You don’t have to go walking on your own!
Don't fancy map reading? Or maybe you'd like to meet new people while enjoying the great outdoors (and some good food)? Or how about joining a local expert on a walk of discovery, reaching the parts that other miss? Be spooked on a ghost walk, or discover the dark secrets of the smugglers... from our fishing heritage to wildlife, you'll have an unforgettable experience on any of these walks.
Free National Park walks
A Breath of Fresh Air is our great annual programme of free guided walks, which runs from March until November. Led by our knowledgeable and dedicated band of National Park volunteers and specialists, let them show you their favourite parts of the North York Moors, looking at wildlife, local history and archaeology – with plenty of time to enjoy the wonderful views and changing seasons.
- Children are welcome on the walks if accompanied by an adult
- Dogs can come on some of the walks (check individual walk details first), but they must be on a short fixed lead at all times
- Some walks require a certain level of fitness – please check before booking
- Donations are welcome as they help us to care for the National Park.
Booking
It's essential to book in advance for our free guided walks. Book your place online.
Please note that stated finish times for all walks are for guidance only and although every endeavour is made to finish on time, occasionally external factors such as the weather can have an influence.
Numbers on each walk are restricted and many walks fill up quickly, so please book as early as possible. Please don't just turn up on the day as you will not be allowed to join the walk. For further information, call
Occasionally guided walks are cancelled because of poor weather or for other reasons. We make every effort to contact pre-booked walkers, but you should call us on
Walking experiences
Baytown Walks
Discover the smuggling heritage of Robin Hood's Bay, explore secret passages and hiding places, before rounding off with a taste of one of the local beers.
E: info@baytownwalks.com
Large Outdoors
A nationwide outdoor pursuits and social group, with its home here in the North York Moors. There's no joining fee, simply log on and book, either on your own or with friends. From walking weekends exploring Whitby and the coast, to luxury cottage trips into the heart of the moors, the emphasis is on fun and social rather than clocking up the miles. Meet new people, try something new, enjoy good food, all at a relaxed pace. Perfect for all abilities.
T:
E: hello@largeoutdoors.com
Walk Yorkshire
Whether it's route planning or an experienced trail guide you're looking for, former Royal Marine Mountain Leader, Kevin Borwell has over 30 years experience walking and exploring the trails within the National Park. The routes can be as gentle or as difficult as you wish and he can guide you on smaller less energetic days to longer high mileage events.
T:
E: Kev@walk-yorkshire.co.uk
Whitby Storyteller
Walking tours and wild walks around Whitby and beyond, inspired by the history and legends of the North York Moors, following monks' trods, smuggling routes and woodland trails. Regular Robin Hood's Bay ghost walks too - a board showing times can be found next to the Slipway outside the Old Coastguard Station on the days walks are being held.
T:
E: info@whitbystoryteller.co.uk
Whitby Walks
Discover fine houses, secret courtyards, historic alleys and ghauts with the Storywalker who, dressed in character costume, will tell you tales and answer your questions about local ghosts, Dracula and Whitby's heritage.
T:
E: whitbywalks@hotmail.com
Wild Country Walkabouts
Low impact, outdoor activities and wild walks in and around Rosedale Abbey, taking you to special places and uncovering Rosedale's fascinating ironstone history.
T:
E: am@wildcountrywalkabouts.co.uk
Yorkie Talkie Outdoors
Outdoor skills, such as navigation or paddle boarding, guided group walks, bespoke walks for private groups, corporate days and events, challenge events and much more.
T: 07581 057597
E: yorkietalkiesoutdoors@gmail.com
Yorkshire Coast Nature
Guided wildlife walks, nature tours and organised short breaks in the North York Moors, across its moorland, forests and coast; discover the secrets of the area's amazing natural history.
T:
Walking groups
Local Ramblers groups also run their own programmes of walks in Scarborough, Ryedale, Darlington, Cleveland and Northallerton. The North Yorkshire group of the Long Distance Walkers Association welcomes non-members to join them on their social walks.
The North York Moors Meetup Walking Group has more than 300 members and organises a wide range of walks throughout the year while a newer group North York Moors & Coast Walking and Stuff will warmly welcome you.
The Loftus ACCORD Walking Group organises free guided walks, weekly health walks and organises walks during Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council's various walking festivals in and around the north east of the National Park, with a particular emphasis on history and heritage.
The Stockton Rambling Club is one of the most active groups in the area. Providing coach pick up points at various locations across Teesside, they walk regularly around the North York Moors and cover different levels of guided walk. Find out more about their membership.
If you’re looking for someone to carry your bags while you tackle a long-distance trail, or want to book a self-guided walking holiday or longer walking break, take a look at these baggage carriers and walking holiday operators.