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Yorkshire And The Humber

North Yorkshire

Ryedale

Levisham

Hole of Horcum Bridleway

Yorkshire And The Humber

North Yorkshire

Ryedale

Levisham

Hole of Horcum Bridleway

Highlight • Natural Monument

Hole of Horcum Bridleway

Hiking

5.0

(128)

Mountain biking

5.0

(2)

This Highlight is in a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

North York Moors National Park

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Location: Levisham, Ryedale, North Yorkshire, Yorkshire And The Humber, England, United Kingdom

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Tips

Stuart Wilcock

February 4, 2022

Hiking

Can be a bit bleak across the moors on a cloudy day but when the sun is out it is glorious

51m

November 5, 2022

Hiking

The Hole of Horcum is a 120m deep, 1.2km wide natural amphitheatre sunk into the valley of Levisham Beck. Legend has it that it was created by a giant grabbing a handful of earth to throw at his wife. It’s actually created by spring sapping - erosion of the bedrock by underground water which then causes collapse. This repeated process causes the hole.

country-walks

July 29, 2021

Hiking

Fantastic views, well worth the walk.

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Nearby routes

Best routes near Hole of Horcum Bridleway

4.8

(41)

148

hikers

#1.

Hole of Horcum & Skelton Tower loop — North York Moors National Park

11.6km

03:14

220m

Embark on a moderate hike through the North York Moors National Park, covering 7.2 miles (11.6 km) with an elevation gain of 712 feet (217 metres). This loop typically takes around 3 hours and 14 minutes to complete, leading you through a diverse landscape of open moorland, woodlands, and fields. The highlight is the dramatic Hole of Horcum, a vast natural amphitheater that offers sweeping panoramic views. You will encounter well-maintained gravel paths alongside narrower tracks, providing a varied walking experience.

The trail features some steep descents and ascents, especially when entering and exiting the Hole of Horcum. Appropriate footwear is recommended, as sections can become boggy and slippery after rain. Be cautious in Dundale Griff, a small valley where surfaces can be slippery and falling rocks are possible. While generally accessible, sure-footedness is beneficial for navigating the varied terrain.

This route is notable for its unique geological formations and historical landmarks. The Hole of Horcum, a massive bowl approximately 400 feet deep and three-quarters of a mile across, was formed by a process called spring-sapping. You can also visit Skelton Tower, a remote ruin offering excellent vantage points, where you might spot steam trains on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. Levisham Moor, part of the route, is rich in archaeological interest with ancient earthworks and remains from the Bronze and Iron Ages.

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Moderate

5.0

(1)

hikers

#2.

Skelton Tower to the Hole of Horcum loop from Simon's Howe

26.4km

07:15

430m

Hike a difficult 16.4-mile loop from Simon's Howe, exploring Skelton Tower, the Hole of Horcum, and vast North York Moors views.

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Hard

4.8

(24)

386

hikers

#3.