A route shows where we walked. It can’t tell you whether a bridge is open today, how high the river is or how much daylight you have left. Here’s how we suggest planning your day.
Before you set off
Read the distance, ascent where given, terrain and parking notes. Choose a route that suits everyone’s fitness and mobility, including the return leg. Check the forecast, sunset and any notices from the land manager. Tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to be back.
Wear footwear with grip and take water, food, warm layers and a waterproof. Allow time for breaks and muddy ground. Take a charged phone and power bank; cold weather can shorten battery life.
Save the route while you have signal
Open the guide’s Mapy.com link, save the route and download the map covering the whole walk. Test both in aeroplane mode with Wi-Fi off, then turn aeroplane mode off. For another compatible app, import the GPX and download its background map too. Carry a suitable paper OS Explorer map and compass and know how to use them.
Parking and road crossings
Use the parking pin in the individual guide. Leave gates, driveways and emergency access clear. If there is no safe legal space, use a suitable alternative or choose another walk.
Hackfall Woods: The small car park is close to a bend. Traffic can approach quickly. Never park on or near the bend; take care crossing. If you start in Grewelthorpe instead, follow local restrictions and check how that changes your route. Pub parking is not automatically available.
Lindley Wood Reservoir: Search for “Lindley Wood Reservoir Bridge”. The postcode can take you elsewhere. Layby spaces on either side of the bridge are limited. Keep the gated turning area clear.
Dogs, wildlife and shared paths
Keep dogs under close control and on a lead near livestock. In Studley Royal Deer Park, keep your dog on a lead and give deer plenty of room. Never approach animals for a photo. If cattle threaten you, let go of the dog’s lead so you can both get away. Pick up dog waste and take it to a bin.
Stay on permitted paths, follow closures and leave gates as you found them unless a sign says otherwise. At Stainburn Forest, watch for cyclists at crossings and keep off dedicated mountain bike trails. See the Countryside Code.
Water, steep ground and changes on the day
Wet roots, stone steps and bridges can be slippery. Keep back from riverbanks, reservoir edges and steep drops, especially with children or dogs. Don’t cross floodwater or go around a closure. If the safe route is unclear, turn back.
If something goes wrong
If someone is in immediate danger, call 999 or 112. Give the location as precisely as you can, including the nearest named landmark or OS grid reference if known. Our contact form is not monitored for emergencies.
For a blocked path, missing sign or incorrect parking pin, Contact Andrew and Jo with the walk name, location and date. Report hazards to the land manager or local rights of way team as well.