Church of St Andrew and Mowbray Castle loop from Azerley — Nidderdale

Embark on the Church of St Andrew and Mowbray Castle loop from Azerley, a moderate hike through the picturesque Nidderdale AONB. This 7.2-mile (11.7 km) route, with an elevation gain of 346 feet (105 metres), typically takes around 3 hours and 4 minutes to complete. You'll traverse well-defined footpaths and tracks through open fields and ancient woodlands, offering views of rolling hills and serene waterways, including the River Ure. A significant portion of the trail winds through Hackfall Wood, an 18th-century landscape garden where winding paths reveal romantic follies and dramatic viewpoints. Be prepared for some steeper sections and potentially muddy paths, especially within Hackfall Wood, where you'll encounter numerous stiles and steps. The terrain can become rougher in places, featuring craggy woodland flight steps.

For this moderate hike, sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes with good treads are recommended for comfort and stability, particularly given the varied nature of the paths and potential for mud after rain. While much of the route uses well-defined footpaths and bridleways, some sections utilize quiet country roads. Exercise caution on short stretches that use faster roads where there isn't much verge for pedestrians. The numerous stiles and steps, especially within Hackfall Wood, require a good level of fitness.

This loop is notable for its journey through Hackfall Wood, a Grade I listed Historic Garden and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Within the wood, you'll discover Mowbray Castle, not a true medieval fortress, but an 18th-century mock ruin or folly designed as an eye-catcher to enhance the picturesque landscape. The wood itself was meticulously landscaped by William Aislabie to create a