From the magical fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay to the countryside village of Hutton-le-Hole, here are 5 of the Best Villages to Visit in North Yorkshire.
With so many villages in North Yorkshire, knowing which ones are worth the extra effort to seek out and truly enjoy can be tricky. To help you, we’ve cherry-picked 7 of the best villages to visit.
1. Hutton-le-Hole
Hutton-le-Hole is a pretty village within the North York Moors National Park, about 40 minutes from Whitby. The village is known for its charming red-roofed cottages, serene brook, and grazing sheep, making it a fairytale spot for anyone looking to escape the chaos of city life. Hutton-le-Hole is the perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Things to do in Hutton-le-Hole
A significant tourist draw of Hutton-le-Hole is the Ryedale Folk Museum, an open-air museum that exhibits the culture and legacy of the region. Tourists can investigate a variety of archaic buildings, such as a blacksmith’s workshop, a thatched cottage, and a Victorian schoolroom, and get an insight into the lifestyle of the people who resided and worked in the village throughout the ages.
Where to eat, drink and stay in Hutton-le-Hole
Eat: The Forge Tearoom is a cosy café that serves delicious coffee and homemade cakes.
Drink: The Crown is a historic inn that offers comfortable accommodation and a restaurant that serves locally sourced cuisine.
Stay: The Old School House, this apartment is clean, comfortable, and well-equipped with modern amenities.
Learn more about Hutton-le-Hole.
2. Thornton-le-Dale
When people say that Thornton-le-Dale is a chocolate box village, they’re not exaggerating. This little gem, has won countless awards, graced many calendars and sweet selection boxes. Situated in North Yorkshire, the village has charming thatched cottages, picturesque gardens, and a stream alongside the street. It’s also just 30 minutes from Whitby.
Things to do in Thornton-le-Dale
If you’re in the mood for sweet treats, visit the Chocolate Factory. This shop is stocked with handmade chocolates and confectionery that are enough to make Willy Wonka jealous. Don’t worry if you indulge a little too much, though. You’re in the North York Moors National Park, so you can easily walk off the calories with a scenic stroll. The views are breathtaking!
Places to eat, drink and stay in Thornton-le-Dale
Eat: Brandysnap Bistro is perfect for home made and locally sorced meals.
Drink: The Buck Inn is a cosy pub that offers a wide selection of drinks, including local beers and ciders.
Stay: The New Inn is a Georgian coaching house dating back to the 1720s.
Learn more about Thornton-le-Dale.
3. Staithes
Located just 10 miles from Whitby, Staithes is perfect if you want to escape to a proper seaside village. This traditional fishing village holds so much history and offers the opportunity to relax and unwind by the sea. Once a busy fishing port, Staithes has a proud history as the former home of Captain James Cook, a famous Royal Navy captain and explorer.
Things to do in Staithes
You can start by strolling around the picturesque harbour and admiring the colourful boats bobbing on the water. The village is also home to several art galleries showcasing the work of local artists. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike along the Cleveland Way National Trail, which offers stunning coastline views. Several beaches are nearby, including Runswick Bay and Sandsend Beach, where you can soak up the sun or swim. For a taste of local history, you can visit the Staithes Museum, which tells the story of the village’s maritime past.
Where to eat, drink and stay in Staithes
Eat: The Cod and Lobster is a seafood restaurant on the harbour that offers stunning sea views. The menu features fresh seafood and traditional British dishes.
Drink: Captain Cook Inn is a traditional pub that offers a range of local beers, ciders, spirits, and live music and events.
Stay: The Royal George Hotel is historic, with sea views and comfortable rooms.
Learn more about Staithes.
Robin Hood’s Bay
Robin Hood’s Bay is quite possibly our favourite village! This small fishing village is perfect whether you want to relax, get active, explore, or do a bit of all three. Known to the locals as ‘Bay Town’, Robin Hood’s Bay, it has to be said, does not have ties with Robin Hood, who robbed the rich to feed the poor! It is doubtful that he ever even went there. The naming of the area is a mystery. Robin Hood’s Bay is approximately 13 minutes from Whitby.
Things to do in Robin Hood’s Bay
Within the North York Moors National Park, Robin Hood’s Bay is an ideal base for walking, hiking, cycling, and exploring the area’s history. It is also not far from the historic town of Whitby and the fabulous Scarborough. One of our favourite things to do in Robin Hood’s Bay is to experience it at night and participate in one of Rose Ryland’s Ghost Walks.
Please read our guide to spending seven days in Robin Hood’s Bay for more things to do.
Where to eat, drink and stay in Robin Hood’s Bay
Eat: The Bay Hotel is a historic pub with a cosy atmosphere and a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients.
Drink: Smugglers Ale House is a traditional pub with a good selection of beers and ales.
Stay: Lee Side B&B is a family-run B&B with a central location and friendly hosts.
Learn more about Robin Hood’s Bay here.
Osmotherley
Nestled between the stunning Cleveland Hills to the north and the Hambleton Hills to the south, where you can soak up the best of both worlds. That’s Osmotherley for you! This charming village is a perfect tourist destination, offering a unique blend of old-world charm and modern-day appeal. You can explore the beauty of the moors and indulge in the quaintness of the village without any hint of artificiality. This is a proper hidden gem.
Things to do in Osmotherley
If you’re visiting Osmotherley, here are a few things you might want to do. Visit Cod Beck Reservoir: Located just outside Osmotherley, this reservoir is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and bird watching. There’s also a lovely circular walk around the reservoir, about 3 miles long. Or explore Mount Grace Priory: This beautiful 14th-century Carthusian monastery is just 6 miles from Osmotherley. It’s a great place to learn about the area’s history and enjoy the peaceful grounds.
Where to eat, drink and stay in Osmotherley
Eat: The Queen Catherine; serving fantastic food, this family-owned pub is so welcoming.
Drink: The Golden Lion is a traditional English pub is located in the heart of Osmotherley and serves excellent food and drinks.
Stay: The Queen Catherine Hotel again is ideal for a luxurious stay.
Learn more about Osmotherley.
We hope we have given you some ideas and inspiration to visit or stay in one of these beautiful villages in North Yorkshire. The best bit is they are all close to Whitby for a day trip, too! We think they are all worth a visit, but let us know your favourite in the comments.
The post 5 Of The Best Villages To Visit in North Yorkshire appeared first on The Whitby Guide.