Thirsk, one time home of the novel writing vet James Herriot is a traditional market town with independent shops, pubs and restaurants arranged around the cobbled market square. It is the principal market town of the Hambleton Hills, forming the western part of the moors and is a haven for walkers, cyclists and lovers of the outdoors. Thirsk is an excellent base to explore the Yorkshire Dales National Park, North York Moors and East Coast with the historic city of York and the Spa town of Harrogate each with their own unique charm within easy driving distance. The White Horse of Kilburn and Sutton Bank are just 4 miles away.