Rosedale Roasting Kilns Walk – North York Moors

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Tom & Essi Troughton

Rosedale Roasting Kilns Walk – North York Moors

Distance

12.3km

Time

3.5hrs

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Published on March 17, 2025

2 min read

A Fascinating Walk in the North York Moors

Rosedale in the North York Moors holds many secrets of a deep history that are ready to be discovered. We will explore these on this moderately challenging walk that starts and finishes in the village of Rosedale Abbey. Be prepared to explore the quaint streams, sweeping valley views and historical landmarks on this special route.

Starting and finishing in the quaint village of Rosedale Abbey in the North York Moors, this is one of our favourite routes in the area.

The route is brimming full of history that is ready to discover.

Unlike its name, there aren’t any roses (as far as we know) in Rosedale, nor is there an Abbey – there is actually a Cistercian Priory (nuns live in priories, monks live in abbeys) – a small group of nuns inhabited this priory between 1158-1535. The priory was dismantled during the iron mining boom in the 19th century, and now there is a church on the site of the original priory.

This area is often referred to as the ‘land of iron’ due to it’s plentiful supply. It was a noisy and busy place during the industrial revolution. We imagine this is a farcry to the clean air and calm, tranquil peace we discovered on this walk. Many of these industrial ruins are still visible today and you can discover them along the old railway lines at the end of the valley. Make sure you stop and admire the old roasting kilns and disused mines as you pass by!

To reach this area, you will journey from Rosedale Abbey, through the dale and across farmland to reach the Dale Head. Here starts the climb up towards the old railway which provides stunning panoramic views. It’s the perfect place for a coffee stop to take it all in.

The old railway line will then take you towards a collection of cottages on the hill, before descending towards the fields and streams. These can be quite muddy in winter so tread carefully! From here, the path follows the stream back into Rosedale Abbey where you can reward yourself with a well-earned treat at the local cafes.

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This route guide is part of the Taylor’s of Harrogate Coffee Bag Adventures Collection and was created by OS Champion Tom & Essi Troughton

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