North York Moors Winter Weekend Breaks

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Many city folks have a particular soft spot for the North York Moors as the moors are only a short drive from the big Northern towns of Leeds, Bradford, Newcastle and Middlesbrough.

People from the big towns just love the beauty to be found in this area of Yorkshire; and Winter weekends away to the Moors have long been popular for that reason.

The stunning and spectacular Winter scenery of the North York Moors is one major drawcard.

Farndale in snow - RJB Photographic

The View from Blakey Ridge in Winter Time.

The charming fishing villages and bracing fresh air are another reason that so many folks visit the North York Moors for a relaxing weekend away. 

A visit to any of the areas’ award-winning restaurants, characterful inns, or rich mix of visitor attractions will also make a Winter weekend break a great success. 

So, if you want a two- or three-day weekend break this Winter, or even a longer mid-week break to spend on the Moors, below are some Winter recommendations.

Places to Eat

Try not to miss the Black Swan in Oldstead.

The Black Swan, was again awarded a Michelin Star in 2013 for the second year running and 3 AA Rosettes.

The restaurant’s interior features oak fittings made by the famous local craftsmen Robert ‘Mousey’ Thompson.

Telephone: 01347 868387  for bookings.

The Star Inn at Harome is another one of our family favourites for Winter dining.

Andrew Pern’s renowned Star Inn at Harome was the Winner of the White Rose Awards Yorkshire Pub of the Year and  offers a range of mouth-watering dishes featuring regional and seasonal ingredients. 

Telephone: 01439 770397 for bookings.

What to do?

The North York Moors offer the Winter weekender so much choice.

If the weather is not so great, why not visit Castle Howard?

Castle Howard Lake - Tracey Phillips

Castle Howard Behind the Lake.

You can easily spend hours wandering through the magnificent stately home at your own pace - and in the warm and dry.

Currently, it has a most interesting display on the history of the Howard family during wartime.

If the weather is brighter, try a circular-route drive or cycle-ride over the high moorlands from Rosedale Abbey to Hutton-le-Hole and back.

I guarantee that on a crisp Winter day, the scenary on offer will take your breath away. 

Visit to Helmsley

Other lovely things to fill your weekend with could include a mooch around Helmsley and a look into some of the fabulous independent shops and galleries.

Helmsley Market

Looking Towards Helmsley Market Square

There is also Duncombe Park, Helmsley Walled Garden, and any number of splendid cafes and restaurants to visit in Helmsley.

Rievaulx Abbey

Or how about a walk around the majestic and awe-inspiring Rievaulx Abbey.   Looking across the valley to this medieval ruin is a magical experience,  and up close it’s just as spectacular. 

Why not see for yourself?

Regardless of what you do on a weekend Winter break to the North York Moors, we have a really beautiful luxury North York Moors holiday cottage to return too at the end of each fun-packed active day.

For our availability and bookings, just click this link.

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