The best walks and hikes around Glusburn And Cross Hills

Yes, the area offers several easier options perfect for families. The Farnhill Pinnacle loop from Cononley is a great choice, covering about 2.6 miles (4.3 km) with rewarding views. For a flatter walk, the paths along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal or the River Aire provide gentle strolls suitable for all abilities.

Absolutely. Most of the popular trails are designed as circular routes. For a walk that combines riverside paths with quiet lanes, the River Aire loop from Glusburn and Cross Hills is a moderate 6.3-mile (10.2 km) circuit that brings you back to your starting point.

Many trails in the area are suitable for walking with dogs, especially the towpaths and public footpaths. However, when crossing farmland or moorland, particularly during lambing season (spring) or when birds are nesting, it's essential to keep your dog on a lead. After your walk, you can visit local dog-friendly pubs.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll find flat, easy-going towpaths along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and gentle paths along the River Aire. For more of a challenge, trails heading up to the surrounding moors, like Earl's Crag, involve steeper climbs on uneven ground but reward you with expansive views across the Aire Valley.

For most routes starting in the villages, on-street parking is available, but please park considerately. For specific landmarks, there are often dedicated parking spots. For example, to visit Pinhaw Beacon, there is a small car park nearby. Always check for any local parking restrictions before you set off.

Yes, Glusburn and Cross Hills are served by bus routes connecting them to nearby towns like Skipton and Keighley, which have train stations. This makes it feasible to access many trailheads without a car. Cononley also has its own train station, providing direct access to walks on that side of the valley.

While the immediate area is known more for its moors and canals, several impressive waterfalls are a short drive away. The region is close to the Yorkshire Dales, where you can find famous waterfalls like Janet's Foss and the dramatic gorge of Gordale Scar near Malham. The Brontë Waterfall near Haworth is also a popular destination.

For panoramic views, head up to the follies on Earl's Crag: Lund's Tower and Wainman's Pinnacle. Both offer fantastic vistas over the Aire Valley. Farnhill Pinnacle also provides great views from a lower elevation. For a slightly more distant but highly-regarded viewpoint, Pinhaw Beacon offers sweeping sights of the surrounding landscape.

Yes, you'll find welcoming pubs and cafes in the villages of Glusburn, Cross Hills, and Cononley, which are perfect for starting or finishing a hike. The Riverside campground in Cononley is noted for being near two pubs, one of which serves food, making it a convenient stop for walkers exploring that area.

There are nearly 30 curated hiking routes available to explore around Glusburn and Cross Hills. These range from easy, low-level walks to more challenging moderate hikes on the moors, ensuring there's a trail for every fitness level.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the variety of walks available, from the peaceful canal towpaths to the rewarding climbs up to the stone monuments on the moors. The combination of industrial heritage and classic Yorkshire scenery is a frequently mentioned highlight.

The most prominent landmarks are the two stone follies on Earl's Crag:

Lund's Tower: A crenelated stone tower built in 1887 with a spiral staircase you can climb for elevated views.

Wainman's Pinnacle: A stone obelisk also located on the crag, sometimes known locally as the 'Salt Pot'.