Farndale Daffodil Walk and River Dove Circuit
North Yorkshire
Farndale is a hidden dale in the southern North York Moors and its daffodils carpet the banks of the River Dove each spring, which is why this circuit is also known as the Daffodil Walk. The route leaves Low Mill, tracks the Dove upstream through meadows and stepping stones to Church Houses, then loops back over farm pasture and lane.
This is very much a working farm walk: sheep graze every field along the route and there are several narrow stiles and kissing gates, so dogs must stay on a lead throughout and you will need to lift larger dogs a few times. Off lead is realistic only briefly on the return lane. The riverside path is flat and gentle, mostly firm grass with some boggy patches in wet spells, and the whole loop is suitable for most abilities. Low Mill has a small car park and toilets, and during daffodil season the privately run Daffy Car Park across the road offers overflow parking for a small charge.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 10.6 km (6.6 miles)
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 3 hr 30 min
- Walk Type
- River, Moorland
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Low
- Livestock Risk
- High
- Facilities
- Toilets at Low Mill car park; tea room at Church Houses.
- Parking
- Small honesty box car park at Low Mill (YO62 7UY); overflow Daffy Car Park in daffodil season (late March to mid-April).
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Farndale Daffodil Walk and River Dove Circuit dog friendly?
Farndale Daffodil Walk is open to dogs and rated 6.5 out of 10 for dog friendliness. It's a lovely walk to share with your dog, though the working farm setting means there are some restrictions to be aware of before you go.
Can dogs be off lead at Farndale Daffodil Walk and River Dove Circuit?
Dogs need to be kept on a lead for almost the entire route, as sheep graze in every field along the way. The only realistic off-lead opportunity is briefly on the return lane section.
What should I know before visiting Farndale Daffodil Walk and River Dove Circuit with my dog?
Because this is a working farm walk, leads are essential throughout, and there are several narrow stiles and kissing gates that mean you may need to lift larger dogs at points. The path itself is generally flat and manageable, with some boggy patches after wet weather, so it's worth wearing suitable footwear. Parking is available at the small honesty box car park in Low Mill (YO62 7UY), with overflow parking nearby during daffodil season in late March to mid-April.
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