The North York Moors National Park, established on November 28, 1952, is a stunning area in northeastern England, covering 554 square miles (1,436 square kilometres). It offers diverse landscapes, including one of the largest expanses of heather moorland in England and Wales with a dramatic coastline. Its 26-mile coastline and the 109-mile Cleveland Way National Trail (starting in Helmsley and ending in Filey) provide ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Key highlights of the North York Moors National Park
- Helmsley: A charming town with a market square, independent shops, and historic sites like Helmsley Castle and the Helmsley Walled Garden. The Cleveland Way starts here, and nearby is the awe-inspiring Rievaulx Abbey.
- Sutton Bank: Known for dramatic views and coined the finest view in England by James Heriot, is also a hub for cycling. The area features a variety of mountain biking trails, such as the family-friendly Cliff Trail, the moderate Fort Trail, and the more challenging Paradise Trail for experienced riders.
- Dalby Forest in the heart of the North York Moors National Park offers the perfect place to escape, relax and adventure. Home to 8,000 acres of breath-taking views, endless walking, running and cycle trails and Gruffalo adventures, a great day out awaits at Dalby Forest.
- Cycling: The North York Moors Cycleway, a 171-mile loop, takes cyclists through breathtaking landscapes, including deep forests and rugged coastline, offering a challenging multi-day ride through-out the National Park.
- Dark Skies: Officially one of the best places in the country to see stars, because of the low light pollution levels and clear horizons. From a town or city you’ll be lucky to spot more than a handful of stars but the further away you get from street lights, the better the view – in the darkest areas of the National Park you can spy up to 2,000 at any one time.
