Travel information

GeneralDoSeeGet InGet Around

Located in North Yorkshire, the Moors are a national park regulated by the North York Moors National Park Authority [1]. In contrast to National Parks in some other countries, the North York Moors are not public land and The National Park status, which it received in 1952, prevents inappropriate development.

Displaying a range of stunning landscapes: heather-clad hills, woodland, impressive sea cliffs and secluded beaches; this area is one of the gems of Britain. At 554 square miles and with more than 1,400 miles of paths and tracks to choose from it really is worth a lengthy stay to truly enjoy the many faces of this part of the world.

History

The history of the North Yorkshire Moors can be explored through the many prehistoric sites found dotted around the park including remains of burial chambers, forts and one of the tallest landmarks; a 25-foot standing stone in Runston churchyard near Bridlington, which is estimated to be 3-4000 years old.

Landscape

The North York Moors are a plateau, or table-land, with a sudden drop-off to the north, west and south, and sea-cliffs to the east. The plateau is covered with tree-less moor, interspersed with narrow valleys.

Flora and fauna

As one of the largest expanses of heather moorland in the UK, this plant undoubtedly dominates the landscape and the moors change colour throughout the months of the year depending on the type that is in bloom. A variety of bog plants and heathland plants can also be found.

Merlin, Golden Plover, Red Grouse, Curlew, Lapwing, Ring Ouzel and Adder can all be found on the North Yorkshire Moors.

Climate

  • North Yorkshire Moors Steam Railway [5] From Pickering 18 miles through the Moors to famous coastal town of Whitby. Featured on UK TV series Heartbeat and the Harry Potter film.
  • If you’re not sure about going out on your own then a great way to see the park in all its glory is with a guide. Guided walks and mountain bike rides can all be booked and with 800 km of bridleways throughout the park, horseback is a fabulous way to see this amazing countryside. If you have your own horse you could spend a week trekking in the area staying at designated B&Bs, or there are plenty of stables dotted around who will happily take you on hacks.
  • Farndale is famed for its beautiful wild Daffodils and attracts about 40,000 visitors a year just to see them. Generally at their best during the first 2 weeks of April (weather dependent) it is believed that medieval monks brought the first daffodils to the area. If you visit at this time of year then you must do the daffodil walk, which is about 1½ miles long and runs alongside the River Dove between Low Mill and High Mill. You will find welcome refreshments at the Daffy Caffy and if it’s been raining, take your wellies - it can be very muddy!
  • Leeds-Bradford airport [1] is the closest airport offering flights from Europe with links to Heathrow and Amsterdam.
  • Durham Teesvalley airport [2] is the closest airport to the Moors themselfs.
  • See the entry for Whitby.

There is a comprehensive Moorsbus service, which runs from April to October and can take you (and your dog!) all across the park. You can hop on and off at the many stops and by parking your car at designated areas and taking the bus, you are also saving this wonderful environment from unnecessary pollution.