Nidderdale Way

Summary

The Nidderdale Way is a circular long-distance footpath exploring the valley and uplands of the mid and upper Nidderdale areas. It is a well-established route that can be started and finished at any point along the way. While it can be joined anywhere, it is commonly described starting from the popular village of Hampsthwaite just north of Harrogate, heading west toward upper Nidderdale by following the River Nidd upstream — an ideal way to start the walk and warm up for the upland stages ahead.

From Hampsthwaite, the route passes through or close to Birstwith, Swarcliffe, Darley, Dacre Banks, and Summerbridge before leaving the river to climb toward High Shaw, Abraham Crags, and High Crags, offering panoramic views over Nidderdale from Yorke’s Folly. Next comes Bewerley, followed by mid-upland walking passing old lead mine workings at Providence and Ashford Side before heading down to cross over to the east side of Gouthwaite Reservoir. Leaving the reservoir near Ramsgill, the walk heads deep into upper Nidderdale via Stean Gorge and Middlesmoor to Scar House Reservoir, the furthest upstream point of the Nidd.

The route then heads downstream along the northern and eastern moors via The Edge to Lofthouse, continuing south along the valley paths by the east side of Gouthwaite Reservoir in the downstream direction of the River Nidd toward Pateley Bridge. Afterward, lower moor paths lead south of Brimham Rocks (where a detour to view the spectacular rock formations is highly recommended) before continuing the Nidderdale Way to Shaw Mills and Ripley, followed by a short walk back to Hampsthwaite to complete the stunning circuit.