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 shops Richard Burdon

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

Ampleforth Abbey

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

Helmsley - Moors

Studford Luxury Lodges

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

Helmsley - Moors

Holly-Garth Holiday Cottage

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

Helmsley - Moors

Cliff Cottages - Cecil Cottage

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

Helmsley - Moors

Rievaulx Terrace

One of Yorkshire's finest 18th-century landscape gardens, containing two…

Helmsley - Moors

The Black Swan Helmsley Restaurant

Great food is at the heart of great hospitality and our restaurant –…

Helmsley - Moors

The Pheasant Hotel & Restaurant

16 bedroomed award-winning country hotel

Events in Helmsley

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End Date

Helmsley - Moors

Helmsley Antiques Valuation Day with Charles…

16 Jun 26

Got a unique item you've always wondered about? Bring it along for a FREE…

Helmsley - Moors

Reverie - Gilling Castle

26 Jun 26

Experience an enchanting evening of live music at Reverie, taking place at…

Helmsley - Moors

Ryedale Festival: Dunedin Consort - Welcome to…

10 Jul 26

This summer's Ryedale Festival opens joyfully with the Dunedin Consort's…

Helmsley - Moors

North Yorkshire Open Studios - Ampleforth Abbey

11 Jul - 19 Jul 26

Discover a vibrant and diverse selection of artwork from more than 50…

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A woman looks out over the Yorkshire Dales