The North York Moors National Park is a landscape of huge beauty and variety, covering over 550 square miles of sprawling heather moorlands, ancient woodlands, rugged coastline, and picturesque villages. Whether you’re a walker, a history enthusiast, or just a fan of the peace and quiet, the North York Moors is a fantastic place to visit.
A TAPESTRY OF MOORLANDS
The heather-clad moorlands are the jewel in the crown of the North York Moors. In late summer, these vast expanses burst into life with vivid purple blooms that stretch as far as the eye can see. The moors are crisscrossed by a network of footpaths and bridleways, perfect for walkers and cyclists. Trails such as the Cleveland Way National Trail offer stunning views and a chance to immerse yourself in this unique habitat.
Lucky wildlife enthusiasts will see red grouse, curlews and roe dee, while the moors are also a haven for rare plants, such as the carnivorous sundew and delicate bog rosemary, which thrive in this upland environment.
THE COASTLINE
To the east, the North York Moors meets the dramatic North Sea coastline, known for its towering cliffs, secluded coves, and charming fishing villages. The coastal section of the Cleveland Way takes walkers along cliff-top paths with panoramic views of the sea and opportunities to spot seabirds such as puffins and kittiwakes.
One of the highlights of the coastline is Robin Hood’s Bay. This quaint village is a maze of narrow, cobbled streets lined with traditional cottages. Once a smuggling hotspot, today it’s a peaceful retreat where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, browse the shops, or explore the fossil-rich beaches.
Further north lies Whitby, a historic harbour town famous for its links to Bram Stoker’s Dracula and the imposing ruins of Whitby Abbey. Climb the 199 steps to the abbey for sweeping views of the town and coastline, or simply soak up the atmosphere of this bustling seaside destination. Whitby’s maritime heritage is also explored at the Captain Cook Memorial Museum – the explorer hailed from the region.
VILLAGES AND MARKET TOWNS
The North York Moors are dotted with charming villages and market towns. Helmsley, situated on the park’s western edge, is a delightful market town with an array of independent shops, cosy tearooms – you can read more about its striking medieval castle on p15. From here, you can join the Cleveland Way or visit the nearby Rievaulx Abbey, one of England’s most impressive monastic ruins.
Further into the park, villages like Hutton-le-Hole and Goathland provide quintessential Yorkshire charm. Hutton-le-Hole is famous for its open grassy spaces, often grazed by sheep, and the Ryedale Folk Museum, which brings local history to life. Goathland, meanwhile, is well-known as a filming location
– it’s station was Hogsmeade station in the Harry Potter films. The station is part of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, a nostalgic steam train experience that runs through some of the park’s most scenic areas.
A LAND OF ANCIENT HISTORY
The North York Moors is steeped in history, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. Prehistoric monuments, such as standing stones and burial mounds, dot the landscape, and the Bronze Age burial mound of Wheeldale Moor and the enigmatic stone circle known as the Bride Stones are just a few of the park’s archaeological treasures.
Medieval history is stands out through landmarks like Rievaulx Abbey and Mount Grace Priory showcasing the legacy of the region’s monastic communities. The moors were also once a centre for ironstone mining, and remnants of this industrial heritage can be seen at Grosmont and the Land of Iron
project.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Walkers can choose from a variety of routes, from challenging longdistance trails to gentle circular walks.
Cyclists can ride the Moor to Sea Cycle Network, and the park is also ideal for horse riding, with several bridleways and riding centres. For a unique perspective, consider taking to the skies in a glider from the Yorkshire Gliding Club at Sutton Bank, where you can enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the landscape.
EATING OUT
From hearty pub meals to fine dining, people are often surprised by the variety of the region’s food scene. There’s the traditional simplicity of Whitby’s famous fish and chips, to Wensleydale cheese and classic Yorkshire puddings, and there’s a thriving culinary movement with a huge choice of local ingredients.
Farm shops and markets showcase locally sourced produce, while tearooms serve up homemade cakes and the traditional British cream tea.
PLANNING YOUR VISIT
Each season offers its own unique charm. Spring brings carpets of bluebells to the woodlands, while summer is the perfect time to see the moors in full bloom. Autumn transforms the landscape with dramatic colours, and even winter is perfect for a cosy escape.
Accommodation options range from cosy cottages and B&Bs to luxury hotels and campsites, catering to all preferences and budgets. There are park visitor centres at Danby and Sutton Bank offering information, maps, and recommendations to help you make the most of your trip.