Things to Do in the Yorkshire Moors
The North Yorkshire Moors is one of the most stunning landscapes in the UK, it will simply make you stand and stare. It really is a very special place. The great variety of landscapes in the North York Moors is what truly makes it unique and gives it a character which so many people can enjoy.
This is a land where dreams are made. Here you can experience the vast open space of moorland, listen to the call of the upland birds, walk for miles and miles, or just sit and watch the world go by.
Beyond the moorland itself, there are plenty more things to do in the Yorkshire Moors, from the ruins of medieval abbeys around Helmsley to the sandy beaches of the nearby coast, all within the North York Moors National Park.
Asquith Hall sits inside the park, close to Whitby and Scarborough, which makes it a peaceful base for exploring the moors and the coast. This guide covers the best attractions, walks and places to visit, along with where to stay.
Yorkshire Moors Attractions and Places to Visit
The North York Moors National Park is one of England's most distinctive landscapes. Its website, run by the North York Moors National Park Authority, is a good starting point for planning, and National Park Centres at Danby Lodge and Sutton Bank can help with maps and advice on the day. Visitors are asked to stay on designated paths and follow advisory signage.
If you are looking for places to visit in the North Yorkshire Moors, the market town of Helmsley is an excellent place to begin.
Historic Places Near Helmsley
Take time to stop off at Helmsley, where you can see Helmsley Castle, Duncombe Park and Rievaulx Abbey. Between them they cover nearly a thousand years of history, and all three can be combined into a single day.
Helmsley Castle
Helmsley Castle has been a medieval fortress, an Elizabethan mansion and a besieged Civil War stronghold. Its tall east tower still dominates the town, and the castle is run by English Heritage, who set out opening times and prices on their website.
Rievaulx Abbey
Set in a wooded valley near Helmsley, Rievaulx Abbey is described by English Heritage as among England's most complete abbey ruins. Visitors can explore the ruins with an audio tour, see a museum of monastic objects and stop for refreshments at the café overlooking the abbey. English Heritage suggests parking in Helmsley and walking to the abbey from the castle, which makes for a pleasant route on a fine day.
Duncombe Park
Duncombe Park is one of Yorkshire's historic houses and estates, with over 450 acres of gardens, parkland and nature reserve. The gardens include terraces, temples, a yew tree walk and a scented secret garden, with views across the valley towards the moors. Dogs are not allowed in the garden, except assistance dogs, so check the estate's guidance before visiting with a pet.
Walking, Cycling and Riding in the North Yorkshire Moors
The Yorkshire Moors has over 1,400 miles (almost 2,300 km) of paths and tracks to choose from, with plenty of routes for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. They take you across heather moorland, through ancient woodland, along pebble streams and down to the coast.
For route ideas, our guides to walking in North Yorkshire and cycling and mountain biking cover the best options. If you are travelling with a dog, read our guide to walking with your dog, and for a more relaxed way to see the countryside, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway offers a scenic journey. Anglers can find more in our guide to shooting and fishing.
Villages, Coast and Wildlife
The villages of the moors are built from honey-coloured sandstone and make a welcome stop after a day on the hills. Their tea rooms, pubs and village shops are an easy way to experience the area at a slower pace.
Beyond the moors, the stunning sights and scenery along the coast are only a short drive away. Families can build sandcastles on the beach, while couples might prefer a walk along the cliffs. Our guides to Whitby, the Yorkshire coast and things to do in Scarborough help you plan a day by the sea, and our page on historic Yorkshire covers more heritage sites in the region. The moorland is also home to upland birds, so bring binoculars if you enjoy spotting wildlife.
Hotels in the North Yorkshire Moors: Where to Stay
If you are looking for places to stay in the Yorkshire Moors, Asquith Hall Country House Hotel is set within the North York Moors National Park on Lady Edith's Drive, around two miles from Scarborough. It is a dog-friendly hotel, so your four-legged companions are welcome.
Our Yorkshire Moors accommodation includes a choice of rooms and suites, including luxury suites with private patios. After a day of exploring, you can relax in the thermal spa, enjoy a meal in the Fallow's Rest restaurant or settle in for afternoon tea.
See our special offers, find us on the location page, book your stay online or contact the team to plan your break.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in the Yorkshire Moors?
Walking and cycling across the moorland, visiting Helmsley Castle, Rievaulx Abbey and Duncombe Park, riding the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, and spending a day on the Yorkshire coast at Whitby or Scarborough.
Are there hotels in the North Yorkshire Moors?
Yes. Asquith Hall Country House Hotel is located within the North York Moors National Park, around two miles from Scarborough, with rooms and suites, a spa and a restaurant on site.
Are the Yorkshire Moors and the North York Moors the same place?
Yes. The area is officially known as the North York Moors National Park, but many people search for and refer to it as the Yorkshire Moors or the North Yorkshire Moors.
Is the North York Moors dog-friendly?
Largely yes, with many paths suited to walking with dogs, though some places, such as the gardens at Duncombe Park, do not allow them. Asquith Hall is a dog-friendly hotel, and our guide to walking with your dog suggests routes nearby.