To the north of York lies the North York Moors, a national park and one of the largest expanses of heather moorland in the UK. The area is bordered by the awe-inspiring North Sea coast cliffs and the Cleveland and Hambleton Hills.
Wild and windswept, the landscape of the North York Moors is breathtaking. Visitors will find miles of purple heather moorland, dense pine forests, hills and coastline. The space and solitude of the moors and its hidden valleys contrasts with the busy villages and towns found dotted in and around the area. They provide excellent opportunities to stop for a drink, a meal or for a taste of culture and tradition, from ancient castles to modern day attractions.
Many visit for the outdoor pursuits on offer. There are thousands of kilometres of paths and tracks to follow on the moors, from short strolls to days-long treks. For serious walkers, hikers and cyclists, the North York Moors are crossed by a number of long distance footpaths, including the Cleveland Way and the famed Coast to Coast walk. For a more leisurely but no less stunning experience, travel the 18 mile journey on the steam railway from Grosmont to Pickering, right through the Moors.
Visit popular destinations in and around the national park. Rievaulx Abbey and its landscape gardens are beautiful, while Helmsley and Pickering are both renowned for their ancient castles. For family-friendly options, try the grounds of Castle Howard or the Ryedale Miniature Railway, as well as the coastline dotted with rock pools and gentle waves.