing panoramic views, and several wooded areas like Caulkleys Wood and Stittenham Wood. The terrain consists of a mix of bridleways, grassy paths, and field-edge routes.
Best hiking trails around Nunnington
- The most popular hiking route is Nunnington Hall and Caulkley Bank loop from Nunnington — Howardian Hills, an easy 4.6 miles (7.4 km) trail that takes 1 hour 57 minutes to complete. This loop explores the grounds around Nunnington Hall and ascends to Caulkleys Bank for views.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Hovingham and Stonegrave loop from Caulkley Bank, a moderate 7.7 miles (12.3 km) path. This route connects charming villages and offers diverse scenery through the Howardian Hills.
- Local hikers also love the East Newton and The Church of All Saints and St James loop from Nunnington — Howardian Hills, a 5.2 miles (8.4 km) trail leading through the Howardian Hills, often completed in about 2 hours 10 minutes.
- Hiking around Nunnington is defined by rolling hills, riverside paths along the River Rye, and extensive woodlands. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and more challenging routes.
- The routes in Nunnington are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1,000 reviews. More than 7,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Nunnington's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.9
(15)
113
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
16
hikers
12.3km
03:12
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.3
(3)
6
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
1
hikers
11.7km
03:04
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
32
hikers
11.3km
03:01
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Great views from the track known as Green Lane, out of the west end of the village and running across Cawton Heights.
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This National Trust property is a 17th-century manor house. You will find a sheltered walled garden here outside, and inside an oak-panelled hall, family rooms and even a haunted room! As this belongs to The National Trust, you will need to pay to get in, but it's well-worth it!
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This National Trust property is a 17th-century manor house. You will find a sheltered walled garden here outside, and inside an oak-panelled hall, family rooms and even a haunted room! As this belongs to The National Trust, you will need to pay to get in, but it's well-worth it!
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All Saints Church was rebuilt in 1860 by Marcus Worsley, except for the Anglo-Saxon tower, which was retained. It is believed that the tower dates back to just before 1066, around the time of the Battle of Hastings, of course. Inside the church, you will see how the Gothic of the nave contrasts with the unfaced stonework of the Saxon tower and its masonry. Well worth the visit!
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Once you start dropping down from Caulkleys Bank to the south towards Beech Tree House, you get fantastic views of the dale below. Don't miss (in the spring and summer) the beautiful wildflower spectacle on the way here, near Quarry Plantation.
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This track and bridleway runs via from the village of Stonegrave (west) through Caulkleys Wood to the road called The Avenue (east), with wonderful views to the south across Ryedale from just below Caulkleys Bank. Upon reaching The Avenue, you will see a bench (great views) right next to the small car park here.
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This is a very small village, practically a hamlet. It’s as quiet as it gets here! Surrounded by fields, and away from the main roads, it’s a lovely place to be. You’ll find a little duck pond on the eastern end of the village andthere’s a well-preserved lime kiln next to a rather impressive and beautiful large tree up the slope near Folly Hall (the west end). The tree offers a great place to sit and have your food break here – the roots almost make a natural seat in the ground.
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Stonegrave Minster is otherwise known as the Holy Trinity parish church. It was an Old Minster, and it means seriously old! It was established before 757 AD when Pope Paul I wrote to the King of Northumberland about the fact that he appointed an abbot for it. The church is known for very interesting heraldry to be found on some of the tombstones and monuments here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Nunnington?
Hiking around Nunnington offers a mix of terrains. You'll find bridleways, grassy paths, and field-edge routes. The area is characterized by rolling hills, tranquil river valleys along the River Rye, and diverse woodlands. Some riverside sections can be muddy in wet conditions.
Are there many easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, Nunnington offers a good selection of easy trails. Out of over 300 routes in the area, more than 100 are rated as easy. An example is the Nunnington Hall and Caulkley Bank loop, which is 4.6 miles long and takes less than two hours to complete.
What natural features can I see while hiking in Nunnington?
Nunnington is rich in natural beauty. You can explore the rolling hills of the Howardian Hills AONB, walk alongside the tranquil River Rye, and discover various woodlands like Caulkleys Wood, Stittenham Wood (known for seasonal bluebells), and Kirkham Park Wood. Caulkleys Bank offers impressive panoramic views across the Vale of Pickering.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Nunnington?
Many of the easier routes around Nunnington are suitable for families. The varied landscapes, including woodlands and riverside paths, provide engaging environments for children. The Nunnington Hall and Caulkley Bank loop is an easy option that explores the grounds around Nunnington Hall.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Nunnington?
Yes, Nunnington is a great area for dog walking, with many trails passing through woodlands and along public bridleways. Hood Grange Wood, for example, offers trails suitable for dogs. Always ensure your dog is under control, especially near livestock, and follow local signage regarding leads.
Are there any circular walks available in Nunnington?
Yes, Nunnington has numerous circular routes, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Popular options include the Nunnington Hall and Caulkley Bank loop and the East Newton and The Church of All Saints and St James loop, which both start from Nunnington.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I explore near the hiking trails?
Beyond the natural landscapes, you can visit Nunnington Hall, a historic National Trust property with organic gardens. For longer excursions, nearby historical sites like Rievaulx Abbey and Byland Abbey Ruins are within reach. You can also find highlights like Helmsley Castle and Castle Howard in the wider area.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Nunnington?
The routes in Nunnington are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied scenery, from rolling hills to tranquil river paths, and the well-maintained trails within the Howardian Hills AONB.
Is there parking available for hikers in Nunnington?
Yes, Nunnington village typically offers parking options for visitors. Many routes, such as those starting from Nunnington itself, are designed with convenient access in mind. It's advisable to check specific starting points for designated parking areas.
Are there any pubs or cafes along the hiking routes in Nunnington or nearby villages?
Nunnington itself is a charming village with local amenities. Longer loops often incorporate nearby villages like Hovingham and Stonegrave, which may offer additional historical interest and places to stop for refreshments. It's a good idea to check opening times for specific establishments before your hike.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Nunnington?
Nunnington offers rewarding hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings wildflowers to areas like Quarry Plantation and bluebells to Stittenham Wood. Summer provides pleasant conditions for longer walks. Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, while winter offers crisp, quiet landscapes, though some riverside paths can be muddy.
How many hiking trails are there in the Nunnington area?
There are over 300 hiking trails available around Nunnington, catering to various fitness levels and preferences. This includes a wide selection of easy, moderate, and some more challenging routes through the diverse landscapes of the Howardian Hills AONB.
Most popular routes around Nunnington
Most popular attractions around Nunnington
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