Walks in the Yorkshire Dales

Walking in Wharfedale

Kilnsey Crag

If you’re looking to stretch your legs during your stay at Wharfe Camp, the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority offers a brilliant collection of 35 favourite walks, all available on their free GPS‑enabled walking app.

The app’s standout feature is its offline mapping, meaning you can follow your route even when the mobile signal disappears — which, in the Dales, is part of the charm.

You can download the Yorkshire Dales walking app for your smartphone, and you’ll also find a selection of short walks with route descriptions and maps on their website.

Below is a curated list of Wharfedale walks that our guests often enjoy, ranging from gentle riverside ambles to more challenging climbs. If you’re planning a linear walk, you may find it helpful to use the community-operated scheduled bus service, which runs between Buckden, Kettlewell, Grassington and Hebden six days a week.

Walks from Kettlewell

Kettlewell ↔ Starbotton Circular (4.5 miles)

A tough but rewarding route with a steep climb out of Kettlewell and a rocky descent into Starbotton. Expect big views and a proper Dales workout. Return following the Dales Way downstream along the River Wharfe to Kettlewell or via the elevated Paradise Walk (see below) on the opposite side of the valley.

Valley Walk: Kettlewell ↔ Starbotton (4.5 miles, easier option)

A gentler alternative starting in the village and following the Dales Way along the River Wharfe upstream to Starbotton, returning along the elevated Paradise Walk, with sweeping views over Wharfe Camp and the Upper Wharfedale valley. This walk features every June as part of the Wharfedale 3 Peaks Challenge Event, which is organised by the Upper Wharfedale Fell Rescue Association (UWFRA).

Kettlewell → Grassington Linear (7 miles)

A lovely stretch of the Dales Way. One moderate ascent, then easy walking with wide valley views all the way to Grassington.

Grassington area walks

Grassington Riverside Circular (1 mile)

A short, gentle loop with a few steeper sections. Ideal for a quick leg‑stretch or an evening stroll.

Grassington: A Walk Through the Meadows Circular (3.5 miles)

A moderate climb out of the village, with narrow stone stiles, steps, and riverside paths that can be muddy. Classic Dales scenery throughout.

Grass Wood Circular (4.5 miles)

A moderate walk with a significant climb into Grass Wood. Expect rough, rocky woodland paths and occasionally muddy riverside sections.

Grassington ↔ Hebden Circular (4 miles)

A moderate route with rough, muddy stretches and several stiles. The return from Hebden includes a long, steady climb to Edge Lane — or simply hop on the bus back to Grassington.

Bolton Abbey → Grassington Linear (9 miles)

A popular, easy riverside walk with level paths and minimal navigation. A great choice for a full day out.

Upper Wharfedale walks

Buckden ↔ Starbotton Circular (5 miles)

A scenic riverside circuit with rocky sections, gates, stiles, and some boggy ground after rain.

Buckden → Cray → Hubberholme Circular (4 miles)

A short but strenuous route with a steep, rocky climb out of Buckden. Riverside paths can be muddy, but the views and peaceful valleys make it worthwhile.

Plan Your Adventures

For a full guide to walks, events, attractions, and seasonal highlights across the National Park, download The Visitor 2026, produced by the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority.