About
North York Moors

The North York Moors

The North York Moors, a vast and captivating national park in North Yorkshire, England, is a haven for nature and history enthusiasts alike. Covering an area of over 554 square miles, the moors boast breath-taking landscapes, picturesque villages, and a rich tapestry of cultural and historical treasures.

One of the defining features of the North York Moors is its expansive heather-covered hills, creating a stunning purple hue that blankets the region during late summer. These moorlands offer a unique and tranquil setting for hikers and walkers, with numerous trails winding across the desolate moors. The popular Cleveland Way, a long-distance footpath, provides an opportunity to explore the varied landscapes, from dense woodlands to sweeping vistas of the Yorkshire coastline.

Nestled within the moors are charming villages that seem frozen in time. One such gem is Hutton-le-Hole, renowned for its thatched cottages and the Ryedale Folk Museum, which provides a fascinating glimpse into rural life through the ages. The village of Goathland is another highlight, famous as the backdrop for the fictional village of Aidensfield in the television series Heartbeat. Its picturesque steam railway station, a filming location for the Harry Potter series, adds to the village’s charm.

For history enthusiasts, Rievaulx Abbey is a must-visit attraction. This ancient Cistercian monastery, founded in 1132, lies in a secluded valley and offers a hauntingly beautiful setting. Exploring the ruins allows visitors to step back in time and imagine the once-thriving community that called this place home.

While the moors are undoubtedly the heart of this national park, the coastal attractions add an extra layer of allure. The seaside villages along the Yorkshire coast are a delightful contrast to the rugged moorlands. Whitby, a historic fishing town, is perhaps the most iconic. Its quaint streets are dotted with charming shops and eateries, and the imposing Whitby Abbey stands proudly on the cliff, overlooking the North Sea. Whitby also has strong connections to Bram Stoker’s Dracula, as it served as inspiration for the novel.

Robin Hood’s Bay is another coastal gem, with narrow alleyways leading down to a picturesque harbour. The village has a rich maritime history, with tales of smugglers and pirates adding to its intrigue. Exploring the tide-washed streets and pebble beach creates a sense of stepping into a bygone era.

The North York Moors offer a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, as well. The varied landscapes support a diverse array of flora and fauna, including red deer, wild ponies, and a multitude of bird species. The moors are designated as a Dark Sky Reserve, making it an ideal spot for stargazing and appreciating the wonders of the night sky.

Should you be looking to experience the North York Moors for a daytrip from York or, a week long stay – you will not be short of things to do and things to see in this very unique part of the UK. Search this Website, take inspiration for your visit to the North York Moors National Park and make your bookings. A great time awaits you!

Experience
North York Moors,
Is a Visitor Service.

Experience North York Moors is run as a small business based in Pickering, ‘Gateway to the Moors’. We live and breathe the North York Moors and as so, are passionate about promoting ‘our patch’.

Whitby Abbey

Experience
North York Moors,
Our Mission.

Provide the best service that we can, so we can help new and return Visitors to the area with ideas on where to stay, where to go and what to do. We Thank you for supporting us in return and using our Website to plan your visit.