WALK 01 · NIDDERDALE
Riverside & Recreation Ground loop
The perfect first walk in the dale
This is the walk to do if you have an hour to spare and want to stretch your legs without committing to boots and poles. Starting at the Recreation Ground Car Park, the route follows the River Nidd downstream through meadows and riverside woodland before looping back into town. It is entirely flat, well used by locals walking dogs before breakfast, and the obvious choice if you have a pushchair, small children or anyone who would rather not tackle a hill today.
Key facts
- Start point
- Recreation Ground Car Park, Pateley Bridge HG3 5LG
- Parking
- Free parking at the Recreation Ground Car Park, right at the start point. The Showground Car Park on the High Street is a short walk away if the Recreation Ground is full.
- Terrain
- Flat, well-surfaced paths throughout. No stiles or steps. Can be muddy in places after heavy rain, but generally suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs with off-road wheels.
- Dogs
- Dogs are welcome off lead for most of the route. There are a few sections near the recreation ground and play areas where you may want a lead handy.
Highlights
- +Flat, easy walking suitable for all ages and abilities
- +A shallow, pebbly stretch of the River Nidd good for paddling
- +Mature riverside woodland with good shade in summer
- +Starts and ends within a few minutes of the High Street
The route
From the Recreation Ground Car Park, head down towards the river and pick up the path heading downstream. The Nidd here is shallow and pebbly, a popular spot for children to paddle on a warm day, and there are several places to scramble down to the water's edge.
The path follows the river through a stretch of mature trees that give good shade in summer and a blaze of colour in autumn. Keep an eye out for dippers and grey wagtails working the shallows, and grey herons are a regular sight standing patiently in the slower pools.
Continue along the riverside path as it curves gently away from the water and back towards the edge of town, passing through open meadow. This is the quietest stretch of the walk, with views back up towards the moorland that rings the dale.
The path rejoins the streets of Pateley Bridge a short distance from the High Street, making it easy to finish the walk with a coffee or a browse of the shops before heading back to the car park to complete the loop.
Good to know
- Refreshments
- The High Street is two minutes away at the end of the loop - Cocoa Joe's, Wildish and Talbot House are all good options.
- Toilets
- Public toilets are available at the Recreation Ground Car Park.
- Best for
- Families, dog walkers, pushchairs, and anyone wanting a short walk before or after a longer day out.
- Combine with
- A stop for a paddle at the Recreation Ground itself, or carry on into town for the High Street shops and cafes.
MAKE A DAY OF IT
Plan the rest of your day around this walk.
