Must try walks in Thirsk & the surrounding areas


Staying with us at The Carpenters Arms, is a walker’s paradise. With the local market town of Thirsk and the surrounding areas offer an abundance of walks, all displaying the areas vast natural beauty. From hikers, and nature lovers to those who are simply wanting to enjoy the fresh air, there is something for you in this short guide of top five best walks near Thirsk. Pack your bags, grab your boots and begin the exploration of this breathtaking area – the ultimate North Yorkshire walking holiday.

Felixkirk to Boltby

Starting as local as it gets, this walk commences at the The Carpenters Arms and takes you from the village of Felixkirk to the neighbouring village of Boltby, a great introduction to the exquisite landscape. Heading down Boltby Road, you’ll pass over a stile and venture through fields, before staying below the trees which run along the hilltop. Your objective will be another stile, which gives you access back onto Boltby round, creating a circular walk back to Felixkirk. This 4-mile walk will work up an appetite, bringing you back to The Carpenters Arms, the perfect destination to grab a bite to eat.

Kilburn Woods and White Horse

For a more challenging walk, immerse yourself in the steep valley slopes of Kilburn Woods. Commencing from Sutton Bank North York Moors visitor centre, this journey follows the path alongside edge of Roulston Scar, allowing for you to see the beauty of the Vales of York and Mowbray. After descending into Kilburn Woods, you will emerge alongside the White Horse, a picturesque area where you are surrounded by scenic views and sound of nature. With several flights of steps, this walk is the perfect mixture of challenge and reward.

Thirsk Sowerby Stroll

Combining the paved streets of Thirsk with greener terrains, this walk takes you alongside Cod Beck and through farmlands. Following a number of interest points such as Thirsk Museum and The World of James Herriot, this pleasing town loop allows you to see all areas of this quirky market town.

Boltby and High Paradise Circular

Paradise by name, paradise by nature, this walk ingulfs you in both charming farmland and woodland, taking you from Boltby to High Paradise through Paradise Wood and bringing you back round to the start by the way of Lunshaw Beck. With chance to spot wildlife in the trees and along the river throughout this walk this is a go to walk for all nature enthusiasts.  

Sutton Bank – Boltby circular

Providing awe-inspiring views, this trail takes you through woods and farmland on the way to Boltby before venturing though pastures while following Gurtof Beck. Continuing to Gormire Lake before returning to the trailhead, you’ll discover picture perfect views of the lake nestled between the trees of Carbutt Wood. The second half of the trail takes you along the water’s edge, a route with a combination of peace and tranquillity.