The circular day walks in this guidebook of the Yorkshire Dales are for everyone, from novices to experienced ramblers. However, newcomers to walking are advised to develop their abilities and confidence on the shorter walks before progressing onto the more demanding routes. None of the walks in this book is technically difficult, and in good weather they pose few navigational problems. Simple skills such as the ability to use a compass will help keep you on the right track.

The walks range in distance from 3.5 to 10.5 miles and there are suggestions for devising longer days by combining routes. While the lengthier walks require an appropriate degree of physical fitness, none demand more than an ability to walk. The dales are hilly rather than mountainous so the climbs are generally moderate, and any steep sections are usually brief.  Many routes venture onto upland moors where paths may be vague or non-existent, and conditions can be very different from those in the valleys. The weather can rapidly deteriorate at any time of the year.

Almost all the walks are circular, many beginning from recognised car parks with a public toilet nearby. Public transport in the Dales, particularly during the summer months and at weekends, now offers a real alternative for reaching many of the more popular locations, and increases the opportunity for adapting and devising many satisfying ?one way’ walks around the routes described. Details of the terrain and nature of the walk, together with the local facilities available, are given in the information box at the start of each walk.