Kilburn White Horse Walk
This is a thoroughly enjoyable walk that takes you to the unforgettable sight of the Kilburn White Horse near Sutton Bank, with gorgeous views along the way.
The iconic Kilburn White Horse, located on the steep slope of Roulston Scar, is 318 feet long and covers approximately 1.6 acres. It’s said to be the largest and most northerly hill figure in England.
The Kilburn White Horse was designed and funded by Thomas Taylor, a native of the village of Kilburn, who was inspired by the chalk hill figures in southern England. The village schoolmaster, John Hodgson, along with other villagers, worked on the horse, which was cut from limestone rather than chalk. As a result, it needs to be artificially whitened to maintain its color. Due to its prominence, the horse had to be covered during World War II to avoid being an easy target for German bombers.
Parking: Near the pub. Grid referrence: 54.209925, -1.214752
Refreshments: The Forresters Arms, Kilburn
Here is a route map for the Kilburn White Horse walk
© OpenStreetMap contributors
Contains OS data © Crown copyright and database right 2021
Photo © JThomas (cc-by-sa/2.0)
Kilburn White Horse Walk
Distance: 6 km
The walk to see the historic Kilburn White Horse is just over 6 km but is quite strenuous, especially as you climb the steep valley slopes of Kilburn Woods. However, the effort is well worth it for the superb views from the top.
You’ll start the adventure in the village of Kilburn, traveling along Carr Lane and across farm fields. This is followed by a steep climb through the beautiful Kilburn Woods, where you can spot woodland birds, wildlife, and wildflowers along the way. To reach the Kilburn White Horse, you’ll follow the edge of Roulston Scar, offering amazing views across the Vales of York and Mowbray.
Spend some time admiring this special landmark before descending through the forest and down steep steps to a path that runs alongside Carr Lane, leading you back to Kilburn. Once there, you can look forward to refreshments at the wonderful Forrester Arms.
The route is very steep in places and can be slippery in wet weather, so appropriate footwear is essential.
Refreshments
The Forresters Arms
The Forresters Arms is a traditional Inn set in the village of Kilburn, at the foot of Sutton Bank and near the Kilburn White Horse. This pub is under new management and was completely refurbished in autumn 2020.
They serve home-cooked pub classics plus seasonal specials, and pride themselves as being very family friendly. There are also 8 ensuite bedrooms and a private dining room.
Food is served 7 days a week and they will also provide takeaways if this is what customers are looking for.
