Farndale Railway Gravel Track
Farndale Railway Gravel Track
Highlight • Viewpoint
Mountain biking
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(32)
Gravel riding
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The Farndale Railway Gravel Track offers a unique viewpoint and a journey through history in the heart of the North York Moors National Park, North Yorkshire, England. This historic path, situated at an elevation of 363 meters, follows the trackbed of the old Rosedale Iron Ore railway, providing expansive vistas across the rugged moorland and into the scenic valleys of Farndale and Westerdale. It stands as a testament to the region's industrial past, now transformed into a popular route for…
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November 9, 2022
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Elevation 360 m
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The Farndale Railway Gravel Track itself is a linear path, but it connects to several renowned long-distance trails. From Bloworth Crossing, you can extend your journey to Round Hill, the highest point in the North York Moors, or explore Stony Ridge for impressive panoramic views. It also forms part of Wainwright's Coast to Coast Walk, the Lyke Wake Walk, and the Esk Valley Walk, offering numerous possibilities for longer or circular routes by combining sections of these trails.
The track is primarily a well-maintained gravel path, making it generally easy-going and suitable for a wide range of visitors. For walkers and hikers, it's considered accessible. Cyclists, especially those with gravel bikes, will find the surface excellent. While the elevation is around 363 meters, the railway line largely follows the natural contours, avoiding steep gradients, though conditions can be exposed on the high moorland.
Beyond the sweeping views into Farndale and Westerdale, a significant landmark is Bloworth Crossing, where the old railway line connects with the Cleveland Way. This point offers a sense of the region's extensive trail network. The track itself is a historical feature, being the former Rosedale Iron Ore railway. In springtime, the valley below is famous for its abundant wild daffodils, creating a spectacular natural display.
A common starting point for walks and rides is where the railway crosses from Rosedale to Farndale, on Blakey Ridge, where parking is generally available. Due to its remote moorland location, public transport options directly to the track are very limited. Visitors typically arrive by car, and it's advisable to check local bus services for connections to nearby villages like Low Mill or Church Houses, though these would require a significant walk to reach the railway track.
Farndale is particularly famous for its wild daffodils, which typically flower around Easter time, usually from late March through April. This period attracts over 40,000 visitors to the area. While the railway track offers views into the valley, the main daffodil walk begins at Low Mill and extends towards High Mill, along the banks of the River Dove.
Yes, the Farndale Railway Gravel Track can be suitable for winter activities, offering a different, often starkly beautiful, experience of the moorland. However, as a high-level moorland route, it can be very exposed to the elements. Be prepared for cold temperatures, strong winds, and potentially snow or ice. Appropriate winter clothing, sturdy footwear, and checking weather forecasts are essential for a safe and enjoyable winter visit.
Yes, the relatively easy-going and well-maintained gravel surface makes it suitable for families. The lack of steep inclines and the wide path are ideal for children to walk or cycle. However, the length of the track means families should plan their route according to their children's stamina. The historical aspect and the expansive views can also be engaging for younger visitors.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the Farndale Railway Gravel Track. As it's within the North York Moors National Park and often crosses open moorland where livestock may be present, it is crucial to keep dogs on a lead, especially during lambing season (spring) and ground-nesting bird season (spring/summer). Always clean up after your dog.
While the track is a well-maintained gravel path, its remote location and the nature of a former railway line mean it may not be fully accessible for all types of wheelchairs. The surface is gravel, which can be challenging for standard wheelchairs, though robust all-terrain wheelchairs might manage. Access points and parking areas may also vary in accessibility. It's recommended to research specific sections or contact the North York Moors National Park for detailed accessibility information.
The track follows the route of the old Rosedale Iron Ore railway, constructed in the 1860s. It was a goods-only line built to transport ironstone from the remote Rosedale mines to Battersby Junction. Originally a narrow-gauge line in 1858, it was converted to standard gauge by 1861 and ceased operations entirely in 1929. The railway largely followed the natural contours of the hillsides, a testament to Victorian engineering.
The Farndale Railway Gravel Track is located in a remote part of the North York Moors. The hamlets of Low Mill and Church Houses in Farndale, further down the valley, offer limited options, particularly during the daffodil season. Low Mill has a pub, The Feversham Arms, and sometimes a tea room. For more extensive choices of cafes, pubs, and accommodation, you would need to venture to larger nearby towns such as Kirkbymoorside, Pickering, or Helmsley, which are about 11-17 miles away.