Walks in Skipton
About Walks in Skipton
Skipton walks near the Gateway to the Dales range from canal towpaths to castle trails and the open fells of Airedale. This guide to walks near Skipton covers routes for all abilities at the southern edge of the Yorkshire Dales. [Source: Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority] Skipton is the 'Gateway to the Dales' and offers varied walking. Popular routes include the Leeds-Liverpool Canal towpath walk (various distances), the walk to Skipton Castle and Skipton Woods (2 miles), the climb up Sharphaw from Skipton (5 miles), and the Airedale walks along the River Aire. The Dales are easily accessible from Skipton for more challenging routes.
Best Walks in Walks in Skipton
Skipton is the 'Gateway to the Dales' and offers varied walking. Popular routes include the Leeds-Liverpool Canal towpath walk (various distances), the walk to Skipton Castle and Skipton Woods (2 miles), the climb up Sharphaw from Skipton (5 miles), and the Airedale walks along the River Aire. The Dales are easily accessible from Skipton for more challenging routes.
Location & Nearest Towns
Walks in Skipton is in Airedale, North Yorkshire, England. The nearest towns are Grassington, Ilkley, Keighley. Nearby places include Grassington, Ilkley, Keighley, Burnsall.
Interesting Facts
- Skipton is known as the 'Gateway to the Dales' and is one of the most complete medieval towns in England.
- Skipton Castle, built in 1090, is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in England and was the last royalist stronghold in the north during the English Civil War.
- The Leeds-Liverpool Canal, which runs through Skipton, is the longest canal in Britain at 127 miles, and the towpath offers level walking through the heart of the Dales.
Visitor Tips for Walks in Skipton
Spring to Autumn offers the best conditions for walking in Airedale.
Sturdy hiking boots, waterproofs, an OS Explorer map and compass, walking poles for steep descents, and water and snacks. For the Three Peaks, add a headtorch and extra warm layers.
Trailheads at Skipton and the Leeds-Liverpool Canal Car parks in Skipton town centre and at the canal basin. Free parking on surrounding lanes.
Dogs are welcome on most paths around Skipton but must be kept on a lead near livestock and on public roads.
Walking in Walks in Skipton
Walks in Skipton sits within Airedale and offers walks rated easy to moderate. The area falls under Yorkshire Dales National Park. Whether you're after a gentle riverside stroll or a challenging fell walk, Airedale delivers some of the best walks in the dales.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best walks near Skipton?
Popular walks include the Leeds and Liverpool Canal path, Skipton Castle Woods, and routes onto the Airedale fells. Popular walks include the canal towpath walk (various distances), the Skipton Castle and Woods walk (2 miles), the Sharphaw climb (5 miles), and the Airedale riverside walk (3 miles).
How difficult are walks near Skipton?
Walks near Skipton range from easy canal and woodland paths to moderate fell walks. Skipton offers walks for all abilities, from easy canal towpath strolls to moderate fell walks up Sharphaw and into the Dales.
When is the best time to walk near Skipton?
Spring to autumn offers the best conditions for canal, woodland and fell walks. Spring to autumn offers the best conditions. The canal towpath is accessible year-round. Winter fell walks require proper gear.
Why Visit Walks in Skipton?
Walks in Skipton is one of the finest areas for Yorkshire Dales walks in Airedale, North Yorkshire. Browse our complete guide to Yorkshire Dales walks to discover more routes to explore.
Nearby Yorkshire Dales Walks to Explore
Looking beyond Walks in Skipton? These nearby walks are worth exploring.