On foot, under your own steam, out on the trail... is there any better way to experience the North York Moors than heading out for a walk? We don't think so.
Did you know, the month of May is National Walking Month? We’re excited to celebrate this month and encourage you to get out in nature and get walking or wheeling!
There’s something to get involved with all year round across the National Park.
Whether you join us for a guided walk with one of our volunteers, or you use our downloadable walks to get out in your own time, there’s always a good time to explore the North York Moors like never before.
And in May, we have some special events to celebrate National Walking Month.
Walking is one of the easiest ways to improve your physical health, whilst also helping you connect with your community, de-stress and reconnect with the nature around you. We know it is not always easy to find the motivation to get up and get out, however we’re here to inspire you.
You never know, you may find your new favourite hobby...
During May, we have several fantastic free guided walks that you can join. Our guided walks are hosted by North York Moors volunteers who know the National Park like the back of their hands, so there’s no need to worry about taking a wrong turn. These walking groups give you the opportunity to connect with other like-minded people and learn more about the National Park around you. Exploring Swainby’s beautiful bluebells, find the elusive cuckoo or Rachel Whiteread’s Nissen Hut sculpture, we hope there’s a little adventure here that you will enjoy during National Walking Month.
Are you hoping to conquer a bigger goal during National Walking Month? Our Walk-Fest begins on 25 May and gives you the opportunity to walk the whole of the Cleveland Way National Trail over the course of seven weeks with a guide. This 109-mile trail ventures from Helmsley to Filey, passing many iconic sites of the National Park on route, including the fascinating ruins of Rievaulx Abbey, Gormire Lake and Captain Cook’s Monument. If there’s only one section of the route you would like to explore, don’t worry! This event is split into manageable sections, meaning you can book onto whichever lengths take your fancy.
As well as our walking events, we have our Miles without Stiles walking routes that are for everyone. As well as being without stiles, these are accessible routes suitable for people with limited mobility. This includes wheelchair users, families with pushchairs, visually impaired and anyone who wants an easier walk with no steep hills.
Our fantastic series of downloadable walks have been created with you in mind and cover every corner of the National Park. Spring daffs in Farndale, the legendary Hole of Horcum, romantic Rievaulx or beach-combing at Hayburn Wyke – where do you want to explore this National Walking Month? Beyond the National Park, venture into the neighbouring Howardian Hills National Landscape and explore our recommendation for May to explore Pretty Wood at Castle Howard and East Moor Banks, where carpets of bluebells cover the floor of ancient woodland, creating a dreamy blue haze. Both can be enjoyed on a circular walk from Welburn.
Get out and do something a little different this May to celebrate National Walking Month in the North York Moors. We hope we can uplift you and give you the motivation to walk with us, we know you will feel reconnected and refreshed afterwards.
Don’t forget to tag us in your posts and let us know how you will be celebrating this month!