Ian and Jackie Berry made their home in Appleton-le-Moors. They share some favourite places if you’re heading for a stay in the North York Moors National Park
MORNING
Obviously, we are going to suggest that you wake up in the Long Barn, our beautiful Grade 2 listed luxury holiday rental. We escaped to the North York Moors ten years ago and fell in love with Town End Farm in the beautiful village of Appleton Le Moors. The Long Barn was renovated and now sleeps up to 14 people in seven ensuite bedrooms. So, you’d be breakfasting with your friends or family on our homemade granola, bread, and organic eggs from our hens. Along with delicious coffee from local company Roost. The challenge is then deciding which of the beautiful walks from the door to explore.
AFTERNOON
Head on the bridleways and country paths to Hutton Le Hole, a picture postcard village. The Old School House Deli and Bakery is a great spot for a cup of tea and delicious cake, all baked fresh daily. The Ryedale Folk Museum is a fantastic place to explore, especially with children. Tardis-like, it’s set over six acres with more than twenty heritage buildings. All giving an insight into the stories and heritage of the region.
Walk back via the beautiful village of Lastingham. St Mary’s church dates from 1078; take a peek at its atmospheric underground crypt. Opposite is the Blacksmiths Arms which is a great spot for lunch in its outside seating area with pizza oven.
A short drive away is Helmsley, the National Park’s only market town. Old sandstone buildings surround its market square where you’ll find lots of good independent shops as well as cafes, pubs and restaurants. Look out for the medieval castle and head towards the beautiful Helmsley Walled Garden. It’s an idyllic spot run by volunteers; the gardens are quite beautiful. Or strike out on a longer walk; the historic Rievaulx Abbey is a 5km mile walk away though woods and fields.
There are so many options of where to eat in Helmsley. We recommend Mannion’s and Pignut. And for food 'to go', try Hunters Deli or an ice cream from award winning Ryeburn of Helmsley.
EVENING
A short pre-dinner stroll takes you to the Moors Inn, our village pub. Local hand pulled ales and tasty pub food with a warm welcome are the order of the day. Just watch out for the free roaming sheep in the village. And on a dark moonless night, look up at the stars and you may see the Milky Way. The park is a designated International Dark Sky Reserve.
We are spoilt for choice with fabulous places to eat on the doorstep including The Star Inn at Harome, The Abbey Inn, Byland and the Fox and Hounds at Sinnington. A drive over the moor away is the award-winning Homestead Kitchen in Goathland. Casual fine dining with beautiful views using the best of local Yorkshire produce including vegetables grown in their own garden.
townendfarm.org.uk
A Sense of Place
From sweeping moorland, an iconic coastline, ancient woods and timeless villages, the North York Moors is a truly special place. Hike though it’s heather moorland and look out for breeding birds such as red grouse, curlew and golden plover. It has 26 miles of coastline to explore including the famous old fishing villages of Staithes and Robin Hood’s Bay. Why not book a whale watching trip followed by fish and chips (what else?) Experience the sense of history and heritage; from the ironstone mines at Rosedale to stately homes such as Duncombe Park.
Dalby Forest
In the heart of the North York Moors, Dalby Forest is the perfect place for relaxation or an adventure. From mountain bike trails and Go Ape Zip wiring to more sedate walking trails through the trees, it has something for everyone. This summer live music returns with Bryan Adams, Nile Rodgers and Richard Ashcroft performing in the woodland concert arena.
North Yorkshire Railway
Climb onboard a steam or heritage diesel train and experience 24 miles of Yorkshire’s amazing scenery from Pickering to Whitby. This volunteer run railway has featured on its own tv programe as well as starring roles in a number of feature films. Goathland station, became Hogsmeade Station in the first Harry Potter film. More recently Tom Cruise filmed Mission Impossible 7 at Levisham Station.
Taste the North York Moors
We believe we have some of the best chefs, food producers and retailers in the North York Moors. From family run businesses to chefs choosing the best season produce to local markets showcasing the best of local produce, you’ll find a real passion for great food and drink. Alongside traditional family business handed down through the generations, you’ll also find innovative new businesses producing brilliant local produce. Discover them at northyorkmoors.org.uk/taste-of-the-north-york-moors
Don’t Miss in 2024
The North York Moors Chamber Music Festival
Renowned classical musicians from around the world gather in some of the North York Moors' most remote and beautiful historical buildings. The festival theme this year is 'Echos', exploring the phenomenon of influence, of cycles through the ages, musical shadows, and themes which echo the times. Audiences are encouraged to enjoy picnics within the grounds of Welburn Manor around the concerts as well as explore the wider region. 11-24 August northyorkmoorsfestival.com/
