Enjoy a Fun Day Out in Beautiful Helmsley on the Banks of the River Rye
This market town with its medieval layout is picture perfect
Eat...
For fabulous coffee and brilliant snacks, make your way to Crema Coffee House where you’re guaranteed a friendly welcome. Following on from the success of his York outpost, chef Andrew Burton brought Mannion & Co to Helmsley. Their breakfast, brunch and lunch are always a winner, views of Helmsley Castle can be enjoyed from every window, and the sweet treats are mouth-watering. Enjoy an authentic taste of Italy at La Trattoria, or choose from the dining room, conservatory, lounge, bar or the sheltered terrace overlooking the village pond at The Pheasant Hotel for your evening meal, then sip pints at Helmsley Brewing Co.
Sleep...
For a countryside spa break, look no further than The Feversham Arms Hotel & Verbena Spa where you can make the most of the outdoor pool, then unwind in their cosy bedrooms or suites. The rooms at the Feathers Hotel are traditional and stylish and their courtyard is the perfect summer sun-trap, and The Fairfax Arms, a traditional country Inn in the heart of the picturesque and historic village of Gilling East, is filled with character – named after the Fairfax family who once inhabited nearby Gilling Castle. Looking over the market town, Cliff Stud Cottages offer unrivalled views across the Vale of York, while Carlton Lodge is the perfect base for explorers (various walks and national trails start from its doorstep).
Browse...
Florist and vintage homeware shop Twig & Twine is as pretty as its name suggests and their hand-tied bouquets are perfect gifts. At Agnus & Co, shop hand-poured candles, pottery, knitwear and Cornish wool blankets (also perfect for gift-giving). Art lovers will want to head to Saltbox Gallery to see the latest exhibitions and discover new artists and makers before browsing The Ginger Bear, an independent gift shop selling unique accessories and home decor. Stock up your pantry with the essentials from Hunters of Helmsley, a quality family-run deli, then find inspiration for your outdoor spaces at Duncombe Sawmill and interiors must-haves at Robert & Ruby.
DON’T MISS
Helmsley Walled Garden sits beneath the ruins of Helmsley Castle and has been welcoming visitors for more than 25 years. Stroll around its borders, glasshouses and apple orchards then refuel at The Vine House Café. The National Centre for Birds of Prey is another must-visit location where you can see spectacular flying demonstrations before strolling through the stunning 300 acres of Duncombe Park.
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Around the corner
Be sure to visit the beautiful Inspired by... gallery at The Moors National Park Centre, Danby. Here you’ll find a variety of exhibitions of work by artists who find inspiration in the surrounding landscape of the North York Moors. Browse prints and photography and artisan crafts from ironwork to jewellery, and we’re sure they’ll inspire you too.
