Hole of Horcum walking trail
Circular Walk at the Hole of Horcum – Scenic Trails in North York Moors
Explore the stunning Hole of Horcum on this circular walking trail in the North York Moors. Enjoy breathtaking views, rolling hills, and unique geology on a walk perfect for all levels. Discover nature, wildlife, and the beauty of Yorkshire’s countryside.
Hole of Horcum 5-7 Trails
Circular Walk at the Hole of Horcum – Scenic Trails in North York Moors
The Hole of Horcum is a large natural amphitheater located in the North York Moors National Park, England. It is about 400 feet deep and roughly half a mile wide, making it one of the most striking features of the moorland landscape. The hollow was formed over thousands of years through a combination of natural erosion and land subsidence, often attributed to a process known as “spring sapping.”
About the Hole of Horcum
The Hole of Horcum is a spectacular natural amphitheater nestled in the heart of the North York Moors National Park. Formed by the gradual erosion of the surrounding limestone and sandstone over thousands of years, this vast hollow spans nearly a mile across and is surrounded by rolling moorland and heather-clad hills. The unique landscape creates dramatic, sweeping views that are particularly striking at sunrise and sunset, making it a popular destination for walkers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts alike. The area is also steeped in local folklore, with tales of ancient giants said to have scooped out the hollow with their hands, adding an enchanting layer of cultural history to the stunning scenery.
The Hole of Horcum offers a range of walking routes, from gentle circular paths suitable for families to longer trails for more experienced hikers. Along the way, visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding moors, spot a variety of wildlife, and explore the diverse flora that thrives in this unique geological setting. Seasonal changes transform the landscape, from the vibrant purples of summer heather to the golden hues of autumn grasses, ensuring that each visit provides a fresh and memorable experience. With its combination of natural beauty, geological intrigue, and accessible walking paths, the Hole of Horcum is a must-visit highlight of the North York Moors.
1. Start at Saltergate Car Park
From the car park, carefully cross the road (A169) to the other side and find the narrow path that follows the perimeter of the Hole of Horcum. On the path, follow the trail right until you reach a split near the ‘Devil’s Elbow’.
2. Descend Downhill into the Hole of Horcum
You will notice the path heads downhill into the ‘punchbowl’ of the Hole of Horcum through a kissing gate. Please take care along this route as the gravel path can be slightly slippery. Keep following the trail through the Hole of Horcum.
3. Head Through the Farmers Gate or Over the Stile
As you continue along the path, you will eventually reach a farmers gate with a stile on the left hand side of it. Either use the stile or go through the gate. Don’t forget to close the gate afterwards.
4. Make Your Way to Low Horcum Farm
Keep following the trail until you reach Low Horcum Farm that is now a wildlife habitat. Please be careful not to disturb the wildlife dwelling here. If you have a dog with you, please ensure that he or she is on a short lead. At Low Horcum Farm, keep following the trail across a grassy heath.
5. Make Your Way through the Valley
The trail takes you through a grassy valley, loved by sheep! Keep following the course of the valley with Levisham Beck on your right hand side. As you head deeper into the valley you will see a track that goes up hill towards a farmers gate. Ignore this route, but instead keep following the course of the valley until you reach a smaller kissing gate.
6. Follow the Boarded Walkway.
As you pass through the small gate, you will reach a boarded walkway that is treelined. A dry stone wall will be on your right as you head further along. You will also notice Levisham Beck on the right hand side of you. Keep following this trail until you reach a small footbridge.
7. Cross the Footbridge
When you reach the footbridge, cross over it and make your way to a signpost for Dundale Pond. This will take you over a very narrow watercourse on some stepping stones. The stepping stones are very easy.
8. At the Signpost
When you reach the signpost, you will see a direction for Dundale Pond upon it. Follow the path up hill to Dundale Pond. The way is quite woody with a ravine on your right hand side and hills on your left. Follow this all the way along until you reach another signpost at Dundale Pond.
9. Follow the Trail to Saltergate
When you reach Dundale Pond and the signpost, follow the directions for Saltergate (a right turn). Turning left takes you to Levisham Station and going straight on takes you to Skelton Tower. The trail to Saltergate takes you via open moorland with an Iron Age Dike on the left and eventually the Hole of Horcum on your right.
10. Go Through the Gate
When you reach the Devil’s Elbow on the A169, go through the gate and follow the same path around to the car park where we began the walk. Please take good care crossing the road once again as the A169 can be extremely busy with fast flowing traffic.
Useful Links
🗺️ Walking Routes & Maps
AllTrails – Hole of Horcum Short Circular
A shorter 5.3-mile route option with a moderate difficulty level, suitable for those seeking a quicker walk.
She Walks in England – Hole of Horcum Circular Walk
A comprehensive guide detailing a 7-mile circular walk starting from Saltergate Car Park, including options to shorten the route. She walks in England
Local Walks – Hole of Horcum Circular Walk
Offers a 10 km route with scenic views over Levisham Moor and the Hole of Horcum, ideal for walkers seeking a moderate challenge. Local Walks
Think Adventure – Hole of Horcum Circular Walk
Provides a downloadable GPX file for the 7-mile walk, along with elevation profiles and route details. Think Adventure
AllTrails – Hole of Horcum Circular
Features user reviews, photos, and a map for the 7-mile circular hike, including difficulty ratings and estimated completion time. AllTrails.com
🧭 Visitor Information & Local Insights
- The Whitby Guide – Hole of Horcum
Offers historical context and folklore surrounding the Hole of Horcum, along with practical visiting information. The Whitby Guide - Visit North Yorkshire – Levisham Moor and Hole of Horcum Walk
Provides details on the area’s natural features and legends, enhancing the cultural experience of the walk. Visit North Yorkshire - Tripadvisor – The Hole of Horcum
Features visitor reviews and photos, offering personal experiences and tips for planning your visit. Tripadvisor - Cool Places – Hole of Horcum, Lockton
Describes the geological significance and myths associated with the Hole of Horcum, adding depth to your visit. Cool Places
🚗 Parking & Amenities
The Walking Diary – Hole of Horcum & Levisham Circular Walk
Shares a personal account of the walk, including parking tips and insights into the surrounding landscape. The Walking Diary
Yorkshire.com – The Hole of Horcum Circular Walk
Details the starting point at Saltergate Car Park, including parking information and route highlights. Welcome to Yorkshire
