North Yorkshire Moors, East Coast & The Wolds Guide

Cover images: Steve Race, North York Moors

Railway, Tom Marshall, Jason Ferdinando

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One Visit is Never Enough. A breath of fresh Yorkshire air for 2024

Welcome to Go Yorkshire’s North York Moors, East Coast and the Wolds guide for 2024 where we hope to inform and excite you with just how marvellous this area is.

The North York Moors has been a National Park since 1952, known for its incredible beauty and calming sense of solitude and tranquillity. It covers an area of 554 square miles (1,436 square kilometres) and stretches from the Cleveland and Hambleton hills to the north and west across to the 26 miles of coastline in the east. Look across miles of heather in the summer, a blanket of tonal pinks and purples that characterise this beautiful space.

Take time to explore the coast where you will be delighted by the variety of sceneries that you’ll encounter, the quaint fishing villages and the golden sands of some of Britain’s finest beaches to the steep cliffs and roaring waves at Flamborough Head. Get the true English Seaside experience by visiting the resorts of Scarborough, Whitby, Bridlington, Filey or Hornsea.

Down on the Wolds, with their rolling chalk hills and deep valleys, you will find contrast to the dramatic Moors. Gentle in pace, visitors can enjoy plenty of quaint inns and historical churches all set inside picturesque villages and market towns.

This year be inspired and excited by all that this area has to offer. With year-round events and festivals as well as the best scenery in the whole country (well we would say that!), one visit is never enough.

Images courtesy of: English Heritage, Stephen, Pemberton, Richard Burdon,

Images left to right: Dog walking on Scarborough beach, Rievaulx Abbey

Breil-Nook Flamborough Cliffs (C) George Stoyle

TOURS & ACTIVITIES

The North York Moors, East Coast and Wolds offers the opportunity to get close to nature. Swing through the trees at Go Ape or cycle through the forest instead. Try your hand at surfing, experience a whale watching cruise or hunt for fossils, there are so many possibilities.

STAINED GLASS CENTRE

If you’ve ever wondered about the origins of stained glass or thought about owning your own exclusive stained glass windows or lampshade, then look no further. If you visit the Stained Glass Centre you can learn about the history of Stained Glass, and browse in the showrooms, full of stained glass panels, lampshades, mirrors and gifts. You could book to join in on one of the Stained or Fused glass classes too.

www.stainedglasscentre.co.uk

YORK COLD WAR DALBY FOREST

Dalby Forest, in the heart of the North York Moors National Park offers the perfect place to escape, relax and adventure. Home to over 8,500 acres of breath-taking views, endless walking, running and cycle trails and Gruffalo adventures, a great day out awaits at Dalby Forest.

www.forestryengland.uk/dalby-forest

BEACON ALPACAS

Walking with alpacas in the beautiful Hambleton Hills is a wonderful experience; you’ll learn about alpacas as you walk; where they are from, what they eat, about their fleece and how they are farmed. The views on a clear day are stunning and you can see the White Horse at Kilburn.

www.beaconalpacas.co.uk

WHITBY FOSSIL HUNTING

Lead by qualified geologists and palaeontologists, fossil hunting tours are designed to show and educate beginners and amateur collectors how to find fossils safely and responsibly while out on beaches of the Yorkshire coast. You learn about fossil hunting safety, find fossils to keep, and learn about the Yorkshire coast's jurassic past.

www.fossils-uk.com

RSPB BEMPTON CLIFFS

The huge white chalk cliffs at Bempton are impressive at any time of year. But from April to October they are transformed into England’s largest seabird city, where puffins, gannets, kittiwakes and guillemots live life on the edge. There are more gannets acrobatically diving into the deep here, than anywhere else on mainland England. Why not join one of the many guided walks to learn more about the area and wildlife?

www.rspb.org.uk/days-out/reserves/ bempton-cliffs

NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS RAILWAY

Get away from the hurly burly as you climb on-board a steam or heritage diesel train for a wonderful scenic journey through Heartbeat Country. Relax in cosy compartments and wood panelled carriages on the world’s most popular heritage railway as you enjoy the enchanting landscapes of the North York Moors National Park. Check the website for special events and experiences throughout the year.

www.nymr.co.uk

NATIONAL PARK WALKS

Free guided walks are run from MarchNovember by the National Park. Led by their knowledgeable and dedicated band of National Park volunteers and specialists, let them show you their favourite parts of the North York Moors, looking at wildlife, local history and archaeology – with plenty of time to enjoy the wonderful views and changing seasons. Booking essential.

www.northyorkmoors.org.uk/thingsto-do/events

WHITBY COASTAL CRUISES

As well as daily short trips, they operate a number of special cruises providing plenty of opportunity to see some of the Yorkshire coast’s amazing wildlife or experience a sunset from the sea! The Yellow Boats sail on short trips out to sea around the bay with the biggest and best boats in the harbour.

www.whitbycoastalcruises.com

WHITBY DISTILLERY

Here is your chance to get behind the scenes and discover how international award-winning spirits are crafted. Tours run 4 days a week and include a detailed introduction to the beginning of Whitby Distillery, three different tasters of the spirits and botanical masterclass – touch and smell the pillars of their gin.

www.whitbydistillery.com

MAKE MEMORIES THAT WILL LAST A LIFETIME nymr.co.uk

No visit to Yorkshire is complete without stopping off at Ryeburn of Helmsley, our famous Ice Cream Parlour. We produce an award-winning range of delicious ice cream from a small unit behind our shop. For the chocolate lover our hand made chocolates make a perfect gift or an indulgent treat.

DARK

SKIES

ANY BUDDING ASTRONAUTS?

Time to get Starstruck by the North York Moors

Images: Stephen Pemberton

Shooting stars are not stars but small pieces of rock and dust burning in the sky.

Large areas of the North York Moors National Park are completely free from local light pollution making it a fantastic place to do some stargazing. 2020 was a historic year for the North York Moors with the area designated an International Dark Sky reserve by the International Dark-Sky Association. The fact that there are only 20 of these in the whole world makes this even more amazing and this is predominantly down to the fact that the North York Moors is home to some of the darkest skies in the country.

■ North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales Dark Skies Festival

You can see up to ten times as many stars as you would in the city in our area and every year, the Dark Skies Festival celebrates the night’s sky. The North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales Dark Skies Festival’s inaugural event was in 2016 and every year (usually February) there are amazing activities as part of the festival including stargazing safaris, mindful experiences, night navigation and even night runs.

■ Best places to stargaze in the North York Moors Dark Sky Reserve

There are an amazing selection of events running throughout the year across the National Park including stargazing safaris, nocturnal nature, ghost walks, starlight runs, mindful sessions, children's trails and art workshops. Some of the best places to stargaze include:

Dalby Forest

Bruce Observatory Whitby National Park Centre at Danby National Park Centre at Sutton Bank

■ What can you see?

Planets, the Moon, and Stars –obviously! On a clear night you can see as many as 2000 stars with the Pole Star (Polaris) being the brightest. Mercury, Mars, Venus, Jupiter and Saturn are all visible and always remember the quick rule of thumb to distinguish between stars and planets when looking through a telescope. Stars Twinkle, Planets don’t.

Best Time to see - when the sky is at its darkest during the new moon period (two weeks after a full moon).

Meteor Showers – Meteor showers are quite predictable, and August sees the annual Perseid meteor shower when hundreds of meteors an hour can be seen.

Best Time to see – throughout the year but some of the best are Perseids (August), Orionids (October), Leonids (November) and Geminids (December).

International Space Station (ISS) –

The ISS is the largest modular space station currently in low Earth orbit, orbiting the Earth every 90 minutes and appearing in the sky as a white dot.

Best Time to see – passes overhead throughout the year - check the Nasa website.

The Milky Way – a river of light streaming through the Cygnus and Cassiopeia constellations caused by the light from millions of dim stars.

Best Time to see – Autumn/Winter

The Northern Lights – also known as the Aurora Borealis, this phenomenon is caused by sun particles interacting with the magnetic field of the earth.

Best Time to see - you can get a few hours of notice of possible displays through various Aurora Apps.

Need a little help?

There are lots of smartphone apps and websites that will help you on your astronomy journey of exploration including:

Stellarium planetarium

GoSkyWatch

Heavens-Above Sky Guide Star Walk

SkySafari

Universe2go

Celestron SkyPortal Scope Nights

Night Sky

Sky Tonight

Cosmic Watch

1 The Abbey Inn in Byland was awarded the ‘The best English Sunday Roast’ by the popular Instagram account ‘Rate Good Roasts’ in 2023. Run by Tommy Banks who owns the Mitchelin Star Black Swan in the neighbouring hamlet of Oldstead. Why not pop in after visiting the Abbey?

2 Dalby Forest covers over 8,000 acres of woodlands.

3 A 2023 science project within the River Rye catchment of the North York Moors National Park and Howardian Hills National Landscape made an incredible 390,000 confirmed recordings of at least 8 different species of bats between May and September 2023.

4 Brompton by Sawdon – Sir George Cayley flew the first manned aircraft from here in 1853.

5 Farndale is affectionately known as the ‘Daffodil Dale’ in Spring when thousands of native wild daffodils line the riverbanks.

6 Rosedale Abbey has no abbey, just a few remains of a Cistercian priory.

7 The Hole of Horcum has a natural amphitheatre that legend says was formed by the hand of a giant.

WELL I DIDN'T KNOW THAT!

25 INTERESTING FACTS

8 Falling Foss in the Esk Valley has the unofficial title of the North York Moors’ most romantic waterfall.

9 Charles Dickens wrote the famous novel ‘A Christmas Carol’ while staying in Malton.

10 Roseberry Topping, a distinctive hill near Great Ayton, is known as the ‘Yorkshire Matterhorn'.

11 Mount Grace Priory near Osmotherley is the best-preserved Carthusian monastery in Britain.

12 Ampleforth Abbey has been home to a community of Benedictine monks since 1802.

13 Byland Abbey inspired the design of church buildings throughout the North including the design of the famous York Minster rose window.

14 The Vale of Pickering was once a great glacial lake and is now the heartland of framing in Ryedale.

15 The Kilburn White Horse covers 1.6 acres and is the largest and most northerly hill figure in England at 318ft long by 220ft high.

Above: Roseberry Topping

Below: Bridestones at Dalby Forest

16 2024 marks the 75th anniversary of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949, an act securing access for everyone to open countryside whilst preserving and enhancing natural beauty.

17 The place name Driffield featured in the Domesday Book in 1086, embarrassingly translating as a dirty, manured field.

18 The town of Pocklington appears on the 14th century Gough Map, the oldest British route map. As far back as the 11th century, it was the second largest settlement in Yorkshire after York.

19 John Stephenson, affectionately known as John the Bellman, was Whitby's Town Crier for more than 40 years. He also had a right leg that was considerably shorter than his left.

20 Historians believe a Roman signal station or watchtower occupied Whitby’s cliff’s edge in approximately 300AD.

21 2023 was ‘Year of the Coast’ which marked the creation of the England Coast Path. As part of His Majesty King Charles III’s coronation, the England Coast path, which will eventually cover 2700 miles, was renamed the King Charles III England Coast path.

22 The oldest house in Britain dates to 9000BC and was found at Star Carr near Seamer.

23 The Grand Hotel in Scarborough opened in 1867 and at that time, was the largest hotel in Europe. It is in the shape of a 'V' in honour of Queen Victoria.

24 Saltburn Cliff Tramway was crowned as best UK seaside place/experience in the 2023 Seaside Heritage Networks top ten Bucket and Spade list, edging out Blackpool Tower who finished runner-up.

25 The Humber lifeboat station at Spurn Point is the only one in Britain that is permanently staffed by a professional crew, so dangerous is this part of the coast.

Above: North York Moors National Park

Left: The White Horse, Kilburn Below: Byland Abbey

FAVOURITE MARKET TOWNS AND VILLAGES

The picturesque market towns and villages of the North York Moors are a delight to wander around. Rich in history each has its own charm and if you are here for a week or a weekend, here are our top places not to miss.

■ GREAT AYTON

Famous as the boyhood home of Captain Cook, this picturesque village is the starting point for many walks and trails. One iconic walk is the 7.2-mile circular Roseberry Topping to Captain Cook's Monument. Starting from the village the walk gradually climbs through farmland and woods until you reach the moors. Enjoy panoramic views from the summit of Roseberry Topping before continuing to the Monument you can see in the distance. Allow sufficient time as the walk is challenging with steep climbs in places and you will want to stop, catch your breath, and of course admire those views!

Refreshments: We recommend the Pomegranate Persian Tea Room in Great Ayton.

Mount Grace Priory ▶

You can easily miss this hidden gem situated off the A19. Set in woodlands within the North York Moors National Park, it is represented today by the best preserved and most accessible ruins among the nine houses of the Carthusian Order, which existed in England in the Middle Ages and were known as charterhouses.

◀ Roseberry Topping

This iconic hill is popularly referred to as Yorkshire’s own Matterhorn because its conical shape reminds people of the famous Swiss Mountain.

■ HELMSLEY

Crowned by the magnificent Helmsley Castle that dates back over 900 years, this pretty market town is located where Ryedale leaves the moorland and joins the flatter Vale of Pickering. There are numerous walks and tracks in the surrounding forests, but our favourite walk is the circular one from the town that follows the Cleveland Way to Rievaulx Abbey nestled in a valley below the town. There is an interesting museum about the Abbey and a lovely café with outside seating overlooking the grounds. Why not stop off at the Abbey where you can recharge before returning to Helmsley.

Refreshments: The excellent Ryeburn Ice Cream Parlour and Café for ice cream and homemade chocolates, recent winners of best ice cream at the national awards ceremony. Rievaulx Abbey, plus numerous restaurants and cafes in town.

Helmsley Castle: Discover how the castle evolved over the centuries, from a mighty medieval fortress to a luxurious Tudor mansion, to a Civil War stronghold and a romantic Victorian ruin.

◀ National Centre for Birds of Prey

Enjoy live flying displays of these magnificent birds, the centre has one of the largest collection of raptors in the North of England.

30 Jan 2024 - Lord Lloyd Webber’s Theatre Royal Drury Lane hosted Britain’s top chefs and restaurateurs celebrating The Good Food Guide Awards 2024. Helmsley and the Howardian Hills was named the most exciting food destination in the UK.

Rievaulx Abbey ▶

One of the greatest abbeys built in England it was seized under Henry VIII during the Dissolution of Monasteries.

■ HUTTON-LE-HOLE

This picture postcard village was voted as one of the top 20 most beautiful villages in the UK by Conde Nast Travellers in 2022 and 2023. A stream winds its way through the centre of the village where sheep roam freely. White picket fences line the village green and the stone houses all add to its charm. Situated on the edge of the North York Moors National Park it is an ideal base for many circular walks including Farndale, the valley famous for its magical display of daffodils in early spring. For those that enjoy a spot of shopping there is even a chocolate factory and craft workshops to wander around.

Refreshments: The Barn Tea Rooms & B&B

■ GOATHLAND

High up on the eastern edge of the North York Moors National Park is the picturesque moorland village of Goathland. With plenty of accommodation and tea rooms, it is an ideal base to stay for those wishing to walk or tour the area, being within a short distance of Whitby and Robin Hoods Bay. A popular beauty spot is Mallyan Spout, the highest waterfall in the North York Moors and an ideal walk in dry weather.

The village has been used as a film location on many occasions with the popular long running series Heartbeat being filmed here in the 1990s and more recently Goathland Station was used as the location for Hogsmeade railway station in the Harry Potter films and the line used for the train journey.

Ryedale Folk Museum ▶

Take a trip back in time at this living museum set in 6 acres of grounds, it's an ideal day out for all the family.

GO WILD

Yorkshire boasts a diverse range of natural habitats including rugged coastlines, moorlands, forests, wetlands, and meadows, providing a home for a numerous array of fascinating wildlife.

On the spectacular Yorkshire coast, Bempton Cliffs is home to one of the UK's top wildlife spectacles. Around half a million seabirds gather here between March and August to raise a family on the towering chalk cliffs that overlook the North Sea. The huge white chalk cliffs are impressive at any time of year but visit between April and July, and you'll find them transformed into England’s largest seabird city. Here Puffins, Gannets, Kittiwakes and Guillemots live life on the edge. There are more Gannets acrobatically diving into the deep here than anywhere else on mainland England. Nearby at Flamborough Head, grey, and common seals are a wonderful sight lying on the beaches below, especially during pupping season. Along the coast you can also spot them at Ravenscar and Spurn near Hull.

Further inland, the rolling moorlands and uplands are ideal for bird species like Golden Plover, Red Grouse and Curlews. In spring and summer Corn Buntings, Skylarks and Linnets breed in the grassland and scrub where land meets the sea, while Kestrel and Barn Owls hunt under wide open skies, often joined in winter by Short-eared Owls.

The North York Moors is an ideal habitat for several reptiles, including Common Lizards and Adders. If you are lucky, you may spot Brown Hares, these magnificent creatures are a wonderful sight to see and one of the rarest sites is to see a ring of hares dancing in early spring, once witnessed out horse riding on Sutton Bank. Another elusive creature to spot in the forests that hug the Cleveland Hills, is the Roe Deer. Very shy they are active both day and night feeding off the vegetation and wild berries in summer and exist on nuts, bark and fungi in the winter months. Red squirrels are being introduced back into the region with a colony being bred at the Yorkshire Arboretum and can also be found living wild at Snaizeholme, near Hawes in the Yorkshire Dales.

Numerous pheasants and grouse can be found roaming everywhere. Much of the countryside is owned by large estates who breed them for the shooting season so they are not strictly wild in the pure sense. Grouse and pheasant shooting is a lucrative business, attracting clients not only from the UK, but Europe and worldwide. They play an important part in contributing to the management of the land and employment.

■ BOAT TRIPS

Sail past Bempton’s 400foot chalk cliffs as clouds of seabirds swoop, soar and circle above and around the boat. For nature lovers of all ages, this is the stuff that memories are made of.

RSPB cruises, please contact their cruise office: 01262 422211 bempton.cruises@rspb.org.uk

In late summer off the coast at Whitby migrating shoals of herrings arrive to spawn, attracting birds, seals, sharks and whales to feed. It is an ideal time to take a boat trip from the harbour to spot Minke whales, Sei, Fin and Humpback whales.

Whitby Whale Watching www.whitbycoastalcruises.com

This also attracts cetaceans, sharks, birds and seals to feed.

Wildlife

The Glorious Twelfth is the twelfth day of August, the start of the shooting season for red grouse.

Images: Stephen Pemberton www.northernpixl.co.uk

Image: Chris Mellor courtesy of RSPB Bempton Cliffs

WHITBY

Whitby’s Local Villages – within a short drive are numerous idyllic villages that are well worth a visit. The closest is Sandsend which lies at the end of Whitby beach along the coast road though you can also walk the 2 miles from Whitby at low tide. Robin Hood’s Bay is 6 miles away and is the biggest and most popular of the coastal villages with a lovely sandy beach, at low tide only, to explore the rock pools and look for fossils. It is recognised by the huddle of red-roofed fishing cottages at the waterline. Runswick Bay is 7 miles from Whitby and is renowned for picturesque cottages and a lovely beach. Staithes is a charming, traditional fishing village with winding streets full of fishermen’s cottages that is 10 miles up the coast from Whitby and known as a haven for artists. It was also the one-time home of the explorer Captain James Cook.

Whitby Blue Plaque Trail - an interesting trail of 24 historical marker plaques dotted around Whitby, each installed on specific buildings of notable interest.

Food for Thought – Whitby is firmly on the world map for its award-winning fish and chips restaurants including Trenchers and the famous Magpie Café. Cod, haddock, crab, lobster, prawns and many other varieties of freshly caught seafoods of the day are available across the town. A few miles down the coast in Sandsend is the renowned Estbek House which was one of only 2 North Yorkshire restaurants to feature in Open Table’s Top 100 list for 2023.

Whitby - The majority of visitors to Whitby travel over 20 miles of wild moorland roads before descending into the town but what they are greeted with always make the journey worthwhile. Picturesque Whitby sits in a valley at the mouth of the river Esk and is an ancient port with a bustling working harbour. The spooky 13th century ruin of Whitby Abbey sits imposingly above the town on the East Cliff and was famously an inspiration for Bram Stoker to write Dracula. Whitby has a rich history as a Georgian and then Victorian spa resort and if you venture over to the West Cliff, you get a real feel of the Victorian era with hotels and guest houses built when visitors came to the town to enjoy three springs that were in demand for medicinal and tonic qualities. Add a dramatic coastline, blue flag sandy beaches with donkey rides and relaxing cafes with stunning views and it’s not hard to see why Whitby is so popular with visitors year-round.

Left: Whitby Abbey Below: Sandsend

The Whitby Swing Bridge was built by the same firm that built Blackpool Tower.

Pannett Park has one of very few floral clocks in England, installed to celebrate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953.

English Heritage has designated over 600 Listed Buildings in central Whitby, 8 of them Grade I and the rest Grade II. These include the Abbey ruins, 17th century inns by the harbour and the Victorian railway station.

The nearby coastal village of Ravenscar is known as the ‘Town That Never Was’. Originally a planned Victorian tourist development, its isolated location led to plans being abandoned with only a few houses ever built.

The footbridge across the beck in Staithes takes you out of North Yorkshire and into the neighbouring county of Redcar and Cleveland.

Saint Hilda was the first Abbess of Whitby Abbey in the 7th century.

Robin Hood’s Bay is the finishing point for the 190 mile west to east Coast to Coast Walk and walkers celebrate the completion of the walk by traditionally dipping their boots in the Bay.

Walking along the West Cliff towards Khyber Pass, you'll spot a small tunnel framing Whitby Abbey in the distance. This is known as the Screaming Tunnel.

Whitby gained its name from the old Norse name for ‘white settlement’.

Whitby Pier has an opulent two lighthouses and the west lighthouse is sometimes open to the public who can climb to the top.

The New Angel Hotel in Whitby earned a Platinum Award in the 2023 Loo of the Year Awards!

Whitby Distillery Tour - get behind the scenes and discover how the award-winning Distillery craft their spirits – naturally there is a bit of tasting that will have to be done!

Illuminated Abbey – Every October, often in tandem with the Goth Weekend, Whitby Abbey is bathed in dramatic illuminations. A trail of lights around the Abbey are complimented by various costumed ghostly interactive characters sharing unusual tales. With fire pits to toast marshmallows and hot chocolate aplenty, the illuminations are an amazing sight to behold and of course, fancy dress is strongly encouraged.

DON’T MISS

Pannett Park - located on the edge of town, the Park was opened in 1927 and has stunning views, woodland, an amazing art play area and Jurassic Garden. It is also the location for Pannett Art Gallery and Whitby Museum.

Whitby Steampunk Weekend - is one of largest free-entry Steampunk gatherings in the UK. Steampunk fashion is a mixture of fashion trends from different historical periods with clothing adding the looks of 19th century lords, explorers, harlots with contemporary street fashion of punks, goths and sometimes even vampire clothing. Whitby Steampunk Weekends take place twice a year, usually in February and July.

Left: Whitby Abbey - English Heritage

Right: Robin Hood's Bay

Bravery, Adventure, Endurance, Discovery!

Learn about Captain Cook’s awe-inspiring voyages

Open daily 30 March - 3 November

www.cookmuseumwhitby.co.uk

DARK INSPIRATION - WHITBY GOTH WEEKENDS

The Whitby Goth Weekend is a twice-yearly alternative lifestyle festival that has been taking place in Whitby for 30 years. Goth is a musicbased subculture developed by fans of gothic rock in the 1980s with post punk bands like The Cure, Bauhaus and Siouxsie and the Banshees major influences. Dressing styles draw influences from punk, new wave, horror films and from earlier periods like the Victorian and Edwardian eras. The colour of the day is invariably black from clothes to hair and make-up.

Founded by Jo Hampshire, Whitby Goth Weekend is one of the world’s biggest Goth

events consisting of two nights of live bands at Whitby Spa and three days of alternative trade stalls at the Whitby Leisure Centre and Whitby Brunswick Centre. Lots of the events are run by DJs and promoters from the Goth community. The first meeting, in 1994, saw Jo organise a meeting of likeminded friends in Whitby’s Elsinore pub and the event proved so popular, that it became a twice-yearly spectacle three years later. Nowadays, the weekends attract large numbers of visitors with non-goths from other subcultures like steampunks, rockers and even horror fans also wanting to experience the uniqueness of the event.

Whitby Goth Weekends contribute £1.1 million to the local econo my and people attending for the first time, are referred to as “Whitby Virgins”.

The term ‘gothic rock’ was used for the first time by the music critic John Stickney after meeting Jim Morrison in a dimly lit wine cellar calling it a perfect venue for the Door’s gothic rock.

The 2024 Whitby Goth Weekends take place 26-28 April and 1-3 No vember. For more dark inspiration, see here.

www.whitbygothweekend.co.uk

www.facebook.com/whitbygothweekend

Grape Lane Whitby

MINI-GUIDE

Featuring top attractions and places to visit, it includes discount vouchers to use throughout the year

Mini Guide available from accommodation providers, Tourist Information Centres, cafes, pubs and anywhere displaying visitor information.

Visit goyorkshire.com for even more places to visit, stay and eat, plus more great discount offers.

HAUNTED WHITBY

With it’s cobbled streets and charming cottages, Whitby is outwardly a beautiful and quaint fishing town however once darkness falls it becomes a very different place altogether. With many a tale of ghostly phenomena and ghoulish tales you can certainly see why Whitby was the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula. We have brought together just a few stories to whet your appetite here but maybe you’ll have your own haunted experience if you dare to stay!

WHITBY ABBEY

It will come as no surprise that an Abbey would have plenty of ghosts and Whitby’s has two in particular. The first is said to be the ghost of St Hild who was the founder of the Abbey back in 657 and she can sometimes be seen peering from one of the high windows. The other notable phantom is Constance de Beverley, a nun who reportedly broke her vows of chastity so of course was bricked up alive behind the Abbey walls –what other punishment could there be for such a crime!

BAGDALE HALL

Beautiful Bagdale Hall has over 500 years of history so of course there are tales aplenty to spook and entice guests in equal measure. Ghost stories of guests and hotel staff are often told but one sighting is that of the previous owner Brown Bushell who was beheaded for treason during the English Civil War – his presence is felt with a sense of doom and gloom falling upon unsuspecting patrons so hopefully it’s not while guests are leaving their TripAdvisor reviews.

ST MARY’S CHURCHYARD

If you are fit enough to climb the 199 steps you will reach the churchyard of St Mary’s. This fascinating churchyard is the final resting place for many fishermen and sailors who died on dry land and weren’t buried at sea as is tradition. Folklore says that on the third night after the burial, the Barguest Coach arrives driven by skeletal sailors and pulled by headless horses, the soul of the dead sailor will then board the coach which drives off towards the sea.

THE WESTERN LIGHTHOUSE

Lighthouses can be dangerous places so it’s only to be expected that they have many ghost stories to tell. One such tale started when the lighthouse keeper realised that the lamp wasn’t working on a very dark and stormy night. Knowing that anyone out at sea would be in danger without the light, the keeper made the treacherous journey up the lighthouse and fixed the lamp. Unfortunately the steps of the lighthouse had become so perilously slippery that he lost his footing on the way back down and was dead before he reached the bottom. People say he can sometimes be seen making his final journey up the pier to the lighthouse to complete his heroic mission.

THE OYSTER MAN

Back in the day, oysters were food for the poor rather than being the delicacy they are seen as today and in Whitby the ‘Oyster Man’ would sell his haul in the local hostelries. Shouting “Oysters alive-oh!” to attract customers he would make his usual round the town stopping at the Golden Lion Inn. Unfortunately for the Oyster Man this particular evening he came across John Smith who was spoiling for a fight. Although he tried to leave without an altercation a fight ensued and the Oyster Man stabbed Smith in self-defence. Although he was never convicted, he carried the guilt with him for the rest of his life which is why perhaps it is said he still walks the Whitby streets calling “Oysters alive-oh!”.

BARGUEST HOUND

Finally, Whitby is also home to its very own hound of hell –the Barguest Hound. With glowing red eyes, the hound is said to roam the dark streets and if you hear its terrifying growl, it might be that you’ll be featuring in your very own ghost story as only people who are about to die can hear it!

For obvious reasons

Whitby is now home to the Whitby Goth Weekends, taking place twice a year the festivals consist of music, dancing and drinking for not only Goths but Punks, Emos and Steampunks, attracting visitors from round the globe.

For further details visit www.whitbygothweekend.co.uk

SCARBOROUGH – BRITAIN’S FIRST SEASIDE RESORT

Scarborough is the largest town and main economic centre for the entire Yorkshire Coast. It was also Britain’s first Victorian seaside resort leading to the creation of beautiful parks and gardens and the Esplanade. Over time, the cliff lift was built to give shoppers in town an easier journey to the beach though the walk down from St Nicholas Cliff to the beach front does get the blood pumping after a hearty breakfast. Tourism and fishing remain the main industries but Scarborough offers something for everyone, so it is no surprise that the Borough of Scarborough remains the 3rd most visited place in the UK.

SOUTH BAY

If a sandy beach, amusements, donkey rides, cafes and fish and chips are your preference, South Bay is the liveliest place to head to. It also has a working harbour with boat trips along the coast or around the bay on offer and the historic Scarborough Spa, a fantastic entertainment and conferencing venue, lies at the south end of the beach.

NORTH BAY

North Bay has a more relaxed atmosphere and a beach with wilder waves that is very popular with surfers and other water sports users. It is also home to many of the larger visitor attractions including Scarborough Open Air Theatre, North Bay Railway and the Sea Life Centre. The 12th century Scarborough Castle sits on the headland on the easternmost point of North Bay and offers panoramic views out across the North Sea and back over the town and North Bay.

DON’T MISS

■ Peasholm Park

A 14-acre free to enter public park just 5 minutes from the seafront in the North Bay area of Scarborough. Opened in 1912, it was designed as an attraction for visitors and has a lake you can boat on and impressive gardens. With an oriental theme, it also has a pagoda and a large cascade waterfall as its centrepiece. Our favourite activity in the park is watching the Naval warfare re-enactments featuring boats in mock naval battles, complete with pyrotechnics.

■ Oliver's Mount Road Race Circuit

Overlooks Scarborough and is England's only natural 'road' racetrack and has been likened to a ‘small TT by the seaside’. The twisting 2.43 mile track hosts the unmissable Bob Smith Spring Cup which will take place on the weekend of 13-14 April in 2024.

■ Scarborough’s Heritage trail

Can be followed along the iconic sea wall on Marine Drive with 31 engraved granite storyboards telling the story of Scarborough’s rich history.

■ The Scarborough Fair Collection

A museum with a unique collection of vintage fairground rides, organs and steam engines that is also known for its popular tea dances.

■ Scarborough Castle

With its panoramic views over the coast, Scarborough Castle is one of the must visit historic sites in the area. The former medieval fortress is reputed to be haunted by three ghosts including a Roman soldier.

■ Alpamare

Reopening in Spring 2024 under North Yorkshire Council leadership, this is a fantastic indoor waterpark with a wave pool and exhilarating slides for kids of all ages.

Above: Scarborough Castle - English Heritage Right: Scarborough North Bay Beach Huts Below: Rock Pooling on Scarborough South Bay

Scarborough Fair was a 45-day event that took place between the 12th and 17th centuries and was attended by merchants, tradesmen and visitors from all over Europe.

The first civilian killed on British soil during World War I was Leonard Ellis. He died because of German battlecruiser shelling of Scarborough in December 1914.

Novelist Anne Bronte died in Scarborough in 1849 at the tender age of 29 and her gravestone is in Scarborough’s St Mary’s Church.

At the time it was built in 1867, Scarborough’s Grand Hotel was the largest hotel in Europe. It had 4 towers, 12 floors, 52 chimneys and 365 bedrooms representing the seasons, months, weeks and days in a year. Winston Churchill and The Beatles all stayed there, as have the Go Yorkshire team!

The town was founded in 966AD by Viking raider Thorgills Skarthi and was originally called Skaroaborg.

You can cycle from Scarborough to Whitby along the path of the former railway line that links the two resorts. The 22-mile ride is known as the ‘Cinder Track’.

SKIPPING AND PANCAKES

Scarborough has a tradition of combining skipping and pancakes every Shrove Tuesday in February. The Town Mayor rings the ‘Pancake Bell’ to start proceedings before teams race around an obstacle course to earn the coveted Golden Frying Pan trophy. Afterwards, it’s down to the seafront for pancake eating and skipping. Local schoolchildren take part in the local tradition of skipping that is said to hail from the days when fishermen would give children their old ropes that were not fit for fishing and they would play with them.

QUIZ TIME

in the West Cliff area of Whitby overlooking the Abbey ruins, inspiring him to write about Dracula?

12

Where is the largest lobster port in Europe with over 300 tonnes caught each year?

13

The owners of what type of establishment in Withernsea call themselves ‘muggies’?

14

True or False? Kirk Theatre in Pickering is named after the captain in Star Trek?

15

What is the largest dale in the North York Moors?

16

What is the name of England’s only natural ‘road’ race track in Scarborough?

17

What is the name of the small half-coned shaped hill near Great Ayton that is affectionally known as Little Matterhorn?

18

2017 saw which place designated as the UK City of culture?

19

In 1968, which Yorkshire theme park became the first within the UK to house a killer whale?

20

is the oldest surviving complete lighthouse in Britain?

11

To the nearest 10 years – In what year did Bram Stoker stay

For a bonus point – the killer whale became aggressive towards the dolphins and trainers so moved to Dudley Zoo three years later. What was the whale’s name?

Left: Humber Bridge Below: Flamborough Head Lighthouse

BRIDLINGTON

Bridlington is a wonderful, traditional seaside holiday resort that has had a few names over the years. The Domesday Book refers to the town as Bretlinton and it later became Burlington before becoming Bridlington and to most Yorkshire people as just Brid!

Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the seafront is Bridlington Old Town which dates to the 12th century. With beautiful, cobbled streets and lovely architecture, it's also the place to go if you want to see the history of Bridlington with The Bayle Museum, Old Town Gaol and St Mary’s Church all meriting a visit. Bridlington Harbour is very much at the heart

of this seaside town and a great place to take a stroll to work off your fresh seafood lunch. It remains a thriving fishing port and is widely acknowledged as the ‘Lobster capital of Europe’.

Bridlington’s South Beach is a great place for families with miles of golden sand that are perfect for making sandcastles and calm water, inviting for those who like to paddle. The North Beach and promenade are perfect for a seafront walk and the place to go if fancy a bite to eat or hitting the arcades for a bit of push penny fun. The beach is also renowned for its soft sand and clear blue waters making it the place to come if you want some water sport fun.

Bridlington’s first hotel opened in 1805 and in 1896, along with the opening of the Spa, donkey rides were first introduced on the beach.

Bridlington Town Crier David Hinde has the world record for the loudest cry which was measured at 114.8 decibels in 2013.

Four fun land trains run in Bridlington called the Yorkshire Rose, Yorkshire Lass, Yorkshire Lad and the Spalight Express.

Bridlington often attracts the cream of the domino world for the National Domino Championships. In one year, scuffles broke out between rival fans in Britain's only known case of "Domino Hooliganism".

■ DON'T MISS

Gets our seal of approval - you can often spot seals at the Harbour hoping for an ‘easy lunch’ from the fishing boats returning with their catch.

The Yorkshire Belle - a pleasure boat dating from 1947, offers stunning scenic cruises along the coast to the chalk headland of Flamborough Head.

Bridlington Spa – imposing entertainment venue that holds festivals, concerts and dramas.

Danes Dyke – a 30-acre woodland nature reserve that meets the beach and is home to badgers, owls and foxes.

Bempton Cliffs – another nature reserve which is famously home to puffins, gannets and kittiwakes. The best time to see the Puffins is from late April to early August.

Sewerby Hall and Gardens – 18th century Georgian mansion surrounded by 50 acres of beautiful gardens that even includes a small zoo.

Filey Beach was named ‘Beach of the Year’ by the Sunday Times in 2018.

Filey has never had a harbour but is famous for having its own design of fishing boat known as the Filey Coble which has similarities to the Viking longboats.

A section of the Southern cliffs at Filey Bay slipped into the sea exposing the fossilised remains of a 145-million-year-old Plesiosaur, like the monster of Loch Ness fame.

The famous rocky peninsula of Filey Brigg was used by the Romans who landed their ships here. It is now popular with bird watchers and those wanting to explore rock pools when safe to do so.

St Oswald's Church has nearly 1,500 pieces of well-preserved medieval graffiti on the roof of the tower with the graffiti detailing around 400 years of Filey's history.

FILEY

Filey is a small town that rests atop the cliffs overlooking the stunning Filey Bay and is renowned for its glorious 5-milelong beach. The beach has a delightful promenade with traditional beach chalets and even a sculpture trail featuring an imposing steel sculpture of a fisherman titled ‘High Tide and Short Wellies’!

The once fishing village is now a gentle relaxing holiday resort popular with families and those looking for a slightly more laid-back atmosphere than neighbouring Bridlington and Scarborough. It is also a popular sailing and water sports destination for those wanting a little more adventure. Similarly, the walking fraternity love Filey as it is the start and end point for the famous Cleveland Way trail.

Filey has some beautiful public gardens to take a stroll and work off the fish and chips and ice cream. During the summer months, one of our favourites are the Crescent Gardens with the brass bands playing every Sunday at the beautiful bandstand. Alternately, the Memorial Gardens are a stunning place for a romantic walk, with beautiful flower borders and a lovely fountain.

■ DON'T MISS

Filey Bird Garden – an amazing collection of animals and birds including alpacas, giant rabbits, miniature ponies, donkeys, wallabies, bearded dragons and of course Josie, the 60-year-old tortoise. Turkeys, geese and chickens are complimented by more exotic birds including parrots, macaws, rheas and the comically interactive Myna bird Morris!

Filey Food and Drink Festivals - check out the Events section on pages 48-49 to find out the dates for the Easter, Spring, Summer and Autumn festivals that take place centrally at the Filey Evron Centre Gardens and Crescent Gardens.

Image: Filey Brigg

TAKE A WALK ON THE WOLD SIDE

The Yorkshire Wolds are low hills in the counties of North Yorkshire and East Riding of Yorkshire made from a series of marine limestones formed during the Cretaceous period. These are known as the Chalk Group and the outcrop covers a large area stretching from the Humber estuary west towards Malton and then east towards the North Sea between Filey and Bridlington. The Wolds have deep, steep sided valleys which can be hard to see from above, almost to the point that you think that the landscape is flat when it is nothing of the sort. Rich in archaeological remains, the area has neolithic and bronze age sites aplenty, as well as evidence from when the Romans settled here in 71AD. With ancient villages, stunning views and vibrant market towns, the Yorkshire Wolds are a unique place to visit.

NORTHERN WOLDS

The Wolds reach the sea at Flamborough Head, an infamous chalk headland with sheer white cliffs. This area also includes RSPB Bempton Cliffs, an exceptional nature reserve and bird colony.

SOUTHERN WOLDS

The narrowest part of the Wolds, they lie between the Vale of York and Holderness and include the Humber Estuary.

CENTRAL WOLDS

The central Wolds have some beautiful, wooded dales with picturesque small becks. The market towns of Market Weighton and Pocklington are prominent in the area.

WESTERN WOLDS

Known for its small villages clustered together, the area is perhaps most famous for Wharram Percy, known as the most deserted village site in the UK.

DRIFFIELD

The town of Driffield was founded in Saxon times and is aptly named the ‘Capital of the Wolds’ due to its central location in the Yorkshire Wolds. The small town has a long history and is centred around the bustling high street, known as Middle Street with a variety of independent shops, cafes and restaurants. Its status as a market town was solidified with the opening of the canal in the 18th century with mills, granaries, malt houses, coal yards and manufacturing industries flourishing though nowadays, the canal is used purely by leisure boats though we do recommend that you take a stroll on the nature trail along the towpath from Whinhill Lock to Wansford. Every August, Driffield hosts the Steam and Vintage Rally which is particularly known for the Saturday evening parade of vehicles and steam engines through the town centre. The Driffield Show is also worth attending as the UK’s largest one day annual agricultural show having started in 1851.

■ DON'T MISS

Sledmere House

Burton Agnes Hall

Tophill Low Nature Reserve

Yorkshire Wolds Railway

Rudston Monolith

BEVERLEY

Nine miles north of Hull, you will find the beautiful market town of Beverley. Proud landmarks include the imposing gothic Minster and the 15th century North Bar Gate that divides the Georgian streets containing a plethora of listed buildings. Beverley is easily explored on foot and boasts some amazing shops with a good mix of high street and independent shops in Flemingate complimenting the traditional Wednesday and Saturday markets. The vast expanse of Beverley Westwood, a sprawling woodland and grass space, also means that a relaxing stroll or picnic is never far away in this historic town. Another lovely walk not to miss is the ¾ mile canal walk along Beverley Beck where you will also catch sight of the famous MV Syntan ex-working barge that now acts as a heritage centre and community resource. Part of the town’s heritage since the 16th century, Beverley racecourse has some of the best flat racing in the country from April to September attracting thousands of visitors.

■ DON'T MISS

Beverley Minster

St Mary’s Church

East Riding Theatre

The Guildhall

Dumble Farm

The Pipe and Glass Restaurant, South Dalton

YORKSHIRE WOLDS WAY

The Yorkshire Wolds Way is a 79-mile National Trail long distance footpath that runs from Hessle to Filey. The walk is stunning with tranquil countryside, wooded slopes, dry valleys and wildflowers abundant. You can walk it at any time during the year with May and September, the most popular times to attempt the walk. For those who prefer wheels to feet, the Wolds have over 150 miles of cycleways.

Driffield’s history dates to neolithic times and includes the burial of a king and tales of witchcraft. It was listed as one of the best places to live in Northern England in the 2019 by the Sunday Times.

The RAF base at Driffield was targeted by the Luftwaffe in 1940 resulting in 14 deaths. It was also the site of the first death in WWII of a member of the Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF). Down the road, the town council in Pocklington have a policy of naming all new streets using the surnames of the war dead who served at RAF Pocklington.

After an absence of 150 years, Red Kites were reintroduced to the Wolds in 1999.

Market Weighton is the birthplace of William Bradley, Britain’s tallest recorded man.

More than 350 of Beverley’s buildings are listed and since 2006, the town has hosted a biennial puppet festival.

In 2014, Universal Productions filmed Dad’s Army inside Beverley’s East Riding Theatre, helping the Theatre raise funds to build a stage and café bar.

The village of Kilham was once the capital of the Wolds and the highest village in the Wolds is Fridaythorpe.

MARI-TIME FOR A VISIT TO HULL

HULL

Time Out recently announced Hull as the second-best place in the UK that you must visit in 2024. On the north bank of the Humber, lies Yorkshire’s most easterly and fourth largest city, Kingston-Upon-Hull. As a major UK port, Hull handles 1million passengers a year with daily ferry crossings to Belgium and Holland. It is also the UK’s main softwood timber importer.

If history, entertainment and shopping are your passions, there are few cities that offer as much as Hull. Named the UK's Capital of Culture in 2017, its arts, music, culture and rich heritage are particularly evident around the city. It has an abundance of amazing museums, especially in what is now known as The Museums Quarter in the old town. For shopping, Hull has two major shopping areas at Princess Quay and at St Stephen’s Shopping Centre. Another must visit area is Hull’s picturesque Old Town with its Georgian and Stuart architecture, cobbled streets and of course, Hull Minster.

Elsewhere, Hull Marina is just a short 15-minute stroll from the city centre near to the award-winning Deep Aquarium. Primarily a home for pleasure boats, it was opened in 1983 having previously been part of the Railway and Humber Docks. If you fancy a view whilst eating Italian or Brazilian food, the Marina is the place to be.

Hull is also famous for its two Rugby League teams, Hull FC and Hull Kingston Rovers (Hull KR). Traditionally, if you are from east Hull you support Hull KR, whilst those in the west support Hull FC.

■ DON'T MISS

Streetlife Museum of Transport

Holy Trinity Church

Ferens Art Gallery

Hull Minster

Hull New Theatre in Kingston Square

The Deep Aquarium

The Humber Bridge

Hull and East Riding Museum

Hull Truck Theatre

Wilberforce House Museum

Restaurants - Pipe and Glass, Thieving Harry’s, Roots

Rum Shack, Whites, Dope Burger

Atom Pub - won best pub in the region at the 2023

Remarkable East Yorkshire Tourism Awards.

Indie Art Galleries Ground and Artlink

The city has a rich seafaring history and its fishing heritage will again be celebrated in the Grade II listed Hull Maritime Museum in Queen Victoria Square when it reopens post refurbishment in 2025.

Willy Wonka actor Timothee Chalamet was recently asked if he thought French was the sexiest language and he replied ‘I like the Hull accent - Hull is sexy’.

Hull have several trails to enjoy including the Fish trail, a search for 41 fish across the city centre including a 10ft Ray overlooking Victoria Pier.

The Channel 4 sitcom Hullraisers is set and filmed in Hull and was co-written by stand-up comedian Lucy Beaumont.

Hull is the only place in the country not to have BT provide its telephone services. Kingston Communications provide services and all the public phone boxes are white. Hull was also the first full fibre broadband city in England.

The Humber Bridge held the record for the world’s longest suspension bridge for 16 years.

Wendys in Hull opened recently and has been branded the world’s biggest branch of the American burger chain.

Lord of the Rings author J.R.R.Tolkien lived in the Hull and East Yorkshire region during the First World War.

NEW FOR 2024

A new weekend music festival ‘Live in the Yard’ will make its debut August 8-11 at Zebedee’s Yard with Callum Scott, Ocean Colour Scene, Embrace and Cast all performing.

MAY THE FOURTH BE WITH YOU

Star-Con is the latest event that will be coming to a galaxy far far away – well the Doubletree Hilton Hotel in Hull. Taking place on ‘Star Wars Day’ May 4th 2024, the event is sure to get a better than just ‘Lukewarm’ reception from sci-fans.

8270 BC

The first signs of human activity are found in Victoria Cave in Settle.

71 AD

The Romans arrived and built forts, including ones at Doncaster and York.

407

The last Roman soldiers left Britain and the Roman way of life disappeared from Yorkshire.

750

In the mid 8th century York sprang to life. Craftsmen went to live there and weekly markets began.

866

The Vikings captured York and founded a separate kingdom of Yorkshire.

954

The English recapture York from the Vikings.

1066

Harald Hardrada, the king of Norway, invaded England.

1086

The people of Yorkshire rise in rebellion leading to the ‘Harrying of the North’ which left many people starving to death.

1132

Fountains Abbey was founded. The Cistercian abbey operated for over 400 years, until 1539, when Henry VIII ordered the Dissolution of the Monasteries.

1315

The start of seven years of exhausting famine partly due to changing climate conditions.

1318

Robert the Bruce plundered Northallerton, Boroughbridge, Ripon and Scarborough.

1349

Yorkshire was devastated by the Black Death, which killed about a third of the population.

1536

Henry VIII calls for the closing of all the smaller monasteries, this provoked an uprising known as the Pilgrimage of Grace.

1539

Fountains Abbey ceases operation due to the Dissolution of the Monasteries.

1642

Yorkshire was divided by The First English Civil War.

17c

The popularity of Spa towns begins, people believe the mineral water could cure illness. Scarborough and Harrogate benefit from the boom.

18c

The wool industry begins to flourish in Yorkshire and continues to grow rapidly.The construction of a network of canals begins.

1832

Outbreaks of cholera plague the new industrial towns for years to come, it was introduced via newly organised shipping routes through Europe.

1834

The Gristhrope Man, the tallest prehistoric skeleton to date, was found by the Scarborough Philosophical Society, his remains are preserved at Scarborough’s Rotunda Museum.

1837

Ingleborough Cave is first discovered.

1840

Railway networks were built to help communication to the more rural areas of Yorkshire.

1850

The Yorkshire Terrier first originates, bred by mill operatives in the mid-1800s.

1941

Hull was severely bombed in the Second World War. One of the worst attacks was in May and resulted in 400 deaths.

1969

The Cleveland Way is created – an impressive 109-mile-long route from incredible coastlines through to thick heather moorland.

1975

August 1st is chosen as Yorkshire Day to celebrate the rich culture and contributions made to the world.

1984

York Minster suffers from a catastrophic fire caused by lightning.

1988

After four years of restoration, York Minster is returned to its former glory at the cost of £2.25m.

2012

At the London 2012 Olympics, Yorkshire athletes won more medals than Australia.

2013

The First Direct Arena in Leeds officially opened its doors on 4th September with a concert by Sir Elton John.

2019

The Tour de Yorkshire cycle race continues for a fifth year, inspired by the Tour de France stage of 2014.

A TASTE OF

Part of the pleasure of being in the Yorkshire region is the quality of the food that’s produced here. Here is just a sample of the delights you can find.

1. THE HORSESHOE INN, LEVISHAM

They use fresh, locally sourced ingredients in their menus wherever possible. Menus are likely to alter every few months to take advantage of the changing seasons, so please consult sample menus to get an idea of the kind of food on offer. www.horseshoelevisham.co.uk

2. THE PHEASANT, HAROME

With the splendid dining room, airy conservatory, relaxing lounge, cosy bar or the sheltered terrace overlooking the village pond you have plenty of dining options at this 2 AA Rosette hotel. www.thepheasanthotel.com

3. THE LION INN, BLAKEY RIDGE

Located at the highest point of the North York Moors National Park, the Inn offers breathtaking views over the valleys of Rosedale and Farndale. Open fires burn in the ancient fireplaces and the original low beamed ceilings add to the friendly, cosy atmosphere.

4. THE FOX AND HOUNDS INN

Hidden away in the quiet, beautiful village of Sinnington, The F&H is a romantic 18th Century Coaching Inn with rooms, and delicious food served in our cosy restaurant, Lounge Bar or our dog friendly bar. Relax in style away from the madding crowd.

www.thefoxandhoundsinn.co.uk

5. DOCKSIDE KITCHEN, BRIDLINGTON

Keen to give you the best dining experience, they take pride in having excellent relations with local independent suppliers and source only the finest fresh and seasonal ingredients.

www.docksidekitchen.co.uk

6. THE HISPANIST, HULL

The Hispanist is a combination of two life-long passions coming together to create a restaurant that captures the essence of Spanish cuisine rather than replicate it.

www.thehispanist.co.uk

www.lionblakey.co.uk

Images: We have used stock images due to ever changing menus as most of the restaurants featured

7. MOUTREY’S, WHITBY

Every item on the menu is their own unique recipe making every meal they serve a speciality. A family-friendly restaurant and children are welcome to order a smaller portion of any of the meals on the main menu. www.moutreys.co.uk

8. EMBERS, SCARBOROUGH

Embers Restaurant has created an exciting seasonal menu showcasing the best locally sourced Yorkshire produce. Choose from modern British dishes with an international twist. Smokey Chargrills from the wood-fire oven, gourmet burgers, exquisite desserts and a delicious Yorkshire cheeseboard. www.embers.restaurant

Whether it’s coffee and cake or a Michelin Star evening meal, Yorkshire has some amazing options

9. THE PLOUGH, WOMBLETON

The Plough has a proud tradition of serving fine ales to its customers since the 15th Century and with a simple mission of being recognised as a truly great village pub, The Plough puts hospitality and atmosphere first. www.theploughwombleton.co.uk

10. RYEBURN’S OF HELMSLEY

Enjoy delicious home-made chocolates and ice cream (which have won numerous awards) in their ice cream parlour. Try it in a cone or indulge yourself with one of the sundae creations. www.ryeburn.com

11. THE VINEHOUSE CAFE, HELMSLEY

Located within Helmsley Walled Garden ‘The Vinehouse Cafe’ is independent and family run. The cafes’ emphasis has always been to serve fresh food using quality ingredients and from the Walled Garden where possible. www.vinehousecafehelmsley.co.uk

12. THE WHOLE HOGG, MALTON

Offering everything you would expect from a wellstocked traditional working farm shop and more. You can purchase amazing produce to cook at home, along with home reared meat and home grown vegetables. www.thewholehoggfarmshop.co.uk

1. National Railway Museum (Free entry)

This place is a treat for both adults and kids, showcasing over 300 years of railway history. Ride the Mallard Experience simulator, explore various locomotives and visit Wonderlab, the fun and interactive gallery that will keep the family entertained for hours. Open seven days a week, 10:00 – 17:00.

2. York Castle Museum

(Free for under 5s, York Pass)

Take a stroll down Kirkgate, a recreated Victorian street, and step into the past at York Castle Prison. The museum hosts intriguing seasonal events, ensuring every visit feels fresh.

3. Clifford’s Tower

(Free with York Pass, English Heritage Membership)

Refurbished in 2022, this tower unravels the history of the Middle Ages and treats you to breathtaking city views from its new roof deck.

A WEEKEND IN YORK

York is a gem waiting to be explored without burning a hole in your pocket! So, we've got you covered with 20 budgetfriendly things to do on your next visit. Some activities are absolutely free, while others offer free entry for kids, exclusive perks for pass holders, or certain memberships.

Now, before diving into this treasure trove of experiences, consider snagging the York Pass or the JORVIK Group Pastport. The York Pass grants access to over 25 attractions in and around the city. It’s a great deal if you're planning to hop around various spots in a day. Meanwhile, the JORVIK Group Pastport lets you into four attractions for a whole year, including JORVIK Viking Centre, Barley Hall, DIG: An Archaeological Adventure, and the City Walls Experience.

LET'S KICK OFF OUR BUDGET-FRIENDLY ADVENTURE WITH SOME MUST-VISIT SPOTS:

4. JORVIK Viking Centre

(Free for under 5s, JORVIK Group Pastport, York Pass)

Immerse yourself in Viking life at this award-winning, immersive museum.

5. Museum Gardens & Yorkshire Museum

(Museum free for York residents & under 5s, York Pass)

Located close to the city centre and along the river Ouse, these gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll. The Yorkshire Museum within the gardens offers engaging exhibitions.

6. Merchant Adventurers Hall (Free for under 16s with accompanying adult, York Pass)

Marvel at the stunning architecture of this 14th-century building while learning about York’s history.

7. York Art Gallery

(Free for under 5s, Free General Admission)

Explore various exhibitions and art displays, some of which might require additional payment for special showcases.

8. Millennium Bridge River Ouse Walk and Rowntree Park (Free for all)

Take a scenic walk along the River Ouse, crossing the Millennium Bridge and wandering back along the river to Rowntree Park. With recent upgrades, this park offers ample green spaces and recreational facilities.

9. The Shambles (Free for all)

Walk through this iconic medieval street, adorned with unique shops and charming timber-framed buildings.

10. Shambles Market & Food Court

Browse diverse stalls offering everything from gifts to delicious global cuisines at the adjacent food court. Quicker and much cheaper than a café or restaurant. A great variety of tasty, affordable and on-the-go street food options.

11. City Walls Walk (Free)

A visit to York isn’t complete without strolling along these beautifully preserved walls. Open every day from 8:00 AM – Dusk.

12. The Bar Convent

(Free for under 5s, 6-15 £2.00, York Pass)

Explore the history of England’s oldest living convent and its underground significance during a time when Catholicism was a punishable offence.

13. York Minster and Dean Park

(Minster Free for York residents/students with proof of address, Free for under 18s with paying adult, York Pass)

While entry isn’t free, the iconic York Minster allows a return visit within 12 months and free entry for York Pass holders (with a pre-booked time slot). Ascending the Minster tower incurs an additional charge.

14. The Treasurer’s House

(Free for National Trust members)

This historic house, adjacent to York Minster, showcases a collection of remarkable artefacts and offers stunning views from its City Garden.

15. York Army Museum

(Free for under 5s, 5-18 £3.50, York Pass)

Delve into the stories of British Army soldiers from 1685 to the present day, conveniently located near attractions like JORVIK or Clifford’s Tower.

16. DIG: York

(Free for Under 3s, York Pass, JORVIK Group Pastsport)

Families will love this hands-on archaeological adventure featuring excavation pits filled with historical finds.

17. Street Performances (Free)

Enjoy the lively street performers and buskers dotted around York. You might catch a performance near York’s Chocolate Story or musical tunes along Parliament Street and High Ousegate.

18. Themed Festivals (Free)

Throughout the year, York hosts exciting events like the Viking Festival in winter and the Festival of Ideas in June, offering a range of free activities and talks.

19. Free Walking Tours

Get acquainted with the city's layout and its history through free tours like the White Rose Tour or those organized by the Association of Voluntary Guides.

20. York’s Christmas Market

Running from mid-November to December 24, this market brims with festive cheer, beautifully decorated stalls, and captivating Christmas events.

So, there you have it - York’s treasures waiting to be explored on a budget. Whether it's immersing in history, enjoying scenic walks, or indulging in cultural experiences, York offers something for everyone without breaking the bank. So, go ahead, plan your trip, and dive into this charming city without worrying about your wallet!

Happy exploring!

Discover the Viking Age

The most immersive Viking museum in the UK. Pre-book to unravel Yorks’ Norse heritage at jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk

2 Coffee Yard | Off Stongate | YO1 8AR

Explore York’s hidden medieval townhouse barleyhall.co.uk

ORIGINAL GHOST WALK of York

Est. 1973

Believed to be the oldest Ghost Walk in York, Britain and possibly the world, we have retained our pride and passion throughout the years. Our aim is to inspire and astound. We are darker deeper and richer than ever.

Pay cash on the night or book on line www.theoriginalghostwalkofyork.co.uk Every Night* No need to book.

Adults £7.50 •

Children/Seniors £5

Tel: 07825 618123

*During floods meet on Ouse

Bridge

ADRENALINE-PUMPING ACTIVITIES IN THE NORTH YORK MOORS AND ON THE EAST COAST

Nestled in the breathtaking landscape of Northern England, the North York Moors and East Coast are a haven for adventure seekers. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or just dipping your toe into the world of outdoor pursuits, the Moors and coast promise an unforgettable experience.

EXPLORING THE HEATHER MOORLAND AND BEYOND

Hiking and Trekking: The moors boast an extensive network of hiking trails, including iconic routes like the Cleveland Way and the Lyke Wake Walk. These trails wind through heatherclad moorland, ancient woodlands, and dramatic coastal cliffs, offering hikers breathtaking vistas at every turn.

The National Park Centres at Danby and Sutton Bank are fantastic starting points. They provide maps, information, and even guided walks suitable for all levels of experience. www.northyorkmoors.org.uk

Mountain Bike Trails on the Moors: Offering a haven for mountain biking enthusiasts, with a variety of exhilarating trails, the moors caters to all levels of riders. Trailways, just south of Whitby, provides self-catering accommodation in converted railway carriages and is close to the Cinder rail trail bike route. www.trailways.info

For a family biking experience, Sutton Bank Bikes offers bike hire and self-guided routes as well as the option of joining a guided tour through ancient woodlands and rolling hills. www.suttonbankbikes.co.uk

In Great Fryup Dale, the Yorkshire Cycle Hub offers bike rentals, guided rides, and workshops. They also have accommodation in a bunk house and cafe where you can try their infamous Great Fryup breakfast. www.yorkshirecyclehub.uk

Coastal enthusiasts can explore scenic routes with Bay Hire in Whitby or Scarborough.

www.bayhire.co.uk

For a serene escape, venture to Keldy or Cropton Forests where Forest Holiday offers both biking trails and luxury cabin accommodation. www.forestholidays.co.uk

Yorkshire Bike Hire at Swainby caters to riders of all abilities, ensuring an unforgettable biking adventure around the Cleveland Hills, enjoying its scenic surroundings. They also have a lovely little cafe called the Rusty Bike where you can stop for a break and have a delicious snack or lunch before hopping back on your bikes for further explorations around the moors. www.yorkshirebikehire.co.uk

Rock Climbing and Bouldering: For those with a head for heights, the moors offer a plethora of opportunities for rock climbing and bouldering. Climb towering crags like Wainstones and Raven's Scar or explore the numerous bouldering sites scattered throughout the region. Before tackling any climb or boulder problem, ensure you have the necessary equipment and skills, or consider hiring a local guide for a safe and memorable experience. Scugdale, near Rosedale Abbey, is a great option for bouldering and the south facing crags make it a popular location with its quick-drying conditions. It’s also a great area for hiking with wonderful scenic views.

www.thecrag.com

WATER-BASED ADVENTURES

Surfing on the Yorkshire Coast: Join the surf schools at Scarborough, Saltburn or Whitby for a thrilling adventure on the Yorkshire coast and ride the waves like never before. Scarborough and Whitby Surf Schools also offer paddleboarding whilst Scarborough also offers coasteering and Dexters offers kayaking tours. If you’re new to surfing then don’t worry as all three offer surfing lessons along with wet suit and surf board hire.

www.whitbysurf.co.uk

www.dexterssurfshop.com

www.scarboroughsurfschool.co.uk

www.saltburn-surf.co.uk

GROUND-BASED ADVENTURES

Horseback Riding: Explore the moors on horseback with local stables like Boltby Trekking & Bilsdale Riding Centre. Horseback riding is a popular activity in the North York Moors, offering a unique perspective on the landscape and a deeper connection with nature. Guided tours cater for riders of all abilities, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Boltby Trekking Centre www.boltbytrekking.co.uk

Bilsdale Riding Centre www.bilsdaleridingcentre.co.uk

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

Zip-lining: Experience the thrill of flying through the forest canopy with Go Ape at Dalby Forest. Zip lines offer an exciting way to explore the treetops, with adrenaline-pumping descents and breathtaking views. Suitable for adventurers of all ages, ziplining is a must-try activity for those seeking an unforgettable experience on the moors.

www.goape.co.uk/locations/dalby

FISHING EXPERIENCES

If you are looking for a unique adventure then experience the magic of the Yorkshire coastline with Three Sisters. Offering sea angling, wreck fishing, sightseeing, and wildlife trips, including whale watching in August and September, there’s something for everyone. Experience the magic of the Yorkshire coastline with Three Sisters, promising unforgettable moments at sea. www.threesister-boatcharter.co.uk

RUNNING

For running enthusiasts, Coast to Coast Packhorse offers guided running holidays starting from St Bee’s and ending at Robin Hood’s Bay. www.c2cpackhorse.co.uk

SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS

While seeking adventure in the North York Moors, it's crucial to respect the natural environment and wildlife. Be sure to adhere to safety guidelines for each activity and practice leave-no-trace principles to minimise your impact on the landscape. Responsible tourism ensures that future generations can enjoy the beauty of the moors for years to come.

The North York Moors offer a wealth of adrenaline-pumping activities for thrill-seekers of all ages. Whether you're hiking, paddling, galloping, or soaring through the skies, the moors provide endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. So, pack your gear, embrace the excitement, and embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of North Yorkshire's wild terrain.

North York Moors, the Wolds and East Coast Events 2024

Listed here are some of the key events happening in the area for 2024. Whilst we have tried to ensure all information is correct at the time of printing some events are subject to change so please check with the venue before making a special journey.

Additional events are being confirmed all the time so for more things happening this year please check out our website www.goyorkshire. com for a round-up of what is happening in the county.

www.facebook.com/GoYorkshire

www.twitter.com/Go_Yorkshire

Animal Farm

27 March – 13 April

Hull Truck Theatre

www.hultruck.co.uk

Easter Food Festivals

30-31 March

Filey

www.facebook.com/FileyFoodDrinkFestival

Hannah The Soldier Diaries

9-14 April

Scarborough Spa

www.scarboroughspa.co.uk/events/all

Pocklington Food and Drink Festival

20-21 April

Pocklington

www.marketsquaregroup.co.uk

Whitby Goth Weekend

26-28 April

Whitby

www.whitbygothweekend.co.uk

Yorkshire Wolds Cycle Challenge

29-30 April

Across the Wolds

www.facebook.com/YorkshireWoldsCycleChallenge

International Street Arts Festival –The Scarborough Fair

4-6 May

Scarborough

www.scarboroughfair.uk

Duncombe Park Country Fair

6 May

Helmsley

www.dpcountryfair.co.uk

Race The Waves 2024 Classic Car/Bike Show

11-12 May

Various venues across Bridlington including South Beach www.backfirepromotions.com

Big Ideas by the Sea Festival

17-31 May

Scarborough

www.bigideasbythesea.com

Yorkshire Game and Country Fair

18 May

Scampston Hall

www.scampston.co.uk

Bridlington Kite Festival 18-19 May

Sewerby

www.bridlingtonkitefestival.co.uk

Whitby Fish and Ships Festival

18-19 May

Across Whitby

www.facebook.com/WhitbyFishandShips

Malton Spring Food Lovers Festival 25-26 May

Malton

www.visitmalton.com/food-festivalyorkshire

Spring Plant Fair

2 June

Scampston

www.scampston.co.uk/whats-on/ events-diary

Live Music Events 2-29 June (various dates)

Status Quo, Jess Glynne, Simple Minds, Anne-Marie, Deacon Blue, Tom Jones, Johnny Marr & The Charlatans

Scarborough Open Air Theatre

www.scarboroughopenairtheatre.com/ whatson

Books by the Beach Festival

7-9 June

Scarborough

www.booksbythebeach.co.uk

Robin Hood’s Folk Weekend

7-9 June

Robin Hood’s Bay

www.folkweekend.rhbay.co.uk

Spring Food Festival

8-9 June

Filey

www.facebook.com/FileyFoodDrinkFestival

Scarborough Fringe

The Scarborough Fair

14 - 23 June

Scarborough www.scarboroughfair.uk

Diesel Gala

14, 15, & 16 June

North Yorkshire Moors Railway www.nymr.co.uk/Event/diesel-gala

Scarborough Art

The Scarborough Fair

14 June – 16 August

Scarborough

www.scarboroughfair.uk

Bryan Adams

21 June

Dalby Forest

www.forestlive.com

Nile Rogers and Chic 22 June

Dalby Forest www.forestlive.com

Beverley Folk Festival

21-23 June

Beverley www.beverleyfolk.com

Armed Forces Day

29 June

Scarborough

www.armedforcesday.org.uk/get-involved/afd-national-event

Malton Show

30 June

Scampston Park www.maltonshow.com

Live Music Events

1-12 July (various dates)

Gregory Porter, Rick Astley, Fatboy Slim, Paul Weller, JLS, Madness

Scarborough Open Air Theatre

www.scarboroughopenairtheatre.com/ whatson

Dracula: The Bloody Truth

3-27 July

Stephen Joseph Theatre, Scarborough sjt.uk.com

Whitby Northern Soul Weekend

7-8 July

Whitby Pavilion

www.whitbypavilion.co.uk/events/all

Driffield Show

17 July

Driffield

www.driffieldshowground.co.uk

Hornsea Carnival

19-21 July

Hornsea www.hornseacarnival.org.uk

Malton Museum Roman Festival

21 July

Malton

www.maltonmuseum.co.uk

Deer Shed Festival

26-29 July

Baldersby Park, Topcliffe www.deershedfestival.com

Meadowfest

27 July

Malton

www.visitmalton.com/meadowfest

Ryedale Show

30 July

Welburn Park, Kirkbymoorside

www.ryedaleshow.co.uk

Yorkshire Day

1 August

Across Yorkshire

Whitby Traction Engine Rally

2-4 August

Whitby

www.outdoorshows.co.uk/whitby-traction-engine-rally

Humber Street Sesh

3 August

Hull Marina

www.humberstreetsesh.co.uk

Egton Bridge Gooseberry Show

6 August

Egton Bridge

www.egtongooseberryshow.org.uk

Saltburn Folk Festival

7-9 August

Saltburn

www.saltburnfolkfestival.com

Live Music Events

8-31 August (various dates)

Korn, Becky Hill, Busted

Scarborough Open Air Theatre

www.scarboroughopenairtheatre.com/ whatson

Driffield Steam fair

10-11 August

Driffield Showground

www.driffieldsteamfair.co.uk

Summer Food Festival

10-11 August

Filey

www.facebook.com/FileyFoodDrinkFestival

Danby Show

14 August

Between Castleton and Danby

www.danbyshow.co.uk

Tribfest 2024

16-18 August

Sledmere House

www.tribfest.co.uk

Rosedale Show

17 August

Rosedale Abbey

www.rosedaleshow.co.uk

Whitby Regatta

17-19 August

Whitby

www.whitbyregatta.co.uk

Whitby Folk Week

17-23 August

Whitby

www.whitbyfolk.co.uk

Malton Summer Food Lovers Festival

24-25 August

Malton

www.visitmalton.com/food-festival-yorkshire

Freedom Arts Festival Hull

28 August - 1 September

Across Hull

www.freedomfestival.co.uk

Yorkshire Traction Engine Rally

31 August-1 September

Scampston Hall, Malton

www.outdoorshows.co.uk/whitby-traction-engine-rally

Scarborough Extreme 2024

The Scarborough Fair

September (dates tbc) www.scarboroughfair.uk

Autumn Plant Fair

8 September

Scampston

www.scampston.co.uk/whats-on/ events-diary

Staithes Festival

13-15 September

Staithes

www.staithesfestival.com

Whitby Motown Weekender

13-15 September

Whitby Pavilion

www.whitbypavilion.co.uk/events/all

Filey Kite Festival 21-22 September

Filey Country Park www.fileyevents.co.uk/event

Annual Steam Gala

26, 27, 28 & 29 September

North Yorkshire Moors Railway

www.nymr.co.uk/Event/annual-steam-gala

Trackrod Rally Yorkshire 27-28 September

Filey

Dalby Forest

Cropton Forest

www.rallyyorkshire.co.uk

Scarborough Jazz Festival

27-29 September

Scarborough Spa

www.scarboroughspa.co.uk/whats-on/ scarborough-jazz-festival-2024

Hull Fair

6-13 October (excluding 8 Oct)

Walton Street, Hull www.facebook.com/hullfair/

Autumn Food Festival

12-13 October

Filey

www.facebook.com/FileyFoodDrinkFestival

Whitby Goth Weekend 1-3 November

Across Whitby www.whitbygothweekend.co.uk

Tomorrow’s Ghosts Festival 1-3 November

Whitby Pavillion www.tomorrowsghostsfestival.co.uk

Aladdin

29 November - 28 December

Stephen Joseph Theatre, Scarborough sjt.uk.com

Santa Specials 30 November, 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 to 24 December

North Yorkshire Moors Railway www.nymr.co.uk/Event/santa-specials

Scarborough Lights

November – December (dates tbc)

Scarborough www,scarboroughfair.uk

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

2024 marks the 75th anniversary of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949, an act which secured access for everyone to open countryside whilst preserving and enhancing natural beauty. As a celebration the National Parks, including the North York Moors National Park, will host yearround events with the aim of bringing people together and promoting these incredible places.

SELECTED TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES/INFORMATION POINTS

Always check before visiting as opening times vary and some are seasonal. Please be aware that many of the Information Points stock tourist leaflets as opposed to being a staffed Information Centre.

Beverley Tourist Information Centre

East Riding Treasure House, Champney Road, HU17 8HE www.visiteastyorkshire.co.uk

Bridlington Tourist Information Centre

The Spa Promenade

South Marine Dive, YO15 3JH www.visiteastyorkshire.co.uk

Easingwold Tourist Information

25 Chapel Street, Easingwold, YO61 3AE www.visiteasingwold.org.uk

Filey Tourist Information Centre

The Evron Centre, John Street, Filey, YO14 9DQ tourismbureau@scarborough.gov.uk

Great Ayton Tourist Information Cen tre

Great Ayton Discovery Centre, 105b High Street, TS9 6NB www.facebook.com/GreatAytonTIC

Hull Welcome Information Centre

Hull Paragon Interchange, Ferensway, Hull, HU1 3QX www.visithull.org

Malton Library and Information Point

St Michael Street, Malton, Y017 7LJ malton.library@northyorks.gov.uk

Northallerton Tourist Information Centre

The Applegarth Car Park, Northallerton DL7 8LZ www.northallerton.info/visit-tourist-info

Scarborough Information Points

Stephen Joseph Theatre, Westborough, YO11 1JW

Scarborough Open Air Theatre Box Office, Y012 6PF Market Hall & Vaults Tourist Information Point, YO11 1EU www.discoveryorkshirecoast.com

Sutton Bank Visitor Centre

National Park Centre, Nr Thirsk, YO7 2EH suttonbank@northyorkmoors.org.uk

Danby Lodge National Park Centre

Danby Lodge, Lodge Lane, Danby YO21 2NB danbylodge@northyorkmoors.org.uk

Thirsk Tourist Information

93a Market Place, YO7 1EY www.visitthirsk.org.uk

Whitby Tourist Information Centre

Endeavour Wharf, Langborne Road, YO21 1DN www.discoveryorkshirecoast.com/whitby

The above details are correct at the time of publication however some centres may be subject to change.

Image courtesy of Stephen Pemberton