4.4
(409)
2,871
hikers
176
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Harton traverse a landscape characterized by river valleys, open common land, and woodlands. The region offers gentle gradients suitable for relaxed walks, often passing historical sites and natural features. These paths provide opportunities to explore the local environment on well-maintained routes.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
4.4
(48)
254
hikers
7.49km
02:00
80m
80m
Embark on an easy hike through woodlands and open fields on the Riders Lane and River Derwent loop. This 4.7-mile (7.5 km) route, with a gentle 269 feet (82 metres)…
5.0
(6)
30
hikers
5.46km
01:23
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
14
hikers
4.46km
01:11
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
2
hikers
4.30km
01:12
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Howsham Mill, attributed to John Carr of York, is a well-preserved example of an 18th-century watermill. The mill uses both a restored waterwheel and Archimedes screw to generate electricity, providing a sustainable energy solution for the local area, and the site is part of a larger effort to promote environmental awareness and education, showcasing how renewable energy can be implemented in a historical setting.
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The wood is part of a larger circular trail, including Kirkham Priory and the River Derwent, offering varied scenery and views. Very easy forest track running through the centre of the wood.
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The remains of this Augustinian priory include a gatehouse adorned with the De Roos family heraldry. You can also learn about the priory's role in World War II, including Winston Churchill's secret visit and its use in training and testing for D-Day.
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The section between Howsham and Kirkham is scenic, surrounded by mixed deciduous woodland, the river is home to white-clawed crayfish, brown trout, and water voles, and there are great vantage points from which to view the weirs at Howsham Mill and Kirkham.
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Do read the signs rather than assuming as I did.. it's a permissive footpath, not a bridleway despite initial appearances. Stick to the road if you're cycling! If I'd been out for a walk or trail run, they're beautiful surroundings!
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This is a particularly lovely section along the flowing River Derwent located just inside the borders of the beautiful Howardian Hills AONB. It's an incredibly green area and carpeted with seasonal wildflowers. You're also afforded views of the nearby Castle Howard, adding to the pleasant experience.
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The current Howsham Mill is on the site of an earlier mill built in 1755 that milled flour for the Howsham Estate for almost 200 years. The mill fell into ruins in the mid 1900s before being picked up by the Renewable Heritage Trust and restored to all its glory in 2006. Today, the mill is an events space, environmental education centre and produces energy in the form of hydroelectricity.
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An incredibly green, beautiful (and flowery in many places) walk on the northern banks of River Derwent. The views towards Castle Howard and its grounds only add to the experience.
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Harton offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 80 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, the region features more than 170 hiking routes, catering to various preferences.
Yes, many of the easy trails in Harton are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Strensall Common loop from Strensall is an easy 3.4-mile circular path exploring open common land. Another option is the Owl sculpture in Howsham Wood loop from Westow, a 2.8-mile trail through woodlands.
Easy hikes around Harton showcase diverse natural beauty, including serene river valleys, expansive open common land, and lush woodlands. You'll find trails winding through verdant areas, often alongside water features, providing a rich environment for local wildlife. The region's trails offer a blend of shaded forest paths and open vistas.
Absolutely. The easy trails in Harton are generally well-maintained and feature gentle gradients, making them ideal for family outings. Routes like the Riders Lane and River Derwent loop from Kirkham Priory offer pleasant riverside paths that are enjoyable for all ages.
Many easy trails in Harton are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors with your canine companion. It's always a good idea to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or sensitive wildlife, and to check local signage for any specific restrictions.
Harton's easy trails often pass by significant historical sites. For instance, the Riders Lane and River Derwent loop takes you past the historic Kirkham Priory Ruins. Other notable attractions in the wider area include the New River Bridge, Castle Howard Estate and Castle Howard itself, which can be explored in conjunction with nearby walks.
Yes, Harton offers easy walks with rewarding views, particularly across its open common lands and river valleys. The Strensall Common loop provides wide, open vistas across the natural surroundings, while riverside paths offer picturesque scenes of the water and surrounding landscape.
The easy trails in Harton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 400 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, well-marked paths, and the opportunity to explore historical sites and natural features without strenuous effort. The accessibility and variety of landscapes are frequently highlighted.
While many trails are popular, exploring routes slightly off the main paths can reveal hidden gems. The Archimedes Screw – Howsham Mill and Weir loop from Barton-le-Willows offers a unique blend of natural beauty and interesting engineering, providing a less-trafficked experience.
The easy trails in Harton can be enjoyed year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and fresh greenery, while autumn offers vibrant foliage. Summer provides pleasant conditions for longer strolls, and even winter walks can be beautiful, especially on well-maintained paths through woodlands or open common land. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Yes, several villages and towns near Harton's easy hiking trails offer amenities such as cafes and pubs where you can refresh before or after your walk. Specific options will depend on the starting point of your chosen route, but many areas are well-served.
Many easy hiking trails around Harton have designated parking areas, particularly at popular starting points like Kirkham Priory or Strensall. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for information on parking availability at your chosen trailhead.
Public transport access to some trailheads is available, though it varies by location. For example, routes starting from Strensall or Kirkham Priory may have bus connections. Planning your route in advance and checking local bus schedules will help you determine the best public transport options for your chosen easy hike.


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