Keld to Muker circular walk
one of the national park’s best loved routes
Keld, Swaledale, North Yorkshire, DL11 6LJ
Visit WebsiteThe stunning walk between the two tiny villages of Keld and Muker is one of the Yorkshire Dales National Park’s best loved routes. Come for the breathtaking views, wildflower hay meadows and iconic stone barns, and you won’t be left disappointed.
- Children Welcome
- Multiple Dogs Allowed
- Parking
- Refreshments
- Rural Walks
Good to know
Overview
While there are a few different variations of the route to choose from, we’d recommend starting in Keld and taking the Pennine Way to Muker, before following the river back to the start for a nice easy finish to the walk. Dogs will need to be under close control or on leads due to livestock, but they’ll be more than happy with the opportunity to dip in and out of the river for much of the walk.
Visit in late spring to early summer for the opportunity to see Muker’s hay meadows in spectacular full bloom. Once a common feature of the English landscape, upland hay meadows have diminished over the years, but Muker remains one of the best places to see a huge variety of wildflowers in meadows which are actively farmed.
There is a small seasonal tea shop in Muker where you can stop off to enjoy a slice of cake or an ice cream, depending on the weather! Dogs are welcome in the outside seating area and bowls of water can be provided if you ask. Sit outside and soak up the sunshine before continuing on your way.
As you reach the final stretch of the walk on the outskirts of Keld, there’s one last surprise waiting for you: a tumbling waterfall right next to the path. This is a great spot to sit with a picnic if you didn’t stop in Muker, or alternatively, another great paddling opportunity for water loving pups. Either way, this is a walk you’ll want to bring your camera for.
For The Dogs
Bring leads, towels and poop bags.
Opening Hours
Daylight hours are recommended.
Parking
Use the honesty box parking in Keld. The nearest postcode is DL11 6LJ.
The Area
Swaledale is one of the wildest and remotest of the Yorkshire Dales. It’s the birthplace of the Swaledale breed of sheep that you see on the national park’s logo, and one of the most sparsely populated parts of the Dales. One of the best places to base yourself to explore the area is the charming market town of Reeth, where there’s a well stocked shop and a number of dog friendly pubs – not to mention more fantastic countryside walks than you can shake a stick at. Our favourite is to start from Reeth and head up the limestone escarpment of Fremington Edge for outstanding views.
