places to visit in the yorkshire moors

Top Things to Do in North York Moors National Park, North Yorkshire - North York Moors National Park Must-See Attractions

Things to do in north york moors national park, explore popular experiences, popular cities in north york moors national park.

Ways to tour North York Moors National Park

Moors, Whitby & The Yorkshire Steam Railway Day Trip from York

• North York Moors and Whitby Day Tour from York

5-Day York, Lake District & Hadrian's Wall Tour from Edinburgh

3-Day Yorkshire Dales and Peak District Small-Group Tour from Manchester

North York Moors Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK

Steam Trains, Whitby, and the North York Moors Full-Day Tour from York

Private Half-Day North York Moors National Park Tour from York or Harrogate

• Full-Day Heartbeat Locations Tour from York

Private Day Tour Yorkshire Moor, Coast Cliff and Whitby

• Full-Day Whitby and The North York Moors Private Tour from York

Top Attractions in North York Moors National Park

Other Top Attractions around North York Moors National Park

Tours & Sightseeing

Cultural & Theme Tours

Private & custom tours, what travellers are saying.

• Cleveland Way National Trail
• Goathland Station
• Robin Hood's Bay and Fylingdales Museum
• The Hole of Horcum
• Robin Hoods Bay Beach
• North Yorkshire Off Road Centre
• Staithes Beach
• Boggle Hole
• Moors, Whitby & The Yorkshire Steam Railway Day Trip from York
• Whitby and The North York Moors Day Trip from York
• Ryedale Folk Museum
• Grosmont Railway Station, NYMR

Places to visit in the North York Moors

Looking for things to do in the North York Moors? Hop onto one of the many right-of-way footpaths which cut across heather coated heathland, ridges and North Sea cliff edges in the North York Moors. Follow dinosaur footprints to the Jurassic bays of the Heritage Coast and keep your eyes peeled for fossils. Snap farmland framed by Cistercian abbey ruins. This North Yorkshire national park is teeming with birdlife – have your binoculars ready to zoom in on red grouse and merlin, the UK’s smallest bird of prey. Sore feet? The ‘ways’ are dotted with plenty of traditional inns serving cask ales and home-cooked grub for weary walkers.

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See England's finest view from Sutton Bank

Celebrated author and vet James Herriot gave the view from Sutton Bank the ultimate accolade – “England’s finest”. Find out if he was right…

Location: Sutton Bank, near Thirsk, North Yorkshire

Keeping it in the family at Castle Howard

The Howard family has called Castle Howard home for 300 years but their house is your house as you explore one of Yorkshire’s finest historic estates.

Location: York, North Yorkshire

Celebrate Ryedale's heritage at the Folk Museum

Discover this hidden gem deep in the North York Moors National Park and uncover English antiques and curiosities.

Location: Hutton-le-Hole, North Yorkshire

Take on adventures aplenty in Dalby Forest

See some of Yorkshire’s beautiful countryside from a mountain bike, Segway, tree-top trail and by night, at one of the UK’s premier activity centres.

Location: Dalby Forest, North Yorkshire

Enjoy a magical ride across the English countryside

With your day ticket in hand, hop on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and discover some of the best villages in UK between Pickering and Whitby.

Location: Whitby, North Yorkshire

Create your own work of art in a quaint artist’s bolthole

Get the creative juices following and spend the weekend discovering inspiring landscapes just waiting to be captured.

Location: Staithes, North Yorkshire

Saddle up for windswept romance on the Yorkshire coast

When it comes to romantic things to do, it’s doesn’t get much better than a windswept horse ride, followed by retreating to a cosy lodge.

Location: Scarborough, North Yorkshire

Coast to Coast Cycling

A challenging route from the Irish Sea to the North Sea.

Location: Whitehaven / Whitby

Explore the Forge Valley

A walk through 165 million years of history.

Location: Forge Valley, North Yorkshire 

Relive the past at Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal

Peel back 900 years of history at this UNESCO World Heritage Site of majestic monastic ruins, water gardens and medieval deer park.

Location: Near Ripon, North Yorkshire

Enjoy the ultimate free flying experience over North York Moors

If you’ve got a head for heights and the being ratcheted up to a thousand feet fills you with excitement, a gliding lesson might be just the ticket.

Location: Thirsk, North Yorkshire

The Tree Relaxation Retreat in Rosedale Abbey

Looking after your body doesn’t need to involve colonic irrigation and strenuous yoga workouts.

Location: Near Pickering, North Yorkshire

Explore the pretty village of Thornton Le Dale

When we tell you that this place is a chocolate box village, we’re really not joking.

Location: Thornton Le Dale, North Yorkshire

Go camping in the grounds of one of England’s finest stately homes

Take the kids camping on a child friendly holiday at Castle Howard near York, where a thousand breath-taking acres await for you to explore.

Location: Malton, North Yorkshire

Discover the village that fell into the sea

One dark night in 1664, while local people were attending a wake, the whole village of Runswick slipped into the sea…

Location: Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire

Discover Yorkshire's dramatic winter coast

Head to Robin Hood’s Bay during the winter and discover Yorkshire's dramatic coast in a new way.

Location: Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire

Bathe in autumn colours close to the Falling Foss waterfall

If ever there was a magical woodland walk, it’s the two-mile circular trail through the trees from May Beck to the charming Falling Foss waterfall, all within Little Beck Wood Nature Reserve.

Location: North York Moors, near Whitby, North Yorkshire

Cycle along the old coastal railway line to Whitby

Ride 21 view-filled and traffic-free miles along the ‘Cinder Track’, the old coastal railway line between Scarborough and Whitby.

Location: Whitby, Yorkshire

Ride the Whitby train from moor to sea

Delightful villages, dramatic views and gentle country walks – do it all by train from Whitby on a ride through the delightful Esk Valley.

Discover the quirky side of Robin Hood’s Bay

Enjoy a traditional seaside break with a twist at this old smuggling and fishing village on the North York Moors National Park coast.

Location: Robin Hood's Bay, Whitby

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North York Moors

Why we love the north york moors.

Rugged yet beautiful, wild yet welcoming – the North York Moors National Park is full of surprises. It is home to England’s largest heather moorland, a rare landscape that blooms purple in summer and is criss-crossed with hiking and cycling routes, while the coast is famous for its wide sandy beaches, quaint harbour villages and thrilling surf breaks.

The national park sits to the north of York, and is easily accessible from the city on day trips. But you won’t want to scrimp on time, because there’s so much to do: go whale-watching from Staithes, join a stargazing festival, kayak the River Esk, explore the haunting abbeys of Rievaulx and Whitby – and much more.

From countryside to coast, here’s how to squeeze maximum adventure into your North York Moors holiday.

VisitBritain/Acrojou

Follow in smugglers’ footsteps

The pretty fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay wasn’t always so picture-perfect. In the 18th century, its cobbled streets were a secret smuggling hotspot – though today they’re full of quirky boutiques, artists’ workshops and pubs. It’s a joy to linger in, as is the festival-loving, gallery-filled village of Staithes.

VisitBritain/Lucy Ellis

Hollywood calling

From breathtaking coastlines to wild moorlands, quaint fishing villages and a historic steam railway – it’s no surprise that North York Moors is popular filming location for the big and small screen. Whether it’s “Harry Potter”, “Indiana Jones” or “Bridgerton”, set off on a cinematic adventure across the North York Moors .

VisitBritain

Whitby Harbour, England

Coastal road trip

With everything you could want from a holiday including great sandy beaches, old fishing villages and an abundance of nature, head off on a North York Moor coastal adventure . Starting in Hull, explore Scarborough, Saltburn, Whitby and more.

North Yorkshire, Nordengland

Inland road tripping

From Newscastle to Helmsley, a road trip tour of the North York Moors ticks all the boxes. With hiking routes, history and nature in abundance, throw in the great food and cosy accommodation and you’ve got an epic trip on your hands.

Sutton Bank, North Yorkshire, England

Hike, bike and enjoy sustainably

With wild heathlands and hills to explore, the North York Moors is one of Britain’s oldest National Parks. Thanks to its status as a protected area we can continue to enjoy it, responsibly. Want to explore the beauty of nature? Here’s how to experience the North York Moors sustainably . 

Walk on the wild side

Put a spring in your step! When you go hiking in North York Moors National Park , you’ll experience it in glorious detail: the swooping song of a curlew bird, the fresh scent of woodland, the spritz of the sea on a cold winter’s day. There are trails for every ability, including wheelchair-accessible options.

Whitby, England

Fill your trip with festivals

To immerse yourself in local food and culture, look to the region’s vibrant festivals . From the fancy-dress parties of Whitby Steampunk Weekend (July) and WalkFest’s sociable hikes (May), to stargazing at the Dark Skies Fringe Festival (February), there’s always a new event on the horizon.

Welcome to Yorkshire

Escape on two wheels

Which trail to take? From flat forest paths to leg-pumping coastal tracks , the Moor to Sea Cycle Network offers 150 miles (240km) of cycling thrills – ideal for day trips or a week-long challenge. Or, head into those heather-topped hills on the 171-mile (276km) North York Moors Cycleway.

VisitBritain/Ceri Oakes

Sandsend Beach, Whitby, England

Get out on the water

The coastline is catnip for surfers, who come to ride Sandsend’s breaks and swells – along with sailors, windsurfers and paddleboarders, too. Rent a board or boat from a watersports centre, or try kayaking and fishing on the River Esk. Yachties will love Whitby’s three-day Regatta (August).

Charlotte Graham

Whitby Abbey, England

See a different side of Whitby

Feeling brave? Join a ghost tour in the graveyard of Whitby Abbey , the looming ruin that inspired Bram Stoker to write Dracula. Or for a hands-on history lesson, visit the Endeavour Experience, a full-size replica of Captain Cook’s ship; the famous explorer lived in Whitby during the 18th century.

Things to do in North York Moors

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The looming ruins of Whitby Abbey inspired Bram Stoker to write his classic novel Dracula – and they’re just as atmospheric today.

VisitBritain/Simon Palmer

Robin Hood’s Bay and Boggle Hole

From golden sands to blustery clifftops and tales of smugglers and sailors, the North York Moors coastline is a joy to explore.

North York Moors Coast, England

North Yorkshire Moors Railway

Travel back in time on a steam-powered train – between the market town of Pickering, and Whitby on the coast.

Rievaulx Abbey

Standing tall in a picturesque valley, the ruins of this ancient Cistercian monastery will take your breath away.

Dracula Experience

This spine-tingling tour brings Dracula’s chilling backstory to life, featuring special effects, animations and actors.

rcbridgestockauthor

Castle Howard

Head into history is this northern castle for hidden treasures and regal life.

castle_howard

Rock Climbing with Lost Earth Adventures

Don’t just admire the wild peaks of North York Moors National Park – climb them!

VisitBritain/Scott Salt

Tomorrow’s Ghost Festival

Don your heavy eyeliner and black leather for Whitby’s hedonistic celebration of all-things gothic.

Bushcraft with Rewilding Adventure

Learn how to light a fire, build a weather-proof den, and find food in the forest.

North York Moors, England

Staithes Gallery

Explore the rich and varied collection of paintings and photography of the surrounding area.

VisitBritain/Katya Jackson

Whitby Goth Weekend

Every April and October, the seaside town of Whitby transforms into an incredible gothic gathering.

Dark Skies Fringe Festival, North York Moors

With moonlit walks, workshops, stargazing and more, celebrate the International Dark Sky Status of the North York Moors.

Polly A Baldwin

Dalby Forest

Hike, cycle and run through this 8,500-acre woodland, in the North York Moors National Park.

Staithes Beach

As if the quaint fishing village of Staithes wasn’t charming enough, it also features a harbourside beach.

VisitBritain/Melody Thornton

Staithes, England

Saltburn Farmers’ Market

For 15 years, this community market has hosted some of the best-loved local food and drink producers.

Valley View Restaurant – The Mallyan Spout Hotel

Stand-out dishes include Whitby crab, Yorkshire duck breast, and local cheese with chutney and crackers.

North Yorks

Go Ape Dalby Forest

Unleash your inner adventurer on forest segway tracks, high ropes courses and multiple zip lines.

Joe Cornish Gallery

Discover the work of award-winning landscape photographer Joe Cornish, as well as other local talents.

Joe Cornish Galleries

Ryedale Folk Museum

Discover over 40,000 historical objects, and discover buildings that date back hundreds of years.

Olivia Brabbs

North York Moors Chamber Music Festival

Every summer, this two-week classical festival brings top-quality performers to the North York Moors.

Matthew Johnson

Malton Food Lovers Festival

As well as over 100 stalls and vendors, look out for cooking demos, celebrity chefs and tasting sessions.

Richard Ponter

Helmsley Walled Garden

A sublime setting for walks and photography – plus look out for art trails and craft-themed events.

Colin Dilcock

Ryedale Folk Museum’s art gallery and shop

Looking for souvenirs? Take your pick from locally-focused art, small-batch gins and seasonal chutneys.

Ryedale Folk Museum Art Gallery

Adventure Route, Route YC

A 250 mile (415 km) adventure cycling loop, exploring the Yorkshire Coast & North York Moors National Park.

Route YC Adventure Route

Yorkshire, England

Featured things to do

Rievaulx Abbey, North Yorkshire, Northern England

New year, new hobby? Sharpen your photography skills on an expert-led tour, snapping forests full of bluebells, newborn lambs in the fields, and Rievaulx Abbey’s spectacular daffodils.

VisitBritain/Lee Beel

Heavenly heather

The wild heather blossoms in abundance this season, painting the moors pinky-purple in the summer sun. Its sweet scent fills the air, making this a sublime time for hiking and cycling.

Follow that fin! From August to November, the coast is busy with minke, humpback, sei and fin whales – plus dolphins and porpoises too. Join a cruise from Staithes or Whitby.

VisitBritain/Tomo Brejc

Festive magic

Decked with glittering trees and sparkling lights, Castle Howard transforms into a winter wonderland – while Whitby has festive markets and fireworks at its annual Christmas Festival.

Places to stay in North York Moors

Glamping gems.

For a wild night, check out the national park’s quirky glamping sites – where you can bed down in safari tents, luxury yurts, woodland pods and more.

Boutique B&Bs

A great B&B offers stylish bedrooms and fantastic breakfasts, with a truly local welcome. Don’t forget to ask your hosts for their nearby travel tips.

Holiday rentals

From huge country houses with hot tubs and games rooms, to romantic seaside cottages made for two – what’s your self-catering holiday style?

Explore nearby

Small and mighty – York is the medieval walled city that really packs a punch.

A hotbed for shopping and the arts, you’ll find lots to explore in Leeds.

VisitBritain/Thomas Heaton

World-class football and a music scene that brought Oasis to centre stage – there’s lots to love about Manchester.

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Newcastle upon Tyne

Linked by no fewer than seven bridges, it's one vibrant place to visit.

Rich Kenworthy

Newcastle, England

Getting to North York Moors

If you’re arriving by rail, the stations at York, Leeds and Middlesbrough are the national park’s closest major hubs, and trains from London King’s Cross to York take around two hours. Manchester Airport is a two-hour drive from Helmsley, while the journey from Leeds Airport is one hour – putting the North York Moors within easy reach of destinations all over the world.

Getting around

You don’t need a car to get around: public transport options are plentiful, and the Esk Valley Railway runs right through the national park between Middlesbrough and Whitby, and links up with great walks, attractions and the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. Meanwhile, the likes of Moorsbus and Moors Explorer operate buses throughout summer and peak weekends.

By steam train

With its puffing steam trains and beautiful countryside views, the 24-mile (38km) North Yorkshire Moors Railway is a charming way to travel through the national park.

Putting extra power in your pedalling, an e-bike takes the strain out of cycling – so you can travel further, for longer. Most hire companies deliver bikes to local hotels.

Voted one of Britain’s most spectacular bus routes, the 840 Coastliner runs from Leeds to Whitby – and is just one of the many bus services that run all over the region.

Want to know more?

For outdoor adventures, expert travel tips and all the best places to stay, check out the national park’s official website.

Things to Do in North York Moors National Park, North Yorkshire - North York Moors National Park Attractions

Things to do in north york moors national park, explore popular experiences, popular cities in north york moors national park.

Ways to tour North York Moors National Park

Moors, Whitby & The Yorkshire Steam Railway Day Trip from York

• North York Moors and Whitby Day Tour from York

5-Day York, Lake District & Hadrian's Wall Tour from Edinburgh

3-Day Yorkshire Dales and Peak District Small-Group Tour from Manchester

North York Moors Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK

Steam Trains, Whitby, and the North York Moors Full-Day Tour from York

Private Half-Day North York Moors National Park Tour from York or Harrogate

• Full-Day Heartbeat Locations Tour from York

Private Day Tour Yorkshire Moor, Coast Cliff and Whitby

• Full-Day Whitby and The North York Moors Private Tour from York

Top Attractions in North York Moors National Park

Other Top Attractions around North York Moors National Park

Tours & Sightseeing

Cultural & Theme Tours

Private & custom tours, what travelers are saying.

• Cleveland Way National Trail
• Goathland Station
• Robin Hood's Bay and Fylingdales Museum
• The Hole of Horcum
• Robin Hoods Bay Beach
• North Yorkshire Off Road Centre
• Staithes Beach
• Boggle Hole
• Moors, Whitby & The Yorkshire Steam Railway Day Trip from York
• Whitby and The North York Moors Day Trip from York
• Ryedale Folk Museum
• Grosmont Railway Station, NYMR

Things to do in the North York Moors National Park

Unmissable experiences in the north york moors national park.

Nestled in the heart of Northern England, the North York Moors National Park is a tapestry of rolling heather-clad moors, ancient woodlands, and rugged coastlines. A sanctuary for both nature enthusiasts and history buffs, this national gem offers a myriad of activities and attractions. Whether you're keen on trekking scenic trails, delving into rich history, or simply soaking in the tranquil beauty, the North York Moors promises an unforgettable experience.

Dive in and discover the myriad things to do in this captivating landscape!

Mindfulness

Relaxation & indulgence, north yorkshire moors railway.

People have been walking for thousands of years along Ryedale’s greenways - in fact, the North York Moors is famous for its ancient footpaths! There are more surviving ‘trods’ (flagged pathways) here than anywhere else, and they’re something of a mystery - no-one knows who built them, just that they’re very old. For century upon century, people’s footsteps have made their mark on this land: medieval saints and pilgrims, Roman soldiers and Celtic warriors, and before them – for 6,000 years and more – farmers. Today, the region is a welcome retreat for walkers – home to 1,400 miles of walking routes, and national trails that are amongst the oldest, least-discovered and most artistic in the country.

• For epic walkers who like to go the distance: along the Cleveland Way National Trail you can leave the traffic and your cares far behind for a 109-mile hike through the spectacular North York Moors National Park, from Helmsley to the Yorkshire Coast. It’s one of the most rich and varied landscapes of any national trail, and also one of the most historic – not only the second national trail to open, but populated by ruined castles and abbeys, ancient monuments, and smugglers’ coves.
• Lazy amble, or fun for families: take a happy history tour of Helmsley on this walk that’s also ideal if your party includes pushchairs and wheelchairs. You’ll pass by the pretty beck, the imposing castle, the magnificent walled gardens and of course, wander through the picturesque marketplace, charmingly bedecked for Christmas and famous for its fascinating and friendly independent stores, eateries and galleries. Find route details here.

For walkers who like to go off the beaten track: sometimes lazy, sometimes adventurous, these walks will take you right into the heart of the beautiful countryside where you can experience the awe and wonder of nature, but not be too far from a friendly tea-room or pub for a well-earned treat:

• These places are gateways into much wider walking terrain with a network of pathways from their doorsteps, so you can either ‘follow your nose’ for a free-flow amble, or download a walking route to explore in more detail: Helmsley, Kirkbymoorside, Terrington, Slingsby, Hovingham, Nunnington, Welburn, Appleton-le-Moors, Lastingham, Low Mill in Farndale (famous for its daffodils), Rosedale Abbey, and Hutton-le-Hole. All of these locations also have top-notch tea-rooms or pubs for walker-friendly refreshments (but make sure you check opening times before you set out!)
• Dalby Forest and Sutton Bank outdoor centres also have a huge network of walking trails, alongside additional facilities like tea-rooms, shops, car parking, and play areas.

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The North York Moors is home to some of Britain’s best and most varied biking. Whether on or off-road, the region’s gloriously diverse landscape makes it a pedalling paradise perfect for any mood, ability or bike, so whether you prefer gentle escapism, family freewheeling or epic adventures, there’s a place and a pace for you here.

The region also boasts one of the driest winter climates in Britain, with less rainfall than most other outdoor destinations! Even better, you can find ‘weather-proof’ trails year-round on the North York Moors, thanks to the forest trails and specially-prepared cycling surfaces of these Top Three cycling hubs – the starting points for the greatest rides in the North York Moors!:

Dalby Forest is one of Britain’s best and largest mountain biking centres, featuring over 45 miles of cycling across an epic 8,000 acres, and home to an international UCI World Cup Trail and a dedicated skills Bike Park with its chance for airtime adventures. There are routes perfect for beginners and families, and also an impressive range of facilities including expert tuition and guiding, shops, cafes and bike hire (as well as Go Ape Treetop adventures, forest segways and woodland play areas).

Over recent years, Sutton Bank has become the flagship cycling centre for the North York Moors National Park, with the development of its ‘top of the world’ WildRide network making it one of the best destinations in the country for traffic-free riding. From the Bank itself, you’ll enjoy the finest view in England, and all of the 40+ miles of signposted cycling trails (all different ability levels) take advantage of this stunning ‘sky-high’ location. There’s also a skills area for young novices, a pump track for mountain-bikers, and - as a gateway to the North York Moors - Sutton Bank is a great base for those wanting to experience classic moorland rides – both on and off-road. To help everything go smoothly, the visitor centre has an impressive range of facilities, from expert tuition and guiding, to shops, cafes and bike hire (and also play area and walking trails).

If you love a forest trail, then head for Cropton and Keldy where you can also stay in Forest Holiday’s luxury eco-lodges with bike hire and hot tubs. Or you can support Newbridge Park in Pickering, where local volunteers have turned a disused woodland quarry into a mini-bike park with MTB trails and skills area, with proceeds helping to fund wildlife conservation.

The North York Moor’s crowning glory, however, is its giant ‘wild’ playground, where off-roaders can experience some of Britain’s best single-track, ridgeway, and top-of-the-world trails or the new North York Moors Cycleway, a ‘figure of eight’ off-road cycling trail through 200 miles of some of the UK’s most amazing scenery, with plenty of cycling-friendly accommodation, cafes and tea rooms along the way. Meanwhile, dedicated roadies can enjoy classic rides which attract cyclists from far and wide, from the glorious Bransdale or Dalby Forest Loops to the rather more comfortable Spaunton Manor circuit around Appleton-le-Moors.

Year-round cycling facilities

Want to get the most out of your cycling? Then make the most of local experts: get insider tips on terrain and trails, learn new skills, and get advice on where to hire or buy the best bikes or kit with the region’s highly-qualified coaches and guides. Ask for details at Big Bear Bikes (Pickering), Dalby Cycle Hub (Dalby Forest), Dalby Bike Barn (Thornton-le-Dale), or Sutton Bank Bikes (near Helmsley). Having a guide is really valuable if you’d like to explore the off-road ‘wild’ trails across the North York Moors.

For more info on their cycling routes visit the North York Moors National Park website .

“Everywhere peace, everywhere serenity, and a marvellous freedom from the tumult of the world.”

You don’t need to climb a Himalayan mountain to find true peace. The words above were written by one of the greatest spiritual writers of the Middles Ages, Aelred, about his own retreat in the North York Moors, Rievaulx Abbey. 900 years later they still hold true.

• Did you know..?: t he North York Moors is one of the very few places in England where tranquillity and solitude is so valued, so uniquely part of its nature that it’s being protected by legislation; celebrated as a precious natural resource essential to our well-being.

While ideas about mindfulness and wellbeing seem very modern, the North York Moors has been a haven, a retreat, for a very long time - the original sanctuary. 400 years ago, healing spring water was discovered along the Yorkshire Coast, and the seaside holiday was born as people escaped to the first-ever seaside spa. Ever since, the coastline of the North York Moors has become a place where we can cast off our everyday cares - rediscover our smiles, restore our sense of self, find healing.

The area’s relationship with health, happiness and harmony is much older, however. For nearly 1500 years, from the time of the earliest saints, the region’s hills have been alive with the sound of bells and prayers, as monks and nuns made their mark on the landscape, in mile upon mile of sacred sanctuaries – more than anywhere else in Britain.

Today, the North York Moors is the perfect place to seek sanctuary, and restore the mind, body and soul:

• Engage with nature, seeking harmony: marvel at wide open spaces with far-distant horizons, and not a car in sight; spectacular scenery, a rich, colourful and musical tapestry of land and sea, providing a haven for some of Britain’s most precious wildlife – and for us. Space to take a breath, hear your heartbeat, feel alive.
• Take time for ourselves: far from madding crowds, traffic and human intrusion. This is one of the least-crowded places in the country, with some of the UK’s lowest levels of light pollution - earning it much-prized ‘Dark Skies’ status, and the chance to lose yourself in Britain’s starriest skies.
• A spiritual quality: even best-selling writers have struggled to find words to describe the unique ambience of the North York Moors, something that touches the soul and has inspired both supernatural and saintly expression, for hundreds and hundreds of years. It is a place where history merges into myth, creating a sense that anything is possible, giving us a space for our imaginations to run free.

See Rievaulx Abbey, Dalby Forest, Dark Skies

Other mindful places

Helmsley Walled Garden , (designated a local sustainable tourism champion), has been designed as a place of peace and tranquillity, in balance with nature and the natural world with its ‘green’ gardening practices. The award-winning visitor attraction is celebrating this relationship in a series of events exploring the ancient healing power of herbal remedies.

Not far from the Walled Garden is the National Centre for Birds of Prey with the North’s largest collection of birds-of-prey – who you can meet face-to-face during their astonishing daily flight displays. As Christmas approaches, the winter owls take magical flights through a torch and candle-lit woodland fairyland; and each spring, the handlers nurture chicks as part of their conservation programme to protect internationally-endangered species, with last year’s new broods including Spectacled Owls, Bald Eagles, Ural Owls and Grey Buzzard Eagles and Steller's Sea Eagles (one of the world’s largest birds).

As a working abbey in an area of outstanding natural beauty, Ampleforth Abbey is a special place of peace, which warmly welcomes visitors into its glorious grounds to seek sanctuary and inspiration. They are most famous, however, for their tasty tipples: with some of the largest traditional orchards in the North of England, Ampleforth Abbey’s monks handmake their celebrated cider and brandy to a centuries-old recipe – and autumn is the best time to take an orchard tour, as over 50 varieties of apple are harvested and hand-pressed in the abbey’s cider-mill.

In its idyllic spot by the river, Danby Lodge National Park Centre is a peaceful place to wile away time amongst nature, or gaze at the starry night-skies (like Sutton Bank, this is an official Dark Skies Discovery Site – the others being Dalby Forest and Sutton Bank). It’s also home to the national park’s flagship art gallery, Inspired By…, which champions local artists and makers, many of whom are UK leaders in the contemporary art scene. As well as art and crafts workshops and hands-on events for budding artists, there are regular ‘Meet the Artist’ events, where you can often see the makers in action!

• Enjoy YogandSpice near Whitby (Guardian Top 10 spa and wellness break), offering woodland yoga retreats spiced with Ayurvedic cookery and foraging.
• Retreat to your own luxurious country estate at Raithwaite in Sandsend, where its extensive spa has pamper packages not just for people, but also for guest pooches!
• Timeout in nature with Adventures for the Soul , exploring the North York Moors with wild walks or mindful mini-adventures that include Dark Skies Meanders, wild camping, forest yoga and woodland bathing
• The Tree Relaxation Retreat in Rosedale Abbey (Guardian & Times’ Top 25 world’s best yoga retreat) makes the most of its spectacular surroundings with moorland strolls included on the ‘spa menu’

Showstopping Baking In The Capital Of Cake

Take a break in Britain’s ‘Capital of Cake’. Yes, there are so many divine desserts the region’s been dubbed the ‘Capital of Cake’, and here are a few heavenly hot spots:

The Champions of Cake: each year, the North York Moors challenges local tea-rooms and bakeries to compete for the much-coveted title, ‘Capital of Cake’. Recent champions include the Willow Cake Shop in Loftus with its signature cupcakes, and Yorkshire Cycle Hub near Danby with their multi-layered weekend whoppers. Traditional homebakes with sensational views were also winning recipes for beach-side Sandside Cafe in Sandsend (also one of the Telegraph’s top 8 best beach cafes), the Hornblower Tea Garden (a former lighthouse station in Whitby), and Graze on the Green in walkers’ paradise, Rosedale Abbey.

Time Travelling Teacakes: world-famous Bothams of Whitby has been a family-run craft bakery since 1865, and is still serving their time-honoured recipes – parkin and brack, ginger and plum breads - all freshly baked from the finest ingredients by the great grandchildren of the original bakers.

What a view! The ‘top-of-the-world’ Hornblower Tea Garden is perched on top of the highest spot in Whitby, in the old lighthouse and foghorn station, with stunning sea views. It’s a walker’s secret, only accessible via the Cleveland Way National Trail – so after indulging in the scrumptious homemade cakes, scones and sandwiches you can walk to make room for more…

Local specialities: the only place you can taste the Staithes Coble - a traditional spiced apricot, apple, cinnamon and walnut cake - is the harbourside Seadrift Café in Staithes. And if you fancy a Moggy or a Yorkshire Courting Cake, you’ll need to hike to Dale Head Farm Tea-room, an ‘oasis on the moors’ above Rosedale Abbey.

For a toe-tapping tea-room, you can’t beat the Tea, Toast & Post in Robin Hood’s Bay – not only celebrated for its extraordinary food & drink (all toast temptations, from ‘Doorstep’ Egg & Bacon Toast to Fish Finger Toast Platters), but one of the coast’s top live music venues, where you’ll often stumble upon some of the country’s top acoustic musicians in a ‘secret’ gig!

Afternoon Tea for connoisseurs: at the magnificent Raithwaite Sandsend near Whitby, set on its own country estate, the Indulgent Afternoon Tea is labour of love for foodies. A celebration of local produce, it includes Slow Roast Yorkshire Ham and Whitby Fortune’s Kipper Pate with Rhubarb Chutney; and Yorkshire Curd Tart and Earl Grey Cake with Icing made with Heather Honey from the North York Moors. Meanwhile, the decadent Afternoon Tea at the Feversham Arms changes with the seasons. Their chef’s top-class speciality is a unique savoury afternoon tea, with cheese and herb-infused scones, freshly baked pastries (including venison sausage rolls and goats cheese tartlets) as well as a classic selection of sandwiches.

For the most historic Afternoon Tea, seek out award-winning Bothams Tea Rooms in Whitby. This world-famous craft bakery has been making the same, beloved family recipes since 1865 from the finest of ingredients, and the Afternoon Tea is an unforgettable experience, with a traditional atmosphere and scrumptious hand-baking of classic Yorkshire recipes, all served on an elegant handcrafted tiered stand.

Take an enchanting journey aboard the iconic steam trains of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, one of the world’s greatest railway experiences – and also movie star, beloved for its role as Hogsmeade in Harry Potter, and more recently featuring in the latest Mission Impossible and Raiders of the Lost Ark blockbusters. The railway also organises its own blockbuster events, from the magical Santa Specials to October illuminations.

The vintage trains wind their way between Pickering and Whitby across 26 miles of stunning moorland landscape, but the railway is much more than a nostalgic attraction. With stops at Levisham, Grosmont and Goathland, it’s also a novel and practical way of connecting walkers and cyclists up to a network of routes across the national park.

Note that the main timetable ends on 5 November, resuming for the Easter holidays.

With old-world charm and vibrant market towns, the North York Moors will rekindle the most humbug of Christmas spirits – the perfect place for a gentle winter escape.

For centuries, the picturesque market towns of the North York Moors – Helmsley, Kirkbymoorside, and Pickering – have been the heart and soul of the region, and that’s especially true at Christmas. Just a few miles away from each other (and only a short hop from York), they form an extraordinary 13-mile corridor sparkling with yuletide tradition, and unique in the UK.

• Make merry in market squares dressed to impress Santa himself, with farmers’ shops heaped high with local foodie treats, and music and theatre spilling onto the streets.
• You’re in one of Britain’s best foodie destinations, so stock up your Xmas hamper with a bounty of prize-winning local produce or indulge in winter feasting in award-winning eateries.
• Revel in the joy of gifting, browsing the galleries and workshops for a unique local masterpiece by Britain’s leading makers, or hunting for antiques.
• Make magical memories: don’t miss Castle Howard’s winter wonderland, Santa’s steam trains at the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, or candlelit winter owls dancing at the National Bird of Prey Centre.

And if you find that one day just isn’t enough, stay a little longer in luxury hotels, cottages or B&Bs.

Christmas Event Highlights

Details TBC at the moment on these events, but I have a mass of content on all of these from previous years!

• Fridays & Saturdays during October – December, Winter Owl Evenings at the National Bird of Prey Centre (Helmsley)
• 18 – 20 November Whitby Christmas Market & Festival (in the past this has had an seaside ice-skating rink)
• 25 November – 5 January 2024 Stepping into a Story Wonderland, Sutton Bank and Danby Lodge National Park Centres
• Weekends from 25 November to 24 December, Santa Specials at the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (from Pickering and Grosmont)
• 2 – 3 December Robin Hood's Bay Victorian Weekend, Robin Hood's Bay: the whole town turns back the clock to the 19 th century, with costumes, games, carols and street entertainment
• 2023 dates TBC Castle Howard at Christmas: experience this magnificent house decked out
• 2023 dates tbc Helmsley Christmas Festival (including the much-loved Tree Festival in the church, panto spilling onto the street, carols and lighting displays, Christmas markets!
• 26 Boxing Day Dip on Whitby beach

Christmas Art Trail

Churches are open all through the winter and the North York Moors has some incredible examples, just like York!)

Forget Banksy or Marvel’s comic art: 500 years ago, artists created one of Europe’s most important medieval masterpieces on the walls of St Peter’s and St Paul’s Church in Pickering, recreating – in colossal scale - stories from the Harrowing of Hell and St George’s battle with the dragon, full of drama and vibrant colour, like magnificent medieval manga. It’s not the only church in the area with amazing treasures: Byland Abbey (great window inspired York Minster’s famous rose window), Lastingham Priory , St Gregory’s Minster in Kirkdale, and Stonegrave Minster all have unique – even legendary - masterpieces and artefacts to discover within their hallowed walls. Even better, they’re free to visit and open daily!

Favourite Winter Walk

It’s become a winter pilgrimage for many people seeking peace and quiet: a ‘blow the cobwebs away’ hike between Helmsley Castle and Rievaulx Abbey along the Cleveland Way National Trail, through ancient woodland into the secluded valley of the River Rye. You’ll certainly work up an appetite, so take time to treat yourself in the abbey’s café, or one of the many top-class tea-tooms and restaurants in Helmsley, your starting point. Leave around 3 hours for the walk; route details are here .

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North York Moors National Park: The Complete Guide

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Things to Do

• Best Hikes & Trails

Water Sports

Scenic drives, where to camp, where to stay nearby, how to get there, accessibility, tips for your visit, north york moors national park.

Travel to the northeast of England to discover the 554-square-mile North York Moors National Park , famous for its sweeping fields of purple heather. The national park, established in 1952, is famous as the setting for several novels and films, including Bram Stoker's "Dracula," which was partially written in the seaside town of Whitby.

There are several popular destinations within the park, including Robin Hood's Bay, Goathland, and Pickering. The area is well-known for its hikes, including the famed Cleveland Way, in addition to its beaches and rugged coasts along the North Sea. Whether you prefer to embark on an adventure outdoor or experience local culture, the North York Moors National Park has something for every type of traveler.

The North York Moors National Park consists of scenic towns and villages, beaches and coastline, and vast expanses of countryside, Go shopping in the charming market towns of Pickering, Malton, or Whitby; dine on seafood in the fishing village of Robin Hood's Bay; or take a tour of Castle Howard , featured in Netflix's "Bridgerton." The North York Moors are designated as an International Dark Sky Reserve, boasting lots of spots to stargaze throughout the area. For a dose of history, head to Whitby Abbey , Ryedale Folk Museum , or Levisham Estate .

Outdoor types will enjoy walking, cycling, horseback riding, and trail running, and the long North Sea coastline offers opportunities for swimming, water sports, and boat trips. The North York Moors National Park is known in England as the "capital of cake," which means you can treat yourself after a hike or bike ride at one of the many bakeries and tearooms throughout the villages. Many visitors enjoy a ride on one of the historic steam trains that traverse the North Yorkshire Moors Railway . Head to the train station in Goathland, which you may recognize from the Harry Potter films, to board.

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Best Hikes & Trails

The national park isn't necessarily a hiking destination as it lacks mountains and steep ascents. However, there are several popular walking trails throughout the park, including a few that require long-distance treks. The most famous trail is the Cleveland Way, which runs for 110 miles around the national park and can be completed in segments or as a whole.

The North York Moors are also known for fell and trail running, with numerous running events taking place throughout the region each year. Fell running, where a runner creates their own route through the terrain, is a great way to test your endurance. One of the top running routes is the Cinder Track from Scarborough to Whitby.

While the area isn't necessarily mountainous, the trails can be rocky or rough, so it's important to wear sturdy, comfortable shoes. The weather can be unpredictable and visitors should bring along rain gear and layers. Because many of the trails and routes traverse through the countryside, it's important to know the right of way. Check the park's Rights of Way Map , which is updated daily, when planning your walk.

Here are some of the best trails in the North York Moors National Park:

• Cleveland Way : Officially opened in 1969, the Cleveland Way runs from Helmsley through several towns in the North York Moors, including Saltburn-by-the-Sea and Whitby. It's an accessible trail for all levels of fitness, although you'll need nine days to complete the entire route.
• Lyke Wake Walk: This 40-mile trail traverses the highest and widest part of the national park and is typically done from west to east. There is no official route, but trekkers can follow the New Lyke Wake Club's map .
• White Rose Way : The White Rose Way stretches from Leeds to Scarborough, but avid walkers can take up part of the trail in the North York Moors. Look for the part that passes through Dalby and Wykeham Forests for a particularly scenic walk.
• Esk Valley Walk : Experience some of the most beautiful valleys in England on the Esk Valley trail, which is split into four routes that total 37 miles.

Biking is particularly enjoyable in the North York Moors thanks to its rolling hills and scenic landscapes. There are three dedicated cycling centers within the national park to help both newcomers and experienced cyclists. While some bikers may prefer to ride on the country roads, there are also opportunities to cycle along miles of bridleways, forest tracks, and disused railway lines. There are numerous bike rental shops throughout the North York Moors, including in Pickering, Scarborough, Thirsk, and Whitby.

• Moor to Sea Cycle Network : For cyclists looking to enjoy quiet roads and scenic forest trails, the long-distance Moor to Sea Cycle Network connects Scarborough, Whitby, Dalby Forest, Pickering, and Great Ayton over 150 miles. There are 11 routes in total, which can be joined together for those looking to make a lengthier ride.
• Dalby Forest : Dalby Forest is the prime location for mountain biking in the North York Moors, with options for experienced cyclists as well as families. Look for the accessible 1.7-mile Ellerburn Family Cycle Route or Dixon's Hollow Bike Park, which offers dirt jumps and a track for adventurous riders.
• Sutton Bank : The area of Sutton Bank, which has its own cycling center, is filled with mountain biking trails that are ideal for families and beginners. One of the most popular is the 3-mile Cliff Trail.

Because the North York Moors National Park includes a long stretch of coast, the area is perfect for those seeking water sports. You can rent a canoe or kayak at Whitby Harbour, or try your hand at paddleboarding or surfing in Sandsend. While many of the harbors along the coast offer great shore fishing, the harbors in Scarborough, Whitby, and Staithes are the best of the bunch. Swimming is, of course, a big deal in the park, even when the water is cold. Whitby and Scarborough have the two best beaches, each featuring long stretches of sand and amenities, though visitors will need to be mindful of the tides.

There is a lot to discover in the North York Moors, from the coast to charming countryside towns to vast stretches of moorland. That's all best seen by car, particularly if you want to glimpse the heather when it blooms a majestic purple. There are numerous routes through the national park, and visitors can't really go wrong with any one of them as there's so much to see. For an especially scenic drive, head from Whitby to Hutton-le-Hole along the A174 and the B1460, or follow the Wharfedale Circuit, which stops at Grassington, Bolton Abbey, and Skipton Castle.

The roads in the North York Moors can vary in terms of traffic, but it's always important to be aware of the speed limits, especially on curving sections. There can be layers of fog over the moors during the colder months, so proceed with care. Opt for a GPS addition in your rental car in case cell phone service is limited (it will likely drop out between towns). When in doubt, bring a printed map that leads the way to your destination.

Richard Pinder / Getty Images

The North York Moors National Park offers both camping and glamping options throughout the region. For help finding the best possible campsite, use a booking site like Camping.co.uk . If you want to wild camp, be sure to get permission from the landowner first.

• Middlewood Farm Holiday Park : Bring the kids to Middlewood Farm Holiday Park, where you can rent a caravan, glamping pod, or campsite. Its location near Robin Hood's Bay is great for countryside walks and beach access.
• Partridge Nest Farm : Located on Eskdaleside, Partridge Nest Farm features camping pods and a vacation cottage for rent.
• Lawnsgate Farm : Lawngate Farm, near the village of Lealholm, is ideal for family-friendly camping and glamping in the English countryside.
• Bungdale Head Farm Campsite : This working family farm, found near Helmsley, has spots for tents, motor homes, and RVs. Toilets and running water are available.

Whether you prefer to rent a vacation cottage near the North Sea or bunk up in a quaint B&B in a countryside town, there are dozens of great accommodation options throughout the park. For unique housing options, check out  Canopy & Stars , a travel site with interesting properties for rent around the U.K., or  Sykes Holiday Cottages .

• Raithwaite Sandsend : This four-star hotel on the outskirts of Whitby features stylish rooms and a restaurant. The best part? It's within walking distance of the beach.
• Gisborough Hall Hotel : Embrace countryside luxury at Gisborough Hill Hotel, a manor house hotel with comfortable rooms and a good location between the sea and the moors.
• Grinkle Park Hotel : Located on a 35-acre country estate, this stately house hotel has a real sense of history. Don't miss the hotel's high-end afternoon tea service.
• Pheasant Hotel : Country walkers will make the most of this hotel, located near Helmsley. The rooms are chic and family-friendly, with a restaurant on site.

The North York Moors National Park is located in the northeast of England and is accessible by car, train, and bus. If arriving by train, the best station to come into from London is York , found on the outskirts of the North York Moors. From there, visitors can rent a car or continue on via train to places like Malton, Scarborough, Middlesbrough, Redcar, and Whitby. Additionally, the TransPennine Express operates trains from Manchester, Leeds, and York into Malton, Seamer, and Scarborough.

A cheaper but slower option is the National Express bus, which offers service to York, Thirsk, Northallerton, Scarborough, and Middlesbrough. From York, Coastliner Buses continue on to Malton, Pickering, Goathland, and Whitby. By car, the A1 and the A64 bring visitors to the outskirts of the region, and smaller roads like the A172, the A171, and the A170 connect the main towns and the coast.

The nearest airports are Leeds Bradford International Airport, Newcastle International Airport, Doncaster Sheffield Airport, and Teeside International Airport. Car rentals are available at each one. For those coming by ferry from the Netherlands, the closest ferry ports are Hull and Newcastle.

All three of the visitor centers in the North York Moors National Park are accessible, and much of the park itself welcomes those with mobility issues or disabilities. The Moors National Park Centre and the Sutton Bank National Park Centre  have motorized scooters and manual wheelchairs available for free rental, as well as disabled parking spots. While many of the trails involve going off-road, some of the walking and cycling routes are appropriate for those who have trouble walking or who are in a wheelchair. You can find easy-access walks on the park's official website . Attractions like Castle Howard offer disabled parking, accessible toilets, and ramp access.

Daniel Nicholson / 500px

• Take advantage of the national park's three visitor centers. Each features exhibitions, kid-friendly activities, a gift shop, and workshops.
• Plan your visit around the park's nature calendar , which helps travelers discern when to spot specific animals or plants. The heather, specifically, blooms purple and pink from mid-August through September.
• Download the PayByPhone app to pay for parking in all of the North York Moors National Park parking lots. Search for the nearest open spot on the North York Moors' website .
• When planning a visit to one of the area's beaches, use the Tide Forecast to check the incoming and outgoing tides.

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North York Moors National Park

Perfect days, starry nights.

Make magical memories in a peaceful corner of northern England.

Sweeping moorland, a crinkly coast, ancient woods and timeless villages – the North York Moors is a special place, forged by nature and shaped over generations. Give yourself time to discover its secrets, from amazing wildlife to dazzling night skies.

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• NorthYorkMoorsNationalPark
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Key activities

Coastal stroll, forest trail, moorland walk or the 109-mile Cleveland Way National Trail – it's up to you!

Our cycle hubs, trail centres, bridleways and country lanes are perfect for two-wheel adventures of all kinds.

Reinvigorate your mind, enrich your senses and connect with nature in our wide open spaces and magical places.

Special qualities

The North York Moors is a special place – here’s why!

Our wildlife will surprise you – from the moorland merlin, the UK’s smallest bird of prey, to whales off the North York Moors coast.

The North York Moors has vast areas of clear, dark skies – you can often see up to 2,000 stars, including a swathe of our own galaxy, the Milky Way.

There’s history and heritage in every step you take, from Gothic ruins to Victorian steam trains, Cistercian monasteries to stately homes, ironstone mines to fishing villages. The National Park also features over 800 Scheduled Monuments and 1,500 ancient boundary stones and crosses.

Our 44,000 hectares of heather moorland are designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its heathland habitat and breeding birds, such as red grouse, curlew and golden plover.

There are 26 miles of Jurassic-era coastline to explore, including the famous old fishing villages of Staithes and Robin Hood’s Bay.

You could walk or cycle every day for a year and still not cover every corner of the National Park – there are 2,250 kilometres of rights of way alone, not to mention country lanes, quiet backroads, coastal tracks, forest trails and a National Trail.

Did you know?

Welcome to the North York Moors

The North York Moors was established as National Park in 1952 – a treasured landscape in the heart of North Yorkshire, protected for everyone to enjoy. We cover 1,436 square kilometres between Scarborough, Thirsk and Teesside.

Of the 1,500 ancient boundary stones and crosses here, probably the most famous is Young Ralph Cross, adopted as the National Park’s distinctive logo. We like to think that this stone cross on the spreading moorland stands for a state of mind – this wonderful landscape, it’s saying, is somewhere to come and refresh your spirits. It’s the place where magical things happen – where the stresses and strains of daily life disappear, and where relaxation, holidays and adventure begin.

Discover the places and meet the people to take you on this journey. Experience the very best of the North York Moors and forge lasting memories with family and friends. Join wildlife experts from Yorkshire Coast Nature and set sail from Staithes in search of Minke whales. Smell the myriad of sweet scents at Helmsley Walled Garden, featured in the 2020 film adaptation of The Secret Garden. Taste your way through delicacies from our moorland and coast – whether it’s kippers from Fortune’s, Whitby’s traditional smokehouse or a jar of Westfield honey from hives set amongst the heather around Fadmoor. Find your inner peace with Adventures for the Soul who teach the practice of mindfulness whilst out in nature.

The open moorland – ablaze with purple heather in summer – will give you a rare sense of space. Away from the noise of traffic, you can hear the cries of moorland birds, the trickling water in a stream and the buzz of insects in the heather. On the coast, experience the roar of the sea, the wind in your hair, the sand between your toes. The dales form a rich patchwork of earthy colours, hedgerows and drystone walls – landscapes, created generations ago, still maintained by today’s farmers. Our woodlands and ancient trees provide a sense of well-being and a link to the past. And far from the artificial lights of towns, there are truly dark skies where you can see majestic skyscapes full of stars. The North York Moors – it’s where we want you to feel at home.

Getting around

The delightful Esk Valley Railway (Middlesbrough to Whitby) passes through the heart of the National Park; while the North Yorkshire Moors Railway runs steam heritage services from Pickering to Whitby. Or enjoy a ride on Coastliner 840 from York – voted Britain’s most scenic bus route!

Getting there

We’re closer than you think! Rail services and long-distance buses from across the country run to surrounding towns – and London to York can take less than two hours by train. Local bus links get you to scenic spots like Pickering, Helmsley, Goathland, Robin Hood’s Bay and Thornton le Dale.

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Things to do in North York Moors

You will always find plenty of things to do in the North York Moors, especially if you love the outdoors!

For those who love cycling and walking, you will definitely rack up a few miles with the endless choice of trails to choose from!  Dalby Forest  is a popular spot and has some more challenging routes, especially for those looking for a bit of an adrenaline rush! For a more relaxing opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, you can explore the  Cleveland Way Trail , the ever-popular walking trail that takes you through the rugged beauty of both the North York Moors and the Yorkshire Coast.

Looking to take in the sights from the comfort of a steam carriage? Hop on board the famous  North Yorkshire Moors Railway  and head to one of the many market towns or villages within the national park or travel in style to  Whitby .

With a whole host of other  attractions  and  events  to choose from you can be sure you will never be stuck for things to do in the North York Moors and The Yorkshire Coast.

Theatre and entertainment in North York Moors

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Top Things to Do in North York Moors National Park, North Yorkshire

Places to visit in north york moors national park, explore popular experiences, popular cities in north york moors national park.

Ways to tour North York Moors National Park

Moors, Whitby & The Yorkshire Steam Railway Day Trip from York

• North York Moors and Whitby Day Tour from York

5-Day York, Lake District & Hadrian's Wall Tour from Edinburgh

3-Day Yorkshire Dales and Peak District Small-Group Tour from Manchester

North York Moors Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK

Steam Trains, Whitby, and the North York Moors Full-Day Tour from York

Private Half-Day North York Moors National Park Tour from York or Harrogate

• Full-Day Heartbeat Locations Tour from York

Private Day Tour Yorkshire Moor, Coast Cliff and Whitby

• Full-Day Whitby and The North York Moors Private Tour from York

Top Attractions in North York Moors National Park

Other Top Attractions around North York Moors National Park

Tours & Sightseeing

Cultural & Theme Tours

Private & custom tours, what travellers are saying.

• Cleveland Way National Trail
• Goathland Station
• Robin Hood's Bay and Fylingdales Museum
• The Hole of Horcum
• Robin Hoods Bay Beach
• North Yorkshire Off Road Centre
• Staithes Beach
• Boggle Hole
• Moors, Whitby & The Yorkshire Steam Railway Day Trip from York
• Whitby and The North York Moors Day Trip from York
• Ryedale Folk Museum
• Grosmont Railway Station, NYMR

Visit the North York Moors

Purple moors and rolling hills.

The North York Moors and further south the lovely Yorkshire Wolds are the scenic background to the coastline with heather moors, rolling hills, picturesque country towns and historic houses. The North York Moors National Park offers great scenic variety - open moorland and secluded dales extending to the rugged coast. Explore the Park by foot, bicycle, park bus, or restored railway.

A National Park for 50 years, a sense of space and solitude marks the North York Moors. Ridge upon ridge of purple heather moorland extends into the distance. The deep secret valleys which cut the plateau come almost as a surprise and the warmth of their red-roofed villages contrasts with the upland solitude. In spring, valleys such as Farndale come alive with daffodils.

Travel 18 miles through the North York Moors on the steam railway from Grosmont to Pickering, with a station at Goathland, the famous Aidensfield of the Heartbeat TV series and now a Harry Potter film location. More modern are the listening posts at Fylingdales Moor, replacing the famous 'golf balls' of Cold War fame.

There are over 2,300km of paths and tracks on the North York Moors making it a walker's and cyclist's paradise. There are short strolls and half day walks and the superb Cleveland Way National Trail which can be explored in circular sections. Wildlife enthusiasts can hear the call of upland birds in the moorland peace. Whatever the season the Moors are a place to get away from it all and experience its spectacular countryside.

Exploring is assisted by the Moorsbus, a National Park organised service which travels to all corners of the Park.

Visit the honey-coloured villages of the Moors, and perhaps have a meal at one of the traditional country pubs. Or for more wooded country visit Dalby Forest, west of Scarborough, and walk forest trails through beautiful woodland.

Within the North York Moors National Park are the high cliffs and rocky shores of the North Yorkshire and Cleveland Heritage Coast with fishing villages, sandy beaches, and a coastline rich in natural flora and fauna. See the Visit Yorkshire Coast guide for more information.

At the south of the Park are Helmsley in its attractive setting and Pickering with its ancient castle keep.

Nearby the traditional country towns of Hambledon and Ryedale bustle with local life. They include Thirsk in "Herriot Country", Northallerton in its broad green vale and Malton, the gateway to Ryedale.

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A complete guide to North York Moors National Park, England

Updated On 17th April, 2022

North York Moors National Park is without a doubt one of the best places to visit in England , it’s even a strong contender for the best places to visit in the UK.

North York Moors National Park is one of ten  National Parks in England , and covers more than more than 1,430 square kilometres (554 sq mi) of stunning landscapes in north-east England. It’s also very close to the Yorkshire Dales National Park if you fancy doing two English National Parks in one UK road trip!

If you’re the type of traveller that seeks long countryside walks with cozy pubs and cute market towns, North York Moors National Park is going to be right up your street. The very English weather I’ve experienced there (rain), has not taken away from the beauty and fun I’ve had in this UK National Park.  Home to one of the largest areas of heather moorland in the United Kingdom, it’s a great place to go walking in England.

In this North York Moors National Park travel guide I am going to share with you the best places to stay in the North York Moors, the best things to do in North York Moors National Park and my favourite adventures so far.

From seeing the famous Robin Hood’s Bay to mountain biking in the Dalby Forest, from witnessing the Farndale Daffodils in spring to seeing the stunning Falling Foss waterfall, from long countryside walks to eating amazing local food, my time in Yorkshire has been nothing short of adventurous! 

UK National Parks Google Map Legend

With this Google Map, you can have all my tips and recommendations at the touch of your fingertips. These are all the things I wish I knew and spent a lot of time researching before my adventure. You’re welcome.

This Google Map Legend includes:

• Best walks, hikes, viewpoints and activities
• Lochs, lakes and waterfalls to visit
• All my wild camping spots
• Our favourite places for coffee, brunch and dinner
• Things you must add to your bucket list!
• Road trip tips (campsites, laundrettes, lunch spots)
• Travel guide links within each location

Other National Park blog posts you might be interested in…

• Which UK National Park should you visit next? 
• Lake District National Park: my guide and the best things to do
• Yorkshire Dales National Park: my guide and the best things to do
• South Downs National Park: my guide and the best things to do
• Peak District National Park: my guide and the best things to do
• Snowdonia National Park: my guide and the best things to do
• Northumberland National Park: my guide and the best things to do
• Dartmoor National Park: my guide and the best things to do

North York Moors National Park: my complete guide

Where is north york moors national park.

If you came here wondering ‘where is North York Moors National Park’, ‘where is  North York Moors’, or ‘what does a map of North York Moors National Park look like’ you’re in the right place.  North York Moors National Park is in the north-east England, on the North Sea Coast. The equally beautiful, but separate Yorkshire Dales National Park is just an hour’s drive away.

To drive to North York Moors National Park, it’s about five hours from London and the South East, 2 hours from Manchester or the Lake District National Park,  1 hour from Leeds , and just 40 minutes from York. If you’re using a Sat Nav, pop in the postcode of your accommodation or one of these car parks .

If you want to take public transport to North York Moors National Park, you’re best bet is getting to one of the main towns or cities nearby the park. There are rail and National Express links from all over the country to stations in the towns surrounding the National Park – York, Malton, Scarborough, Middlesbrough, Saltburn by the Sea, Redcar, Whitby, Northallerton and Thirsk – and bus links from the stations. Book your train tickets online on  thetrainline.com .  

Check out this map of North York Moors National Park to see where in England it is:

Where to stay in North York Moors National Park:

Where to stay in North York Moors National Park really depends on what type of accommodation you’re looking for, and where you want to be based.

For example, if you want to stay in a hostel in North York Moors National Park, there are five YHA Hostel locations within the North York Moors National Park: YHA Whitby , YHA Helmsey , YHA Boggle Hole , YHA Dalby Forest & YHA Osmotherley . These are the perfect option for budget accommodation with close access to various locations across the North York Moors. Book your stay at a YHA in Yorkshire here.

If you’re looking for a hotel in the North York Moors National Park, I’ve heard good things about: 

• The Star at Harome
• The Black Swan, Helmsey
• The Feversham Arms Hotel & Verbena Spa, Helmsey

Check out  booking.com  or  Airbnb  for more hotels or apartments in the area, or get inspiration and recommendations directly from the North York Moors National Park website here .

There are also lots of campsites in North York Moors National Park for camping. Check out my camping packing list here.

If you’re looking for campsites in North York Moors National Park (for tents and caravans), check out the list of campsites on the North York Moors National Park website here.

The best things to do in North York Moors National Park...

1. visit some of the most beautiful beaches in england.

Perhaps one of the most famous things to do in North York Moors National Park, and even one of the most popular  things to do in England , is to enjoy the beauty that the English seaside. There are many beaches in North Yorkshire that will take your breath away and make you think that you are abroad! 

Some of the best beaches in North York Moors National Park include: 

• Whitby Bay (also good for surfing!)
• Runswick Bay
• Robin Hood’s Bay
• Staithes Beach

Don’t forget your swimmers if you’re down for a dip in the chilly North Sea!

Planning a trip to Cornwall soon? Here are the best beaches in Cornwall.

2. Take on one of the many walks and hikes in North York Moors National Park.

There are so many walks and hikes in North York Moors National Park… it really is one of the best places to go walking in England and even in the UK . with breathtaking views of the rolling English countryside, it’s enjoyable come rain or shine! 

There are loads of walks and hikes in North York Moors National Park for you to try, no matter whether you’re a beginner hiker or if you’re looking for a bigger challenge. (If you’re a beginner hiker, check out my hiking top tips here !).

North York Moors National Park is also home to a variety of landscapes, so whether you want hills or moorland, waterfalls or a coastal route, there’s something for you here. With so much on offer, it’s no surprise that walking and hiking are some of the best things to do in North York Moors National Park.

Some of the best places for hikes and walks in North York Moors National Park include: 

• Cleveland Way from Lord Stones Country Park. 
• Robin Hood’s Bay to Boggle Hole
• Grosmont to Goathland circular railway walk
• Littlebeck to Falling Foss waterfall 
• Staithes to Port Mulgrave. 
• Sandsend to Runswick Bay
• Hutton-le-Hole to Lastingham. 
• Hole of Horcum & Levisham Moors
• Helmsley Castle to Rievaulx Abbey. 
• Sutton Bank to Kilburn White Horse.
• Roseberry Topping & Newton Wood
• Farnfale Daffodil Walk

Check out some of the best walks and hikes in the UK here.

3. Take the North York Moors steam railway.

If you’re looking for a unique experience in the North York Moors National Park, why not take the steam railway? Take the 24 mile journey from Pickering to Whitby, going through Levisham, Goathland (the original Hogsmeade station for Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone) and enjoy stunning views of the National Park countryside. The trains run from April through to November, making it one of the best things to do in the North York Moors National Park in summer. 

Check out my experience on the Windsor steam railway here.

4. Marvel at the beautiful Falling Foss waterfall in North York Moors National Park.

One of my best things to do in North York Moors National Park has got to be seeing the waterfalls. They’re absolutely gorgeous!

One of the most popular waterfalls in North York Moors National Park is Falling Foss. The walk down is pleasant and not too challenging, through a magical woodland, and when you get to the bottom you can marvel at the waterfall, paddle, or enjoy a cuppa in the Falling Foss Tea Garden.

5. Go mountain biking in the Dalby Forest.

If you’re looking for active things to do in North York Moors National Park, why not try mountain biking in the Dalby Forest?! 

With a variety of trails that go from being family-friendly to very challenging, the Dalby Forest is a great place to go mountain biking. One of the best things to do in the North York Moors is to rent mountain bikes for the day and take on the trails! Whether you want to chill in the bike park, try an easy green trail, medium level blue trail or a more challenging black trail, there’s something for every mountain biker here. Even the famous red route, which is 34.3km long, can be split into smaller sections with green and blue trails to take you back to the start point.

The Dalby Forest is also a great place for walking, and also hosts outdoor concerts when the weather gets better in summer. 

If you’re looking for more places to go mountain biking in the North York Moors, Sutton Bank also has a fantastic trail centre. 

See all the best things to do in England here.

6. Have a drink in The Lion Inn, the highest pub in the North York Moors.

The Lion Inn is a 16th century cozy, local pub, with low beams, and range of ales and an extensive lunch and dinner menu.  Located at the highest point of the North York Moors National Park, Blakey Ridge, it stands at an elevation of 1,325 feet offering breathtaking views over the valleys of Rosedale and Farndale.

One of the best things to do in the North York Moors is to enjoy the walk/hike up to the pub, and then reward yourself with a pint at the highest point of the North York Moors National Park!

Check out unique things to do in England here.

7. Enjoy a Michelin star dinner at The Star at Harome.

If you’re looking for something a bit fancy to add to your North York Moors itinerary, book yourself in for dinner at The Star at Harome, a one Michelin star restaurant. 

The 14th century thatched building has a lot of character and a cozy but luxurious feel – think low beamed ceilings and log fires burning. And even with the luxury, it still feels ‘local’ and you’ll see many locals coming in for a pint of ‘Two Chefs’, the bespoke beer.

The food is locally sourced, with fish from Whitby, game from the Yorkshire Moors and vegetables from the kitchen garden, and the menu is full of classic dishes with modern twists.

Here are my top tips for planning your next adventure.

8. Take a day trip to Malton, the food capital of the north.

The historic market town of Malton is the gateway to Yorkshire’s stunning coastline, the ancient city of York and breath-taking North York Moors.

While it’s not quite in the National Park, taking a day trip to Malton is certainly worth it if you’re a big foodie. With famous local produce, award-winning monthly Food Markets, and an annual Food Lovers Festival, one of the best things to do when visiting North York Moors is to take a day trip out to the food capital of the north. 

Heading to London soon? Check out the best markets in London here.

9. Admire the architecture of the beautiful abbeys.

The North York Moors are home to some stunning architecture, in particular the abbeys.

Whitby Abbey is located on a stunning cliff top with views across the coastline, and it’s one of the best places to visit in the North York Moors National Park. These well-known ruins are a site of literary inspiration, religious devotion and pilgrimage. 

Rievaulx Abbey is secluded within the North York Moors National Park in a valley. At the abbey ruins, you’ll learn more about one of England’s most powerful Cistercian monasteries and the monks who called it home. One of the best things to do in the North York Moors is to take the scenic walk from Helmsey Castle to Rievaulx Abbey, so you can enjoy a day full of history and nature!

Here’s how to improve your travel photography.

10. Enjoy the Farndale daffodils in spring.

If you’re looking for things to do in the North York Moors National Park, visiting the Farndale Daffodils will be right up your street! The linear walk along the River Dove is perfecting for a spring walk surrounded by the glorious wild daffodils. The daffodils are protected within the Farndale Nature Reserve which was established in 1955 to safeguard the valley’s famous flowers.

11. Visit the cute market towns and villages in the North York Moors.

If you’re looking for places to visit or places to stay in the North York Moors, make sure you don’t miss out on the cute villages and market towns. Soak up a bit of English culture as you wander around the streets, grab a cup of tea or a pub lunch, and chat to some of the locals.

The best market towns and villages in the North York Moors to visit include…

• Staithes-on-coast (a seaside fishing village)
• Goathland (pretty village with great walking routes)
• Pickering (beautiful market town)
• Thornton le Dale (one of the cutest villages in the National Park)
• Helmsey (a market town with a stunning castle. Grab a sandwich at the Hunters of Helmsey while you’re there!)
• Levisham (quaint village)
• Hutton le Hole and Lavisham (one of the most picturesque villages in the North York Moors)

Planning a trip to Cornwall soon? Here are the best towns and villages in Cornwall.

12. Walk up Roseberry Topping.

One of the most iconic things to do in the North York Moors is to walk up Roseberry Topping, a hill with a very distinctive shape and a cool name! Its summit has a distinctive half-cone shape with a jagged cliff, similar to the Matterhorn, one of the best things to do in Switzerland .

Though it’s short and not the highest peak in the North York Moors (that’s Urra Moor), it’s a little challenging, so be ready to get a sweat on!

Check out the best walks in England here.

13. Marvel at the Hole of Horcum.

The Hole of Horcum is one of the best places to visit in North York Moors National Park, and one of the most stunning features within the park. With grand landscapes, stunning views and the dramatic panorama from Saltergate over the Hole of Horcum, the 5-mile circular walk across Levisham Moors is one of the best things to do in the North York Moors. 

The Hole of Horcum is one of the most famous places to visit in the North York Moors National Park. It’s a huge natural amphitheatre 400 feet deep and more than half a mile across. There are legends aurround the ‘Devil’s Punchbowl’ (as it’s also known), the most famous saying that the hole was formed when Wade the Giant scooped up a handful of earth to throw at his wife during an argument.

If you’re into history, myths and legends as well as walking and hiking, this is one for your to-do list! 

Check out all my hiking top tips here.

14. Visit the seals at Ravenscar.

Visiting the seal colony at Ravenscar is one of the best things to do in the North York Moors National Park. The colony of about 300 grey seals and common seals is based at the foot of the cliff farthest from the beach. If you don’t mind a bit of a climb down, spending some time watching these animals makes for a great afternoon. Don’t forget to stay the recommended distance from them (10m).

The high vantage point of this town also treats you to a stunning panorama of Robin Hood’s Bay. If you like walking, try the Ravenscar to Robin Hood’s Bay walk.

What are your favourite things to do in North York Moors National Park?

Where are your favourite places to visit in North York Moors National Park? Anything you’d add?

Love as always and happy adventuring,

Passionate about adventure and creativity. Currently enjoying the sunshine while teaching English in southern Italy.

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I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

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Things To Do in the North York Moors

Stroll along wooded winding trails or skirt the north yorkshire moors from one pretty village to the next….

At over 500 square miles, the North York Moors has breathtaking summits to conquer, moorland to explore and hidden gems to discover along the way. The national park is home to some of England’s most iconic backdrops and expansive rolling countryside. With more people than ever booking a luxury holiday in the UK, this picturesque destination is a popular choice.

Stroll along wooded riverside trails, green winding lanes and less trodden tracks with plenty of Insta-worthy views along the way. We love Autumn and Spring, a quieter time to take advantage of the attractions, stunning coastline, walking, cycling and heritage sites. Also exploring the pub or coffee stops is key along the way when taking in the expansive rolling countryside. The choice of traditional as well as trail-blazing Yorkshire pubs is plentiful!

Only a short scenic drive from many of our luxury holiday homes, take advantage of what’s on your doorstep and explore the North York Moors. Here are our Top Yorkshire Moors recommendations during your stay…

What are the North York Moors famous for?

The North Yorkshire Moors is one of the UK’s most beautiful national parks. Famed for its heather-clad moorland; most spectacular and a must-see in the late summer. It magically lights up the landscape in a fiery blanket of bright pinks and purples. The magnificent flowers are alive with bees and butterflies.

The Moors stretch all the way across to the coast. Another way to get around is the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. The steam trains, with lovingly restored wooden booths, run for 18 miles through beautiful countryside from Pickering to Whitby.

The magnificent North York Moors is ideal for couples exploring, families escaping the hustle and bustle, groups walking the famous Cleveland Way, and there are acres of dog friendly fun.

More on the Moors

Where to visit on the Moors?

A must-visit is Osmotherley Popular with cyclists and walkers, the pretty village is found on the Cleveland Way National Trail. Historic sites and peaceful picnic spots sit among the historic sites, with picturesque views are for as far as the eye can see. The reservoir surrounded by woodland is ideal for a gentle stroll, as well as being wheelchair and pushchair friendly.

Visitors must make time for a well-deserved local ale (or two) in one of the three pubs. We like The Golden Lion, recently nominated as “Britain’s best post walk pint”. Then tuck into the mouth-watering menu at “North Yorkshire’s best chip shop” opposite!

Stunning Coastline

On these well-known beaches that run from Saltburn by the Sea to Scarborough, the ruined Whitby Abbey dominates the skyline. Whitby is famous for its Blue Flag beaches, the best fish and chips, it’s fascinating history and cobbled streets.

Whitby has endless charm and surprising contrasts. Follow in the footsteps of both Bram Stoker and his journey to writing Dracula, or head to the Captain Cook Memorial Museum to learn about Whitby’s seafaring hero. There is the microbrewery behind Whitby Abbey, and a famous Goth Weekend held twice a year with over 8,000 visitors!

Our perfect walk runs from Whitby to the pretty coastal village of Sandsend, 3 miles north. For something less windswept, take in the history and atmosphere from the high cliffs that tower over winding cobbled streets. The Magpie Cafe is traditional but famous for its fish and chips and seafood, housed in an old-school waterfront cafe.

Explore the Yorkshire Coast

Market Towns in the Moors

Helmsley has plenty to offer all visitors. You can find something new to explore or see all year round, starting from the 900-year-old castle. A 250-year-old Walled Garden, the unique Helmsley Arts Centre, the National Centre for Birds of Prey are all only a short walk to the impressive ruins of Rievaulx Abbey.

Fine dining, cosy cafes, a glass of wine in front of a roaring fire, tempting ice creams and gelato, award-winning fish and chips – whatever tickles your taste buds, you’ll find it here. There are lots of local boutiques, galleries and mouth-watering eateries to explore in this market town, as well as its own brewery to pop in and try a local ale. Afterwards, we recommend popping in and trying a pork belly and harissa sandwich or one of their delicious cakes at Mannions & Co bistro kitchen.

Don’t worry about leaving anybody behind on your next family holiday to North Yorkshire either. There is plenty to do for your four-legged friends, with many dog-friendly pubs offering biscuits and doggy beers, perfect for your pooch before heading home to any of our luxury dog-friendly holiday homes.

Our Top Market Towns

Eating & Drinking

The Blackwell Ox

For something a little different, The Blackwell Ox in Carlton, close to the market town of Stokesley, serves authentic Thai cuisine in a traditional charming country pub with log fires and surrounded by panoramic views and varied walking routes across the Cleveland Hills.

The Rusty Bike

For the more active visitor, hire a bike to explore the great outdoors from The Rusty Bike in Swainby. Head back after and sample the fresh coffee and home baked cake. Relax infront of the cosy fire and soak in the atmosphere. You'll find friendly locals with a similar love of the outdoors.

Talbot Yard

In a huddle of converted stables is the award-winning Talbot Yard in Malton, a town with a big foodie reputation. Hop between artisan bakery Bluebird, the craft gin distillery, posh pork pies, and end with master patissier Florian Poirot and the delicious macaroons.

North York Moors Cottages

The North Yorkshire Moors is the perfect choice for a memorable day trip for all ages. Popular with experienced walkers looking for a challenge as well as beginners choosing between moors and woodlands, with plenty of pubs and history along the way.

Explore them from lovely self-catering holiday cottages in Yorkshire. For advice on which property to book, get in touch with our team or explore below for our hot property in the area. It is a stunning place, all year around.

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Feathered Nest

This utterly charming one-bedroom cottage has been designed with exquisite attention to detail and is in a perfect location for exploring Ripon, Masham and beyond....

Woodcroft Cottage

Escape to this charming two-bedroom Yorkshire Dales holiday cottage with a hot tub, luxury furnishings, and an award-winning village pub. Perfectly located between Richmond and...

Tate Studies

Experience a charming hideaway nestled behind the cobbled streets of Richmond. Tate Studies is a dog-friendly holiday cottage for families and couples. The central location...

Sun Hill Palins

A cosy cottage made for the two of you, close to Leyburn and the Yorkshire Dales. Plan a retreat in this country bolthole where you...

The Penthouse

An popular high-end apartment with the most amazing river views in Richmond, North Yorkshire, welcome to The Penthouse. Enjoy the large wraparound balcony and cosy...

A chic yet cosy self-catering holiday cottage for up to four guests, Austin is at Holly House Farm outside Richmond, North Yorkshire. There are is...

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The best hikes in the north york moors.

I’ve been fortunate enough to have spent the last several years living in York . And one of the best national parks in the country has been on my doorstep: the North York Moors National Park. Over the years, I’ve explored nearly every single corner of this area – there are so many incredible places to visit in the North York Moors . Planning a walk and wanting to get outside? Here’s my guide to the best hikes in the North York Moors.

Hole of Horcum

Without a doubt, this is my favorite walk in the entire country. So of course it’s going to feature on this list! I usually start the Hole of Horcum hike from Levisham, where you can enjoy a pint at the Horseshoe Inn at the end. Alternatively, you can start from the Saltergate car park on the A169. This is one of the best places to see the heather bloom – the area turns into purple blankets everywhere you look.

Distance: 5 miles

Time: 2-2.5 hours

Read More: Hiking the Hole of Horcum in the North York Moors

Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay

This is a linear walk, starting in Whitby (near the Abbey) and finishing in the charming fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay. The route heads south along the coast, with incredible views out to sea. It’s relatively easy to follow, and before long you’ll find yourself in Robin Hood’s Bay – head down into the village and treat yourself to an ice cream or a pint (or both!).

Distance: 6.5 miles

Time: 3.5 hours

Read More: Walking From Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay: One of My Favorite Walks in Yorkshire

Goathland to Grosmont

Goathland is charming village in the North York Moors, serving as the film location for the British TV show Heartbeat and the train station in the Harry Potter movies. The walk between Goathland and Grosmont follows a disused railway line, which has been transformed into a graveled walking trail. The return is through woods and fields – make sure to detour to Mallyan Spout near Beck Hole to see the pretty waterfall. If you only want to walk part of the route, take the North Yorkshire Moors Railway , a heritage steam railway, from Grosmont back to Goathland.

Distance: 8 miles

Time: 4 hours

Read More: Goathland to Grosmont: A Classic Walk in the North York Moors

Thornton-le-Dale to Ellerburn

If you’re after a relatively easy walk in the North York Moors, I recommend the loop between Thornton-le-Dale and Ellerburn. Thornton-le-Dale is a cute village, with a beautiful thatched cottage situated next to a picturesque beck. Extend the walk past Ellerburn into Dalby Forest, where you can cross the beck and pick up the public footpath on the other side of the pond. The walk follows the beck from Ellerburn back to Thornton-le-Dale.

Distance: 5-5.5 miles

Read More : Thornton-le-Dale: Why You Need to Visit This Charming Yorkshire Village

Rosedale is a beautiful part of the North York Moors. This walk starts and ends in Rosedale Abbey, and passes through fields and farms before climbing the ridge for spectacular views over the valley. This area used to be a center for mining, and you can still see the ruins of the ironstone mines, kilns, and cottages on the walk. The trail actually follows the former mining railway line! You return to Rosedale Abbey via fields and a pretty beck.

Distance: 7.5 miles

Read More: Hiking Around Rosedale in the North York Moors

Danby to Lealholm

This hike takes in two pretty villages in Fryupdale: Danby and Lealholm. You can visit the North York Moors National Park Center in Danby, before heading up to Danby Beacon and admiring the views all the way out to the sea (on a clear day!). Follow the track to Lealholm, where you can cross the River Esk via stepping stones. The route returns to Danby by footpaths through fields and a bit of road walking.

Distance: 8.5 miles

Farndale Daffodil Walk

The best time to visit Farndale is in the springtime, when the valley comes alive with daffodils. Starting at Low Mill, the route follows the River Dove to the “Daffy Caffy” at High Mill. I recommend walking into Church Houses, as there are some pretty daffodils around the church there. The return is via fields and through a farm – there are wonderful views up here!

Distance: 3.5 miles

Time: 2 hours

Read More: Farndale Daffodils: An Easy Spring Walk in the North York Moors

Chop Gate to the Wainstones

The Wainstones are an impressive rock formation – they’re the largest sandstone crags in the national park. This circular route heads up over the moors, then joins the Cleveland Way National Trail to the Wainstones. There are a few steep ascents/descents on this walk – but it’s well worth it for the views. This walk also passes Urra Moor, which is the highest point in the North York Moors!

Time: 4.5 hours

Read More: North York Moors Hikes: Chop Gate to the Wainstones

Roseberry Topping

There are several different routes up Roseberry Topping, but the most straightforward is from the car park at Newton under Roseberry. I recommend extending the walk along Newton Moor, as there are great views of the summit (also nicknamed the Yorkshire Matterhorn by locals) from here. You can even extend it to Captain Cook’s Monument and Great Ayton, too.

Distance: 5.5 miles

Time: 2.5 hours

Read More: Hiking Roseberry Topping and Newton Moor

Helmsley to Rievaulx

This is a classic walk in the North York Moors, taking in both the charming market town of Helmsley, and the stunning ruins of Rievaulx Abbey. The route begins at the starting point for the Cleveland Way in Helmsley, and passes through fields and woodland to reach Rievaulx. There are several options for extending the walk or returning on a loop, so the distance and amount of time can vary.

Distance: 6.5-8 miles

Time: 3-4 hours

Read More: Visiting Rievaulx Abbey and Helmsley in North Yorkshire

Osmotherley and Cod Beck Reservoir

Osmotherley is a beautiful, charming little village on the edge of the moors. This walk passes through the woods outside the village (with a short detour to Lady’s Chapel) before the views open up around Scarth Wood Moor. It then heads along pretty Cod Beck Reservoir before returning to Osmotherley. You can extend this walk and visit Mount Grace Priory, one of the best abbeys in Yorkshire , on the way.

Distance: 6 miles

Time: 2.5-3 hours

Hawnby and Easterside Hills

Starting from the quiet hamlet of Hawnby, this hike takes in two of the best hills in the area: Hawnby Hill and Easterside Hill. After climbing to the top of Hawnby Hill and admiring the views, the route heads down into the valley, and around the far base of Easterside Hill. Easterside Hill doesn’t have a public footpath, but it is open access land and there is a path (through thick heather) to the summit. I was lucky enough to witness a spectacular cloud inversion when I was here on a wintry day!

Sutton Bank and the Kilburn White Horse

If you’re after a short hike in the North York Moors, head to Sutton Bank. The walk along the clifftop boasts incredible views, and loops back through the woodland to see the White Horse of Kilburn. This hill figure is best seen from the village of Kilburn itself (although it’s visible from much further away, too), but it’s impressive to see it up close. I recommend parking at the White Horse car park (no charge) then walking up along the ridge to Sutton Bank – there’s a visitor center here – and back along the cliffs and through the woods.

Distance: 3 miles

Time: 1.5 hours

Planning Your Trip

Planning on staying overnight in York? I’d recommend the following places:

• Budget: Safestay York or The Fort Boutique Hostel
• Mid-range: Hotel Indigo or Galtres Lodge
• Luxury: The Grand

You can book hostels in York here , and check out hotels in York here . Otherwise, search for places to stay in the area below!

Looking for a guided trip to the North York Moors? Check out these options!

The North York Moors is one of my favorite parts of Yorkshire. It really does have everything: scenic vistas, barren moors, impressive hills, peaceful valleys, and coastal views. There are so many great hikes in the North York Moors, but these are some of the best. I hope this blog post helps planning your hikes around the North York Moors!

Have you been hiking in the North York Moors? What are your favorite hikes?

You might also like my posts:

21 of the BEST Places to Visit in the North York Moors

The Best Car-Free Walks from York

The Best Walks In and Around York, England

The Ultimate Yorkshire Guide: 88 Incredible Places to Visit in Yorkshire

The BEST Places to Visit in the Yorkshire Dales

The Best Abbeys in Yorkshire

All of my Yorkshire posts !

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12 thoughts on “ the best hikes in the north york moors ”.

[…] I live in York, and somewhere that I’ve spent so many days and weekends exploring. There are some fantastic hikes in the area, too! The National Park is big though, and there’s a lot to see! What should you see when […]

[…] The Best Hikes in the North York Moors […]

[…] places to visit and the area around Goathland is definitely one of them. This is one of my favorite hikes in the North York Moors! Goathland’s main claim to fame is as a film location—Harry Potter was filmed at the train […]

[…] recently added on a walk along the top of Newton Moor. Here’s what you need to know about this hike in the North York Moors: Roseberry Topping and Newton […]

[…] favorite hikes so far has been in the Wainstones in the North York Moors. There are so many great walks in the North York Moors! Here’s my guide to the hike from Chop Gate to the […]

[…] It might seem like a lifetime ago, but just earlier this year I went on a wonderful hike in Farndale in the North York Moors. Farndale is primarily popular for its daffodils—the Google Maps location even labels it as the “Low Mill Car Park for Farndale Daffodil Walk.” This walk along the River Dove is particularly beautiful in spring, when the daffodils are in bloom. There are hundreds of daffodils along the river bank! Here’s everything you need to know about the Farndale daffodil walk—one of the best hikes in the North York Moors National Park. […]

[…] I walked the coastal path from Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay along the seaside. It’s one of my favorites, I think! I absolutely adore Whitby. This trail is part of the Cleveland Way, which stretches all over the North York Moors and the coast for 109 miles. For this hike, you’ll need OS Map OL27: North York Moors (Eastern Area). Nowadays, I actually use the OS Maps app for most of my hikes in the UK. This is definitely one of my top hikes in the North York Moors! […]

[…] favorite areas in the country, and home to so many amazing places to visit! There are lots of great hikes in the North York Moors, […]

[…] Read More: The Best Hikes in the North York Moors […]

[…] More: 21 of the BEST Places to Visit in the North York Moors, The Best Hikes in the North York Moors, Hiking The Hole Of Horcum In The North York Moors, Visiting Rievaulx Abbey And Helmsley In North […]

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12 Best Walks in the North York Moors National Park

The North York Moors National Park , located in the North East of England, has some very unique things about it, and there are so many walks for all abilities . Firstly, it has the largest expanse of heather moorlands in the United Kingdom, which you can see in all its pink and purple glory during late summer/autumn. It also forms part of the North Sea Coast, with miles of coastline with rugged sheer cliffs, sandy beaches, and seal colonies.

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What else to expect when walking in the North York Moors

The North York Moors has so much to offer for walkers, from old railway trackbeds, to a lake from the ice age, an impressive natural hole, ancient stones, a hidden waterfall, steam trains, the Cleveland Way National Trail, woodland, and the most unusual peak I have seen in the United Kingdom.

Some of the best hikes in Yorkshire , can be found in the North York Moors . Everywhere you go, has fantastic views. 

To explore other areas of Yorkshire, check out my guide on Yorkshire Dales walks here , or Nidderdale AONB here .

There are walks to good pubs, tucked away villages, a train station featured in Harry Potter, and a town which helped inspire Bram Stokers Dracula. Also, remember Heartbeat? That was filmed right here, in the heart of the moors.

There is a lot of history in the North York Moors, with remnants of the industrial passed dotted across the landscape, which you will also see on some of these walks.

Are these walks in the North York Moors easy to follow?

Everyone of these walks in the North York Moors National Park , I have done. I have written a comprehensive guide for each one, which includes a detailed route descriptions, map, full logistics, tips, and lots of photos. That way you can easily follow along. All these walks are circular, with a couple of them having a linear walk option.

I have divided these walks in the North York Moors, into the following sections:

• Hayburn Wyke – 3.5 miles
• Robin Hood’s Bay and Ravenscar circular walk – 7 miles
• Whitby and Robin Hood’s Bay circular walk – 14.5 miles
• The Wainstones walk – 8.3 miles
• Sutton Bank circular via Gormire Lake – 8.5 miles
• Roseberry Topping via Captain Cook’s Monument – 5 miles
• Hole of Horcum circular walk – 7 miles
• Osmotherley circular walk – 7 miles
• Rosedale Abbey and Railway circular walk – 10.4 miles
• Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey and back – 6 miles
• Kilburn White Horse – 1.6 miles
• Goathland to Grosmont along the Rail Trail and back- 8 miles

Getting around the North York Moors

The nearest main towns to the North York Moors are Middlesborough, Scarborough, and York. From Middlesborough, you can get a train to Whitby which is the main town within the North York Moors. From there, you can start a couple of these walks, alternatively, there is another train line to get you further in.

If you are in York, you can get a train to Scarborough, which sits just on the edge of the National Park, or you can get a bus to Whitby. 

These are the best places to get to, if you don’t have car.

In general though, within the National Park, it’s a little trickier using public transport. With long and infrequent bus journeys. Therefore, for most flexibility, my recommendation is to get around the North York Moors for all these walks, with a car. 

If you would like to rent a car, then Discover Cars , are quite reasonably priced. 

Anything else?

There is a road here which is so steep and winding, that caravans are banned from going up it….

On one of my drives up this road, a caravan had decided to do it, and that was not fun. Stuck in second gear, going at 5 miles per hour. Although, it could have been worse. It could have broken down, which there is a tally of. How many lorries/vans break down on this road each year.

Now, let’s get to the good stuff…..

Best North York Moors Coastal walks 

These walks all take you along the coastline of the North York Moors National Park, following part of the Cleveland Way. With impressive, rugged cliffs, waterfalls, and sandy beaches. The starting point for these walks, are also the easiest to get to via public transport. 

1) Hayburn Wyke

Start/Finish: Hood lane  Distance: 3.5 miles  Time: 1h 30min  Difficulty: Easy  

Located just north of Scarborough, this is my favourite of the North York Moors coastal walks. It first takes you along the clifftop, and then down to a secluded rocky beach with a gorgeous waterfall. It’s not the biggest waterfall, but it’s incredibly picturesque. The way it drops down the cliffside, with tufts of greenery in the crevices, is simply gorgeous. This is definitely one of my favourite waterfalls I have walked to out here in North Yorkshire.  

Then you will walk back up along the woodland paths, where I was lucky enough to see Bambi. Before finishing with an optional pub stop near the end. 

This is a proper hidden gem, as despite doing this walk on a very sunny weekend, I only passed two other people. 

For more information about how to do this coastal walk on the edge of the North York Moors, with logistics, a map, tips, and route description, check out my Hayburn Wyke walk guide here .

2) Robin Hood’s Bay and Ravenscar circular

Start/Finish: Boggle Hole car park  Distance: 7 miles  Time: 2h 40min  Difficulty: Moderate 

This walk, on the edge of the North York Moors, has something the other walks on the list doesn’t have…the seals. That’s right. 

After walking along the clifftop, you will descend down onto the north sea coast. This is where you might find yourself amongst a seal colony. You have to be careful not to disturb them though. There are signs about telling you the do’s and don’ts. As well as a seal watch person, who will give you tips on how to navigate through them safely. 

After that, you will finish the walk along a sandy beach. Passing by a waterfall or two. To reach the cute little fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay.

For more information about how to do this walk along the North Yorkshire coast, including full logistics, a map, useful tips, and route description, check out my Robin Hood’s Bay and Ravenscar walk guide here .

3) Whitby and Robin Hood’s Bay circular 

Start/Finish: Robin Hoods Bay Distance: 14.5 miles  Time: 4h 30min  Difficulty: Moderate

This is the longest of all these walks in the North York Moors on the list. Taking you between a cute, tucked away fishing village, and a quirky, gothic, bustling harbour town. 

The walking route first takes you along the North York Moors coastal path, following the Cleveland Way National Trail, with dramatic coastline views ahead. It then brings you back along the Cinder Track, which is the old railway line. Both trails are very different. The coast path gives you the grand cliff views, along an undulating trail. Whilst the Cinder Track is on a level maintained path, with trees and field views.

The beauty of this walk, is you don’t have to do the full circular route. You can make it a linear walk, and pick the trail that suits you the best. Then catch the bus back, with a journey time of just 15min. 

This is a classic walk in the North York Moors. That, combined with being next to Whitby, means it can be a little busier than some of the other walking routes in the list.

I describe in full detail what each trail is like, so you can decide what works for you, on my Whitby and Robin Hoods Bay circular route guide here .

Walks in the North York Moors with the best views

These walks all take you high up in the hills, with some of the best views across the North York Moors National Park . Some of the most impressive and grand landscape can be found on these walks. From deep valleys, to a peak that gave me goosebumps every time I saw it. Ridges, an ice age lake, a massive hole in the ground, and open moorland as far as the eye can see.

These are also the most challenging walks on this list.

4) The Wainstones walk

Start/finish: Chop Gate Distance: 8.3miles  Time: 3h+   Difficulty: Moderate/challenging

If you want a good old stomp across the moors in North Yorkshire, with breathtaking views, then this walk is the one.

The route first takes you through Cold Moor, to reach the Wainstones. The Wainstones are the largest group of sandstone rocks up here, and you will need to scramble up them to get to the top. You will then skirt along the edge of Urra Moor, which is the highest moor in the National Park. On this walk, you will be surrounded by more heather moorlands than you thought possible. You can even see Roseberry Topping way in the distance (more on that walk below).

It is officially my favourite walk in the North York Moors, and also follows part of the Cleveland Way. This route can get muddy, so best avoid it after wet weather.

For more information about how to do this hike in the North York Moors, with logistics, a map, tips, and route description, check out my Wainstones circular guide here .

5) Sutton Bank circular via Gormire Lake

Start/Finish: Sneck Yate car park  Distance: 8.5 miles  Time: 2h 45min  Difficulty: Moderate

This route has some of my favourite views of all the walks in the North York Moors on the list. 

Sutton Bank is the highest point, and the road leading up to it is so steep and winding, that caravans have been band from using it. It’s a National Trust area, however, you don’t need to pay to do the walk.

On this route, you will walk along the escarpment, which is part of the Cleveland Way, with incredible views down into the valley, across the North York Moors. You can even see as far away as the Yorkshire Dales. A real highlight is looking down over Gormire Lake, which was formed during the ice age. 

You will then descend down into the valley and circle back through the fields. I did have some issues on my way back, which involved being chased by an angry farm dog, and nearly climbing up a tree to escape. In that guide, I have provided an alternate route to get back. To keep you far far away from that dog. 

For more details about this hiking route in the North York Moors, with logistics, a map, tips, and route description, check out my Sutton Bank walking route here .

6) Roseberry Topping via Captain Cook’s Monument

Start/Finish: Gribdale Gate Capt Cook’s car park Distance: 5 miles  Time: 2h  Difficulty: Moderate

Located in the very north of the North York Moors National Park, Roseberry Topping is a uniquely shaped peak. Sort of pointing and drooping. When I first clocked eyes on it, I got goosebumps. It looks a little scary, and I wondered how I would walk up it, but it’s actually no where near as tough as it looks. 

For this route, you will start off walking to the Captain Cook’s Monument, from which point you will have wonderful views across the North York Moors, and across to the pointy peak in the distance. 

Fun Fact: Did you know that Captain Cook is from this area?

You will then walk down a fairly steep hill, and around through the fields, to then start the climb up Roseberry Topping. 

As I said, the climb up isn’t as scary as it looks. It is only a little bit tough just before the summit, where you have a bunch of steps. Steps are always hard, where ever they are. 

This is another walking route in the North York Moors National Park, which includes part of the Cleveland Way.

For more about this hike in the North York Moors, including full logistics, a map, useful tips, and a route description, check out the Roseberry Topping guide here .

7) Hole of Horcum circular walk

Start/Finish: Saltergate car park  Distance: 7 miles  Time: 2h  Difficulty: Moderate

The first time I saw the Hole of Horcum, was when I was driving to do one of the other walks in the North York Moors. I was trying to look, but also trying to keep my eyes on the winding road I was on. I needed to know what I had just seen, and once I found out, I went right back the next day to walk it. 

The Hole of Horcum is a very large natural ampitheatre. Basically a big crater type hole in the ground. For this route, you will walk down through it, and along the top of it.

Walking through the hole I found to be incredibly peaceful. A level of peace I wasn’t used to. This route is definitely a strong contender for being my favourite of these walks in the North York Moors.

There is the option to make this circular walk shorter, which I describe in the guide. However, if you follow the full route, you will have a good pub stop option at Levisham.

To try out this walk in the North Yorkshire Moors, you can find full logistics, a map, tips, and a route description on my Hole of Horcum guide here .

8) Osmotherley circular walk

Start/Finish: Osmotherley  Distance: 7 miles  Time: 2h 30min  Difficulty: Moderate

I didn’t know what to expect on this walk. I literally decided on the day to head to the area to check it out. What I found was a fantastic route, across an impressive moor, with far reaching views across North Yorkshire. You can see as far away as Roseberry Topping. I was very very impressed….despite the rain. This route also includes part of the Cleveland Way National Trail.

There are a couple of hills on this one. One longer hill, and one short but very steep one. It’s a good old hike across the North York Moors, which finishes with some good pub options in Osmotherley.

For more information about how to do this hiking route in the North York Moors, check out my Osmotherley guide here .

9) Rosedale Abbey and Railway circular walk

Start/finish: Rosedale Abbey Distance: 10.4miles  Time: 3h 30min   Difficulty: Moderate

Don’t let the name fool you, there is no abbey on this walk. This is the name of the village. Now peaceful and pretty, it was once a dirty industrial hub, which you will get a glimpse into along this route. 

This is a great walk if you want a solid leg stretch.

It first takes you through the bottom of the valley, with great views to some of the ruins of the industrial past up the hills. You will then walk up a big hill, to reach Blakey Ridge with views across the North Yorkshire Moorland, and a conveniently located pub. Next, you will walk back along the old railway trackbed. The trackbed is now a public footpath, although, it was once used to transport the iron or, from the mines and kilns.

For more information about how to do this hike in the North York Moors, check out my Rosedale Abbey circular guide here .

Short and easy walks in the North York Moors

These are the most easy and family friendly walks in the North York Moors . With Abbey ruins, the most northerly white horse figure in England, an old railway line, and a station from Harry Potter.

10) Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey

Start/Finish: Helmsley  Distance: 6 miles  Time: 2h  Difficulty: Easy

Ok, 6 miles doesn’t sound short, but if you break it down: 3 miles to get to Rievaulx Abbey, explore the Abbey, then 3 miles back.

This walk takes you along an easy trail, with a few hills, but nothing too crazy. You will have a lovely view looking down across the market town of Helmsley. You will walk through woodland, and along a peaceful road with nothing but the sound of the River Rye flowing next to you. 

To go inside Rievaulx Abbey, you would have to pay. It’s English Heritage. However, you get a great view of it along the route, so can skip it if you prefer. 

Apart from some sheep near the start, this is a dog friendly route. It would be a lovely walk for families as well. Everyone I passed either had a dog or young child.

It’s such an easy, gentle route, that it will leave you with all the energy to explore Helmsley when you get back.

For more information about this walk in the North Yorkshire Moors, with full logistics, a map, handy tips, and a route description, check out the Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey trail guide here .

11) Kilburn White Horse circular

Start/Finish: Kilburn Forest car park  Distance: 1.6 miles  Time: 30min  Difficulty: Easy

The White Horse of Kilburn in the North York Moors, is the most northerly horse figure in England, and this walking route takes you along the top and under it. 

It’s a short walk, and apart from one set of steps, it’s a very easy route. Part woodland walk, and part along a well maintained path along the escarpment.

When walking along the escarpment, you will have the most gorgeous views along the rocky cliffside and across the North Yorkshire Moors. This is probably the best part. Not the horse itself. You are so close to the horse, that it’s headless.

It’s actually right next to Sutton Bank, so you could connect it to the Sutton Bank circular I spoke about earlier. I chose not to, and I’m glad I didn’t. The White Horse is a bit more touristy. Although, I did it on a Monday, so it wasn’t so bad. Whereas, on the Sutton Bank circular which I did on a weekend, I had long stretches of just me.

This could be a very pram friendly walk, you would just have to start at a different location. That way, you miss out the steps and just walk along the escarpment, which I explain more in my guide.

For more information about this walking route in the North York Moors, including full logistics, a map, useful tips, and a route description, check out the Kilburn White Horse circular guide here .

12) Goathland to Grosmont along the Rail Trail

Start/Finish: Goathland  Distance: 8 miles  Time: 3h  Difficulty: Easy  Public Transport: Yes

This is a wonderful walk, which follows the Rail Trail through the Esk Valley. Linking two very interesting villages in North Yorkshire. Goathland where Heartbeat was set, and Harry Potter was filmed, and Grosmont which has the cutest rail station, and is where ironstone was discovered. 

Along the route, there are information boards telling you a bit about the history. They also give you little detour options to see something interesting.

At 8 miles, I know this isn’t technically a short route, but it’s very easy and can be broken up. It’s 4 miles to reach Grosmont, where you might want to hang about exploring and stopping off at the cafe. After which, you can head back either along the Rail Trail, or up across the hills. 

You also have the option to make it a linear walk, and catch the train back. This train line runs to Whitby, so would make a wonderful day trip.

For more information about how to do this walking trail in the North York Moors, including full logistics, a map, useful tips, and a route description, check out the Goathland to Grosmont Rail Trail route here .

Pin it for later: Best Walks in the North York Moors National Park

For more from the North York Moors, other than walks or hikes, you can check out the National Parks website .

zoe tehrani

I like to spend my spare time in the outdoors, and walk a lot all over England. London born and bred, I have previously moved to the South West, and up to Yorkshire, mixed in with some van life, looking for all the best places for hiking.

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Best Places to Visit in the North York Moors

The North York Moors National Park has been shaped by nature and blessed with fantastic countryside and coastline. With the vibrant city of York within striking distance, the North York Moors are great for an all-round luxury cottage holiday. Stretching from just above Scarborough in the south, to just beyond Staithes to the north, the North York Moors National Park incorporates delightful market towns, ancient abbeys, heather-strewn moorland and miles of heritage coast rich with beautiful beaches, fossils and even the odd dinosaur footprint. Add to this intriguing local tales about smugglers, mermaids and giants, as well as wonderful local produce from fresh crab to heather-infused honey, the North York Moors is an enchanting place to explore.

If you like lots of places to eat, shops and attractions on the doorstep, as well as the buzz of a vibrant city, York is a great place to base yourself for trips into the North Moors National Park . Equally, if you’re staying in the national park, York makes a fantastic day trip. Steeped in Roman and Viking history, with a superb racecourse, a vibrant cultural scene and a riverside location, York is full of character. Being fairly compact, it is easy to get around and walking the medieval walls that surround the Old Town is a great way to start to get your bearings.

“There’s a vast mix of independent shops, boutiques and local producers throughout the charming Old Town and the ancient street, called the Shambles, is a must to see the upper levels of the timber buildings that almost touch each other.”

There are many highly regarded attractions in the city including the mighty York Minster cathedral, the Jorvik Viking Centre, York’s Chocolate Story and York Castle Museum . Meanwhile, evening entertainment can be found in the various pubs, bars and restaurants, as well as the theatres and on specialist guided walks like the Bloody Tour of York which tells of all kinds of local legends.

Scarborough

Scarborough is one of the UK’s oldest seaside resorts, which was known as a spa town in the 17th century, but with the introduction of the railway in 1845 it became a fashionable place to holiday for the Victorians. Today, those same lovely beaches that attracted visitors back then, still draw holidaymakers. High rocky cliffs and a headland topped with the ruins of the 11th century Scarborough Castle – from where there are incredible sea views, divide the beaches into North Bay and South Bay. Between the two is a Victorian Promenade which offers a lovely place to walk.

“Hay-South Bay is the older part of town, where there’s a harbour, lighthouse and fishing piers, as well as leisure boat trips, amusement arcades and theatres.”

It’s the main tourist hub and an original cliff lift still operates to help save your legs. South Bay is also where you’ll find most of the shops and nightlife. Meanwhile, North Bay is the more peaceful end of the resort where you’ll find the Oriental-themed Peasholm Park with its boating lake. Other things to do in Scarborough include visiting the iconic Rotunda Museum to learn about the town’s ‘Dinosaur Coast’ and boarding the North Bay Heritage Railway, while the nearby secluded cove of Hayburn Wyke is a beautiful place for a picnic.

Staithes lies about 10 miles along the coast from Whitby and is a small, but pretty fishing village that has been home to many generations of fishing families. The old part of town is dominated by winding streets packed tight with colourful cottages and a charming harbour that is tucked in between two rocky headlands. There’s still a small fleet of traditional fishing boats here, often tied up on the banks of Staithes Beck which flows into the harbour. There are a handful of places to eat in the village, but the Cod & Lobster Inn draws visitors for its pretty location right on the quayside.

“Staithes is a tranquil base for fossil hunting on the small sandy beach and for exploring Yorkshire’s cliff top paths.”

One of Staithes’ claims to fame is that in 1744 a 16-year-old James Cook worked here as an apprentice shopkeeper before he went on to become a mariner. Find out more about Cook, as well as the town’s fishing heritage, at Staithes Heritage Centre and the Captain Cook Museum. Staithes is also associated with a group of impressionist artists, including Dame Laura Knight, who were active in the late 19th century, and their legacy lives on at the exhibitions and events at the Staithes Arts Festival held each autumn.

Whitby is full of interesting facts including being where, in 1746, James Cook (who later became Captain Cook), began an apprenticeship as a seaman. His famous ship, Endeavour , was built here too. The Captain Cook Memorial Museum is a great place to discover more about this famous explorer. Whitby is also famous for the semi-precious stone called jet, which was made popular by the Victorians and visitors can purchase a piece of Whitby jet jewellery as a souvenir. If you like a good fright, visit the Dracula Experience, for Whitby was where Bram Stoker chose as the place for the world’s most famous vampire to arrive in England.

“A traditional seaside resort, Whitby has blue flag beaches, amazing fish and chips, and lots of quirky, narrow streets.”

You should pay a visit to Whitby Abbey that dates back to the 7th century, which can be accessed via the walk up the famous 199 steps from the old town. To learn more about the town, Whitby Museum tells of its whaling, maritime and geological history, whilst the Whitby Jet Heritage Centre is where you can see an authentic Victorian jet workshop in action. For walkers, there’s the Cleveland Way or the Esk Valley Walk, whilst vintage train enthusiasts can ride along the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.

Robin Hood’s Bay

Robin Hood’s Bay’s roots lie in fishing and smuggling. The town is rich with fascinating history and as you wander from the top of the village, down the steep winding cobbled lanes towards the sea, it’s easy to imagine scenes of sailors, smugglers and fisherfolk of centuries ago. Today, Robin Hood’s Bay is a popular seaside place to visit on the North York Moors Coast . Streets are lined with delightful cottages and there’s a good choice of places to eat and small shops for somewhere that’s relatively small. Views from the top of the village are magnificent, whilst beyond the quayside below there is a lovely stretch of beach.

“Find out about the local history at the Robin Hood’s Bay Museum and the Old Coastguard Station, or discover scary tales on an evening ghost walk.”

There’s plenty of beach fun to be had playing games, rock-pooling and combing for treasures including fossils, but do check the tides so that you don’t get cut off – especially at Boggle Hole. Robin Hood’s Bay is at the eastern end of the Coast to Coast route, or there’s a 7-mile cliff top walk to Whitby along the Cleveland Way. Meanwhile, the Victorian Weekend in December is a great time to visit, as it also incorporates the Baytown Beer Festival.

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Places To Visit Near Whitby, The Stunning North York Moors

Explore the best places to visit near Whitby across the North York Moors. Plan the activities ahead of time so you can enjoy the perfect North Yorkshire holiday.

The North York Moors is a really special place – unique in that it is situated close to the coast. It enjoys an unbeatable combination of sea views, dramatic coastline alongside vast heather moorland and rolling hills inland.

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Unsurprisingly, the North Yorks Moors National Park offers a huge range of activities for nature and outdoor-lovers to enjoy. From climbing to cycling, walking to fishing and horse-riding to wildlife-watching. Adventurous-types can enjoy treetop adventures, bushcraft workshops, canoeing, mountaineering and more. Making base in our favourite seaside town it’s easy to visit places near Whitby during your North Yorkshire staycation.

In this article, we’re exploring all the best places to visit near Whitby including Goathland , Dalby Forest, Scarborough , Sandsend , Malton, Pickering, Glaisdale , Saltwick Bay , Robin Hood’s Bay ,  Staithes , Runswick Bay , Filey, and many more.

Places to visit near Whitby

Fans of TV’s Heartbeat will recognise the moorland village of Goathland as ‘Aidensfield’. The quaint but petty-crime ridden village patrolled by PC Rowan and friends. But that’s not the only claim to fame this pretty unassuming village enjoys. Its train station also doubled up as Hogsmeade Station in the cult Harry Potter films! As you can imagine, its location makes it a fantastic place for walkers. You can follow the ‘ Rail Trail’ from Goathland to Grosmont for three and a half miles. Exploring the sites along the way before heading back on the train. Alternatively, take the Mallyan Spout footpath to see the pretty 21-metre high Mallyan Spout waterfall . Other walks include Grosmont to Beck Hole and the longer Ravenscar to Robin Hood’s Bay walk , taking you through some of the North York Moor’s most iconic landscapes.

Dalby Forest

The southern North Yorkshire Moors is home to Dalby Forest , known for its ‘Rigg and Dale’ landscape which makes it perfect for outdoor adventures. It is here that you will find ‘ Go Ape ‘ the UK’s favourite Forest Adventure Experience. Choose from two to three hours of treetop fun.  Swing across high ropes, bridge crossings, Tarzan swings and zip wires. Or ride a Forest Segway where you will learn to master the segway whilst exploring off the beaten track. Take time also to visit the Dalby Moors Activity Centre where you can enjoy outdoor activities such as paintballing and airsoft along with archery.

Scarborough

One of the UK’s top tourist destinations in its own right. Scarborough is definitely worth a visit whilst exploring the North York Moors. Its award-winning sandy beaches, dramatic coastline and plentiful attractions make it a favourite with couples, friends and families alike. Like the rest of this region, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy including Donkey Rides along the beach or a visit to the famous Scarborough Fair, however, there is plenty to do indoors too. Why not visit the Sealife Sanctuary to get up close and personal to sharks, rays, penguins and more. Alternatively, take a walk up to 2500-year-old Scarborough Castle , perched on a hill overlooking the sea. On a nice day, you can even pack a picnic and enjoy a spot of lunch overlooking the coast. You can also take a trip out to sea onboard the historic ‘Hispaniola’ which takes visitors on a 15 minute trip around the South Bay. Or if you are looking for something a little faster, enjoy a thrilling speedboat ride around the harbour.

A small but beautiful fishing village close to Whitby, Sandsend is perhaps best known for its miles of sandy beaches. You can walk to Sandsend from Whitby along the coast, as well as into nearby Mulgrave Woods to take a look at the remains of Mulgrave Castle.

Other activities in Sandsend include rock pooling and fossil hunting, whilst history buffs will be interested to see the old coastal railway and alum works.  Enthusiasts can follow the trail around the quarries and along the railway with a trail map available from the tourist information centre.

This pretty market town is known as the food capital of Yorkshire and hosts the yearly Food Lovers Festival every May. Each month too, there is a fantastic food market and you can explore all of its famous food heritage on a ‘Made in Malton Food Tour’. The tour will take you to see traditional artisan producers found in and around Talbot Yard, or you can choose to sample the local food yourself in the town’s restaurants and delis.

Malton is also home to the family-friendly Flamingo Land Theme Park and Zoo , the UK’s most visited zoo! Billed as the ‘ultimate’ thrill, the zoo offers a number of ‘zoo-keeper experiences’ such as the Meerkat encounter, Giraffe encounter and ‘animal trainer experience. The theme park meanwhile features exciting roller-coasters, rides and experiences across seven uniquely themed areas.

A busy market town on the edge of the Moors, Pickering is the perfect place to begin a journey along the historic North York Moors Railway. Start with a visit to the Beck Isle history museum to learn all about Pickering’s history or head to Pickering Castle . This 13th-century castle has doubled up as a hunting lodge, holiday home and stud farm for medieval kings throughout the centuries and is now looked after by English Heritage. Then, refuel with a meal at Mulberries Tearoom and Terrace in Pickering Station, before boarding your train to Whitby, stopping at Levisham, Newton Dale Halt, Goathland and Grosmont along the way.

Deep in the beating heart of the North York Moors lies the wonderful village of Glaisdale . Situated on the River Esk this is a place of romantic notoriety. The Beggars Bridge stands as a testament to true love and perseverance. Made famous in the song of the same name by Vin Garbutt. This handsome arch was built in 1619 by Thomas Ferriss. A classic tale of romance, the story goes that a young pauper wished to marry the daughter of a squire. And so made a plan to set sail to make his fortune and ultimately win the hand of his beloved. On the night of his departure, a great food breached the bans of the Esk preventing the lovers from a final meeting. Upon his return to the village, Tom Ferris, now a wealthy merchant built the Beggars Bridge . As a precaution to prevent such an incidence befalling young lovers ever again.  

Saltwick Bay

Just a hop, skip and a jump around the rocks from Tate Hill Sands is a seldom visited cove. Saltwick Bay is one of the best kept secret places to visit near Whitby. This rugged natural bay is home to the iconic Black Nab. A rocky outcrop extending into the North Sea notorious in the folklore of sailors and smugglers .  It is here that the famous legend of the submerged bells is heard, blowing gently on the breeze. 

Saltwick Bay is also a fantastic place to enjoy the summer solstice . And to experience the unique phenomena of the sun rising from and setting into the sea.  As it’s so close to Whitby it’s just a short walk at low tide along the beach. Alternatively, a hike across the Cleveland Way from Whitby Abbey makes for a stunning stroll upon the clifftop. Whichever way you decide to go, there is sure to be a sighting on of the infamous shipwrecks such as the SS Rohilla or the MV Creteblock. 

Robin Hood’s Bay

Explore the exquisite old-world charm of this ancient smugglers bay. Ramble along cobbled alleyways and stealth through the multitude of yards and gardens. As you make your way from Upper Bay to Lower Bay. Robin Hood’s Bay is famed as a smugglers haven and place of outstanding natural beauty.

Since the heady days of Britain’s great maritime era of the 1700s, the network of secret tunnels have been used to transport illicit goods and plundered bounty from the port to the village. Named not for its connection to the rich-robbing hero of Sherwood Forest, Bay Town, as locals call it is a wonderful village packed with rich cultural history, folklore and mystery. We highly recommend Robin Hood’s Bay Ghost Walk with the award-winning storyteller, Rose Rylands. 

It’s hard to imagine a more serene and sublime place to visit near Whitby. 

Further up the coast on the northerly edge of the North York Moors lies the sleepy fishing village of Staithes . Home to Captain Cook and Staithes Heritage Centre this charmingly original village sits at the mouth of Staithes Beck. As a traditional maritime hub this small but perfectly formed community boasts a picture postcard aspect. As you walk down the steep hill towards the harbour you’ll slip back in time. Once there, you’ll find the popular public house, The Cod and Lobster. This is an easy place to while away the hours. Whilst enjoying a pint of your favourite tipple and a plate of fresh fish and chips. Each year the Staithes Festival of Arts and Heritage celebrates local custom and culture with a long weekend of exhibitions displayed in the homes and holiday cottages peppered throughout the village. 

Runswick Bay

Just a few miles south of Staithes is the bracing coastal village of Runswick Bay . Known for its award-winning beach and rugged yet picturesque scenery. Walkers will be pleased to learn that the Cleveland Way cuts a path straight through the conurbation. Directly to the beach before swerving south once more along the clifftops.  As with many of these ancient fishing communities, there are a handful of excellent local pubs where visitors can take a hearty meal and a refreshing beverage. Many a yarn is spun by the old sailors of these salty boozers.  Runswick Bay is an excellent place for watersports offering sea kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding. As with any good beach spot, there’s a great cafe. Enjoy fresh crab sandwiches with a steaming hot cup of Yorkshire tea. 

Next on our list of places to visit near Whitby is the bustling town of Filey . Beyond the outer fringes of our catchment area, a few miles south of Scarborough, this is a popular place for tourists to visit. Filey established itself in the memories of the British holidaymaker as one of the popular Butlins Holiday Camps. During the fifties, sixties and seventies Brits flocked to this customer built coastal resort.  Thanks to its large beach and long promenade, Filey boasts an authentic seaside experience. One that offers visitors the chance to stretch their legs along the sweeping expanse of the bay.

The discovery of ruins in 1857 at Carr Naze cliff edge suggests that the town was known as the Roman settlement of Portus Felix . As a scheduled monument, the site denotes an important archaeological find – well worth a visit! For the adventurous, Bay Watersports offer activities such as coasteering (also known as tombstoning or cliff diving), kayaking, SUP and raft building team events.  

Perhaps best known to walkers of the Cleveland Way, Cloughton Wyke is a charming horseshoe cove between Ravenscar and Scarborough. Just four miles north of Scarborough town centre, the village of Cloughton has two decent pubs. The Blacksmiths Arms and The Red Lion – perfect for an afternoon away from the crowds. Visitors may find cricket or football being played on the local pitches. And for the high flyers, there’s a large conference centre hotel for business trips at Cober Hill . 

Thornton-le-Dale

Away from the coast, next to Pickering, is the next of our places to visit near Whitby. Thornton-le-Dale is an ancient settlement dating back to at least 1086. It’s mentioned in the Domesday Book under the name of Torentune. Since the turn of the 20th century, Thornton Dale has been seducing tourists with its idyllic rural charm and picture-postcard appearance. Voted in 1907 as Yorkshire’s prettiest village, Thornton-le-Dale has been wooing tourists ever since. Thanks in part to the Beck Isle, a well known thatched cottage. Achieving fame appearing on the cover of calendars and chocolate boxes. Thornton Beck runs directly past the front of this 17th-century building. Adding to the impressive aspect of this widely photographed icon. 

Located on the border of the North York Moors National Park is the village of Cropton . This quirky little place is just three miles north-west of Pickering.  Cropton, from the Old English crop tun, means hill with a settlement or mound with a farmstead. The village has a handsome aspect. There is an ancient Motte and Bailey castle, known as Round Hill , which is a protected historical site. The village boasts a popular microbrewery, The Great Yorkshire Brewery , which is situated to the rear of the New Inn on the edge of the village. 

Kirkbymoorside

Referenced in the Domesday Book of 1086 as Chirchebi, this ancient market town is located midway between Pickering and Helmsley. Modern-day Kirkbymoorside is known for its lively wind instrumentalism in the Kirkbymoorside Town Brass Band, production of light aircraft by Slingsby Aviation and anarchist poet, Herbert Read .  The town also hosts the popular regional agricultural show, the annual Ryedale Show. Perhaps, most importantly, to earn a mention in a list of places to visit near Whitby, there are two coaching inns of antiquity. The Black Swan and The George and Dragon – both well worth a visit! 

This charming market town sits just outside of the North York Moors National Park. Residing at the northerly fringes of North Yorkshire this popular place to visit near Whitby lies on the River Leven . Since 1223 the town has enjoyed a charter to hold fairs, bestowed by Henry III.  In the 17th century, The Pack Horse Bridge crossing the Leven was built. As an established commercial centre, there is a lively independent shopping and restaurant scene. So too, there is extensive Georgian architecture throughout the town, adding a dash of character and style. Stokesley Agricultural Show is the largest in northern England, taking place each September. There is also a weekly market on Fridays and a Farmers Market on the first Saturday of the month. 

Leaving the moorlands we enter the flatlands. On the cusp of the Vale of Pickering is the traditional market town of Helmsley . This quirky town retains a medieval layout, built up around the crossing of the River Rye and the A170. Further still, the western half is inside the North York Moors National Park. Bondgate is of particular architectural importance, as is the town centre, and has been designated a conservation area. The Earls of Feversham had an ancestral home built at Duncombe Park, overlooking the now ruined Helmsley Castle . The town is a popular meet-up place for bikers. It is also the beginning of the Cleveland Way, a 110mile loop walk to Filey. 

Great Ayton

The name Great Ayton is a derivative of the Old English, Ea-Tun . tun meaning ‘farm’ and ea meaning ‘river’. Sat beneath Easby Moor at the foot of the Cleveland Hills, Great Ayton is just a few. miles from the coast. Nearby is Roseberry Topping . A distinctively shaped hillock popular with daytrippers. Great Ayton was the boyhood home of Captain James Cook. The Cook family home was built in 1755 by his father. Cooks’ mother and siblings are buried at All Saints Church. In 1934, the cottage that the young apprentice seaman lived in was dismantled stone by stone to be transported to Melbourne, Australia. 

Popular with walkers of the Cleveland Way , this coastal village is just a few miles south of Robin Hood’s Bay . As the terminus of the Lyke Wake Walk, it holds a firm place in local folklore. Ravenscar was once a signal station in Roman times. One in a chain of many along the Yorkshire coast. The village enjoys a curious history as a resort that never was. In the late 19th century, plans were made to create a resort to rival Scarborough. Streets and sewers were laid out but no houses were ever built. Ravenscar was an important place for dyeing during the Alum era of the 1800s. Numerous ruins including a windmill of the Peak Alum Mill remain intact. An impressive National Trust site. Places to visit near Whitby don’t come quirkier than this. 

Known as Tunnel as recently as the 1850s this bracing moorland village has a long and vivid history. Grosmont Priory was established in the 12th century. One of only three Grandmontine religious houses in England. The monastery was dissolved in the 16th century under Henry VIII. West of the priory was the crossing place of the River Esk , an ancient structure known as Wade’s Causeway. A forge found at Smithy Holme Wood suggests that ironwork has taken place in the village as early as the 15th century. Later industrialisation led to the creation of the Grosmont Ironworks. Production peaked in around 1870 with approximately 500 men employed producing near 40,000 tonnes of iron. During this time there was built a railway line connecting the village to Whitby. Growth around this line was prolific. Many railway-related buildings here are listed. Including the property that would have been ‘The Tunnel Inn’, from which the original name of the village derives.  Grosmont is home to the North York Moors Railway engine shed and is a popular station on the steam railway line. 

Just about a mile away from Goathland lies the dizzy heights of Beck Hole . At 70m above sea level, access is via steep roads on either side of the village. Most of the buildings here are listed. Including the famous Birch Hall Inn, the village pub. The settlement dates back to the Middle Ages. Under the name Amerholm, it was set within the Forest of Pickering. Unbelievably, up until 1951, Beck Hole was a stop on the Whitby to Pickering Railway. The station was accessed by a rope-hauled cable until a new deviation line bypassed the incline in 1865. Visit Beck Hole for a crafty pint at the Birch Hall Inn, explore the historic listed buildings, and soak up the views across the moorlands.

Osmotherley

Steeped in local legend and folklore, Osmotherley has a rich cultural legacy. As the western terminus of the Lyke Wake Walk, above the village, is a stone marker that denotes the starts of the walk. Legend has it that the name Osmotherley comes from the story of a boy named Oswald or Osmund whose mother went out into the snow but never returned. Anxious, the boy went to look for his mother. He found her dead or dying, frozen in the snow. There he lay beside her, hence, Os-mother-lay. Whatever the truth of the tale, Osmotherley is a pleasant place to visit near Whitby. With its three public houses in. 50m radius you can be sure of a warm welcome. 

Rosedale Abbey

Dating back to 1158, this is the site of an early Cistercian Priory. A stone turret, sundial and stone pillar remain as ruins as a reminder of this early settlement. Like so many of the religious houses of antiquity, Rosedale Priory was dissolved under Henry VIII in the dissolution of the monasteries. Just a few miles south of Whitby, this is a great place to visit on your trip to the North York Moors. The present-day community benefits from a number of handsome tourist attractions. Since 1871, The Rosedale Show has welcomed tourists and locals alike. As the oldest of its kind in North Yorkshire, this popular event attracts more than 5,000 visitors each year. 

Roseberry Topping

This distinctively shaped hill draws crowds from across the region. The half cone shape with a jagged cliff face has been compared to the iconic Matterhorn in the Swiss-Alps. At a smidgen over a thousand metres, this is one of the top 20 highest peaks in the North York Moors. These lofty heights offer sublime views of Captain Cooks Monument at Easby Moor and the nearby Easton Nab. 

Newton-Under-Roseberry-Topping And it’s cold and it’s wet And you feel like you’re part of all time

Lyrics from America’s song “Hatrick” from the album of the same name place Roseberry Topping firmly in the imagination and lexicon of history. 

And, finally…

Such a wonderful region as the North York Moors has so many natural and historic wonders to explore. It is impossible to list them all. Happily, since there are so many exciting places to visit near Whitby. We’ve covered the best of the towns, villages and attractions to make your stay in the North York Moors a great one. And if you run out of time, you’ll just have to come back again!

Finally, to complete the roundup of our favourite places to visit in the North York Moors is Whitby itself. Starting with the haunting Whitby Abbey , one of the town’s most famous, and striking attractions. Towering above the coast high on the East Side clifftop stands Whitby Abbey. This iconic Benedictine monastery ruin looks particularly striking at night when it is all lit up. It’s easy to understand why it became the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula’ . It was this gothic inspiration that gave birth to the bi-annual ‘Goth Festival’ , usually held in April and October. This music festival attracts goths, metallers and celebrants of alternative lifestyles from across the UK!

View our full list of things to do in Whitby .

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3 thoughts on “Places To Visit Near Whitby, The Stunning North York Moors”

Really enjoyed all this information .Will be visiting in May this year Looking forward into seeing most of it Thank you so much .

A very informative guide. I am visiting the area from Queensland, Australia in mid – late May. The Whitby Mini Guide has mentioned so many places of interest for me. Thankyou. 🙂

Hi Charmaine. We are so glad you find our guide and website useful. We hope you have a great trip to Whitby.

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11 Of The Most Beautiful Places In Yorkshire To Visit

We’ve handpicked some of the most beautiful places in Yorkshire for you to visit. It’s the ultimate bucket list of picturesque spots. Yorkshire is home to some of the finest walks, from waterfalls to historic cities, towns and villages. It has it all. Enjoy our list of some of our favourite places to visit here at The Yorkshireman.

From picturesque villages to stunning natural landscapes, we traversed the length and breadth of God’s Own County, reveling in its splendor. With a growing trend towards local travel, it’s set to be a stellar year for tourism, catering to both visitors and residents alike.

From the rugged beauty of the Yorkshire Dales to the enchanting allure of the Peak District, we’ve left no stone unturned in our quest to unearth the gems of this remarkable county. Whether you’re seeking quaint villages, emerging hotspots, or timeless classics, settle in, brew a cuppa, and immerse yourself in some of the most beautiful spots to visit in Yorkshire

1. Hutton-le-Hole, North York Moors

The  North York Moors  National Park is one of the real wonders of Yorkshire. Its rugged moors, coastline and idyllic villages make it one of the most incredible places to explore.

And, speaking of  villages , Hutton-le-Hole, North York Moors is one of the unique places to explore where moorland sheep roam freely along the wide green.The popular beauty spot is known for its village green that takes centre stage with the picturesque view of the footbridges across the stream that runs through the village. 

2. Robin Hood’s Bay , Yorkshire Coast

The picturesque fishing village holds a dark past of smugglers and gangs walking its streets hundreds of years ago. You can learn about the fascinating secrets the cove holds and more with our list of the best things to do in  Robin Hood’s Bay  including with enjoying the sand beach which offers fantastic opportunities for rock pool exploring and ancient fossils.

You can also wander through its narrow, twisting cobbled streets and alleyways, and visit its old-fashioned traditional pubs where smugglers would frequent and tell tales of their finds along the  Yorkshire Coast .

3. Malham , Yorkshire Dales – Most Beautiful Places Yorkshire

One of Yorkshire’s most famous walking spots Malham has a number of fantastic walks on its doorstep. You can take in some beautiful sights without having to travel far from Malham, such as Janet’s Foss, Gordale Scar the cove and a big old hike away is Malham Tarn. After all those walks you can head back over to Malham and enjoy a pint of ale at one of its pubs.

The cracked limestone creates a unique eerie landscape is an awe-inspiring viewpoint in which you can take in God’s Own Country.

4. Sutton Bank, North York Moors

The North York Moors National Park is one of our favourite parts of Yorkshire and is one of the most beautiful places in Yorkshire. Its varied and rugged landscape makes for some beautiful walks. Especially this time of the year – and we aren’t the only ones who think so as one of Yorkshire’s most famous Yorkshiremen was quite partial to a certain part of it.

Sutton Bank with its famous landmark, the  Kilburn White Horse  was proclaimed by the author of the famous novels  All Creatures Great and Small ,  Alf Wight, more commonly known as his author name James Herriot as ‘the finest view in England.

4. Knaresborough , North Yorkshire

Fancied a trip around Italy this summer? Since that’s potentially out of the question, why not take a trip to Yorkshire’s very own answer to Venice? Wander around the labyrinth of medieval cobbled streets and soak up the history of the charming market town, Knaresborough in the Borough of Harrogate, North Yorkshire. 

Dating back to the 5th century, Knaresborough is one of Yorkshire’s  prettiest market towns  due to its unique placement – overlooking the beautiful River Nidd. The small market town has everything that a visitor could desire and more, with glorious pubs, a quaint town centre and small cafes and independent shops to experience during a visit.

5. Ilkley Moor , West Yorkshire – Most Beautiful Places Yorkshire

One of the most famous parts of Yorkshire, Ilkley Moor found on the outskirts of Leeds is a picturesque piece of moorland that overlooks the market town of Ilkley. It’s perfect for photographs with the cow and calf structure making for a great old picture with the heather bringing the snap to life. There are usually sheep lolling around also.

Standing proudly on Ilkley Moor, the Cow and Calf Rocks are a subject of fascination here in Yorkshire – thanks to its natural formation that many say resembles a cow and a calf.One of the great natural wonders in Yorkshire it is surrounded by stunning heather, a synonymous sight with West Yorkshire, with sheep often roaming the area, too, providing quite the idyllic mood.

Read More: The 14 Most Beautiful Villages In Yorkshire To Visit

6. Aysgarth Falls , Yorkshire Dales

One of the most famous waterfall walks in the Yorkshire Dales, Aysgarth Falls is a trio of small waterfalls found on the River Ure.

You can enjoy an incredible circular walk through Wensleydale taking in the three-flight waterfall. It has lots of pop culture accolades such as featuring in Robin Hood Prince Of Thieves, Williams Wordsworth visits and Turner and Ruskin paintings.

The pretty spot makes for some beautiful photographs – which is why thousands of people flock every single year. 

7. Fountains Abbey , North Yorkshire

One of Yorkshire’s popular tourist attractions  Fountain’s Abbey , is stunning and a great palce to revel in the beauty that both the structure and its surrounding parkland hold. It’s no secret: we absolutely love it, and it seems we’re not the only ones.

The 800 acres of the historical monument were founded in 1132 and were in operation for 400 years until Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries. It then fell into ruins before becoming a popular tourist attraction.

8. York, North Yorkshire

Known for its cobbled streets and beautiful minster,  York  is a city that has a sense of community to it with all of its quaint  pubs and bars  to frequent.

Whether you’re taking a stroll down The Shambles, wandering around the ancient walls, or visiting the popular Shambles Market, you’re not stuck for things to do in the beautiful city of York in North Yorkshire that you can visit more than once.

9. Castle Howard, North Yorkshire

Beauty and Yorkshire are synonymous. The county is one of the most beautiful, if not the most beautiful, places in the world. And, we aren’t even a little bit biased. Honest.

And one of its beautiful pieces of architecture has been named the most beautiful  stately home  in the world. Having been there for their  Christmas event , we’d have to agree. Castle Howard is an absolute delight.

10. North Landing, East Yorkshire

There are no greater views than that of the lesser-known North Landing beach at Flamborough Head, which can be found by just heading further up from Bridlington.As the weather warms up, there’s nothing like a refreshing breeze off the ocean and a paddle with an ice cream cone in hand to relieve the suffocating heat.

North Landing’s lovely beach has an intimate air to it, as though the white chalky cliffs of Flamborough encircle you and make you feel secluded. The natural cove, which is made up of soft sand and stones, is ideal for swimming, cave exploration, and rockpool hunting for marine life.

11. Haworth & Bronte Country, West Yorkshire – Most Beautiful Places Yorkshire

Tucked away in the Pennine Hills of West Yorkshire, you’ll find an idyllic village called Haworth. which is one of the most beautiful places in Yorkshire. And while it may be small, it’s not one to overlook.Surrounded by vast countryside peppered with stunning purple heather (a familiar sight for rural West Yorkshire), the traditional village is a literary mecca – with belletristic history running deep into its veins.

And we’re not talking ‘literary’ in the  Harry Potter -esque sense like York, Scotland and London – we’re talking rich history that dates right back to the 1800s – with Haworth providing an inspirational backdrop to three authors in particular. The Brontë sisters.

Read More: 10 Of The Most Inspirational Views In The Peak District

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The 13 best things to do in Yorkshire

A s England’s largest county, you can expect Yorkshire to be a bit exceptional. It is England in miniature: high fells and moorland for wild walking; soft green valleys for timeless villages and sparkling rivers (waterfalls, too); a bracing coastline for family beaches and fossil-hunting; and rolling farmland dotted with romantic ruined abbeys and sprawling stately homes.

Add to the mix a lively dollop of culture – a 500-acre sculpture park, David Hockney, moody Brontë country, museums from the quaint (toys) to the spectacular (trains) – plus one-off Yorkshire experiences such as steaming across the moors in vintage railway carriages, and everyone should be happy.

For further inspiration, see our holiday guide to  Yorkshire  and the best  hotels ,  pubs ,  beaches  and  restaurants  in the area. 

North York Moors and the surrounding area

Ruminate on romantic ruins.

It may not be as isolated as when it was founded by 12th-century Cistercian monks, but Rievaulx Abbey’s setting – beside the River Rye and cupped by protective wooded slopes – is still pretty magical. Once one of the most powerful and wealthiest abbeys in the country, its roofless ruins still rise majestically and make you catch your breath when they first reveal themselves.

Insider’s tip:  One of the most dramatic views is from  Rievaulx Terrace  above a long greensward book-ended by classical-style temples, built in 1758 by wealthy neighbour Thomas Duncombe as a picnicking spot to capture the romance of the vista. 

Contact: english-heritage.org.uk  

Go full steam ahead

Roll back the years to when trains ran on time, guards were cheery and engines whistled. Settle yourself into a vintage carriage and let one of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway’s steam engines huff and puff as it carries you in comfort over the 24 miles from Pickering to Whitby. Passing through woodland and secret valleys, trains snort their way up the 532 feet to Goathland Summit before winding back down to Whitby.  

Insider's tip:  All services are ‘hop on, hop off’ – there are four stations in between Pickering and Whitby – so you can either have a cuppa at one of the station tea-rooms or follow the Rail Trail walk between the stops.

Contact: nymr.co.uk

Price: ££/£££

Take a walk on the wild side

The heather moorland – the largest area of its type in England – cries out to be explored. It’s so vast, with dozens of walks to choose from (leaflets from Visitor Centre or check northyorkmoors.org.uk ) that you easily lose the crowds. Rosedale Abbey is a good starting point for circular routes, including one to Lastingham with its church with a Norman crypt, or start from the National Park car park on the A169 to explore the massive Hole of Horcum amphitheatre.

Insider's tip: The heather is at its blooming purple best from late July through to early September – as good as the lavender fields of Provence.

northyorkmoors.org.uk

Find foodie delights

The self-styled ‘food capital of Yorkshire’, Malton, is a bustling, colourful and pin-neat market town – even the bank has a vine growing up its façade - where every other business seems to be aimed at your palate: artisan bakeries, coffee roasters, delis, butchers, brewers and tea-shops. You can take a tour on your own – most places are clustered in and around the Market Place and Yorkersgate – or book a guided tour with guaranteed tastings.

Insider’s tip: Visit the Rare Bird gin distillery  and you’ll get a free tot – and a tour if they’re not busy. Or book a place at their ‘gin school’ to make your own bottle of ‘Mother’s Ruin’, choosing from over 30 different botanicals.

Contact: visitmalton.com Price: £££

Explore the grand life of a grand house

If you have to choose a grand house to visit, you may as well go for one with film-set good looks (Brideshead Revisited, Bridgerton, Victoria), a jaw-dropping frontage and a 1000-acre parkland scattered with follies. Castle Howard, still lived in by the Howard family, is a fine mix of Baroque and Palladian styles. Interiors are suitably lavish with a rich collection of art, from Italian masters to Pre-Raphaelites. Save time for the grounds which include walled garden, woodland garden, lakes, a sumptuous Nicholas Hawksmoor-designed mausoleum plus a John Vanbrugh-designed temple.

Insider’s tip: If children need persuading to visit, challenge them with the Statue Trail, then let them run wild in the Adventure Playground.

Contact: castlehoward.co.uk

Yorkshire Dales

See a limestone wonderwall.

Malham Cove is limestone scenery at its best. The 230-foot high cliff, a curving and sheer wall which lies an easy half-a-mile walk from Malham village, is the result of ice action and glacial meltwater eroding the rock 12,000 years ago. For a more spectacular walk (which demands fitness), head to the rocky canyon of Gordale Scar, scramble up its waterfall and around Malham Tarn to the limestone pavement that leads to the top of Malham Cove (around 7.5 miles in total).

Insider’s tip: Visit between April and June and you’ve a good chance of spotting the pair of peregrine falcons that breed here; wardens are on hand with binoculars and telescopes for close-ups.

Contact:   yorkshiredales.org.uk Price: Free

Wander the grounds of an historic abbey

Bolton Abbey’s 30,000-acre woodland and moorland estate, owned by the Dukes of Devonshire (of Chatsworth fame), is a firm family favourite, and deservedly so. There are the ruins of the eponymous 12th- century priory itself, stepping-stones, riverbank picnicking and, for the more active, woodland walks alongside the River Wharfe as it changes pace from placid waters to raging torrent. Most spectacular is The Strid, where the river squeezes through a rocky chasm.

Insider’s tip: The Strid Wood Tea Rooms, 10 minutes from its namesake, are less busy, and cosier, than the main Cavendish Pavilion café.

Contact: boltonabbey.com

Price: ££ (free if arrive by foot, bicycle or public transport) 

Discover the charms of life in the Dales

For a good day out, the quintessential Dales’ market town of Hawes, in upper Wensleydale, is both hard-working – regular farmers auction, weekly market, Wensleydale cheese-making – and attractive. Apart from Wensleydale Creamery – watch the handmade process, then taste – there’s the Dales Countryside Museum (locos to butter-churning), the family-run Raydale Preserves (jams to chutneys, curds to sauces), pubs, cafes and antique shops. Just outside town you’ll find Hardraw Force , England’s highest single-drop waterfall.

Insider’s tip: Two other waterfalls worth visiting in upper Wensleydale are Aysgarth, which tumbles in three tiers, and West Burton, in the outrageously pretty village of the same name.

Contact:  yorkshiredales.org.uk Price: £

Be mesmerised by a medieval abbey and romantic Georgian water gardens

Not only do you get two World Heritage sites for the price of one, at this tranquil spot in the Skell valley near Ripon, but two wildly different experiences. The lofty ruins of Fountains Abbey, with vast vaulted cellar, soaring columns and windowless arches, is one of the largest medieval Cistercian monasteries in England. Alongside it spread the glossy-magazine-perfect 18th-century water gardens of Studley Royal with their ‘moon ponds’, geometrically perfect canals, dancing cascades and eccentric buildings – a temple here, a summerhouse there. The latter are perfectly placed both to capture, and be framed by, the views.

Insider’s tip: The grounds include a deer park in which wildlife volunteers run monthly deer walks (free) to allow you closer access to the red, fallow and sika deer population.

nationaltrust.org.uk

East Yorkshire and Coast

Seek out whitby’s curious side.

Everyone visiting Whitby makes a beeline for the Abbey whose gaunt medieval ruins rear up on the eastern headland. The views are magnificent and worth the 199-step climb. But it would be a mistake to ignore Whitby Museum set in parkland and across the other side of town. An idiosyncratic ‘museum of curiosities’ whose old-fashioned cabinets contain items from Victorian tonsillectomy guillotines to dolls’ houses; [early Meccano toys to ships in light bulbs] as well as gigantic 175-million-year-old fossil creatures. 

Insider’s tip: Not far below the museum, Silver Street and neighbouring Skinner Street are worth browsing for their mix of traditional and more outré shops, from old-fashioned confectioners and antiques to ‘goth’ clothing. 

Contact:  

whitbymuseum.org.uk

Towns and cities

Visit a victorian gem.

The Victorian village of Saltaire, on the northern outskirts of Bradford, was built by the magnificently named philanthropist, Sir Titus Salt, to provide his mill-workers with decent housing, self-improvement facilities (library, no pub) and fresh air. Neat rows of terraced houses, with grander ones for the managers, sit in the shadow of the mighty Salts Mill, once the world’s biggest factory and now displaying one of the biggest collections of art by local boy David Hockney.   

Insider’s tip: Leave time to pop inside the excessively grand Italianate United Reformed Church to see its cupola, Corinthian columns and vast chandeliers.

Contact:  saltsmill.org.uk

Price: Free

Gaze at art in the park

The 500-acre Yorkshire Sculpture Park near Wakefield repays a slow, meandering visit. The artwork varies from the familiar curves of a Henry Moore and chunky metalwork of Eduardo Paolozzi to the monumental figures of Sean Henry and the mesmerising beauty of Kimsooja’s ‘A Needle Woman’, whose shimmering needle-thin pyramid of reflective resin panels soars into the sky. Some, such as Dennis Oppenheim’s ‘trees’ of old household junk, are both comical and thought-provoking.

Insider’s tip: Pack a picnic; there are heaps of thoughtfully placed benches and tables, often tucked in copses or overlooking one of the lakes.

Take the waters, and afternoon tea

Harrogate is everything you’d expect of a well-bred, northern town that once compared favourably with the grandest European spas – the first of the town’s 80-odd medicinal springs was discovered in the 16th century – with tree-lined avenues, Regency terraces, lush hanging baskets, delis and tearooms, antique shops and art galleries. Discover its history (and taste the water) at the octagonal Royal Pump Room Museum, before ‘taking a turn’ in the immaculate Valley Gardens and browsing Montpellier Quarter’s classy shops. Have a wallow at the Victorian Turkish Baths, with their original Moorish tiling, before afternoon tea at Bettys. 

Insider’s tip: A bosky two-mile walk from Valley Gardens takes you to Harlow Carr gardens,  the Royal Horticultural Society’s northern outpost at Beckwithshaw – and which also, usefully, has a branch of Betty’s. 

Contact: visitharrogate.co.uk

Price: £-££

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