Yarm Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems of Yarm in North Yorkshire with our comprehensive travel guide. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, delicious local cuisine to cozy accommodations, we've got you covered.


Yarm Travel Guide: Explore the Best of North Yorkshire

Welcome to Yarm, a charming town nestled in the heart of North Yorkshire, England. With its rich history, picturesque countryside, and friendly locals, Yarm is the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you on a tour of Yarm’s top attractions, give you tips on where to eat, sleep, and shop, and provide important information on logistics and safety. So sit back, relax, and let us show you the best of North Yorkshire’s hidden gems!

List of Places to Visit in Yarm

Yarm is a small town, but it’s packed with interesting things to see and do. Here’s a list of must-visit places in and around Yarm:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Yarm High Street: This stretch of historic buildings is perfect for a leisurely stroll. You can find many cozy cafes and independent shops.
  2. Yarm Town Hall: An iconic 18th-century building which now hosts a variety of community events and markets.
  3. Yarm Castle: A remnant from the middle ages, this castle is visible from the outside as only some parts of it still remain.

Natural Attractions of Yarm: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. River Tees: Take a leisurely walk near the River Tees and experience wildlife
  2. Leven Valley: The beautiful countryside of Leven Valley is perfect for hikers and bikers.
  3. Ingleby Barwick Nature Reserve: See ponds, woods, walks, nature trails, a picnic area and a view platform giving views and opportunities to watch birds and other wildlife at this natural reserve.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Yarm

If outdoor adventures are your thing, Yarm won’t disappoint you. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Yarm and its surrounding areas:

  1. Yarm to Preston Park: This easygoing route is perfect for beginners with scenic landscapes
  2. Eston Hills: Big hill inclinations that take up the space is an excellent destination for bikes.
  3. Roseberry Topping: This summit at the Cleveland Hills offers a magnificent panorama, perfect for experienced hikers.

Best Things to Do in Yarm: Activities and Tours

Yarm has plenty of activities and tours for all tastes and ages. Here are some of our recommended experiences:

  1. Fishing in River Tees: Go fishing by the riverside of the River Tees.
  2. Spas & Retreats: Take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life with high end relaxation & spa centers.
  3. Yarm Market: Once or twice a month, Yarm holds markets that showcase locally-crafted goods and organic foods.

Week-Long Itinerary for Yarm

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Yarm:

Day 1: Check-in to your cozy bed-and-breakfast, explore Yarm High Street and grab a bite at one of the independent cafes or pubs.

Day 2: Rent a bike and explore the tranquil countryside of Leven Valley via Ingleby Barwick.

Day 3: Go for a hike up to Roseberry Topping and capture the amazing panoramic view.

Day 4: Take a break and visit a luxurious spa or retreat center. In the evening, enjoy a typical dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 5: Visit Yarm Castle and Yarm Town Hall in the morning. In the afternoon, experience the wildlife and nature trails of Ingleby Barwick Nature Reserve.

Day 6: Go fishing by the River Tees or visit the historic market on a market day in Yarm.

Day 7: Take some souvenirs and stretch your legs at Preston Park before returning home!

Food and Drink Scene of Yarm

Yarm has plenty of pubs, restaurants, and cafes that serve delicious and traditional food. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Roast beef: A quintessential British roast beef paired with potatoes, seasonal veggies, and Yorkshire pudding.
  2. Fish and Chips: Take food witness of the years, Fish truly fried to the golden-crisp, with sides of chips.
  3. Yorkshire curd tart: A flaky pastry that has a soft and slightly sweet curd center.

Local Beverages

  1. Black Sheep Brewery: Black Sheep beers come in a range of flavors from mild to IPA.
  2. Bedale Gin: A local gin distillery that serves unique flavors such as ‘Rose and Hibiscus’ and ‘Mango and Lime’.

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

Yarm has a variety of accommodations suited to every budget. Here are some of the best places to stay in Yarm:

  1. The Old Mill Bed & Breakfast: Stay in a cozy room within this charming building that dates back to the 17th century.
  2. Parkmore Hotel and Leisure Club: A luxurious spa and pool hotel with scenic gardens.
  3. Premier Inn: Budget-friendly hotel chain offering comfortable and spacious rooms.

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

If you’re looking to bring home some authentic Yarm products, here are some recommendations:

  1. Wool Products: Pick up some scarfs, gloves and hats made from Quality local Yorkshire wool.
  2. Local Jam and Chutney: Try the signature marmalade, sweet beetroot chutney, and raspberry jam whilst having a cup of tea.
  3. Hand-Painted Ceramics and Pottery: Yarm’s independent shops offer an array of hand-painted ceramics and pottery done by locals.

Local Culture and Customs of Yarm

Yarm is a friendly town that prides itself on preserving its heritage. Here are some things to keep in mind while you’re there:

  1. Respect the locals: Yarm is a close-knit community, so be respectful to the locals and their property.
  2. Dress appropriately: Remember to dress neatly or conservatively if you’re planning on visiting the nearby churches or religious buildings.
  3. Be punctual: Punctuality is appreciated in Yarm. Plan your activities ahead of time so that you don’t keep others waiting.

Best Time to Visit Yarm

Yarm has something special to offer in all seasons, so the best time to visit depends on your preferences. Summer (June-August) is the busiest season when the days are longer and there are often outdoor events. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are quieter months when you can peacefully explore the scenic countryside. Winter (December to February) is cold and can be snowy but cozy with winter markets and festive events.

Do’s and Don’ts of Yarm

Here are some things to keep in mind regarding Yarm:

Do:

  1. Try the local food and drinks: Yarm has some of the best traditional dishes and beverages in Yorkshire.
  2. Explore the countryside: The countryside of Yarm is serene and picturesque.
  3. Attend a market: Yarm markets have an array of locally-crafted goods and fresh, organic produce.

Don’t:

  1. Litter: Yarm’s countryside is pristine, so make sure to dispose of your trash properly.
  2. Be loud and boisterous: Yarm is a quiet and peaceful town that values tranquility.
  3. Touch or remove anything from historic sites: Yarm’s history and heritage are important, so treat them with respect and care.

Safety and Health

Yarm is a generally safe town with low crime rates. Here’s some information relating to safety and health:

Safety in Yarm

  1. Road safety: Look right before crossing streets, as cars drive on the left side of the road in the UK.
  2. Natural hazards: Keep an eye on the weather if you’re planning on visiting the countryside, and always let others know where you’re going.
  3. Emergency numbers: In case of emergencies, dial 999 for police, fire, or ambulance.

Health in Yarm

  1. Medical Care: There are a few medical centers and pharmacies in Yarm if you need minor medical care.
  2. COVID-19: Due to the ongoing pandemic, wear a mask and follow social distancing guidelines as instructed by public health officials.

Getting to Yarm: Transportation Options and Logistics

Yarm is well-connected to other parts of the UK by several modes of transportation. Here are some transportation options and logistics:

Airports Near Yarm

  1. Durham Tees Valley Airport: A small airport within a 15-minute drive from Yarm.
  2. Leeds Bradford International Airport: A larger airport located about a 50-minute drive away from Yarm.

Bus Stations Near Yarm

  1. Yarm Town Hall Bus Stop: This bus stop is located on the High Street in the center of Yarm and is used by Stagecoach.

Other Options

  1. Trains: The nearest train station to Yarm is in nearby Darlington. Regular services run from Darlington to other major cities in the UK.
  2. Taxis: Taxis are a convenient option for local travel. Uber is also available
  3. Car Rentals possible: For visitors planning on exploring the countryside, renting a car is a recommended option.

How to Get Around in Yarm

Yarm is a small town, so walking or cycling are the best ways to get around and explore. Taxis are available to travel between towns or countryside areas, including several regional taxi companies to choose from. The transportation network allows reliable connections to the rest of the North Yorkshire region and beyond.

Where to Go Next from Yarm: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to expand your visit to Yarm, there are a few nearby destinations worth checking out:

  1. Middlesbrough: about a 20-minute drive from Yarm, where you can explore the famous industrial heritage of North Yorkshire.
  2. Durham: the ancient city of Durham is less than an hour away, and is notable for its medieval architecture and beautiful Durham Cathedral.
  3. Whitby: A North-East coast of England town with a popular port-export atmosphere and the gorgeous Whitby Abbey. From Yarm about 1 hour 20 minutes from the car.

Conclusion

Yarm is a hidden gem of North Yorkshire, and anyone interested in rural culture, historic architecture, and natural beauty should plan a trip to this charming town. With our comprehensive guide, we hope you have a fabulous and memorable visit to Yarm. Plan your itinerary with our recommended activities and tours, and don’t forget to try the local cuisine and pick up some souvenirs. We wish you a safe and enjoyable trip!

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