4.3
(368)
3,582
hikers
129
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Melsonby traverse a varied landscape of rolling countryside, riverside paths, fields, and woodlands in North Yorkshire. The region features gentle walks along the River Swale and River Tees, offering scenic views. Historical elements such as ancient earthworks like the Scots Dyke and proximity to sites like Easby Abbey and Richmond Castle enrich the hiking experience. These routes provide accessible options for exploring the rural setting.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
4.5
(2)
10
hikers
4.59km
01:16
80m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
hikers
5.17km
01:19
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
12
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
7.56km
01:57
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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There’s a fab tea room and general store in Eppleby village. Very cycle friendly with a track pump in the doorway!
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Good Cafe very reasonable prices and good food and Pleasant Staff
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picturesque village which has a green, shop and pub.
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The wall paintings are wonderful - always a joy to see. The bike ride alongside the Swale is perfect. Watch out for herons, which can often be seen fishing on a rock. The ice cream at the parlour as you arrive at the station is delicious. The deli just inside is also fabulous…….
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Willance House is a Grade 2 listed building set in Frenchgate, a cobbled street just 2 or 3 minutes walk from the Market Place. Reputedly the oldest house in Richmond, it was the home of Robert Willance the first Alderman of Richmond. Robert Willance left his mark on Richmond in two ways. He was the first Alderman (the equivalent of Mayor) of Richmond in 1608, but two years earlier he survived a hunting accident at a site on Whitcliffe Scar, just outside Richmond. The site is now known as Willance's Leap in commemoration of the amazing event in 1606. Robert Willance, whose family owned property at Clints near Marske as well as in Richmond, was out hunting one day, riding an inexperienced and nervous young horse, when a thick mist suddenly came down. The horse bolted and fell 212ft over the edge of Whitcliffe Scar and was killed. Willance survived the fall but with a broken leg. Realising he would not be rescued until the fog lifted, he used his hunting knife to slit open the horse’s belly and inserted into it his fractured leg. This probably saved his life, as the extra warmth would delay the onset of gangrene. Later, he was taken back to his house in Richmond, now No. 24 Frenchgate or Willance House, where his injured leg was amputated. He made such a good recovery that he was able to serve as the first Alderman of Richmond in 1608. Robert Willance also gave Richmond a silver ‘boulle’ or cup which is on display with other civic plates in the Green Howards Regimental Museum in the Market Place. He died in 1616 and was buried in the churchyard of St. Mary’s parish church, close to the garden wall of Willance House. According to tradition, he was reunited with his leg which had been buried there ten years earlier. His grave is marked by a flat stone near a door in the garden wall, but the inscription is no longer legible.
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Biggest ruins I've seen, no entry fee, lots of interesting places to see, my favourite part was the roof underneath the refectory
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Melsonby offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 60 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are more than 120 hiking routes in the area, catering to various preferences.
Easy hikes around Melsonby feature a diverse landscape of rolling countryside, tranquil riverside paths along the River Swale and River Tees, open fields, and peaceful woodlands. You'll experience the fertile, undulating terrain characteristic of North Yorkshire.
Yes, many of the easy trails in Melsonby are suitable for families. Routes like the River Tees at Teesdale Way loop from Cliffe offer gentle riverside paths, perfect for a leisurely family outing. The varied terrain ensures there's something engaging for all ages.
Melsonby's rural setting with its network of footpaths and bridleways is generally very dog-friendly. While specific rules may vary by landowner, most easy trails through fields and woodlands are suitable for dogs, often requiring them to be on a lead, especially near livestock. Always check local signage.
Yes, Melsonby offers several excellent circular easy walks. An example is the Forcett Fundamental Bench Mark – Eppleby Village Green loop from Stanwick St. John, which guides you through open countryside and charming villages, bringing you back to your starting point.
Melsonby's easy hikes are rich in history. You can explore ancient earthworks like the Scots Dyke, or visit significant sites such as the breathtaking ruins of Easby Abbey. The Ruins of Easby Abbey – The Drummer Boy's Stone loop from Richmond is a great option to see these historical features.
Absolutely. Several easy routes provide stunning views of Richmond Castle. For instance, the
The rolling countryside and riverside paths of Melsonby are enjoyable year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers lush greenery, and autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Even in winter, the gentle terrain makes for pleasant walks, though paths can be muddy, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
While Melsonby itself is a village, many routes start from nearby towns like Richmond, which has better public transport links. From Richmond, you can access easy trails such as the Ruins of Easby Abbey – The Drummer Boy's Stone loop, making it possible to combine public transport with your hike.
Parking is generally available at the start points of many popular trails, particularly in nearby villages and towns like Cliffe, Richmond, or Stanwick St. John. For example, routes like the Forcett Fundamental Bench Mark loop from Stanwick St. John typically have parking options nearby.
The easy trails in Melsonby are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful riverside paths, the historical landmarks like Easby Abbey, and the tranquil, expansive views across the North Yorkshire countryside.
While Melsonby is a small village, some routes pass through or near other villages where you might find refreshment options. For instance, the Eppleby Village Shop & Tea Room is a highlight that could be incorporated into a walk, offering a pleasant stop.


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