MORE than 100 picturesque routes have been opened up for nature lovers to enjoy in Yorkshire.

Ramblers, horse riders and cyclists will be overwhelmed with the choice of farmland walks and scenic routes featured in the latest edition of the Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affair's (Defra) Conservation Walks and Rides Register.

Launched yesterday, the register includes a 2.5 mile walk across farmland that has yielded archaeological remains thousands of years old.

Manor Farm, in East Heslerton, Malton, manages grassland beneath which lies the remains of a medieval village, and running around the arable fields are grass margins full of wildlife.

Farmer David Lumley said: "Every day, working on the farm is like taking a trip back in time.

"The fields are an open history book. It's good to be able to let other people enjoy the scenery as much as I do."

The edition covers the Yorkshire and Humber region, listing scores of farms where access has been created as part of Defra's countryside stewardship scheme and management of environmentally sensitive areas.

Under the schemes, farmers and other land managers received grants to create access to land that would otherwise be off-limits to the public.

The routes offer stunning views and rich wildlife to attract all members of the family - embracing limestone outcrops in the Dales, wild flower pastures near Scarborough and riverside strolls in Nidderdale.

Rural Affairs Minister Alun Michael said this edition's launch was an example of partnership at its best.

"Government is helping farmers and other land managers to protect and enhance the landscape and historical features, and to boost wildlife," he said.

"At the same time it is encouraging the public to get out into the countryside."

Copies of the register are available on (0207) 238 5909 or by visiting www.countrywalks.defra.gov.uk