Five Reasons to Visit Pickering

Pickering is our local large town; and although it doesn't really promote itself very well, it does have some fantastic attractions to keep visitors coming back time after time.

Here's my local guide to Pickering's top five tourist attractions.

Pickering Castle

An English Heritage location and a fantastic example of a Norman and early Medievil fortification.

Unlike many castles, the one in Pickering has a complete curtain wall; and it has the remains of the Norman Motte and tower which offer great views over Ryedale.

Pickering Castle.

North York Moors Railway

Pickering Station is the primary terminus for the NYMR; with steam locomotives regularly heading off towards Grosmont and Whitby.

It is a true jewel in the crown of Yorkshire tourism and a "must visit" for anyone holidaying on the North York Moors.

Beck Ise Museum

Located in a large period house close to the NYMR Train Station, Beck Isle offers visitors a wealth of information about the history of the town and surrounding district.

You'll even discover that Pickering history starts in 270BC when it was founded by Peredurus - the King of the Brigantes!

Church of St Peter & St Paul

Located at the top of the sloping market place; remarkable for the 15th Century murals which still decorate the inner walls.

The murals are very rare as nearly all other examples of this religious artform were destroyed during the reformation of the Chuch under King Henry VIII.

Monday Market

Pickering is a traditional North Yorkshire market town and a Monday market has been held in the town for century's.

There is also a monthly farmers market; and Pickering is home to many local independent shops, antique dealers, and cafes and restaurants.

Local Tip

The Willogate Bistro offers a nice and relativley inexpensive alternative to the usual pub fair on offer around the North York Moors.

Run by Matthew and Gemma Bird, this small bistro is worth a try if you fancy a night out in Pickering.

Telephone 01751 476300 for bookings.