yorkshire moors tourist information

Select language

What are you looking for.

VisitBritain/Sam Barker

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

Choosing an option from the dropdown will automatically update the map listing results to filter by your selection.

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.

VisitBritain/Manchester Craft Beer Festival

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.

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.

• @northyorkmoors
• NorthYorkMoorsNationalPark
• northyorkmoors

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.

#nationalparksuk

North York Moors National Park

Journeys of history

If your interests lie in more recent history, then you can embrace the countryside under the power of steam. The North Yorkshire Moors Railway is a joyous experience for all the family.

Climb on board and experience 24 miles of North Yorkshire’s amazing scenery from the comfort of your carriage, behind one of the ten operational steam locomotives that the railway has preserved.

Allow your worries and stresses to disappear as you uncover the history and culture of the North York Moors. With 700 scheduled monuments stretching back thousands of years in the National Park, you will have plenty of opportunities to reconnect with the past.

No matter how you explore the North York Moors you are certain to fall in love with this incredible North Yorkshire landscape. Allow your worries and stresses to disappear as you uncover the history and culture of the North York Moors. With 700 scheduled monuments stretching back thousands of years in the National Park, you will have plenty of opportunities to reconnect with the past.

Explore the Landscapes of

North yorkshire.

Howardian Hills National Landscape

The Yorkshire Coast

Nidderdale National Landscape

Yorkshire Dales National Park

Enjoyed The Snooks Trail? Bid for the sculptures at auction and raise money for charity!

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.

Return to top

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 .

Updates from Visit York Sign up for news on events, festivals and special offers

By checking this box you are agreeing to receive marketing material from Visit York. For further information please see our Privacy Policy .

• Things to do
• Places to go
• Access for all
• Health and wellbeing
• Taste of the North York Moors
• Share with care
• Plan your visit
• Nature recovery
• Climate change
• Farming and land management
• Learn about our wildlife
• Communities
• Volunteering
• Working together
• Management Plan
• National Partnerships
• Grants and advice
• Planning applications
• View an application
• View planning application map
• Policies and plans
• Building Conservation
• Enforcement
• The Authority
• Meetings and agendas
• Our service to you
• Press office
• Finance and spending
• Outdoor learning

Tourism is vital to the North York Moors National Park. In 2022, we had 8.74 million visitors annually, generating spend of £915m and supporting 11,076 full time equivalent jobs.

More than three quarters of our visitors say that National Park status is an important influence in their decision to visit. However, it’s essential that visitors don’t undermine the very things that attract them in the first place – the unspoilt scenery, peace and tranquillity, nature and wildlife.

The National Park Authority recognises the significant role that tourism plays in the economy of the area and we're keen to work with local businesses to encourage visitors to stay longer and spend more, sustainably, while raising the profile of the North York Moors.

For further information, please contact Catriona McLees, Head of Marketing & Communications T: 01439 772700 Email

Facts and figures

Tourism facts and figures.

Apply for up to £10,000 to get your new business venture off the ground to appeal to new markets.

Residents' survey

Visitor survey, support for tourism businesses.

Local business tourism grant

Visitor experience grant

A fund for businesses in Staithes and surrounds to showcase the North York Moors' special qualities

Tourism Network

Opportunity to network, get the latest news and sign up for events and workshops.

Grant case study - accessible e-trikes

The project helped a business develop a more inclusive bike offer at Dalby Forest.

International Travel Trade resources

We are keen to work with tour operators to help you package and contract with tourism businesses

Accommodation panel

We need businesses! Share your data and receive benchmarking data and information on visitor trends

Projects and partners

Destination Partnerships Moors and Dales

Our National Partnerships

Join our friendly initiatives

Walking friendly

Cycling friendly

Dark skies friendly

Nature friendly

Away With Maja

21 of the best places to visit in the north york moors.

UPDATED FEBRUARY 2021! The North York Moors National Park is one of my favorite places in Yorkshire, in England, and in fact in all of the UK. It’s just under an hour’s drive from where 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 visiting the North York Moors and where should you go? Here are 21 of the BEST places to visit in the North York Moors!

1) Roseberry Topping

They don’t call Roseberry Topping “the Yorkshire Matterhorn” for nothing! This is the highest point in the North York Moors, at 320 meters. You’ve got lots of options for how to get to the top, but the most straightforward is from the parking right below on the A173. The lot can fill up on the weekend, and there is a charge for parking. The walk is short (just under 2 hours up and down) and it’s easy to follow. The views of the surrounding area are stunning though, and well worth the climb! You can also walk out along Newton Moor to the Captain Cook Monument.

Read More: Hiking Roseberry Topping and Newton Moor

2) Sutton Bank and Kilburn White Horse

One of the main National Park Centers is at Sutton Bank, with fantastic views over the moors and beyond. The sunset views are meant to be amazing! There is an easy walk down to see one of the big attractions in this area: the Kilburn White Horse. The Kilburn White Horse was made from limestone. It was created in 1857 and can be seen from several different views across Yorkshire. The loop walk from Sutton Bank is just under 2 miles, and took me about an hour and a half. There is a huge parking lot at Sutton Bank, but there is a charge (£2.50 for 2 hours, £4 for all-day parking). The lot at the bottom of the White Horse is free! Some of the best views of Kilburn White Horse are from the village of Kilburn itself, just a few minutes drive away.

Read More: The Best Hikes in the North York Moors

3) Mount Grace Priory

This priory is the best-preserved Carthusian Priory in England, and definitely one place you must visit in the North York Moors. There is a lot more to explore here than you might think! Mount Grace House has a few different exhibits on the history of the priory, as well as the people who lived in the house. The main highlight of the property is seeing a recreation of a Carthusian monks’ cell—complete with their own personal garden! There are lots of ruins to see and various remaining parts of the priory to explore. Don’t miss the gardens down by the pond! Mount Grace Priory is owned by National Trust, but operated by English Heritage.

4) Osmotherley

You can’t miss Osmotherley on a trip to the North York Moors. This is another stunning village, with a few shops, pubs, hotels/B&Bs, two churches, and a gorgeous village green with a unique stone table on the market cross. It’s on the Cleveland Way, and there are some great walks from the village. My favorite part was seeing Osmotherley’s village shop with all the Christmas decorations up—how festive and quaint does it look?!

5) Cod Beck Reservoir

Just outside of Osmotherley is Cod Beck Reservoir. This is a really popular place for walks, as you can do a short loop around the reservoir which is about 1.5 miles. Parking can be a huge issue here, as there’s just one car park and it fills up really fast. I recommend walking from Osmotherley, which is about 1 mile. Even better, combine both with a walk from Osmotherley along the Cleveland Way to Sheepwash for great views!

6) Rievaulx Abbey

Yorkshire is home to some of the best abbey ruins in the entire country. And one of the absolute best ruined abbeys is located inside the North York Moors itself! Rievaulx Abbey used to be one of the main ecclesiastical centers in the north, and was unfortunately damaged during the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII. Rievaulx Abbey today is run by English Heritage. There’s a charge for parking, but if you visit the abbey (and buy a ticket) they refund the parking costs.

Read More: Visiting Rievaulx Abbey and Helmsley in North Yorkshire

7) Helmsley

Only 3 miles away from Rievaulx Abbey is Helmsley, a charming little market town. Dominated by the ruins of Helmsley Castle (also run by English Heritage), this village perfectly complements a visit to Rievaulx Abbey. I’d definitely suggest visiting both in one day! The castle grounds and ruins are great for exploring, and if you’re looking for something more grand you can visit Duncombe Park. Make sure to pop by Hunters of Helmsley, which was voted one of the best village shops in the country!

8) Byland Abbey

Byland Abbey is one of the smaller abbey ruins to visit in the North York Moors. But it’s still definitely worth a visit! A former Cistercian monastery, it was also closed during the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1538. One of the abbey’s best features are the beautiful colored medieval floor tiles, in what would have been the remains of the church. The site is run by English Heritage, but there’s free entry. While you’re in the area, make sure to pop by the charming village of Coxwold! Just a few streets long, Coxwold has some gorgeous village architecture, as well as a really nice pub in the Fauconberg Arms.

9) Farndale

Farndale is a quiet area of the North York Moors, but comes alive in the springtime when the flowers bloom. The walk along the River Dove is one of the best places to see daffodils bloom in Yorkshire, and you can extend it by taking the alternate route back along the ridge. Make sure you visit the church in Church Houses—it’s full of daffodils in the spring. Up to 40,000 people visit Farndale during the daffodil season, so be prepared for the riverside walk to be fairly busy especially on weekends!

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

10) Chop Gate and the Wainstones

The Wainstones are the largest sandstone crags in the North York Moors National Park. There is a fantastic hike from the tiny village of Chop Gate that takes you in a loop out to the Wainstones, and back along Urra Moor (which is the highest part of the North York Moors). The views from the Wainstones are stunning, and it’s really popular with climbers!

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

11) Hutton-le-Hole

Hutton-le-Hole is another gorgeous little village in the Moors. It’s small, with a museum, a parish church, a babbling brook running through the village green, and an excellent pub. I’d highly recommend the the Crown for food or drinks or both—if you eat there, you also get free parking in the lot behind the pub! This is a great place to stop for an hour or two. There’s a nice 4-mile loop to Lastingham and back, too.

12) Rosedale and Rosedale Abbey

The area of Rosedale in the North York Moors is beautiful. Rosedale Abbey is a charming, beautiful village, with a café and a village shop. Funnily enough, there was never an actual abbey in Rosedale Abbey, but there was a Cistercian priory! I definitely recommend hiking out to see some of the industrial heritage around Rosedale. You can see the ironstone mines, kilns, and cottages, from the area’s mining heyday between the 1850s and the 1920s. Part of the hike follows the old mining railway line, and the views are stunning. Don’t miss this part of the North York Moors!

Read More: Hiking Around Rosedale in the North York Moors

Right before you turn to take the Chimney Bank road down to Rosedale Abbey, you can pull over and go explore the kilns at Rosedale Bank Top—leftover from the days when ironstone mining was prominent in the area. There are some pretty phenomenal views from the top! This isn’t far from Hutton-le-Hole.

13) Castleton Rigg

Castleton Rigg, along the road from Hutton-le-Hole to Castleton (Stepin Turn/Blakely Road), is a beautiful area in the heart of the North York Moors. This is definitely one of the best roads to drive in the Moors, and home to the Lion Inn pub. The Seated Man of Castleton, a giant statue of a man on the moors, used to be here, but unfortunately it was moved the other year to the Yorkshire Sculpture Park.

14) Danby and Danby Beacon

The village of Danby is home to one of the two North York Moors National Park Centers (the other is at Sutton Bank), quaint houses, and an ivy-covered pub that looks spectacular in the fall. But it’s really the views from Danby Beacon that are worth the visit here. You can see for miles once you’re at the top of Beacon Hill—while you can drive to Danby Beacon, it’s an easy walk from Danby and the park center. There was even an RAF radar station at Danby Beacon during World War II!

15) Lealholm

The North York Moors is full of charming villages, and Lealholm is another one to put on your list. There’s a pub, a few cafes and shops, and free parking—although I’d also recommend hiking here from Danby and Danby Beacon. As a bonus, Lealholm also has a picture-perfect set of stepping stones across the River Esk. I stayed at a really cozy Airbnb not far from Lealholm—and it really was like getting away from everything. We went out on short walks and drove around the Moors during the day, and then had a pub meal before going back and having a fire in the wood-burning stove every night. The perfect relaxing getaway!

16) Goathland

Another charming village in the North York Moors, Goathland is famous as a film location for two main things: Heartbeat, and as Hogsmeade train station in Harry Potter. It’s a small place, with a few pubs, a handful of shops and hotels, and (of course) the train station. One of the really popular walks is the 3-mile walk along the old railway track to Grosmont. You can also visit Mallyn Spout, a waterfall not far from the (aptly named) Mallyn Spout hotel. Goathland is also one of the main stops on the North York Moors Railway, which is definitely one of the top experiences in the North York Moors!

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

17) Thornton-le-Dale

Thornton-le-Dale is a popular place to visit in the region for the picturesque and beautiful Thatched Cottage and beck that run through the village. There’s a couple of pubs, lots of shops, cafes, tea rooms, and a few places to get ice cream as well. There are also loads of gorgeous houses here—I had so much fun running around photographing them, pretending I’d be buying one of them! When the weather is nice, everyone flocks to the beck to wade in the cool water. I did a short walk from Thornton-le-Dale to Ellerburn and Dalby Forest, which was just perfect!

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

18) Hole of Horcum

The Hole of Horcum circular walk is one of my favorite walks in the North York Moors, and possibly even in the entire country. This gorgeous feat of nature was gradually formed over the years by “spring sapping,” where water would well up on the hills and then slope down. I definitely recommend starting the walk in the village of Levisham, where there’s free parking behind the pub (the Horseshoe Inn). Not only that, but you can have a well-deserved pint at the end of the hike! The full loop (starting and ending in Levisham) takes about 3 hours. Go at the end of August to see the gorgeous purple heather blanketing the Moors.

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

19) Staithes

I visited Staithes for the first time in December 2018, and it was so gorgeous I couldn’t help but fall in love with it immediately. A charming fishing village, Staithes is located on the edge of the North York Moors along the coast. The viewpoint from the top of the hill is one of those classic Yorkshire shots, and the main street through town is beautiful (and blissfully quiet when I went!). I had amazing ice cream at Cobbles, and the Cod and Lobster is a very popular pub for (you guessed it) seafood. Parking is located at the top of the hill—there is no visitor parking at the bottom, so you’ll need to walk up and down!

One of Yorkshire’s most popular seaside towns, Whitby is one of my favorite places along the coast. It was also one of the first places in Yorkshire (and the North York Moors) that I visited when I moved to York over 4 years ago! There’s so much to see in Whitby. But you have to see the Whalebone Arch, the 199 Steps, and the magnificent Whitby Abbey. There’s also no better place to enjoy fish and chips than the seaside! Whitby can get busy in the summer months (especially on weekends) but it is definitely one of the best places to visit in the North York Moors. (And yes, it is technically located outside the national park limits but hey—my blog post, I can write what I like!)

Read More: A Perfect Day in Whitby

21) Robin Hood’s Bay

The last place in this post, and another gorgeous seaside location: Robin Hood’s Bay. The village used to be a smuggling haven, with everyone in town involved in the illegal trade. Now, it’s a charming village with beautiful views of the sea, quaint cottages, and a few nice pubs. The Bay Hotel is the traditional endpoint of the Coast to Coast hike—but I especially liked the walk from Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay! Robin Hood’s Bay is also located down a steep hill, with parking at the top—so again, be prepared to walk. This is definitely one of my favorite places in the North York Moors!

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

How To Get Around the North York Moors

There’s no way around it: a rural area like the North York Moors requires a car. With your own transportation, simply put you can get to see more places. You may drive on lots of very narrow, single-lane roads. I always recommend to drive very cautiously, especially around corners and up/down blind hills. There are passing places on these roads where cars can safely pass one another, but keep in mind you might need to reverse into one!

While you do need a car to really get the most of the national park and this area, there are quite a few places accessible by public transport if you’re based around York. Whitby, Grosmont, Lealholm, Danby, Castleton, and others can be accessed by train through the Esk Valley railway (running from Middlesborough to Whitby). I always use Trainline for booking my trains. Goathland is a great stop if you’re taking the North York Moors Railway from Pickering to Whitby or vice versa. The 31X bus runs from York through Coxwold and Byland Abbey to Helmsley. Hutton-le-Hole is serviced by the 174 and 176 buses going from Pickering to Kirkbymoorside. Whitby can be easily accessed from Leeds or York by the Coastliner buses, and it’s easy to get from Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay by bus X93. Looking for a day tour? Check out the options below!

If you’re flying to the UK, the nearest airports for the North York Moors National Park are Leeds-Bradford, Newcastle, and Doncaster Sheffield. Manchester is the largest nearby airport (and best for international flight options), with direct trains running to York and Middlesborough from the airport. I recommend using Skyscanner to book flights!

Where to Stay in the North York Moors

There is so much of the North York Moors to see. Where you want to stay and what kind of experience you want to have is really up to you! If you don’t have your own transportation, I’d strongly recommend visiting somewhere with good transport links, like Whitby. If you’re looking for a beachy seaside getaway, Staithes, Whitby, and Robin Hood’s Bay have huge numbers of holiday cottages you can rent for a weekend or a week! I loved staying in this rural Airbnb not far from Lealholm in Great Fryupdale. There are lots of YHA locations throughout the Moors which have both dorms and private rooms. You can find country hotels and B&Bs too. Basically, you’ve got lots of options! You can search for hostels on Hostelworld here , or look for hotels and apartments on Booking.com here ! You can also sign up to and search for accommodation on Airbnb here .

The North York Moors is one of my favorite national parks in the country, and has so much to see. I have loved exploring this amazing place, and can’t wait to see even more as time goes on! I hope you enjoy these best places to visit in the North York Moors!

Have you ever visited the North York Moors? Where were your favorite places?!

You might also like my posts on other places in Yorkshire:

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

The Best Hikes in the North York Moors

Quintessential Yorkshire: The Best 4 Daytrips From York

The Best Walks In and Around York, England

The BEST Places to Visit in the Yorkshire Dales

18 Hidden Gems to See in York

All my Yorkshire posts and York posts !

Like this post? Pin it for later!

Related Posts

Share this:

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)

Subscribe to Away With Maja for all the latest updates!

32 thoughts on “ 21 of the best places to visit in the north york moors ”.

[…] love most about living in York is the easy access to the outdoors. Within an hour, I can be in the North York Moors or the Yorkshire Dales. In two hours, I can be in the Peak District, and within three hours, I can […]

[…] has been exploring Yorkshire and the countryside around the city. I’ve written a lot about the North York Moors National Park, so I thought it only fair to take a day out to the Yorkshire Dales National Park […]

[…] 16 Of The BEST Places To Visit In The North York Moors […]

[…] More: 16 Of The BEST Places To Visit In The North York Moors, Hiking The Hole Of Horcum In The North York […]

[…] 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 […]

[…] I can get outside and discover! One of my favorite hikes so far has been in the Wainstones in the North York Moors. Here’s my guide to the hike from Chop Gate to the […]

[…] dales, forests, moors, peaks, lakes—you name it. One of my favorite places in the county is the North York Moors National Park, and one of my favorite hikes to date in Yorkshire has been the Hole of Horcum! And despite doing […]

[…] am completely spoiled living in York. It’s about an hours’ drive to the North York Moors or the Yorkshire Dales. The Peak District is less than two hours away, the Lake District is less […]

[…] Read More: 16 Of The BEST Places To Visit In The North York Moors […]

[…] Topping is one of the best places to visit in the North York Moors National Park. Thanks to its distinctive shape, it’s even known as the “Yorkshire Matterhorn” in the area! […]

[…] is so much to see and do in the North York Moors National Park! You can visit the coast at small towns like Staithes or Robin Hood’s Bay. Postcard-perfect […]

[…] I love most about living in Yorkshire is how many amazing places there are to explore here. The North York Moors National Park has so many fantastic places to visit and the area around Goathland is definitely one of them. Goathland’s main claim to fame is as a […]

[…] is so much to see and do in the North York Moors National Park! You can visit the coast at small towns like Staithes or Robin Hood’s Bay. Postcard-perfect […]

[…] of the best walks in the country is the Hole of Horcum in the North York Moors National Park. The traditional starting point for the walk is the Saltergate car park off the A169, but you can […]

[…] North York Moors National Park is a beautiful area to explore. One of the best things to do is to explore the seaside villages and […]

[…] Read More: 21 Of The BEST Places To Visit In The North York Moors […]

[…] the heather in bloom in August. As you drive over the A169 road and venture into the heart of the North York Moors National Park, you’ll catch a view of purple blanketing the moors as far as the eye can see. The walk around […]

[…] 21 Of The BEST Places To Visit In The North York Moors […]

[…] of the best things to do in North York Moors is to explore the pretty villages – Goathland, Robin Hood’s Bay, Thornton-le-Dale, and Helmsley […]

[…] I saw so much of Yorkshire, constantly ticking things off my Yorkshire bucket list. I hiked in the North York Moors and the Yorkshire Dales and across the entire country when I did Hadrian’s Wall. It’s been […]

[…] The Howardian Hills is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) just outside York, close to the North York Moors National Park. Here’s what you need to know about this walk from Kirkham Priory and along the River […]

[…] 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 […]

[…] to get back to York in the evening after your walk. So this post does focus more on walks in the North York Moors, which are a bit more convenient from York. Here are the best car-free walks from […]

[…] ruins from the area’s mining heyday. This is definitely one of my new favorite places in the North York Moors, and a great place to go hiking! Here’s what you should know about this hike from Rosedale […]

[…] by being there. In addition, York’s location is fantastic. It’s about a 1-hour drive to the North York Moors or the Yorkshire Dales, two incredible national parks. I can get to the coast for some beachy […]

[…] Hills is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) just outside of York, on the edge of the North York Moors National Park. One of my favorite walks outside of York is from Kirkham Priory and along the River Derwent in the […]

[…] I cheating with this one? Kind of. Do I care? Nope! The North York Moors is a beautiful National Park, and is located just north of the city of York. There is so much to […]

[…] was my savior – I craved the open air of the countryside I was so used to visiting (like the North York Moors or the Yorkshire Dales). The trails along the Foss offered me glimpses of the peace and quiet I can […]

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Privacy Policy

Andrew Montgomery

North York Moors National Park

Inland from the North Yorkshire coast, the wild and windswept North York Moors rise in desolate splendour. Three-quarters of all the world's heather moorland is found in Britain, and this is the largest expanse in England. Ridge-top roads climb up from lush green valleys to the bleak open moors, where weather-beaten stone crosses mark the lines of ancient roadways. In summer, heather blooms in billowing drifts of purple haze.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real North York Moors National Park. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Whitby Abbey

There are ruined abbeys, and there are picturesque ruined abbeys. And then there's Whitby Abbey, dominating the skyline above the East Cliff like a great…

Rievaulx Abbey

In the secluded valley of the River Rye about 3 miles west of Helmsley, amid fields and woods loud with birdsong, stand the magnificent ruins of Rievaulx…

Captain Cook Memorial Museum

This fascinating museum occupies the house of the ship owner with whom Cook began his seafaring career. Highlights include the attic where Cook lodged as…

North Yorkshire Moors Railway

This privately owned railway runs for 18 miles through beautiful countryside from Pickering to Whitby. Lovingly restored steam locos pull period carriages…

Endeavour Experience Whitby

In 2018, a full-size replica of Captain Cook’s HM Bark Endeavour became a permanent fixture in Whitby harbour and opened to the public as a visitor…

Whitby Jet Heritage Centre

A museum housing the remains of Whitby's last Victorian jet workshop lies at the bottom of the 199 steps, with original tools rescued from a derelict…

Whitby Sands

Whitby Sands, stretching west from the harbour mouth, offers donkey rides, ice-cream vendors and bucket-and-spade escapades, though the sand is mostly…

Museum of Whitby Jet

Housed inside a 1901 chapel, this small museum has created a temple to Whitby jet – one of the town’s most prized exports, a gothic icon, and a favourite…

Plan with a local

Experience the real England

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from North York Moors National Park

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Dec 1, 2014 • 8 min read

Yorkshire shot to fame in 2014 when this proudest of English regions hosted the first two stages of the world's most prestigious cycling race – the Tour…

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks

Get to the heart of North York Moors National Park with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

North York Moors National Park and beyond

Visitor Information

Need somewhere to stay or something to do.

Your first port of call should be our modern, friendly Tourist Information and Visitor Centres – call them, or if you’re in the area, call in!

We are at your service to:

• Find out about the many activities available
• Find out about train and bus services
• Book tickets for local theatres, festivals, shows or events
• Pick up guidebooks, leaflets, souvenirs, or simply local knowledge

Visit Yorkshire!

Welcome to england's premier county, on this site you can find the information you need for a visit to yorkshire.

• Check out Visitor Guides to the Yorkshire Dales , York , North York Moors , Yorkshire Coast , Yorkshire Wolds , towns and villages
• Explore Yorkshire with our interactive maps
• Find accommodation in our Where to Stay in Yorkshire section
• View details of Yorkshire's leading attractions in our What to See and Do section

We hope you enjoy this website

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

What's on in the North York Moors

Find out what’s on in the North York Moors during your stay right here with us.

With a year-round calendar of events and festivals, you can be sure that no matter when you visit there is always something exciting to do!

The Dark Skies Festival is another must-see that gives you the chance to experience clear starry skies and explore our universe in one of the UK’s only Dark Skies Reserves.

You will also find throughout the year there are many different agricultural shows, farmers market and a jam-packed schedule of events at the North Yorkshire Moors Railway to choose from.

To find out more about what’s on in the North York Moors, check out the list below.

Searching for something

The North York Moors Tourism Network

How your business can benefit.

The North York Moors Tourism Network works with tourism businesses and the North York Moors National Park. Together we act as the Destination Management and Marketing Organisation for the North York Moors, Howardian Hills and Yorkshire coast fishing villages.

​We help businesses to benefit from the visitor economy, focusing on marketing advice and product development support. We act as a catalyst to create new ways for visitors to enjoy this beautiful area.

Membership of the North York Moors Tourism Network is free and open to any visitor-facing tourism business such as accommodation, attractions, activities, food and drink, arts and craftspeople, based in and near the North York Moors National Park. Join us now!

Once you're a member, you'll receive our weekly mailings with marketing advice and invitations to our events , and be able to participate in the activity-friendly schemes , and use our extensive range of resources .

Events & business networking

Book your place

Resources to help your business

See them here

See the latest updates

Read them here

 The activity-friendly schemes

Find out more