Food
Days Out
Beach
Bike & Hike
Sports
Nature
Gardens
Activities
Historical
Eating & Drinking
Here you'll enjoy a friendly atmosphere, good food and excellent service where attention to detail are the watchwords. Check out the early bird menu featuring a 3 Course Meal for only £8.95!
This traditional village pub serves good home cooked food and is especially renowned for its Sunday lunches.
These tearooms are popular for their seasonal farm-fresh menu of light lunches, homemade cakes and refreshments. Its farm shop also stocks locally produced fruit and vegetables, cheeses and award-winning home reared and prepared meats.
Redwell Inn - 12.2 Miles (19.5 KM)
Enjoy excellent food complemented by an extensive wine list and first-class service in the exceptionally comfortable and relaxing ambiance of the Red Well Inn.
This friendly family run pub offers three distinct experiences in each of its cocktail bar, lounge and restaurant. The restaurant's proud claim is to serve a 'world of food' in an eclectic menu ranging from oriental dishes to meat platters.
Recently refurbished, this charming bistro is a great place to relax with friends and family. Enjoy a tasty meal and a refreshing beverage in the beautiful town of Thirsk. Quickly gaining a reputation as one of the best pubs around, it is also undoubtedly one of the prettiest too.
Aspire - 24 Miles (38.4 KM)
An extremely stylish place to dine or to have a relaxing drink. A little different from some of the more traditional Yorkshire pubs in Thirsk, Aspire offers a more modern, trendy approach to their dining experience. Cream leather, marble tiles, a relaxing atmosphere and friendly staff make this place well worth a visit.
Cosy and full of character, The Devonshire Arms provides a warm and welcoming place for a relaxing drink in the bar & snug - with low beamed ceilings and a wood burning stove. Continuing the relaxed atmosphere is the restaurant which is open for lunchtime and evening meals, serving local produce at a very high standard.
The Angel - 25.5 Miles (40.8 KM)
Sit back, relax and soak up the atmosphere of this inn - with oak beams, nooks and crannies, and a crackling log fire to sit beside. Choose between the bar brasserie for relaxed dining, or book into the restuarant - both serving the freshest and finest seasonal produce from all over the region, presented superbly.
Ravenous - 26.7 Miles (42.7 KM)
This restuarant offers an excellent range of food including steak, fish, chicken, vegetarian dishes and delicious puds! It is a small friendly restuarant with fine views of Settle market square from the window seats.
Visit Thirteen Cafe bar and watch the world go by whilst relaxing and sampling one of the many drinks on offer.... from freshly ground coffee to speciality teas, Czech budvar beer or wine. There is even free internet access.
A charming gastropub which uses fresh local produce. Frequented by locals and tourists alike, this award winning pub has a reputation for a great value for money menu and delicious food. Pay a visit for a tasty meal or a leisurely drink with friends.
Chapters restaurant can be found in Stokesley, just outside the North York Moors. It offers a good selection of classic dishes, given a contemporary twist, and served in Mediterranean themed surroundings.
This 17th century coaching inn has retained much of its original character including the open log fire in the bar. Featured in the 'Good Pub Guide', it specialises in locally brewed beers.
Fun Days Out
Richmond - 6.1 Miles (9.8 KM)
Richmond is a historic market town set on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Places to visit and things to see include monuments, abbeys, a Norman castle and the cobbled market place surrounded by Georgian buildings. The town is threaded by the fast-flowing River Swale and surrounded by breathtaking scenery - its restored railway station is a must to visit, with its cafe/restaurant, cinema, art gallery, micro-brewery and bakery.
The Forbidden Corner is one of England's most recent follies. Comprising a unique labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, follies, paths and passages that lead nowhere, it's great fun to explore.
This fascinating combination of woodland garden, bird of prey and mammal centre is home to some of the largest and rarest trees and shrubs in England. There are tree trails, a nature trail and a children's trail, a large lake, picnic area and a children's play area. Visitors can take part in the raptor flying demonstrations and enjoy the new mammal enclosures, including 'Meerkat Island' and 'Walk Through Wallaby Wood'.
The Wensleydale Railway runs steam trains between Leeming Bar and Redmire via Bedale and Leyburn. The 17 mile trip takes approximately 50 minutes.
Lightwater Valley Theme Park is renowned for its friendly atmosphere and thrilling line up of amazing rides, including Europe's longest rollercoaster, the stomach churning 'Eagles Claw'.
For a chance to see red squirrels and rare orchids in a beautiful location.... this is the place to be. Fun for all ages on the Kilnsey Trail or catch your first fish in the lakes, visit the farm shop for fresh produce and gifts and settle down in the cafe/restaurant known for its superb home cooking.
An inspiration for Turner and Dickens, Barnard Castle in County Durham has long since been an important local landmark. Named 'Barney' by the locals it continues to work as a market town with numerous farmers markets, B&Bs, restaurants and loal walks. One of its main attractions is Bowes Museum, a French style chateau which is home to the 'Silver Swan', a life size mechanical swan.
Thirsk - 23.9 Miles (38.2 KM)
A pretty market town, mentioned in the Domesday book. ?The World of James Herriot? is well worth a visit, as is Thirsk Museum. Thirsk also features some great little shops in its charming market place. Stroll around the excellent market which is open on Mondays and Saturdays and spend some time in the local art gallery.
Monk Park Farm offers a great day out for children. Facilities include an adventure playground and play area, a farm, pedal car arena, nature trail, lake, tea room and gift shop.
If you want to partake in seeing some of the most beautiful Birds of Prey in action this is the place to be. Watch the
fabulous flying demonstrations involving eagles and vultures, treat yourself to hot or cold snacks in the tearoom and take
your children to explore the adventure playground.
Imagine something beautiful, sculpted by nature over years and years? White Scar Cave is the longest show cave in Britain filled with streams, waterfalls and thousands of stalactites. Take a fabulous tour through these and don't forget to look for the wonderful prehistoric mud pools...never disturbed by man.
Animal lovers look here! Witness sheep in the spring giving birth to cuddly lambs, feed the calves and collect eggs. Children will love the tractor tour and outdoor playground. Have a go on a go-kart then chill with a picnic around the picturesque pond.
Hall Hill Farm is home to a number of farmyard animals, some of which you can stroke and feed. Visitors here can enjoy a complimentary farm trailer ride and there are also donkey rides.
Beach
No recommended Beach found within 30 miles of this property.
Biking & Hiking
Swainby - 14 Miles (22.4 KM)
A moderately hard walk, with steep climbing and descent. Journey from Swainby onto the Cleveland Hills. Once you've admired the view, the track descends into woodland, through Faceby and concludes at Whorlton Castle. The castle is definitely worth investigating as it is home to the remains of a Motte and Bailey.
Only revealed to the world in 1837, this series of tunnels and passages are a wonder to all who visit them. A guide will take you around the fascinating formations and explain them throughout. Discoveries are still being made and in 2001, the remains of woolly rhinoceros were uncovered at the end of the footpath!.
Whether it be a ride out with the family, a ride at your own pace or you want to ride through the rough stuff, call into Off the Rails for all you will need.
Take in the impressive waterfalls on this 4.5 mile long trail. The surrounding woodlands also provide a lovely setting and the entire area has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Golf & Sports
This community swimming pool offers a range of facilities including a jacuzzi, steam room and sauna - as well as general fun sessions for all the family.
This fabulous 18 hole golf course is ideally situated on the outskirts of the picturesque town of Richmond. Its clubhouse offers a bar and restaurant.
A great place for course fishing and a well know local carp haven. Some fish caught here have weighed in at 30lbs! There is also Perch, Pike, Bream and Roach to be found in plentiful supply in the lake.
This community leisure centre offers a range of facilities including a 25m swimming pool, toddler pool, skate park, squash courts, adventure play area and fitness suite.
Just one mile north of Barnard Castle town centre, this is an excellent 18 hole golf course. Play a round on this beautiful course and soak up the lovely, local scenery.
This community swimming pool offers a range of facilities including a 25m swimming pool, 3 diving boards and two water slides. You can also play squash or hit the gym.
Aerial extreme combines the buzz of a theme park ride with outdoor adventure. You can trek high above the floor either through trees or on one of the urban pole courses.
Premier paragliding school in the UK offering BHPA courses in the Lakes and Yorkshire Dales. See the stunning scenery from the air as qualified instructors guide you in a taster course of this exhilarating sport.
Swim in the unique 'L' shaped pool, take some cardio in the gym, chill out in the warm relaxing spa and/or enjoy a light meal in the fabulous lounge café. This club has everything for everyone?from fitness fanatics to people wanting a little pampering
Men, women and children who love to take to the green will adore this beautiful golf course. Located below the Craven Fault Crag and besides natural terrain this 9 hole course can be thoroughly enjoyed by all.
Have a relaxing dip in this pool which also offers fun inflatable sessions great to keep the children entertained. Close to a large shopping area and new Ribblehead walk and cycle path this is a fabulous venue for a leisurable day out.
Activities here include: Caving, gorge walking, rock climbing, abseiling and mountain biking. Full tuition is available, and they cater for all abilities.
Nature Reserves
A stunning lake, in a beautiful part of North Yorkshire. Keep an eye out for shovelers, merlins, oystercatchers, curlew sandpipers and yellow wagtails, to name a few. A whole host of various species of wildlife have made their home in and around the peaceful area that is Swale Lake.
A fascinating centre to visit, showcasing 30 different species of birds. Enjoy ?The Ultimate Hands on Experience? where visitors get the opportunity to hold some of the birds of prey, watch them fly and dive all around you and learn all about these spellbinding creatures.
With plenty of waymarked cycle and walking trails, this is the perfect start point from which to explore the beautiful nearby North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It also features a visitor's centre, tearooms and an adventure play area.
Ripon Loop - 21.1 Miles (33.8 KM)
Take a relaxing stroll around this beautiful part of the country and enjoy some of the various wildlife habitats tucked away. The lovely adjacent woodland area boasts field maples, hazels and ashes and down by the river bank, natural ponds and marshlands are home to marsh cinquefoils and narrow buckler ferns. Visitors can also discover the thistle broomrape, a flower native only to Yorkshire.
A wonderful reserve located on the Magnesian Limestone belt. Admire over 170 different plant species including milkwort, marjoram and bird?s-foot trefoil. Nineteen species of butterfly have also been recorded including ringlet and comma. The area is also a haven for wildlife, with many types of birds using it for roosting.
The Ingleborough nature reserve covers 1,014 hectares in North Yorkshire. This gorgeous expanse of green includes the well-known Three Peaks. The terrain is mountainous and includes flower covered pastures and meadows with moors adorned in delicate heather. See ancient woodlands and many of the finest limestone pavements in all of Britain!
Gardens & Woodlands
Enjoy a relaxing day out amongst beautiful trees and shrubs all the way from the Himalayas and Western China. These
gardens are superbly represented by various walks, orchards and woodland trails. Once you have smelt the wonderful aromas of flowers and walked on the formal terraces, relax in the tearoom with a delicious cake (or 2!).
Kilburn Woods lie between Sutton Bank and Roulston Scar and are the home of the famous ?White Horse?. Carved into the limestone in 1857, it has been a dominant local landmark ever since. Keep your eyes peeled for roe deer, buzzards, red kites, lesser-spotted woodpeckers and butterflies.
Since 1991, the Yorkshire Dales Falconry Centre has been bringing avian and human together. This unique facility is one of the few places that allow visitors to get up close and personal with majestic and powerful birds of prey. The grounds include Mrs. Feather's Tea Room which is available for birthday parties and events.
The stunning Valley Gardens in Harrogate have been listed as Grade II by English Heritage. Spanning over 17 acres, they feature impressive mineral springs and superb historical buildings. Children enjoy the great playground and paddling pool, whilst the adults can sit back, relax and enjoy an ice cream or a cup of tea from the little cafe.
Local Attractions
The Civic Darlington Theatre offers a wide array of performances from professional shows to seasonal pantos.
Falconry Centre is located in Sion Hill Hall, close to Thirsk amongst some stunning countryside. The centre was established to ensure the welfare and survival of these magnificent birds. It offers the unique chance to see up close a wonderful selection of birds. Housed here are more than seventy birds that span thirty species including hawks, buzzards, kites, vultures, falcons, kestrel and carra-caras. All birds are well cared for and look extremely healthy. The staff are really friendly, professional and knowledgeable and it is immediately evident they the welfare of the birds is paramount. Whilst here you can purely enjoy viewing these birds or watch them in a falconry display where they demonstrate their skill, speed and agility, these generally take place three times a day but are dependent on the weather. You can also get more involved with their range of experience days that cover a meet and greet with the birds to photography workshop or even a full day falconry experience, details are on the website and offer excellent value for money, again it is worth noting that they can be affected by bad weather. If you wish to help in the conservation of these birds you can choose to sponsor one, full details are on the website. There is a small gift shop that that sells a nice selection of gifts as well as a cafe that sells a selection of beverages, light lunches and snacks or you can take along a picnic. They are open daily from 1 March until 31 October. Falconry UK is a welcoming, educational and informative centre where you can learn so much about these wondrous birds within a natural environment, deserves top marks for the great work they do, highly recommended.
Ripon - 21.9 Miles (35 KM)
Ripon is a beautiful market town which was founded over 1300 years ago, and is famous as an ancient cathedral city where monasteries have stood since the 7th Century. Its many attractions include the Wakeman?s House, Studley Royal, Fountains Abbey and Ripon Spa Gardens which feature a Victorian bandstand.
Zillah Bell Gallery is located in Thirsk, in a lovely traditional stone building. It is a bright and airy space and within this eclectic gallery you will find a diverse collection of exhibits that range from oil paintings to modern sculptures, from local, national and international artists. You will find quality paintings, pottery, hand-painted greeting cards nd much more here. The pieces on show vary in price and you are sure to find something to suit your taste and pocket. The staff are lovely, friendly, helpful, passionate and knowledgeable and will chat to you about the pieces on show and the different artists. Exhibitions alter on a monthly basis and comprise of an exceptional and diverse assortment of artists, media and subject matter. Zillah Bell Gallery is a real gem and a must if you are in Thirsk, a lovely place to wander around where you can appreciate the art on show, in the pleasant surroundings.
The Courthouse is a superior arts venue in Thirsk, that serves the local and surrounding area, providing a creative base for the people. They encompass the full scope of art activities with everything from iPad courses to life-drawing, and everything in between. Located here is a gallery, shop, cafe, art studio and computer suite. In addition they operate a frequent series of events including, exhibitions, workshops, performances, children's activities as well as film screenings, there is something to suit all ages and abilities. Another branch o the centre is "On Tour", they are a professional rural touring scheme that visits a number of community venues and host different productions, including dance and music. The Courthouse is open Monday through to Saturday from 9.30am to 4.30pm. All classes and events are well organised and run. Staff are friendly, professional and enthusiastic and ensure everyone gets the most out of a visit here. The workshops they run are excellent value for money and cover an interesting range of topics, many that all the family can get involved in. The cafe is lovely and quaint, the food is fresh and home cooked and contains a nice selection of light snacks and lunches, customer service is very good. In the hall you will find a small gift shop that sells a selection of high quality hand crafted items, like ceramics, paintings, prints, cards, textiles and jewellery for sale. The Courthouse is a fabulous establishment, every town/village should have a similar community centre, so much on offer here, highly recommended you won't be disappointed.
Ritz Cinema is located in a lovely retro building, and is one of the oldest regular operating cinemas in the United Kingdom, dating back to 1912 when it was initially opened to the public. Today it is operated by a committed team of volunteers who ensure the smooth running of the facility with all the new releases and at affordable prices. They are friendly and helpful and ensure your experience is a good one. The venue is warm and welcoming, and offers a glimpse into the past although it has all modern facilities with, Dolby SR surround sound and new screen as well as comfortable seating. The original silent movie screen is still here behind the current screen. Ritz Cinema is a charming nostalgic cinema offering a modern experience within the confines of this old venue, a real gem that will hopefully continue for many years to come. Definitely worth a visit if you are in Thirsk or the local area, a far better experience than you get in the multiplexes.
White Rose Book Cafe is an award winning family run independent bookshop located in the small market town of Thirsk. They are open daily, with light lunches and delicious cakes being served daily in the warm, cosy and welcoming coffee bar or on a nice day you can enjoy the outdoor terrace. They stock a diverse collection of books, cards and gift wrap, in addition to prints, toys, maps, diaries and much more. They also have free WiFi for customers and can be got both inside and outside on the terrace. Each month they organise a book related event as well as a frequent storytime for children each week. The staff are really friendly, helpful and very knowledgeable, working to ensure that everyone gets the best customer service. They offer a service whereby you can order a book and have them shipped to you, many available for delivery the next day. White Rose Book cafe is a lovely store and a real treat for book lovers where they go the extra mile for their customers, a real gem.
The theatre building is 150 years old and Grade II listed, giving it a unique heritage. A professional theatre venue with drama, music and dance on offer.
The Settle Play Barn offers a safe place for children to have fun! Bring the whole family and have a great time while the little ones burn off energy. Colourful play areas provide space to romp, slide and run while the on-site cafe offers convenient meals. Weekly events are offered and include music, crafts, dancing and the cookery club.
Enjoy a nostalgic steam train trip between Embsay station, built in 1888, and the new award-winning station at Bolton Abbey. Out of the window, the Yorkshire Dales provide excellent viewing, allowing passengers to simply sit back and enjoy the ride.
White Horse of Kilburn is located within the North York Moors National Park. The giant horse is made from chalk and is an unusual sight on the landscape and looks impressive from the distance but is tired up close. it was designed and paid for by Thomas Taylor, a Victorian businessman back in 1857. The local village schoolmaster and local volunteers cut out the shape of the horse on the hillside and it was then filed with six tons of lime which, whitened the natural greyish rock below the surface, this means that it has to be continually topped to keep it white, today they use chalk chippings. The horse measures 314 feet in length and is 228 feet high. Access from the bottom is by lots of steps so might not be suitable to everyone and is about two kilometres in distance however, the views from the top are fabulous and definitely worth the climb. Alternatively you can drive to the visitor centre at the top of Sutton Ban and walk from there. On a clear day you can see for miles, the surrounding countryside is beautiful. There is a car park and picnic tables if you want to enjoy the beautiful walks offered by Sutton Banks, loads of fresh air, wide open spaces and loads of photo opportunities are aplenty here. There is a cafe in the visitor centre where you can get refreshments. The White Horse is an unusual landmark and one that is best viewed from a distance and the Sutton Bank offers lots to walkers and those who enjoy the outdoors, a simply stunning part of the country.
Visit Skipton's Victorian themed shopping arcade with its beautifully painted ironwork and clear glass roof, making this a unique shopping experience.
Historical & Heritage Sites
A courtyard castle with rectangular towers, this spectacular medieval fortress is still in grand condition and situated in the heart of Wensleydale, inside the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Middleham castle was once home to some of the most powerful lords of the 15th century, including Salisbury, Warwick and Richard, Duke of Gloucester, later King Richard III. After the castle fell into disrepair much of the stone was taken from its walls and used by locals to build many of the houses in this small Dales town, above which its ruins still tower.
A fascinating museum for all the family to enjoy, the Bowes Museum houses the greatest collection of European fine and decorative arts in the North of England.
Kiplin Hall - 12.2 Miles (19.5 KM)
Kiplin Hall was built in the early 1620s as a hunting lodge for King James I. Now furnished as a welcoming Victorian family home, it contains paintings and furniture collected by the Calverts, Crowes, Carpenters and Talbots - the four families who once lived here. (Ground floor accessible to wheelchair users)
A superb 20th century hall designed by Walter H. Brierley ?the Lutyens of the North?. Displaying some wonderful collections, including various paintings, porcelain, clocks and antique furniture, this beautiful home is a showcase for some fascinating pieces. The current residence of Michael Mallaby, the house, set in charming countryside continues to enchant all those who visit.
The renowned Settle-Carlisle Railway claims to be "England's most scenic railway." This historic transportation resource runs through northern England. It was built in the 1870s and offers breathtaking views of some of the finest countryside in the North Pennines and Yorkshire Dales. Visitors can still travel the Settle-Carlisle line today.
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden must be one of the most stunning places in Europe — a World Heritage Site, comprising the spectacular ruin of a 12th century Cistercian abbey and monastic watermill.
Once the largest of the British Roman forts, Binchester has been partly excavated,but much remains undiscovered. Stare in wonder at the ancient Roman bath house and its incredible 1700 year old underfloor heating system!
St Mary's Church is a splendid mediaeval church that was constructed between 1430 and 1480, it is built in a perpendicular Gothic style. It is located at the end of Kirkgate just a short walk from the town centre of Thirsk. It is an impressive structure in view of the fact that it pretty much remains the same as when it was initially built, it has a prominent 80 foot tower and has many architectural features. It has been serving the community for more than five hundred years and continues to serve as place of worship and reflection to both parishioners and visitors, the same warm welcome is extended to everyone. There are regular as well as special services. It has a diverse and turbulent history. The church is opened daily until 4.00pm until the end of October for visitors and there are volunteers available who are happy to show you around their lovely church and regale their own stories or answer any questions you might have, or there are leaflets available giving a full history of this remarkable building. The interior has a number of interesting features including a wonderful oak door, with a smaller door within, it has been in use since the church was built, the Font dates back to Victorian times although part of the cover is mediaeval, spend time admiring the tapestry, or you can just enjoy the peaceful sanctuary if offers. Outside is a small graveyard and it is interesting to walk around and read the inscriptions on the headstones. There is a cafe in the crypt that serves a nice selection of beverages and snacks. St Mary's Church is a splendid historic building, that is very welcoming and offers a place for reflection here in the town, a must if you are in the area and enjoy history or architecture.
A fitting tribute to the remarkable man that was James Herriot. The vet and author has his story told at this great attraction, based in his original surgery; the 'Skeldale House'.
Spend some time at the superb Thirsk Museum, the birthplace of the founder of Lord?s Cricket Ground; Thomas Lord, Busby Stoop Chair and a whole host of local history exhibitions on display. The museum?s main objective when it was established in 1975 was the preservation of everyday items that were rapidly becoming forgotten. The subsequent collections protect something of the local heritage and educate future generations as to their uses. (Wheelchair access to the ground floor)
A superb hall built in the late 17th century. Designed by Robert Adam and supervised by Sir Christopher Wren, it is no surprise that this spectacular house is one of the most impressive of its kind. The fine gardens are also well worth a visit providing an elegant and delightful place to explore.
The Gallery on the Green is a unique landmark that comes in a very compact size. The Settle Town Council purchased the Upper Settle phone box in 2009 and transformed it into what is possibly the smallest gallery in the world. The gallery can be found a mere 10 minutes walk from the Settle market.
Built in 1345 and home to the Ingilby family for 700 years, Ripley Castle is steeped in history and features a great collection of armour as well as beautiful gardens, a deer park and tropical plant collection to explore. (Limited wheelchair access)
Delve into the intriguing world of Roman Britain. The town once occupying some 55 acres evidently began life as a fort with a small civilian settlement at its perimeter. Over time it became a town laid out in the traditional grid system of the era. Now managed by English Heritage, this captivating archaeological site has an excellent museum featuring a superb collection of artifacts discovered in the excavations.
Skipton Castle is beautifully preserved and has stood for over 900 years! Explore every inch of this glorous building taking in the banqueting hall, kitchen, bedchamber and even the privy! Once you are full to the brim with history, relax in the new tea room or enjoy the picnic area.
