This church, in a lovely setting, is real old. It dates back to 1050, and some parts of it are as old as 850. It is a Grade 2 listed building, and very popular with visitors throughout the year. If you like small and historic churches, then this one should definitely not be missed.

RichD

November 14, 2025

Hiking

One of the oldest continuously used Christian sites in North Yorkshire, with carved stone fragments dating back to the 8th century—possibly even earlier than the church itself. The church likely stands on a site of Christian worship dating back to the 7th or 8th century, with Saxon carved stones built into its walls. The current structure dates to around 1050, making it pre-Conquest, though it was later modified in the 13th and 15th centuries. Embedded in the church walls are Scandinavian hogback grave covers and cross fragments, including one with a dragon whose eyes look backward.

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Best Hikes to St Hilda's Church, Ellerburn

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1. St Hilda's Church loop from Thornton-le-Dale — North York Moors National Park

4.70km

01:16

60m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

5.0

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2. Dalby Forest Visitor Centre – Thornton-le-Dale village loop from Thornton-le-Dale

14.3km

03:43

100m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

5.0

(4)

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3. Dalby Forest Visitor Centre – Thornton-le-Dale village loop from Lockton

17.2km

04:37

210m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Details

Informations

Elevation 50 m

Weather

Today

Saturday 24 January

7°C

4°C

27 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 26.0 km/h

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Location: Thornton-Le-Dale, Ryedale, North Yorkshire, Yorkshire And The Humber, England, United Kingdom

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St Hilda's Church, Ellerburn

1. St Hilda's Church loop from Thornton-le-Dale — North York Moors National Park

2. Dalby Forest Visitor Centre – Thornton-le-Dale village loop from Thornton-le-Dale

3. Dalby Forest Visitor Centre – Thornton-le-Dale village loop from Lockton

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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