Danby Castle Walk

A closed circular loop of 2.3 miles (3.6 km) total distance, starting and finishing at Danby Lodge National Park Centre. Allow about 1 hour at a steady pace, with roughly 68 m of ascent and the same descent, on a mapped profile between about 118 m and 179 m.

From the Danby Lodge car park you cross the road and take the field path over a footbridge, then cross the railway line and pick up the path toward Ainthorpe. Gates lead you along field edges before a gentle climb past the farm to Castle Lane and Danby Castle itself, sitting on its spur above the Esk Valley. You return to the junction, drop down by road to the narrow humpbacked Duck Bridge, which dates to 1396 and was rebuilt in the 18th century, then follow the road back to the centre.

Easy overall, and a good short family or history walk rather than a moor-top hike. The one bit that will get your attention is a short steep grassy slope of about 1:4 just after the railway crossing, and there are other steep grassy sections along the way. Easton Lane has a recurring 1:7 dip and rise. There are no stiles, but several kissing gates. Pick a reasonably dry day if you can, since the grass and the opening lane hold water.

Trains use the railway line, so take real care at the crossing. A short lane can flood in very wet weather. The return leg includes road walking, so keep an eye out for traffic, cyclists and other road users.

Danby Castle is privately owned and not open to the public. This is an exterior and viewing experience: you walk up to it, take in the setting above the valley, and carry on.

Start from the large paid car park at Danby Lodge National Park Centre, YO21 2NB, which has six Blue Badge bays. Public toilets and a cafe for refreshments are at the centre.

Dogs are welcome. Keep yours on a short lead where livestock is present, and stay alert on the road sections for traffic, cyclists and other users.