Pickering Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, and eat in Pickering, England with this comprehensive travel guide. From historical landmarks to hiking routes, from local dishes to souvenirs, we've got you covered.


Introduction to Pickering

Located in North Yorkshire, England, Pickering is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It’s a popular tourist destination, thanks to its rich history, scenic surroundings, and vibrant food and drink scene. Whether you’re interested in hiking, exploring the local culture, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, Pickering has everything you need.

List of Places to Visit in Pickering

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Pickering is home to a number of museums and historical landmarks that showcase its rich history and cultural heritage. Some must-visit sites include:

  • Pickering Castle: Built in the 12th century, the castle is a fascinating sight, with its well-preserved ruins and stunning views of the town below.
  • Beck Isle Museum: This local museum tells the story of Pickering and the surrounding area, through fascinating exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.
  • North Yorkshire Moors Railway: Often considered one of England’s most scenic rail journeys, this heritage railway runs from Pickering to Whitby, taking in some breathtaking views along the way.
  • St. Peter and St. Paul’s Church: This historic church dates back to the 12th century and offers a glimpse into the religious history of the region.

Natural Attractions of Pickering: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Pickering is located in the heart of the North York Moors National Park, which means that there are plenty of natural attractions to explore. Some of the top picks include:

  • North York Moors National Park: Take a stroll through the stunning moorland, where you can spot rare wildlife and enjoy panoramic views.
  • Dalby Forest: This vast woodland area is perfect for hiking, cycling, and a wide range of outdoor activities, with its extensive network of trails and stunning vistas.
  • Pickering Trout Lake: If you’re in the mood for some fishing, the trout lake is an excellent choice, with its well-stocked waters and peaceful surroundings.
  • Flamingo Land Theme Park and Zoo: This popular theme park and zoo is a fun-packed day out for all the family, with roller coasters, thrill rides, and exotic animals from around the world.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pickering

Pickering is a paradise for hikers and cyclists, with its extensive network of scenic trails and stunning landscapes. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Pickering to Whitby: This is one of the most popular routes in the area, offering breathtaking views of the coast and the moors. The trail runs for 21 miles and can be done on foot or by bike.
  • Newtondale Forest and Beck Hole: This circular walk takes you through some of the North York Moors’ most beautiful woodland and river scenery, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife on the way.
  • The Esk Valley Walk: If you’re looking for a longer route, the Esk Valley Walk is a great choice, taking you along the River Esk through some of the North York Moors’ most beautiful and remote landscapes.
  • The Hole of Horcum: This iconic landmark offers some of the most stunning views in the area, with its vast panorama and its unique geological history.

Best Things to Do in Pickering: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking, there are plenty of other activities and tours to enjoy in Pickering. Here are some top picks:

  • Cookery Classes at The White Swan Inn: If you’re a foodie, you’ll love this cooking class, where you’ll learn to make some of the best local dishes, using fresh ingredients.
  • Whitby Ghost Walks: Join a spooky guided tour of the town of Whitby, exploring some of its most haunted locations and hearing eerie stories along the way.
  • Pickering Markets: This bustling market offers a wealth of local produce, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs, with plenty of food stalls to tempt you along the way.
  • Tour of Flamingo Land: If you’re visiting with kids, a tour of Flamingo Land is a must. This popular theme park and zoo offer the chance to get up close and personal with exotic animals from around the world!

Week-Long Itinerary for Pickering

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Pickering, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activities
1 Visit Pickering Castle and the Beck Isle Museum
2 Take a hike in Dalby Forest and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant
3 Explore Flamingo Land Theme Park and Zoo
4 Take a trip on the North York Moors Railway to Whitby and explore the town
5 Enjoy a cooking class at The White Swan Inn and visit local pubs and breweries
6 Take a walk around the Esk Valley and visit St. Mary’s Church in Whitby
7 Visit Pickering Trout Lake and the Pickering Markets for some souvenirs

Food and Drink Scene of Pickering

Must-Try Dishes

Pickering’s food scene is vibrant and diverse, offering a range of local and international cuisine. Some must-try dishes include:

  • Yorkshire Pudding: This savory pastry is a signature dish of the region and can be found in many restaurants and traditional pubs.
  • Fish and Chips: A British classic, fish and chips are always a good choice, and Pickering has many restaurants that specialize in this dish.
  • Sticky Toffee Pudding: This rich, decadent dessert is a local specialty, and a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
  • Three Bird Roast: A festive dish typically served during the holidays, the three-bird roast consists of three birds (chicken, duck, and turkey) stuffed together and served with sides.

Local Beverages

Pickering offers a range of local and regional beverages to sample, including:

  • Yorkshire Tea: This tea is a British staple and can be found in many cafes and tearooms in Pickering and the surrounding area.
  • Timothy Taylor’s Beer: This local brewery produces some of the best beers in the region, with a range of traditional ales to choose from.
  • Yorkshire Cider: Made using locally-grown apples, this cider is refreshing and fruity, and perfect for a hot summer day.
  • Sloe Gin: Made using locally-grown sloes, this gin is sweet and spicy, with a unique flavor that you won’t find anywhere else.

Where to Stay in Pickering: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Pickering offers plenty of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some top picks:

  • The White Swan Inn: This cozy and stylish inn offers comfortable rooms, a relaxing bar, and an excellent restaurant that specializes in local and international cuisine.
  • 17 Burgate: This elegant guesthouse offers charming rooms and a spacious garden, and is located just steps away from the town center.
  • The Black Swan: This historic hotel dates back to the 15th century and offers a mix of traditional and modern amenities, including a spa and a fine dining restaurant.
  • Bramwood Guest House: This family-run guesthouse offers clean and comfortable rooms, a delicious breakfast, and a friendly atmosphere.

What to Buy in Pickering: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Pickering is a fantastic place to shop for souvenirs and gifts, with a range of local products and crafts on offer. Some top picks include:

  • Pickering Markets: This bustling market offers a variety of handmade crafts, local produce, and unique souvenirs, including pottery, textiles, and jewelry.
  • Stained Glass Workshop: This local workshop produces beautiful, handmade stained glass pieces, including mirrors, lamps, and sun catchers.
  • The Chocolate Factory: This local chocolatier produces some of the best chocolates in the region, using high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques.
  • Tom’s Waxed Jackets: This local tailor produces high-quality waxed jackets and coats, perfect for outdoor adventures.

Local Culture and Customs of Pickering

Pickering has a rich cultural heritage, which is celebrated throughout the town. Some of the local customs and traditions include:

  • Maytime Fair: This annual fair takes place in May and features a range of traditional games, processions, and performances.
  • Wassailing: This is an ancient custom that involves singing, drinking, and making noise to wake up the apple trees and ensure a good harvest.
  • Antique Fairs: Pickering is known for its antique fairs, which take place throughout the year and offer a range of unique and fascinating items.

Best Time to Visit Pickering

The best time to visit Pickering is during the spring and summer months (March to August), when the weather is mild and dry, and the natural beauty of the region is at its best. However, the region is also beautiful in the autumn months (September to November), when the foliage turns to shades of gold, red and orange, and the crisp air is perfect for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the area.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pickering

Do:

  • Do take the time to explore the natural beauty of Pickering and the surrounding area, including the North York Moors National Park.
  • Do try the local cuisine and beverages, including Yorkshire pudding, fish and chips, and locally-brewed beer.
  • Do respect the local customs and traditions, and take part in cultural events and festivals.
  • Do shop for unique souvenirs and gifts, including pottery, textile, and craft goods.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Don’t be loud or disruptive, especially at night.
  • Don’t ignore local customs and traditions or disrespect the local community.
  • Don’t forget to tip in local restaurants, bars, and cafes.

Safety and Health

Safety in Pickering

Pickering is a relatively safe place to visit, but it’s always important to take precautions when traveling. Here are some general safety tips:

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone or at night.
  • Keep your valuables safe and secure, and be aware of pickpockets and scams.
  • Stay on designated trails when hiking or exploring the natural beauty of the region.
  • Check the weather conditions before setting out on outdoor adventures.

Health in Pickering

Pickering has a range of medical facilities, including hospitals, pharmacies, and clinics, which are easily accessible. It’s always a good idea to bring a basic first aid kit with you, and to be aware of any allergies or medical conditions you may have.

Getting to Pickering: Transportation Options and Logistics

Pickering is easily accessible by car, train, or bus. Here are some transportation options:

  • Airports Near Pickering: The closest airport is Leeds Bradford Airport, which is about an hour and a half drive from Pickering.
  • Bus Stations Near Pickering: The nearest bus station is in Malton, which is about 5 miles from Pickering. There are regular buses to and from Malton.
  • Train Station Near Pickering: The closest train station is in Malton, which is served by the TransPennine Express and Northern Rail services.
  • Other Options: If you’re traveling by car, Pickering is easily accessible from the A169, which runs through the town.

How to Get Around in Pickering

Pickering is a relatively small town, and many of the attractions and landmarks can be reached on foot. However, there are also plenty of transportation options for those who prefer not to walk, including:

  • Buses: There are regular bus services that run throughout the town and the surrounding area, connecting Pickering to nearby villages and towns.
  • Taxis: Taxis are easily available in Pickering, and can be booked by phone or through the local taxi ranks.
  • Car Hire: If you prefer to have your own transportation, there are several car hire companies in Pickering and the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Pickering: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore the surrounding area, there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to choose from, including:

  • Whitby: This historic seaside town is a popular tourist destination, thanks to its stunning Abbey ruins, charming harbor, and fantastic fish and chips.
  • Scarborough: Another coastal town, Scarborough offers a range of attractions, including a medieval castle, a stunning seafront, and a lively shopping district.
  • York: This historic city is a treasure trove of cultural and historical landmarks, including the famous York Minster, the York Castle Museum, and the York Museum Gardens.
  • The Yorkshire Dales: Just a short drive from Pickering, the Yorkshire Dales National Park offers some of the most beautiful scenery in England, with its rolling hills, rocky outcroppings, and traditional stone villages.

Conclusion

Pickering is a fantastic destination for anyone who loves history, culture, and natural beauty. With its range of museums, historical landmarks, hiking trails, and natural attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to explore the local food and drink scene, shop for unique souvenirs, or simply unwind in the gorgeous surroundings, Pickering is the perfect choice for your next vacation.

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