Cropton Forest
This large area of coniferous woodland on the North York Moors has miles of footpaths and bridleways for walkers and mountain bikers. This route starts from Levisham train station where you can pick up the tracks into the forest. The trails are on nice wide paths with some climbs and fast descents to enjoy. Keep your eyes peeled for deer as you make your way through the woods.
The Tabular Hills Walk passes the southern edge of the woods near Levisham. You could pick up this long distance trail and follow it to the nearby natural amphitheatre at the Hole of Horcum and the ancient stones at Bridestones. You could also visit the forest from the nearby village of Hutton-le-Hole by following the trail from there.
The forest is located close to the ancient market town of Pickering where you can visit Pickering Castle and enjoy countryside trails along the Pickering Beck.
Cropton Forest Ordnance Survey Map 
- view and print off detailed OS map
Cropton Forest Open Street Map 
- view and print off detailed map
Cropton Forest OS Map 
- Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking
Cropton Forest Open Street Map 
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Pubs/Cafes
To the south east of the forest you'll find two idyllic Yorkshire villages with lots of good options for refreshments. In Lockton you'll find the Loft Tea Rooms and Gallery. These delightful tea rooms are the ideal place to enjoy a cream tea after your walk. It's an Idyllic setting with the tea rooms surrounded by pretty gardens and attractive North York Moors countryside. The site includes a lovely gallery which showcases the work of local artists who have painted the beautiful surroundings. There's also Tag’s Bistro which offers a varied range of dining options and an evening menu. You can find the cafe in the village on Hudgin Lane with a postcode of YO18 7QA for you sat navs.
In the village there's also a Youth Hostel and several holiday cottages if you need accommodation.
Also nearby is Levisham where you'll find the 19th century Horseshoe Inn. It's in a lovely spot in the pretty village and includes a nice outdoor seating area if the weather is fine. The pub was featured in an article for The Telegraph's 'The 30 best winter pubs in Britain, for dog-lovers, walkers, foodies and more'. There's a good menu and a warm welcome at the this traditional country pub. You can find the pub at postcode YO18 7NL. They also have a sister pub in Lockton called the Fox and Rabbit. There's another splendid outdoor area with fine views of the countryside here.
Dog Walking
The expansive forest, with its miles of wide tracks is a great place to explore with your dog. The Horseshoe Inn in Levisham also welcomes dogs.
Further Information and Other Local Ideas
On the eastern fringes of the forest you'll find the noteworthy Skelton Tower. The tower dates from 1830 and sits perched high above the moor in a dramatic and picturesque spot. There are great views over Goathland Moor and the steam trains of the North York Moors Railway below. It's a great spot to take some stunning photos.
Just to the west you can pick up the circular Lastingham Walk and climb across Spaunton Moor to the Ana Cross viewpoint. You can also visit the noteworthy 11th century church and a fine 18th century local pub in the picturesque village.
In Pickering cyclists can pick up the Malton to Pickering Cycle Route, a popular ride running through the countryside between the two towns.
Within Cropton there's also the Keldy Forest holiday park. This includes luxurious holiday cabins and lodges with a variety of activities and experiences to enjoy as well.
Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby
Photos
Cropton Forest. Forest track leading off Forest Drive. A Forestry Commission sign close to this point welcomes walkers on these tracks
Looking from Keys Beck Road.
Deer in the forest
Looking SW down a minor forest track off the main Forest Drive.
Near Raindale Head in Cropton Forest
An autumn view of the forest in September 2004. It shows the view from Skelton Tower across Kale Pot Hole towards Scarfhill Rigg.