Echoes of the Past

Explore the history that runs through North Yorkshire, the legends, the traditions, the local events and the landmarks that make this county

If you enjoy discovering stories of smugglers and sailors, knights and kings, Romans and Vikings—and love exploring the remnants of an earlier time—then let your curiosity loose in North Yorkshire.

The region’s history stretches back to when dinosaurs roamed what is now the North Yorkshire coast. Castles standing watch over towns and countryside speak of a turbulent past, marked by war and power struggles. Spot clues from the English Civil War, the dissolution of the monasteries, and tales of coastal smugglers.

By day, explore remarkable ruins in glorious locations, well-preserved monuments, fortified castles, and elegant stately homes of the landed gentry. Impressive abbeys, churches, and monastery ruins highlight the church’s historic importance, with centuries-old ceremonies still taking place today. Heritage steam railways transport you to a bygone age.

The Yorkshire coast, known as the ‘Dinosaur Coast’, is rich in fossils and stories of explorers, raiders, and smugglers.

Discover our history and heritage at one of the many museums in the area, where artefacts, interpretation boards, and living re-enactments offer a vivid understanding of different historic periods and the people who lived through them.

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Echoes of the Past Experiences

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Carlton Towers Historic Tea & Tour

Step into history with a guided tour of Carlton Towers. Explore grand…

House Tour Carlton Towers
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Stately Stay at Carlton Towers

Escape the ordinary with an Exclusive Stately Stay at Carlton Towers.…

A guided walk on Friars Wynd
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Guided Walk of Richmond

Join an experienced guide from Richmond Information Centre on an…

Mustang Yorkshire Dales Medium

Choose from our diverse selection of 15 classic cars, spanning from the…

Echoes of the Past Stories & Inspiration

Life can be hectic, and we all need moments to rejuvenate our spirits.…

Take time to find peace and tranquility in the gardens and outdoor spaces…

North Yorkshire’s rich history makes it ripe for spooky tales from the…

Echoes of the Past Businesses

Ripon cathedral
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Ripon Cathedral

Ripon Cathedral is a medieval marvel boasting a fascinating history all…

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North Yorkshire Moors Railway

Experience 24 miles of scenic steam or diesel travel on the North…

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Beningbrough - National Trust

The National Trust Beningbrough, North of York, with its eight acres of…

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The magnificent ruins of the once prosperous Fountains Abbey, the largest…

Turkish Baths Harrogate Thermal Experience
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Turkish Baths Harrogate

The Turkish Baths Harrogate is the flagship Harrogate spa…

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Sewerby Hall and Gardens

Sewerby Hall is a Grade I listed building constructed throughout 1714 to…

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Ryedale Folk Museum

Nestled in the beautiful village of Hutton-le-Hole in the North York Moors…

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Knaresborough Castle & Courthouse Museum

A stronghold of medieval kings, Knaresborough Castle is beautifully set,…

Echoes of the Past Itineraries

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Dales

More to North Yorkshire: Dales weekend break

3 days

Escape to the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales for a weekend to remember.…

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Moors

More to North Yorkshire: Moors weekend break

3 days

Explore this part of North Yorkshire with its dramatic moorland landscape,…

Echoes of the Past Events

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Indian-Inspired Afternoon Tea Train
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Indian-Inspired Afternoon Tea Train - Leeming Bar…

18 Oct 26

Join us for an Indian-inspired afternoon tea this October! Enjoy a scenic…

Mediterranean-Inspired Tea Train
Bedale - Heart

Mediterranean-Inspired Tea Train - Leeming Bar…

23 Aug 26

Join us for a Mediterranean-inspired afternoon tea this Summer! Enjoy a…

Yorkshire Day Afternoon Tea Train
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Yorkshire Day Afternoon Tea Train - Leeming Bar…

2 Aug 26

Make this Yorkshire Day a truly memorable one with our Yorkshire afternoon…

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Masham Steam Engine and Fair Organ Rally

18 Jul - 19 Jul 26

The Masham Steam Engine and Fair Organ Rally returns. This event is a…

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A woman looks out over the Yorkshire Dales