Levisham Moor and Skelton Tower
North Yorkshire
Levisham Moor stretches across the North York Moors south of Pickering, and this 7.2 km circuit takes in open heather moorland and the atmospheric ruins of Skelton Tower — a Victorian shooting lodge perched on the edge of the moor with views into the steep-sided Newtondale valley below. The route crosses classic moorland terrain with 359 metres of elevation gain, climbing from the village of Levisham through farmland before breaking onto the open moor where the landscape expands dramatically. Purple heather in late summer transforms the scene, and the sense of space and wildness is the defining character here.
This dog friendly walk is excellent for active dogs who love open moorland. Off-lead potential is high on the open moor, allowing dogs to range across the heather with real freedom. However, sheep graze on the moorland margins, so leads are essential where livestock is visible. The varied terrain — farmland paths, open heather, rocky viewpoints — keeps dogs engaged throughout, and the moorland air provides rich, layered scenting. The paths are well established but can be muddy after rain, particularly in the lower sections. Skelton Tower makes a memorable halfway point with commanding views into the valley below.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 7.2 km (4.5 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 2 hr 30 min
- Walk Type
- Moorland, Historic
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- High
- Livestock Risk
- Moderate
- Facilities
- Horseshoe Inn at Levisham (dog-friendly); food and drinks available
- Parking
- Saltergate Car Park (YO18 7NR); £3.80 up to 2 hours, £6 over 2 hours
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Levisham Moor and Skelton Tower dog friendly?
Yes, Levisham Moor and Skelton Tower is a great choice for dogs, earning a solid 8/10 on our dog-friendly rating. The open moorland suits active dogs well, and after your walk you can head to the Horseshoe Inn in Levisham, which is dog-friendly and serves food and drinks.
Can dogs be off lead at Levisham Moor and Skelton Tower?
Off-lead potential is high once you're out on the open moor, where dogs can range freely across the heather with plenty of space to explore. That said, sheep graze on the moorland margins, so you'll need to keep your dog on the lead wherever livestock is visible , it's worth staying alert to this throughout the route.
What should I know before visiting Levisham Moor and Skelton Tower with my dog?
This is a 7.2 km circuit with 359 metres of elevation gain, so it's best suited to dogs who are fit and comfortable with varied terrain , the route moves through farmland, open heather, and rocky viewpoints. The paths can get muddy after rain, especially on the lower sections, so it's worth being prepared for that. Parking is at Saltergate Car Park (YO18 7NR), where fees are £3.80 for up to 2 hours or £6 for longer stays.
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