Norton and Menethorpe

A circular walk from Malton rail station in the market town of Norton-on-Derwent in Ryedale. The route heads south-west, through sheep pastures, horse paddocks and the golf course to reach the tiny hamlet of Menethorpe before returning through fields and cattle pastures alongside the River Derwent. This walk is part of a collaboration with the Ryedale District Council. For more visitor information on the area including events and accommodation, go to www.VisitRyedale.co.uk The walk is relatively flat with just a few gentle gradients. The riverside path for the return stretch can be muddy throughout the year, so good boots are a must (or wellingtons in the wetter months). This riverside path forms part of the flood plain and so the route should NOT be attempted when the river is running high or is in flood. Some sections of the paths are very narrow and can get overgrown. The walk crosses a number of grazing pastures holding sheep, racehorses (often with foals in the spring and summer) and cattle. You will need to negotiate a number of gates, kissing gates plus 10 stiles (4 of which are tall with wire fence surrounds so dogs would need a lift over). Given the amount of livestock and the design of the stiles, this route is not recommended for dogs. Due to the soft nature of the riverside pastures, this walk is also one best reserved for the dry summer months. Allow 3 to 3.5 hours. If you are looking for refreshments you can easily walk to the town centres of Norton-on-Derwent or Malton from the rail station at the start or end of the walk. OS Map: Explorer 300 Howardian Hills and Malton. This walk follows public footpaths and bridleways which cross private and public land. Please respect people's privacy, keep dogs under control and remember the Countryside Code.