North York Moors National Park doesn’t have the most glamorous of names.
You hear the word ‘Moors’ and images of boggy roaming landscape springs to mind. Which of course, you’ll still find if you visit. But this National Park has so much more to offer.
The North York Moors National Park was the UK’s sixth National Park. It was officially created on 28 November 1952. And covers an area of 554 square miles (1,436 square kilometres).
The city of York is about an hour’s drive from the south of the park (hence the name!) And going north Middlesbrough is less than half an hour from the furthest north point.
This was my first stop on my UK National Park challenge.
During my time in the North York Moors, I explored a wide area. First, starting in the east based at YHA Boggle Hole. Then driving west staying at YHA Helmsley.
Also not far away is another National Park, the Yorkshire Dales, which is equally as beautiful and has plenty of things to see and do. But for now, I wanted to tempt you with some photos of the North York Moors.
And start you thinking about maybe visiting this stunning area in Yorkshire.
Read my review here of YHA Boggle Hole
What can you find within those 554 square miles of North York Moors?
North York Moors
1. For starters, The National Park has 26 miles of coastline
2. You have wonderful views from the cliffs of the quaint town Robin Hood’s bay
3. If you are really brave you can dip your toes or go for a swim in the North Sea.
Brrr too cold for me!
4. Staying at YHA Boggle Hole you have little coves all to yourself
5. And YHA Boggle Hole, North York Moors has a wonderful cake selection.
If you happen to be walking past and need extra energy.
6. As you’re admiring the sea views, there’s evidence of old ironworks along the path
7. And the further you walk the more the scenery changes as the tide goes out
You might like to read Castleton circular walk in the Peak District
8. But don’t worry there are more pretty views as you walk away from the coast
9. Out walking in the North York Moors you get to meet the very friendly locals.
They might even make you take a detour somewhere more beautiful!
10. In late summer and early autumn, the moors are full of colourful heather which is stunning
11. And for those of you that don’t like hills, there are some wonderful walks along old (and flat) railway lines
12. But the north sea is never too far away.
And is a great landmark so you don’t get too lost
13. Heading further inland, North York Moors has more evidence of the industrial heritage
14. Giant kilns that you can imagine firing up to melt the ore which was then transported via railway
15. Yet more stunning Panoramic views of North York Moors National Park as you walk along the old Rosedale railway line
You might like to read Hiking the West Highland Way
16. It’s 360 degrees of wonderful views.
Well on a good day of course, yes we do have those in the UK
17. And hidden away along your walk there’s a cute little teas shop that you can pop in
18. Then to burn off those calories from all the cake.
A few obstacles along the way.
19. Lastly, my journey takes me to Sutton Bank, the furthest west of North York Moors National Park
20. Fields of sunflowers, who doesn’t love sunflowers!
21. Somewhere for the kids (hmmm big kids) to play at Sutton Bank Visitor Centre – North York Moors National Park
22. And simply breathtaking scenery – sometimes a picture says it all!
Now if that hasn’t tempted you to visit North York Moors National Park then I am not sure what else will persuade you! Keep following me for more detailed posts on my time in the National Park.
And if you have any questions on North York Moors. Please don’t hesitate to drop me a message in the comments.
You might like to read – Can you name all 15 UK National Parks?
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I’ve lived all my life in the UK and never been to the North York Moors – which is just ridiculous! Your photos are fab, and really inspire people to visit this beautiful country of ours. I really must sort out that trip!
Ha ha well it must be time to visit then Jill. It’s really lovely and has so much to offer for everyone. And thank you for the compliment on my photos, glad you like them. Hope you have a lovely weekend 🙂
Hey Becky,
First off, the UK has 15 National Parks??? This is why I need to put more effort into exploring my home country! Where in the UK are you from?
Ha ha yes I know. It’s not something I had realised before I started looking into and most people I told didn’t know there were that many either! I’m from Nottingham so right in the middle and perfect for going north or south! How about you where are you from?
I live just outside the NYMNP on its southern edge (like 10 minutes brisk walking and I in it). The beauty here is so underestimated and maybe that’s because people look to the Yorkshire Dales NP and compare. Each has its merits. I love it here, please you visited and those photos are beautiful.
Yes very true Dave, you’re lucky to live so close too 🙂