Springtime in the North York Moors National Park

Spring has started to bloom on the moors, and with more daylight hours there’s even more time to get out and explore. You’ll be spoilt for choice with walking routes, picture‑perfect villages, and coastal treasures. So where will you visit first?

Danby Lodge National Park Centre is a great starting point. The centre will be celebrating 50 years in 2026 - a milestone that reflects how this beautiful corner of North Yorkshire has been cherished for generations - and offers countryside views, adventures for all, and the cosiest café to rest and refuel with a tasty treat.

Sitting within the Esk Valley, it’s ideal for cyclists looking for challenging climbs and spectacular views. There are also various circular walking routes for all abilities to enjoy.

You've made it to your home for the weekend! We’ve picked a peaceful self-catering cabin tucked deep in the forest, complete with woodland‑meadow views and your very own private hot tub to unwind in after a long day exploring.

With two dreamy locations to choose from, Forest Holidays Keldy and Forest Holidays Cropton are both set in the heart of the North York Moors National Park, with the coast only a 30‑minute drive away - the ideal base for making the most of your trip. With all‑day dining on site, self‑led walking trails, bike hire, spa treatments and forest‑ranger adventures, you’ll have everything you need right on your doorstep.

Spend the evening relaxing in front of the log fire, feet up and drink of choice in hand.

Photo credit: Paulbox

What a way to start the day - a cup of tea and woodland views! If you’re lucky, you might spot some local Roe deer grazing on the meadows. Take it slow and enjoy a chilled morning in your cabin or head straight out the door for the first adventure of the day.

Just 12 miles away you'll find Dalby Forest. With 8,500 acres of natural beauty you can decide if you’d prefer an adrenaline filled biking adventure or a tranquil scenic walk. Head into the visitor centre where staff will share their expertise on which route is right for you.

After a fun‑filled morning, you’ll be ready for some lunch. Luckily, you’re spoilt for choice with plenty of cafés and restaurants just a short drive away in Thornton‑le‑Dale or Pickering.

Photo credit: Visit Britain, NYMNPA, Ula Blocksage

Make the most of your afternoon with an adventure on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. Re-opening for the 2026 season on 28 March, hop aboard a steam or heritage diesel train and get ready to experience 24 miles of beautiful countryside.

With stations at Pickering, Levisham, Goathland, Grosmont and Whitby, you can easily spend a full day exploring the charming towns and villages along the route.

And if you’re a Harry Potter fan, there’s an extra bit of magic waiting for you. Goathland Station doubled as Hogsmeade Station in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, so you can relive the moment Harry, Ron and Hermione first arrived at Hogwarts.

Depending on where you hop off, wander into a local pub and tuck into a hearty evening meal to round off the day in the best way before returning to your cabin in the woods.

Photo credit: Visit Britain, NYMNPA, Ula Blocksage

It’s a new day and there’s so much more to explore. Just a 20 minute drive from your cabin you’ll find Hutton‑le‑Hole, a picture‑perfect moorland village packed with charm.

Spend the morning wandering quiet fields, country lanes and peacfeul tracks on a gentle 4‑mile circular walk to Lastingham, then loop back across the Spaunton escarpment for those big, sweeping views.

Or, if you’re in the mood for a bit of nostalgia, head to Ryedale Folk Museum. With more than 20 heritage buildings spread across a 6‑acre site, learn the stories of the people who once called Ryedale home at this fascinating open air museum. Before you set off to the next stop, grab yourself a tasty treat from the village bakery - you've earned it.

When visiting the North York Moors National Park, you really do have to experience at least one of its coastal gems. Each spot has its own personality, so deciding between Robin Hood’s Bay, Staithes, Whitby, or Runswick Bay can be a challenge. The good news is, you can always come back for more.

Runswick Bay is possibly the most understated of them all, and easily one of our favourites. With its red‑roofed cottages, colourful fishing boats and sweeping bay, it’s the kind of place where you can sit for a moment and forget the outside world exists. Wander along the award‑winning, dog‑friendly beach, hunt for fossils among the rocks and, no matter the weather, treat yourself to an ice cream.

Photo credit: Visit Britain, NYMNPA, Ula Blocksage