With Spring well and truly under way, it feels like the perfect time to showcase what our region has to offer when it comes to trail running routes, particularly the Yorkshire Wolds Way.
To those of you reading this and thinking “who and what is ALTUS Running?” – it’s lovely to meet you. We’re an inclusive community Run Club based in Hull and East Yorkshire, built around bringing people together through running, whether that’s on the road, track, or out on the trails.
This blog marks the start of a wider series where we’ll be sharing some of our favourite places to trail run across the region, from Huggate through to Thixendale, along the coast, and back towards Beverley. Along the way, we’ll also be highlighting some of our go-to spots for post-run food and drink, because let’s be honest, that’s all part of the experience.
So, it goes without saying that the Yorkshire countryside is at its very best in Spring. After months of grey skies and wet weather, everything starts to feel alive again. The trails begin to dry out, the flowers bloom, and the landscape opens in a way that makes getting outside feel effortless.
There’s genuinely no better time to head out, whether that’s with friends or on your own, and take your running off-road. The only question is where to go and what route to run… so we’re here to make that a little easier.
Why we love the Yorkshire Wolds Way in Spring
Running out on the Yorkshire Wolds at this time of year just hits differently. The ground starts to firm up, making the trails more runnable after the winter months, and the views stretch for miles across rolling hills and open farmland. It’s the kind of environment that naturally slows you down – not in a negative way, but in a way that allows you to enjoy the process of running again.
What makes the Yorkshire Wolds particularly special is how accessible it is. You don’t need to be an experienced trail runner to get out here. The terrain is varied but forgiving, the climbs are steady rather than extreme, and there’s always the option to ease off into a walk if needed.
Whether you’re training for a race, building your base, or simply looking to mix things up, trail running in the Yorkshire Wolds offers several benefits:
- Rolling hills that naturally build strength and endurance
- Beautiful, ever-changing scenery
- Softer ground that reduces impact on your legs
- Quiet, uninterrupted routes away from traffic
- A genuine mental reset from busy day-to-day routines
For us as a Run Club, it’s also a chance to reconnect with what running is really about – enjoying the miles, the company, and the environment around you.
Our trail run recommendations
Route spotlight #1 – Huggate Circular
Starting from Huggate, one of the highest villages on the Yorkshire Wolds, you’re immediately immersed in some of the best trail running terrain in East Yorkshire.
Situated within the Yorkshire Wolds, Huggate is well worth the trip. From the moment you set off, you’re met with wide, open trails, rolling climbs, and long descents that make it ideal for steady efforts or longer runs.
This route is perfect if you’re looking to build endurance while still enjoying the run. The elevation keeps things interesting without being overwhelming, and the openness of the landscape gives you that sense of space that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Suggested route:
- Distance: 7km loop
- Terrain: Trail and grassy tracks
- Elevation: Rolling hills
For more details and maps for the Huggate circular, head to the Visit East Yorkshire running page or All Trails.
Route spotlight #2 – Thixendale Circular
If you’re after something a little more enclosed and scenic, Thixendale offers a completely different experience. Set within a valley, this route feels quieter and more sheltered, with a mix of trail paths and quiet country roads. It’s ideal for steady-paced running, recovery runs, or even a more relaxed social run with friends.
The climbs here are more gradual, making it a great option for runners who are newer to trail running or those looking to take things at a slightly easier pace.
Suggested route:
- Distance: 14.5km
- Terrain: Mixed trail and quiet road
- Elevation: Gradual climbs
For more details and maps for theThixendale Circular, view the Visit East Yorkshire running page or All Trails.
Making a day of it
One of the best things about running in the Wolds is that it doesn’t just have to be about the run itself - it’s about the full day out.
With so many small villages, quiet roads, and scenic viewpoints, it’s the kind of place where you can slow things down, explore, and really make the most of being outside. Whether that’s heading out early for a long run or planning a more relaxed mid-morning route followed by food and coffee, there’s plenty of flexibility.
For those training for spring and summer races, including half marathons, marathons, and even ultras, incorporating runs like this into your routine can be hugely beneficial. Not only does it help build physical strength through varied terrain, but it also keeps things mentally fresh.
Our go-to post-run eating and drinking spots
Obviously, no trail run is complete without a proper refuel. Whether it’s a coffee, a full meal, or just something quick, it’s all part of the experience. So, if you’re heading out to the Yorkshire Wolds, these are some places that are well worth adding to your plan:
- The Wolds Inn Huggate
- Driffield Rd, Huggate, York YO42 1YH (ideal for a proper post-run meal)
- The Gait Inn Millington
- The Gait Inn, Millington, York YO42 1TX (great atmosphere and quality food)
- The Fleece Inn Bishop Wilton
- 47 Main St, Bishop Wilton, York YO42 1RU (perfect if you’re exploring further out)
Run trail with us
The Yorkshire Wolds Way is one of the most underrated places to run across the country, and Spring is hands down the best time to experience it. There’s so much to see and do, it’s incredibly accessible, and with so many amazing local pubs and restaurants dotted all over, it makes for a fantastic day out. Exactly what running should be about.
If you’ve never been out to the Yorkshire Wolds before, this is your sign. Plan a route, grab a mate, and go explore.
We’ll be looking to organise some trail runs out this way over the coming months, so keep an eye on our pages on Instagram, Facebook, and on Strava.
