Helmsley

Discover Helmsley by Category

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.

Cobbled stone independent stores in Helmsley market square

Explore Helmsley

What's in Helmsley

Helmsley - Moors

Nunnington Hall – National Trust

A picturesque 17th century manor on the River Rye, featuring organic…

Helmsley - Moors

Holly-Garth Holiday Cottage

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

Helmsley - Moors

Studford Luxury Lodges

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

Helmsley - Moors

Ampleforth Abbey

Set in acres of beautiful scenery, Ampleforth Abbey is home to the largest…

Helmsley - Moors

Summerfield Farm Holiday Cottage

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

Helmsley - Moors

Ampleforth Abbey Tea Room

Situated in the beautiful grounds of Ampleforth Abbey, and a short walk…

Helmsley - Moors

The Star Inn at Harome

The Michelin-starred Star Inn at Harome has been a foodie and celebration…

Helmsley - Moors

Black Swan at Oldstead

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

Events in Helmsley

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Helmsley - Moors

Helmsley and the Howardian Hills Restaurant Week

22 Feb - 28 Feb 27

Experience delicious dining with the best local produce at a great price…

Helmsley - Moors

Acquire at Ampleforth - Ampleforth Abbey

18 Sept - 20 Sept 26

Acquire at Ampleforth is a special selling exhibition showcasing 16…

Helmsley - Moors

Heritage Open Days - Ampleforth Abbey

19 Sept 26

Explore the extraordinary craftsmanship and architectural legacy of…

Helmsley - Moors

Apple Week – Half-term Activities - Ampleforth…

24 Oct - 31 Oct 26

Celebrate our apple-growing tradition this October half-term with a week…

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Festivals in Helmsley

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A woman looks out over the Yorkshire Dales