The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Long Preston
4.5
(2149)
16,722
hikers
7
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Long Preston are set within the diverse landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The region features rolling hills, expansive meadows, and the meandering River Ribble, offering a mix of gentle riverside paths and ascents. Notable natural features include picturesque waterfalls like Scaleber Force and Janet's Foss, alongside the ecologically significant Long Preston Flood Plain wetlands. This varied terrain provides a range of outdoor experiences for families.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Long Preston
…Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.7
(18)
72
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
2
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.3
(3)
10
hikers
9.04km
02:29
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
5
hikers
7.72km
02:09
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
18.6km
05:00
240m
240m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Good food and a decent selection of beers on tap.
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The Folly built in the 1670s as a Gentlemans residence, now a museum of North Craven Life
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The pies, sausage rolls, and pastries are all really good!
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Bench seating with a view of Long Preston and the surrounding Dales fells. In particular there is the view and sign board associated with the Long Preston Embankment project works undertaken in 2020-2021
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Scaleber Force is a stunning 40ft waterfall within Scaleber Wood Nature Reserve. The route down/up can be tricky in wet conditions with slippery rocks
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The trig is on the left side of the path if you’ve ascended from Long Preston. You need to climb the steep embankment and from this pinned location head in a NW direction.
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Fantastic cafe and bike shop. The have a workshop upstairs and a great variety of products. Their rental bikes look rad for tackling the local routes!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Long Preston?
There are several family-friendly hiking trails around Long Preston, with 7 routes featured in this guide. These routes are designed to be enjoyable for both children and adults, offering manageable distances and gentle paths.
What are the typical distances for family-friendly hikes in this area?
The family-friendly hikes around Long Preston vary in length. For example, the The Maypole Inn – Bookil Gill Beck loop from Long Preston is about 9 km (5.6 miles), while the Hunter Bark and Scaleber Force loop is around 12.6 km (7.8 miles). You can find options suitable for various energy levels.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, many of the family-friendly routes around Long Preston are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Hunter Bark and Scaleber Force loop and the Otterburn Bridge and Ormsgill Green lime kiln loop.
Can I bring my dog on these family-friendly trails?
Many trails in the Yorkshire Dales National Park are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature conservation areas. Please check specific route details for any restrictions and always clean up after your pet.
Are there any waterfalls or natural attractions to see along the routes?
Absolutely! The area is rich in natural beauty. The Hunter Bark and Scaleber Force loop, for instance, takes you near the impressive Scaleber Force waterfall. Other notable natural monuments in the wider region include Malham Cove and Gordale Scar Waterfall.
When is the best time of year to hike with family in Long Preston?
Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for family hikes, with wildflowers blooming and longer daylight hours. Autumn brings beautiful foliage. While winter can be picturesque, some paths might be muddy or icy, so appropriate gear is essential.
What kind of views can we expect on these family hikes?
You can expect diverse and scenic views, including rolling hills, expansive meadows, and the meandering River Ribble. Some routes offer panoramic views across Ribblesdale, while others provide tranquil riverside rambles and glimpses of the ecologically significant Long Preston Flood Plain, a nationally important Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). For more information on the flood plain, visit visitsettle.co.uk.
Is parking available near the trailheads in Long Preston?
Long Preston, being a village, typically offers parking options, often in designated car parks or on-street where permitted. It's advisable to check local signage or specific route descriptions for the most convenient parking near your chosen trailhead.
Are there places to eat or drink near the trails?
Long Preston has local amenities, including pubs and cafes, where you can refresh yourselves after a hike. Many routes start and end near the village, making it convenient to find refreshments.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Long Preston?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from gentle riverside paths to dramatic geological formations, and the overall family-friendly nature of the trails.
Are any of the trails suitable for strollers or pushchairs?
While many trails are gentle, some paths may involve uneven terrain, stiles, or muddy sections, making them less suitable for conventional strollers. For easier access, look for routes described as 'accessible' or 'paved' if you require stroller-friendly options. Always check the route details and surface type before heading out.
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