Looking for a stunning walking or cycling route to enjoy during your stay in the Yorkshire Dales? The Swale Trail is the perfect choice — especially if you’re staying in one of our cosy holiday cottages in Swaledale. This beautiful 12-mile route follows the River Swale through peaceful valleys, rolling meadows, and some of the most charming villages in the Dales, including Reeth, Gunnerside and Keld.
Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just want a gentle walk with the family, the Swale Trail is one of the best ways to explore the natural beauty and history of Swaledale at your own pace.
The Swale Trail is a scenic, multi-use walking and cycling route designed for all ages and abilities. It runs for 12 miles between Reeth and Keld, offering mostly traffic-free paths that pass through breathtaking Dales countryside, riverside tracks, and heritage-rich villages.
It’s particularly well-suited for families, beginner cyclists, walkers, and nature lovers. The trail also reveals a fascinating glimpse into Swaledale’s lead mining past, with remnants of old mine buildings and dramatic gills carved into the landscape.
This route is one of the few in the Yorkshire Dales designed for both cyclists and walkers, with easy-to-follow signs, accessible terrain, and varied landscapes. The Swale Trail is ideal if you’re looking for:
Reeth to Gunnerside: A Scenic Start
Begin your adventure in Reeth, one of the Dales’ prettiest villages with a green at its heart and hills all around. As you head out of the village, the trail follows the River Swale through a peaceful patchwork of wildflower meadows and dry stone walls. Keep an eye out for birds of prey, wildflowers in spring and summer, and even the elusive red squirrel.
Gunnerside: Explore a Historic Dales Village
This charming village is steeped in Swaledale’s mining history. Explore the fascinating Gunnerside Gill, a narrow valley where evidence of past industry is still visible. You’ll also find a welcoming café and a fantastic community pub — The Kings Head — perfect for a lunch stop.
Keld: Nature, Waterfalls & Peaceful Picnic Spots
At the head of the trail, the village of Keld is a tranquil haven surrounded by tumbling waterfalls, quiet nature reserves, and moorland views. It’s a brilliant place for a riverside picnic or a short detour to view the dramatic Kisdon Force. Keld also marks the point where the Swale Trail intersects with the Pennine Way and Coast to Coast path.
Valley Views, Bridges & Wildlife
One of the Swale Trail’s biggest draws is the ever-changing landscape. You’ll cross several charming stone bridges, spot traditional Dales barns (called laithes), and enjoy incredible views down the valley. Wildlife lovers should bring binoculars — red kites, otters and kingfishers are often spotted along the river.
The full route from Reeth to Keld is 12 miles (19km) one way. It’s easy to adapt the walk to suit your plans:
Most people complete the trail over a full day, but it’s also ideal for shorter strolls if you’re staying nearby.
Absolutely! The Swale Trail was designed with cyclists in mind. It’s best suited for:
If you didn’t bring your bike, you can hire one from the excellent Dales Bike Centre in Fremington, just outside Reeth.
Designed with families in mind, the Swale Trail features gentle gradients, wide gravel tracks, and very few road crossings, making it both safe and manageable for little legs on foot or bike.
Where to Stop and Play
A fantastic spot to pause and let the kids (and grown-ups!) unwind is the stepping stones at Healaugh. Here, you’ll find the perfect riverside setting to:
Nature on the Trail
The Swale Trail is also a gentle introduction to the local wildlife and countryside. Encourage little ones to look out for:
Staying nearby makes it easy to enjoy the Swale Trail at your leisure. Our holiday cottages in Swaledale are perfectly placed near the trail — many just a short walk or drive from Reeth, Gunnerside or Keld.
Imagine setting off for a scenic day out straight from your doorstep, and returning to a warm cottage where you can relax in front of the fire or enjoy a well-earned cup of tea on the patio. Whether you’re looking for a romantic bolthole, a dog-friendly holiday home or a family cottage, we’ve got the perfect base for your Dales adventure.
Browse our Swaledale cottages here
Once you’ve completed the Swale Trail, why not venture further?
You’re never short of walks, heritage sites, or peaceful spots to enjoy.
Ready to explore the Swale Trail and discover everything that Swaledale has to offer? Book your holiday cottage with us today and experience the Yorkshire Dales at its very best — on foot, by bike, or from the comfort of your home-from-home.
