The Courses - Swinton Park

The Great Outdoors
Walking
There is a wide range of walks available on the
20,000 acre Swinton Estate which stretches
from the River Ure in Wensleydale up onto the
moorland Dales which borders the National
Park, and at Swinton Park, within the 200 acres
of walled parkland that surround the hotel.
With miles of footpaths available, the options range
from a leisurely stroll beside the River Ure to a trek
up onto the moorland Dales. Guests at Swinton
Park (day or resident) can also enjoy walks
within the beautiful landscaped parkland, with
lakes, woodland and a four acre kitchen garden.
Parkland Walks
The 200 acres of parkland that surround Swinton
Park include a chain of five lakes, landscaped during
the 17th century, with a walking trail throughout.
The complete circuit, which passes through
the steep ravine at Quarry Gill, takes up to 2½
hours to complete. The woodland is at its most
dramatic during April/May for daffodils, in June
when the azaleas and rhododendrons bloom and
in September/October with the autumn colours.
Estate Walks
Further afield, guests can follow the River Burn
to where it joins the River Ure and walk into
the charming market town of Masham. More
challenging walks include a trip to the Druid’s
Temple, up on the moorland edge, or a circuit above
the estate reservoirs and over into Nidderdale.
There are several trails running through the Estate:
• The Ripon Rowel Walk – a 50 mile trek
passing alongside the River Ure, through the
Estate and over the moors back to Ripon
Cathedral. The Bivouac café and glamping
destination at Druid’s Temple is at the halfway
point on the walk.
• The Masham Leaves Walk – a gentle, 3 mile
amble beside the Rivers Ure and Burn following a
sculpture trail with works by Alan Ayres.
• The Six Dales Trail – 38 miles crossing through
the Estate on the Nidderdale to Colsterdale to
Coverdale section.
• The Abbeys Amble – a 104 mile circular route
which links three abbeys; Fountains, Jervaulx
and Bolton, with three castles; Ripley, Bolton
and Middleham.
Just a few miles from the hotel is also Hackfall
Woods, a beautiful woodland area beside the
River Ure. It is a Grade 1 listed garden and has
been recently restored, with extensive walking
tracks and features.
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