North York Moors Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, hiking routes, local food, accommodations, and tips in North York Moors with our informative travel guide.


Introduction to North York Moors

North York Moors is a national park located in North Yorkshire, England. With over 1,400 miles of natural trails, the park offers spectacular landscapes of rolling hills, heather moorlands, and dramatic coastline. It’s an ideal destination for nature lovers, hikers, and history enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in North York Moors

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ryedale Folk Museum: Discover the everyday lives of people in rural Yorkshire from the Iron Age to the 1950s.
  • Whitby Abbey: One of the most famous landmarks in North Yorkshire. Take a guided tour to learn about its history, legends, and gothic architecture.
  • Captain Cook Memorial Museum: Learn about Captain Cook’s voyages and his connection to Yorkshire’s maritime heritage.
  • Helmsley Castle: Explore the ruins of a medieval castle and its beautiful gardens.

Natural Attractions of North York Moors: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Roseberry Topping: Climb to the top of a distinctive hill overlooking the Teesside area.
  • Sutton Bank National Park Centre: Enjoy panoramic views of the Yorkshire Dales from a cliff-top vantage point.
  • North York Moors Railway: A historic railway that takes you on a scenic journey through the heart of the national park.
  • Goathland: A picturesque village used as a location for the TV series “Heartbeat” and “Harry Potter.”

Hiking/Biking Routes of North York Moors

North York Moors offer a wide range of hiking and cycling routes, from easy walks to challenging treks. Here are some of the best:

  • Cleveland Way: A 109-mile long-distance trail that passes through the moors and along the dramatic coastline.
  • Lyke Wake Walk: A 40-mile trail that takes you across the highest points of the national park.
  • Sutton Bank Biking: Enjoy a family-friendly cycle ride on the purpose-built trail network at Sutton Bank.

Best Things to Do in North York Moors: Activities and Tours

  • Horseback Riding: Explore the national park on horseback and experience the stunning landscapes.
  • Fossil Hunting: Search for fossils on the beach at Robin Hood’s Bay.
  • Whitby Ghost Walk: Take a guided tour of the spooky side of Whitby’s history.
  • Tree Top Adventure Course: Fly through the trees on zip lines and rope bridges at Dalby Forest.

Week-Long Itinerary for North York Moors

Day 1: Arrive in Whitby and explore the old town and harbor. Visit the Captain Cook Memorial Museum.

Day 2: Take the steam train of North York Moors Railway to Grosmont and return by bus. Walk the last leg of the Cleveland Way to Whitby.

Day 3: Hike along the Lyke Wake Walk to the summit of Roseberry Topping. Visit Ryedale Folk Museum on the way back.

Day 4: Drive to Goathland and hike to Beck Hole. Visit the Mallyan Spout waterfall.

Day 5: Take a horse riding tour in the heather fields near Helmsley Castle. Drive to Sutton Bank and cycle the family-friendly trails.

Day 6: Visit the ruins of Rievaulx Abbey and enjoy a picnic in the surrounding meadows.

Day 7: Depart from North York Moors or continue your exploration of Yorkshire.

Food and Drink Scene of North York Moors

Must-Try Dishes

  • Yorkshire Pudding: A savory dish made with a batter of milk, flour, and eggs, typically served with gravy.
  • Whitby Scampi: Breaded deep-fried langoustines served with chips.
  • Yorkshire Curd Tart: A sweet tart made with curd cheese, sugar, eggs, and nutmeg.
  • Parkin: A gingerbread cake made with oatmeal, treacle, and ginger.

Local Beverages

  • Yorkshire Tea: A strong and flavorful tea blend, perfect for a morning pick-me-up.
  • Black Sheep Ale: A local beer with a smooth and rich flavor.
  • Sloe Gin: Made from locally foraged sloe berries, it’s a sweet and fruity liqueur.

Where to Stay in North York Moors: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are various accommodation options in North York Moors to suit every budget and preference. Here are some recommendations:

Luxury Hotels

  • The Black Swan Hotel: A 4-star hotel located in Helmsley, with elegant rooms and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
  • Raithwaite Estate: A 5-star resort located between Whitby and Sandsend, featuring luxury rooms, spa treatments, and fine dining.

Budget Accommodations

  • YHA Helmsley: Hostel located in a converted Victorian mansion, offering affordable rooms and a communal kitchen.
  • High Dalby House: Self-catering holiday cottages located in Dalby Forest, with access to hiking trails.

What to Buy in North York Moors: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Yorkshire Cheese: Try a variety of regional cheeses, such as Wensleydale and Swaledale.
  • Whitby Jet: A unique fossilized wood that has been crafted into jewelry and ornaments.
  • Yorkshire Lavender: A fragrant product made from locally grown lavender flowers, available in essential oils, soaps, and candles.

Local Culture and Customs of North York Moors

Yorkshire locals are proud of their heritage and traditional way of life. Visitors should respect the local customs, such as drinking tea (or “brew”) and enjoying a Sunday roast with gravy.

Best Time to Visit North York Moors

The best time to visit North York Moors is between April and October, when the weather is mild and the countryside is in bloom. Spring and summer are particularly popular for outdoor activities and festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of North York Moors

Do:

  • Respect the wildlife and keep to designated trails.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Visit the small villages and market towns for an authentic Yorkshire experience.
  • Bring rain gear, as it can rain any time of year.

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave a trail of rubbish, pack it all up and preserve the environment.
  • Wander off designated footpaths or climb over fences without permission.
  • Disturb farming animals or wildlife in natural habitat.

Safety and Health

Safety in North York Moors

North York Moors is generally a safe area, but visitors should take precautions against theft and follow common sense safety practices for outdoor activities.

  • Wear appropriate clothing and footwear for hiking or cycling.
  • Check the weather forecast and adjust plans accordingly.
  • Carry a map and know the route before setting out.
  • Let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return.
  • Keep a safe distance from cliffs or crumbling ruins.

Health in North York Moors

The national park has medical facilities and pharmacies in nearby towns, so visitors should carry a basic first aid kit and any necessary medications. Tap water is safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available.

Getting to North York Moors: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near North York Moors

Durham Tees Valley Airport is the closest airport, located 20 miles away, which provides flights to London, Aberdeen, Amsterdam and Dublin.

Bus Stations Near North York Moors

The main intercity bus station in the area is located in Middlesborough. From there, visitors can connect with local buses to North York Moors.

Other Options

Car rental and private transportation are the best options to get to North York Moors. There are several car hire companies located in cities/towns close to North York Moors.

How to Get Around in North York Moors

The most convenient way to get around North York Moors is by car, as some of the attractions and hiking trails are not easily accessible by public transport. However, visitors can also use the local bus services and North York Moors Railway to travel between the main towns and villages.

Where to Go Next from North York Moors: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • York: A historic city with a rich heritage and medieval architecture.
  • Durham: Explore the stunning cathedral and castle of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Yorkshire Dales: Another stunning national park known for its limestone cliffs and rolling hills.
  • Scarborough: A seaside town with a long history and beautiful beaches.

Conclusion

North York Moors, with its natural beauty, history, and local culture, is a perfect destination for visitors looking to experience the best of Yorkshire. Whether you are enjoying a leisurely walk, sampling local foods, or learning about the park’s unique geology and history, there is something for everyone in North York Moors.

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