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Burnsall and Appletreewick Trail Running Route: 14km Wharfedale Loop

A beautiful 13.6km circular trail running route from Burnsall, linking the River Wharfe, Appletreewick, field paths, quiet lanes and classic Lower Wharfedale views.
13.6km

Distance

305m

Elevation Gain

1.5 to 2.25 hours running / 3 to 4 hours walking

Estimated Time

Difficulty

Distance Band

Route Map

Details
Burnsall and Appletreewick Trail Running Route

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About this route

This Burnsall and Appletreewick trail running route is a scenic Lower Wharfedale loop from Burnsall car park. The GPX is around 14km with about 300m of climbing, making it a very runnable Dales route with enough ascent to feel satisfying.

The route uses riverside paths, fields, quiet lanes and village links around Burnsall and Appletreewick. It is a strong option for a social trail run, a steady weekend loop or a first step up from shorter Dales routes.

Route Features

At a Glance

📍 Start:Burnsall car park, 2 Bunkers Hill, Burnsall, Skipton

Getting there

Start Point

Burnsall car park, 2 Bunkers Hill, Burnsall, Skipton
BD23 6BS

Parking

Start from Burnsall car park near the River Wharfe and Burnsall Bridge. There is car parking on the west side of the river, with additional seasonal parking on the east side. It can be busy on sunny weekends and holidays, so arrive early and park considerately.

Public Transport

Burnsall has a limited bus service connecting with Ilkley and Grassington. Public transport options are not as frequent as main town routes, so check current timetables before planning a point-to-point or car-free run.

Toilets

Public toilets are available in Burnsall on the west side of the river, close to the car park and village facilities.

Nearest Town

Grassington

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What's underfoot

A varied Lower Wharfedale loop with riverside paths, fields, grassy tracks, quiet lanes and short climbs. It is less technical than the high fell routes but can be muddy after rain, especially on field edges and riverside sections.

Best Seasons

Spring, Summer, Autumn

Navigation Difficulty

Moderate
Burnsall car park, 2 Bunkers Hill, Burnsall, Skipton

Weather Notes

The route is generally lower and less exposed than the high Dales, but riverside paths can be muddy, slippery or affected by high water after heavy rain. Wind can still be noticeable on open field sections.

Recommended Equipment

Trail shoes are strongly recommended for this route. Here’s what we’d suggest.

Recommended kit for this route

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Before, during & after

Water

Carry water for the run. Burnsall and Appletreewick have food and drink options, but opening times vary and should not be relied on during the route. There is also the Brownie Barn just off the route and also a cafe at Parcevall Hall.

Shops Nearby

Small village facilities in Burnsall and Appletreewick. Grassington and Skipton offer more extensive shops and services before or after the route.

Post-Run Recommendation

Finish with a riverside drink or meal in Burnsall, or head to Appletreewick for a pub stop if you want to extend the outing.

How to run it

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Follow the well-signed footpath from the car park.
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Before you go

⚠ Safety Notes

Take care on muddy riverside paths, narrow lanes and field sections with livestock. After heavy rain, the River Wharfe can rise quickly and some paths may be wet or slippery. Keep dogs under control and close gates behind you.

🌦 Weather Notes

The route is generally lower and less exposed than the high Dales, but riverside paths can be muddy, slippery or affected by high water after heavy rain. Wind can still be noticeable on open field sections.

Local knowledge

💡 Local Tip

This is a good route for mixed-ability trail runners because the terrain is varied but not overly technical. Summer evenings and autumn mornings are especially scenic, but Burnsall can get very busy on sunny days.

🧭 Navigation Difficulty

Moderate

Frequently Asked Questions

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More routes nearby

Trail Art · Monetisation · Nice to have

Trail Art

Route Trail Poster

A hand-illustrated trail map poster of this route — perfect for your home or as a gift for a fellow runner. Printed on 300gsm card.

Buy the poster