Has any one else set themselves an aim for lockdown 2? Mine is to reintroduce the daily walk. In the first lockdown, when we were only allowed out once a day, we went out for a walk every day. But as restrictions got lifted and we were allowed out more, we somehow went out less – well certainly on walks anyway.
You don’t have to go far to experience the beautiful Yorkshire countryside, and we all love an autumnal walk. So get your coat, scarf and wellies on and lets go!
Official guidance states to stay at home where possible, but you can exercise or visit outdoor public places with:
Play parks are to remain open, and locally RHS Harlow Carr, Fountains Abbey and Ripley Castle grounds are still all open.
Here are some of our favourite local walks:
The Great Yorkshire Showground
We love it here. Great for all the family, perfect for buggies and dogs. My favourite part of this walk is you can start from either Indulge or Fodder. There is plenty of parking and both Indulge and Fodder are remaining open for take aways, so great coffee too! Nothing too strenuous here so great for toddlers like mine whose little legs can only take them so far!
Knaresborough Riverside and Castle Grounds
A trip to Knaresborough really makes me feel like I’m on holiday for some reason. We love walking through the Castle Grounds, down towards the Riverside. This is great for kids, but if you’ve got a buggy maybe choose another walk, there are a lot of steep steps. Beautiful views and you get in some good exercise going up and down those stairs! Especially if you’re chasing a toddler!
The Stray
Right on the doorstep. Such a beautiful and vast amount of green space right on our doorstep. Grab yourself a take away coffee from Weetons or No 43 Brew Bar and off you go. We love trying to spot rabbits by the railway bridges!
Swinsty/ Fewston Resrvoir
These reservoirs are amazing. Just on our doorstep too. Great circular walks ideal for prams, little ones and animals. In fact, ideal for bikes and scooters too. Plenty of parking and you also get to do a bit of celeb spotting too – famous residents include a waistcoat wearing football manager! The ice cream van is in the car park at Swinsty for that much needed cuppa!
Valley Gardens and Pinewoods
Another cracker right on our doorstep! With the play park and skate park both open there is plenty for little ones too. This was our haven through lockdown. Walking up through the Pinewoods made us really feel like we were properly in the wilderness! My little girl loved looking for the painted rocks which were often spotted around as well as the hidden dens!
Harrogate Ringway
This popular 20 mile walk circles Harrogate, its not for faint hearted if you’re thinking of doing it all in one go! But you can always explore it bit by bit! Perhaps make it your Lockdown challenge to complete it all!
Nidderdale Greenway and Nidd Gorge walk
The Nidderdale Greenway is flat and tarmaced so is suitable for all.
For some other great local walks visit KAPOW Harrogate.