Hole of Horcum Circular Walk
The Hole of Horcum circular walk is a popular walk in the North York Moors, and it's easy to see why. You'll be greeted by a huge natural amphitheatre and stunning landscape views. We offer two wonderful walks, both starting and ending in the village of Levisham and passing through a variety of landscapes. Halfway around each route, you’ll reach your goal—the breathtaking Hole of Horcum.
Parking: Car Park Braygate Lane Levisham, grid reference 54.304755, -0.721440
Refreshments: The Horseshoe Inn, Levisham
Here is a route map for the Hole of Horcum circular walk
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Hole of Horcum Walk 1
Distance: 10 km
Our shortest walk is 10 km and begins by following Limpsey Gate Lane, leading you to the open Levisham Moor, which will be beautifully covered in heather. As you arrive at the Hole of Horcum, you’re welcomed by a sweeping panorama of this natural wonder—a massive bowl sculpted into the earth. Measuring an impressive 400 feet deep and approximately three-quarters of a mile across, it’s truly a sight to see.
Photo © Scott Robinson (cc-by-sa/2.0)
Locally known as the “Devil’s Punchbowl,” legend has it that the depression was formed when a giant named Wade threw a handful of earth at his wife during a quarrel. The scientific explanation is less dramatic—erosion caused by water seeping up the hillside over thousands of years. This process continues today, constantly reshaping the Hole of Horcum.
Take time to enjoy the spectacular views as you walk along the ridge before continuing on your adventure. (You might also take a slight detour to Saltergate Car Park, where there’s often an ice cream van for refreshments.) The remainder of the walk leads you through a variety of moorland, woodland, and fields back to the village.
The walking route is in fairly good condition, but it may become boggy and slippery after rainfall. We recommend wearing appropriate footwear.
Hole of Horcum Walk 2
Distance: 12.4 km
Our second walk is slightly longer and starts by travelling up Braygate Lane and again onto the open Levisham Moor. However for the first half of the walk you will enjoy very different views as you travel. The route takes you to Skelton Tower which stands high above Levisham. The tower which was once a moorland retreat, possibly used by a local vicar, is now a remote and romantic ruin and worth exploring. You can also stand here and watch the steam trains travelling up the hill in the valley below you.
You will continue on your journey along Levisham Bottoms and onto The impressive Hole of Horcum. Take time to enjoy the spectacular views as you wander around the ridge before continuing on your adventure. The remainder of the walk follows the same route as the Hole of Horcum Walk 1 taking you through a variety of moorland, woodland and fields back to the village.
As with the first walk, the route is in fairly good condition but it may be rather boggy and possibly slippery after rainfall. Appropriate footwear is recommended.
Refreshments for The Hole of Horcum Walk
The Horseshoe Inn
The Horseshoe Inn is a charming, family-run pub nestled in the peaceful village of Levisham, within the North York Moors National Park. Just 2 miles from the A169, it’s an ideal spot for a relaxing country getaway or a delicious meal.
Surrounded by stunning scenery, it offers cozy guest accommodation and easy access to attractions like Dalby Forest and the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. The menu, crafted with the best seasonal produce, offers something for everyone.
Owned by brothers Charles and Toby Wood since 2007, the inn is known for its warm welcome, great service, and high-quality food and drink.
