Things To Do in the North York Moors

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

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!

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

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.

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