4.5
(1287)
9,074
hikers
358
hikes
Hiking around Rievaulx offers diverse landscapes within the North York Moors National Park. The area features rolling hills, serene valleys, and ancient woodlands such as Ashberry Wood, alongside open moorland like Rievaulx Moor. The River Rye meanders through the landscape, contributing to a varied terrain that includes riverside settings and species-rich meadows. Historical attractions like Rievaulx Abbey and Rievaulx Terrace are integrated into many routes, providing cultural points of interest.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
4.5
(4)
19
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(15)
126
hikers
5.60km
01:38
140m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.3
(6)
18
hikers
4.27km
01:10
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
7
hikers
4.62km
01:19
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
hikers
5.18km
01:25
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The A170 is a busy road so if cycling try to minimise the distance you have to ride along it
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Note that the Abbey itself is English Heritage and has both cafe and toilets available accessible without paying admission/requiring membership. The only downside is that to get there from Rievaulx Terrace it is down a steep hill.
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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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Interesting for their sheer size alone, the old remains of the abbey also have an air of transience about them. Only the sometimes horrendous entrance fees prevent people from taking a closer look at the remains of the walls. It would certainly have been interesting.
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A beautiful abbey ruin, easily accessible on a walk from Helmsley.
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Rievaulx offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails. There are over 100 easy routes available, making it a great destination for relaxed walks amidst diverse landscapes.
The easy trails in Rievaulx are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 400 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, which includes ancient woodlands and riverside paths, as well as the historical attractions like Rievaulx Abbey that are integrated into many routes.
Easy hikes in Rievaulx traverse a picturesque and varied terrain. You can expect rolling hills, serene valleys, ancient woodlands such as Ashberry Wood, and open moorland. The River Rye meanders through the landscape, creating pleasant riverside settings and species-rich meadows. Some routes may include sections of the well-trodden Cleveland Way National Trail.
Yes, many easy hiking trails in Rievaulx are suitable for families with children. The area features clearly marked routes, and some are even designated as 'Miles Without Stiles' for easier access. Routes like the Ayton Bank loop from Newgate Bank offer manageable distances and varied scenery that can keep younger hikers engaged.
Many easy hiking trails in Rievaulx are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery with your canine companion. However, always keep dogs under control, especially when passing through livestock areas or nature reserves, and check local signage for any specific restrictions.
Yes, Rievaulx offers several easy circular walks. Popular options include the Bow Bridge over the River Rye – Rievaulx Abbey loop from Rievaulx, which follows the River Rye and passes the historic Abbey, and the Rievaulx Abbey – Rievaulx Abbey loop from Rievaulx, which explores the Abbey grounds and surrounding countryside.
Easy hikes in Rievaulx often incorporate significant historical attractions. You can explore the stunning ruins of Rievaulx Abbey, visit the Kilburn White Horse, or pass through charming villages like Old Byland. Some routes also offer views of Helmsley Castle or the ruins of Byland Abbey.
Yes, Rievaulx's natural beauty includes several water features. The River Rye meanders through the landscape, and you can find scenic spots like the Old Stone Bridge and Waterfalls at Grass Keld. The area also features several ponds, including the historic fish ponds established by monks, and nearby Gormire Lake.
Parking is generally available at key starting points for hikes around Rievaulx, particularly near popular attractions like Rievaulx Abbey. It's advisable to check specific route details on komoot for recommended parking locations, such as the starting point for the Ayton Bank loop from Newgate Bank.
While Rievaulx is somewhat rural, public transport options may be limited. It's best to check local bus schedules for services connecting to nearby towns like Helmsley, from which you might be able to access some trailheads. Planning your journey in advance is recommended.
Rievaulx offers beautiful hiking experiences year-round. Spring is particularly vibrant with wildflowers like bluebells and wild garlic in the ancient woodlands. Summer provides pleasant weather for longer strolls, while autumn brings stunning foliage. Even winter offers crisp, scenic walks, though some paths might be muddy.
Yes, you can find options for refreshments near many easy hiking trails. The village of Rievaulx itself may have limited facilities, but the nearby market town of Helmsley offers a wider selection of cafes and pubs. The Sutton Bank National Park Centre also has a cafe.
Many easy hikes in Rievaulx offer scenic viewpoints. The Rievaulx Terrace, located above the Abbey, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Abbey and the surrounding Yorkshire hills. Other trails may offer glimpses of the meandering River Rye and the diverse landscapes of the North York Moors.


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