North Yorkshire Moors

Guide to the North Yorkshire Moors


The North York Moors is an area of rolling hills and heather-covered moorland in North Yorkshire, England. It is located in the northern part of the county, between the coastal towns of Scarborough and Whitby, and covers an area of approximately 1,400 square miles. A designated National Park and is home to a range of wildlife, including red deer, barn owls, and various species of birds of prey. The area is also renowned for its diverse landscapes, which range from rolling hills and heather-covered moorland to ancient woodlands, charming villages, and breathtaking coastline.

Check out Heartbeat country and drop into the "Aidensfield Arms" for a drink or lunch, the real Aidensfield is Goathland a lovely village but take care! the sheep wander freely around the village and on the roads. There are a lot of nice little villages dotted across the Moors, you may stumble across Grosmont which is a stop on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, you can often see a steam train passing through.

The moors can be a little bleak in winter but it is special landscape and really comes into it's own in August when the heather flowers and the moors are a mass of purple. One of the most popular tourist attractions in the North York Moors is the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, a heritage railway that runs through the heart of the National Park from Pickering to Whitby. You can often catch sight of the train as it wends it's way across the Moors or why not take a trip on the train, it is a great half day's trip or make a day of it and get off an explore at stops along the way.

Just north of Pickering you will find Flamingo Land a theme park and zoo, nearby Dalby Forest is great for mountain biking and Go Ape have a high ropes centre in the forest.

whitby

Two people on the steps of a hillside looking towards the pier at Whitby, North Yorkshire, England

Whitby sits on the coast at the far side of the North Yorkshire Moors - a delightful fishing port with a jumble of buildings built on what seems like every square inch up the cliffs. One of the most famous attractions in Whitby is its ruined abbey, which dates back to the 7th century and sits atop a cliff overlooking the town and the North Sea. The abbey is a popular tourist destination and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. You can walk the 199 steps up there or pick up one of the sightseeing buses who drop off at the Abbey. You can wander round the abbey ruins, there is also a small museum and a lovely cafe where you can get a drink or lunch.

In the town you will find Captain Cook's Museum and Pannett Park which has a local history museum and children's playground. You can also spend a great afternoon strolling around the harbour and the cobbled streets. Take a look at the Whitby jet shops selling this unique jewellery or take a break at one of the many coffe shops and cafes.

The town also feeds off the legend of Dracula who entered the country at this port! So beware! Pick your time to visit as there are Goth weekends when the place is overrun with - you have guessed it Goths!

Overall, Whitby is a charming and historic town that offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural attractions. Whether you're interested in maritime history, outdoor activities, or simply exploring a picturesque coastal town, Whitby is well worth a visit - but make sure the weather is good!

Image credits: Moors Istock/Daniel Bhim-Rao, Whitby Visit Britain/Simon Palmer, York Istock/C Wong, Deep Istock/Paul Hutchings, Westwood Istock/Daniel J Rao

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