The Best Walks Around Middleham: Scenic Walks Through The Yorkshire Dales

 

 

Ask anyone who loves a good ramble where to find the best walks around Middleham and they’ll point you to the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. From gentle riverside strolls to more ambitious hikes across rolling moors, this corner of North Yorkshire rewards wanderers with history, scenery and that unmistakable Dales welcome. Here at The Wensleydale Hotel, we make it easy to explore everything on two feet – muddy boots and all. Below you’ll find our insider’s pick of Yorkshire Dales walks, local pubs, and spots for refuelling, and a few practical tips to help both visitors and local folk get the most from this grand landscape.

 

Table of Contents

• Middleham: An ideal base for exploring the Yorkshire Dales
• Walk 1: The Middleham Castle and the Gallops loop
• Walk 2: To The Forbidden Corner by footpath or lane
• Walk 3: Riverside path to Cover Bridge Inn and East Witton
• Walk 4: Wensleydale wander to Leyburn and back
• Walk 5: Circular route via Eastfield Glamping Farm
• Eating and drinking at The Wensleydale Hotel and The Tack Room Restaurant & Bar
• Dog-friendly walks and services
• Practical advice for walkers: Getting the most from your trip
• A trusted Yorkshire Dales Hotel with local knowledge
• Frequently asked questions

 

Middleham: An ideal base for exploring the Yorkshire Dales

Middleham sits at a crossroads of Dales adventure, making it a smart base for both leisure and business travellers. The imposing outline of Middleham Castle, once the childhood home of Richard III, signals the start of several iconic walks. Stay with us at The Wensleydale Hotel to roll out of bed and straight onto the trail, whether that’s a pre-breakfast stroll or a day-long expedition.

Our village sits at the meeting point of Wensleydale and Coverdale. You’ll find classic Yorkshire Dales walks right on your doorstep, with handy amenities and friendly faces in every direction. For business travellers, there’s fast Wi-Fi, comfortable spots for early meetings, and easy onward connections – rewarding you with fresh air and exceptional scenery after a full schedule.

 

Walk 1: The Middleham Castle and the Gallops loop

Set out from the market place with the dramatic towers of Middleham Castle just ahead. This walk gives a flavour of Yorkshire Dales history and the village’s famed racing roots. Pass the castle walls and follow the gently rising Green Lane toward the racing Gallops, where you’ll often spot thoroughbreds warming up against the skyline.

Looping round, the path offers sweeping views across the Dales. The route is dog-friendly, suitable for most fitness levels, and allows for flexible options – turn it into a short two-mile circuit or explore onward to Coverdale’s quieter meadows.

Afterwards, do what the locals do and pause at the Castle Keep Tea Rooms for a slice of homemade cake and a restorative cup of Yorkshire tea. Sit outside if the sun’s shining and give your walking companion a treat from the well-stocked dog bowl.

Find out more about Middleham Castle here

Find out more about Castle Keep Tea Rooms here

 

Walk 2: To The Forbidden Corner by footpath or lane

The walk from Middleham to The Forbidden Corner is a favourite for families, dog walkers, and anyone craving something a little different. Pick up the old bridleway at the edge of the village, winding your way between stone walls and sheep-dotted fields. The route slips through wildflower meadows and woodland, opening up unexpected glimpses of the Dales.

The Forbidden Corner itself is full of maze-like gardens, hidden tunnels, and quirky sculptures – making it an imaginative reward for energetic kids or those who enjoy a touch of mystery. Plan ahead in busier seasons, as tickets book up quickly.

Bring a picnic or reward yourself after your visit with a pint back in Middleham at one of the pubs or at The Tack Room Restaurant & Bar at our own The Wensleydale Hotel. All the walks around Middleham in this direction are suitable for dogs, though you’ll need to keep leads ready in lambing or horse training season.

Find out more about The Forbidden Corner here

 

 

Walk 3: Riverside path to Cover Bridge Inn and East Witton

If you prefer your Yorkshire Dales walks with a side of riverside scenery, the path from Middleham to Cover Bridge Inn and East Witton is a top choice. Follow the gently undulating trail down to the River Cover, watching for herons and, in spring, playful lambs balancing on limestone outcrops.

Cover Bridge Inn provides a classic Dales welcome, with stone-flagged floors, an open fire, and proper pub meals. It’s the perfect midpoint for a lunch of local fare. You can press on to East Witton itself, a neat green-ringed village with award-winning The Blue Lion or double back for a leisurely round walk.

Both pubs along the way serve decent coffee and wholesome lunches. Keep in mind riverside trails may get muddy in wetter weather – bring waterproof boots and a towel for four-legged friends.

Find out more about Cover Bridge Inn here

Find out more about The Blue Lion here

 

Walk 4: Wensleydale wander to Leyburn and back

For a longer adventure, the gentle incline from Middleham to Leyburn takes you right to the heart of upper Wensleydale. Wander across wildflower pastures, through the edge of Middleham High Moor, and into market town life in Leyburn with its Saturday market and ever-popular chocolate shop.

Pick up postcard views of Penhill and, if you’re lucky, a display from local red kites overhead. Stop for coffee or lunch in Leyburn, then circle back via the quieter fields above Harmby, arriving back in Middleham to toast your effort at The Wensleydale Hotel – ideally with a pint on our sunny front terrace.

 

Walk 5: Circular route via Eastfield Glamping Farm

If you’re after an off-the-beaten-track Yorkshire Dales walk with a touch of local innovation, set your sights on Eastfield Glamping Farm. Their well-maintained footpaths are easy to join from the castle’s edge, taking in rolling hills, a gentle river, and whimsical views you’d miss on the main trails.

A longer circular walk lets you pass Eastfield’s quirky shepherd huts, where you can stop for a coffee or even book a night under the stars. Families and solo walkers alike will enjoy the accessible terrain, with plenty of quiet corners for a picnic lunch.

Find out more about Eastfield Glamping Farm here

 

Eating and drinking at The Wensleydale Hotel and The Tack Room Restaurant & Bar

Nothing marks the end of a Dales walk like a meal at The Wensleydale Hotel, cooked with care and served with proper hospitality. The Tack Room Restaurant & Bar (open to all) draws on the area’s racing tradition, with dishes designed for recovery – think slow-cooked lamb, pies, and crisp Yorkshire puddings.

Our kitchen loves to champion local ingredients, whether it’s Wensleydale cheese or fresh Dales greens. Gather in the bar for regional gins, locally brewed ales, or simply a soft drink and a snack. For business travellers, we offer speedy lunches and quiet spots for informal meetings, all with the inviting backdrop of the Yorkshire countryside.

Those staying overnight benefit from generous breakfasts, dog-friendly rooms, and a relaxed atmosphere that encourages both productivity and a genuine break from routine.

 

Dog-friendly walks and services

If you’re searching for dog-friendly walks Yorkshire is your answer, especially around Middleham and the Yorkshire Dales. Most paths around the village and beyond are suited to dogs, with clear signposting, pet-friendly cafes, and welcoming pubs.

Pick up one of our walker’s maps at The Wensleydale Hotel‘s reception for guidance on livestock fields and lead etiquette. We provide towels for muddy paws, water bowls, and even the odd treat for four-legged companions. If you’re heading to venues like Castle Keep Tea Rooms or the riverside pubs, expect a proper welcome for your canine friend.

Find out more about Castle Keep Tea Rooms here

 

Practical advice for walkers: Getting the most from your trip

• Maps and equipment: Ask our reception for local route maps and walking advice. While mobile signal is reasonable, the Dales are best explored with a backup paper map, which we’re happy to lend.
• Weather and clothing: Dales weather changes quickly. Bring a waterproof jacket, sturdy shoes, and layers. Light gloves and a hat are sensible for early starts or autumn days.
• Public transport: Middleham is served by bus connections to Leyburn, Bedale, and Richmond. These make it easy to tackle longer routes and return by bus.
• Facilities: Most pubs and tea rooms are open daily, but check ahead over holidays or in winter. Many offer takeaway snacks or packed lunches.
• Business travellers: If you’ve come for meetings, we offer flexible workspace, meeting facilities, and a peaceful environment for working remotely – or simply unwinding on a walk before or after.
• Accessibility: Many walks around Middleham offer level ground and gates instead of stiles, though fields may be muddy or rough after rain. Talk to us about the best routes for your needs.

 

 

A trusted Yorkshire Dales Hotel with local knowledge

As a Yorkshire Dales Hotel proud of its roots, The Wensleydale Hotel is always happy to guide guests toward walks around Middleham that match their plans, from business visits to family holidays and everything in between. Dogs, families, and solo adventurers all receive a warm welcome – and locals are just as much a part of our story as international guests.

If you’re after a restorative escape or a new take on remote working, we offer special rates for business bookings and can help with travel logistics to and from Leeds, York, and Darlington. Just ask for tailored recommendations, group packages, or help booking local attractions.

Ready to plan your next Dales walk? Book direct with The Wensleydale Hotel for advice, the best available rates, and a hand-written guide to our favourite local routes – straight from the people who live and walk here, every day.

 

Frequently asked questions