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York Group

We are the York Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.

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Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking
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Overview

This circular walk starts from Pateley Bridge along the banks of the River Nidd passing Harwell Hall then up to Smelthouses and on to amazing rock formations at Brimham Rocks, a National Trust site.  We return to Pateley Bridge along the Nidderdale Way enjoying panoramic views across Nidderdale (weather permitting).  Interested? Then why not join me on my first walk as leader?

Wednesday, 23 July 2025
Start time:
10:00 am
Estimated finish time:
3:30 pm
Difficulty:
Moderate
Distance:
15.8km / 9.8mi
Ascent:
440.4m / 1445ft
Type:
circular
  • Distance to travel from the centre of York – 32.7 miles (1hr 5mins) via Knaresborough on A59 & B6165 (per AA Route Planner).
  • Car sharing by private arrangement is encouraged.
  • Registered assistance dogs only with the prior consent of the Walk Leader as some fields are likely to contain livestock.
  • Parking – Nidd Walk long stay car park (£1.90 CASH ONLY)
  • Public Toilets – Nidd Walk short stay car park, Pateley Bridge and at Brimham Rocks Visitor Centre (both free).
  • Terrain – footpaths, bridleway and short sections on usually quiet minor roads. Note: some muddy sections in parts of the walk are possible following wet weather.
  • Stiles – given the location of the walk a few stiles are to be expected.
  • Walk distance and ascent as per OS Maps
  • Refreshments –
  • during the walk (if needed): at Brimham Rocks Visitor Centre.
  • post walk: you are welcome to join us in Wildings Riverside Café, Pateley Bridge.

Features

  • Refreshments available (Pub/cafe)
  • Toilets available
  • Car parking available

Starting point

Grid reference:
SE 15948 65405
Nearest postcode:
HG3 5NN
what3words:
wool.former.detergent
Start time:
10:00 am

Meeting Point - Nidd Walk long stay car park Pateley Bridge

Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking