Perfectly placed between the historic city of York and Yorkshire’s spectacular heritage coast, Ryedale enjoys some of the most spectacular and diverse scenery in England, perfect for all outdoor activities. The dramatic landscape of the North York Moors National Park is a striking contrast to the tranquil, gently rolling hills of the Yorkshire Wolds and the patchwork of farmland in the Vale of Pickering and the Vale of York. The mixed greens of fields and woodland in the Howardian Hills, a designated National Landscape, add further variation.
Ryedale is a land of extraordinary natural beauty and unique character, a place of gentle escapism, with world-class attractions, extraordinary events, award-winning food and drink and historic market towns. The warmth of Yorkshire hospitality can be sampled in Ryedale’s charming villages and historic market towns, which provide the visitor with high quality accommodation, places to eat, independent boutiques and locally produced goods, and all with a great Yorkshire welcome.
Just a few miles away from each other, Ryedale’s market towns form a vibrant 20-mile neighbourhood of independent shops, unique attractions and eateries. They are a pleasure-seeking, shop-hopping paradise surrounded by Britain’s most beautiful countryside with walks, cycling and wildlife-spotting from the doorstep.
The picturesque villages of Ryedale are one of the district’s best assets. Whether visiting the moorland in the north, the beck side villages in the middle of Ryedale or those nestling amongst the rolling hills in the south, you will be equally rewarded. Some of the country’s best-known villages are in Ryedale, such as Thornton-le-Dale and Hutton-le-Hole, but many others have something special to offer. Distinctive landmarks of these villages include thatched cottages, duck ponds and village greens.
The district is in a perfect position to take advantage of the whole county’s offerings. The East Coast can be reached easily by car, bus or train, so you can be walking along Scarborough Pier in no time at all. The hustle and bustle of city life is not far away either, with York accessible within 30 minutes and Leeds only an hour away.
With so much to experience, Ryedale really is a must-visit destination.
