Helmsley

One of North Yorkshire’s most popular market towns (officially - it won the Great British High Street Award’s best market town category), Helmsley is somewhere everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. Although if you go once, you are likely to go back time and time again - a visit to this picturesque place, which has so much going on, feels like a breath of fresh air.

Helmsley is a perfect destination for those who love the great outdoors with a wealth of walking and cycling routes through the North York Moors National Park which is on its doorstep. The Discovery Trail showcases local history on an easy loop, while cyclists can enjoy routes like the Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey ride and the challenging North York Moors Cycleway, passing through heather landscapes and hidden valleys on quieter roads. One of the highlights is the Cleveland Way, a renowned national trail that starts in Helmsley. If you fancy taking a dip to cool off, the town’s open-air pool is a refreshing option in the summer months.

If you prefer a more leisurely pace, take a trip back in time at the town’s castle, admire the stunning blooms and floral arches at the walled garden, marvel at spectacular birds of prey displays at the nearby estate, or wander stunning National Trust sites just outside of town. Take a stroll around and browse the town’s many independent shops and boutiques, savour a bite to eat in the welcoming cafés and bakeries, delicious delis and welcoming pubs and restaurants. When it’s time to rest after a day exploring, choose from a range of quality accommodation from spa hotels to cosy cottages.

Helmsley 700 2 8631 R Richard Burdon 2

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Businesses in Helmsley

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Helmsley - Moors

Studford Luxury Lodges

Tucked away in a quiet corner of the North York Moors National Park, just…

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Helmsley - Moors

Holly-Garth Holiday Cottage

Holly-Garth is a superbly equipped 4 star holiday cottage near the centre…

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Helmsley - Moors

Black Swan at Oldstead

The Black Swan at Oldstead is a restaurant with rooms created by the Banks…

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Helmsley - Moors

The Pheasant Hotel

Beautifully located Country Hotel with award-winning restaurant set in a…

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Helmsley - Moors

Summerfield Farm Holiday Cottage

Summerfield Holiday Cottage is a stone built cottage, which sleeps 4-5. It…

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Helmsley - Moors

Cliff Cottages - Frankel Cottage

The location and surrounding views are breathtaking during all seasons.…

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Helmsley - Moors

Helmsley Walled Garden

This tranquil and historic five acre garden is beautifully laid out in…

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Helmsley - Moors

Howardian Hills

Designated a National Landscape, the Howardian Hills cover 77 square miles…

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Events in Helmsley

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Helmsley - Moors

Justin Moorhouse: The Greatest Performance of My…

23 Jan 26

The story covers subjects ranging from pantomimes to dreams, how to behave…

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I'm not Dorothy, I'm Dot. Like a decimal point. A full stop. Dot.Stroppy…

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Helmsley - Moors

Justin Moorhouse: The Greatest Performance of My…

18 Jul 25

The story covers subjects ranging from pantomimes to dreams, how to behave…

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View across Nidderdale - trees, fields, drystone walls and blue sky