The Tabular Hills Walk is a scenic long-distance footpath in North Yorkshire, England, stretching approximately 48 miles from Scalby to Helmsley. This route traverses the picturesque landscapes of the North York Moors National Park, offering walkers a mix of hills, ancient woodlands, and historic villages.
The trail is named after the distinctive tabular, or flat-topped, hills that characterize the region. Along the way, hikers can enjoy breath-taking views, diverse wildlife, and historic sites, making it a popular choice for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage in their walking adventures.
Table of Contents
The Route
GPX Route Map
Download file for GPSWalk Description
The Tabular Hills Walk is a captivating journey through the North York Moors National Park, offering diverse landscapes and stunning views. Here’s a detailed description of the route:
Scarborough to Hackness
Starting from the coastal town of Scarborough, the route heads inland, passing through wooded valleys and scenic countryside.
Walkers will traverse Raincliffe Woods and Forge Valley, a National Nature Reserve known for its rich flora and fauna.
Hackness to Thornton-le-Dale
The path continues through the picturesque village of Hackness, with its charming stone buildings and historic church.
It then crosses the undulating landscape towards Thornton-le-Dale, a quintessential English village featuring thatched cottages, a beck, and the famous chocolate-box scene of Beck Isle Cottage.
Thornton-le-Dale to Levisham
From Thornton-le-Dale, the trail moves through Dalby Forest, offering tranquil forest paths. Exiting the forest, the route reaches Levisham, a quaint village with a traditional pub and access to the dramatic landscapes of Levisham Moor.
Levisham to Cropton
The walk continues across Levisham Moor, providing expansive views over the surrounding moorlands and valleys. Following paths through open countryside and small woodlands, hikers arrive at Cropton, known for its brewery and welcoming pub.
Cropton to Hutton-le-Hole
Leaving Cropton, the route meanders through fields and woodlands, passing by the serene village of Lastingham with its historic church and crypt. The next destination is Hutton-le-Hole, a picturesque village with a stream running through its centre.
Hutton-le-Hole to Helmsley
The final leg of the journey takes walkers across the open moorland and through charming villages such as Gillamoor and Fadmoor. The walk concludes in Helmsley, a vibrant market town with a medieval castle, beautiful walled garden, and a variety of shops and eateries.
Where to eat
Throughout the Tabular Hills Walk, hikers are treated to a feast of natural beauty, and, after 48 miles, you’d be forgiven for wanting a heart meal to finish up. These venues in Helmsley are great for dinner and a bed: The Black Swan, The Feversham Arms, The Royal Oak Hotel, The Feathers Hotel.
