The Best Spring Walks in Yorkshire

The best place to see spring awaken in Yorkshire is in the countryside, with the first bluebells, butterflies and trees turning green just a few of the things you can enjoy in the balmy spring weather. Our boutique hotels in York and Harrogate with full serviced apartments make for the ideal base for a short break that includes a day out rambling the gorgeous Yorkshire landscape!

Springtime is Yorkshire at its best, so read on to see where the best places are for a spring walk with your loved ones:

Fountains Abbey

The walk around the boundary of Fountains Abbey takes you through the 18th century water garden, near the deer park, and offers up stunning views of the Abbey itself. A moderate walk, it should take around two and a half hours over the 5-mile route. It is a dog-friendly, circular walk so there is no need to double back on yourself! Be sure to stop off at the Abbey and snap a few pics of the ruined monastery!

Harewood House

Harewood House, south of Harrogate, is an 18th-century house that sits perfectly in its Yorkshire surroundings. Spring is a great time to visit as it is when the grounds are at their best. The five-mile circular walk around the house takes you through the Bluebell Wood, underneath fragrant cherry blossoms, and you can even see newborn lambs on Cote Hill. You might want to stop off at the Bird Garden too, which has exotic species like penguins, flamingos and parrots.

Middleton Woods

If you are in search of bluebells on a spring walk, Middleton Woods is the place to go. The famous bluebell woods spread along the north side of Wharfedale from Ilkley and span a total of 100 acres. The purple-blue flowers can be enjoyed as you walk along the winding network of paths under oak and sycamore trees. The distance is 4 miles, taking around two hours – not a bad way to spend your afternoon!

Leathley

The postcard-perfect village of Leathley brings to mind that traditional Yorkshire life. Nestled between Otley and Pool-in-Wharfedale, the route is perfect for walkers; gorgeous views, bridleways woods, streams and picturesque villages. A moderate walk of approximately 6 miles in length, it should take around three hours, circling from Leathley, through Stainburn and Braythorn.

Millington Dale

Millington Dale, just off the B1246 near Pocklington, is a delightful walk in spring, with the wildflowers and butterflies. A chalk downland means the area is a haven for wildlife and in spring, there is an explosion of butterflies – orange-tips, comma and common blues to name a few. The best route starts from the Gait Inn, following the Yorkshire Wolds Way to Sylvan Dale. The route is around 6 miles.

Skipworth Common

Skipworth Common is one of the best walking areas in the Vale of York. The 700 acres of heather, woods, scrubland and ponds have remained relatively untouched for hundreds of years, making a truly special place. In spring there is a good chance of seeing aerial displays of the 80 different species of birds that breed in the area – woodlarks, grasshopper warblers and tree pipits are just a few to look out for. The walk is marked out with signposts, and the 5-mile route averages out at two hours.

If you want to have a mini-break in Yorkshire, look no further than our luxury aparthotels. You can book online or call us to find out more about the accommodation.