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

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

The Pheasant Hotel

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

Helmsley - Moors

Ampleforth Abbey Tea Room

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

Helmsley - Moors

The Black Swan Helmsley

The Black Swan Hotel at Helmsley is a historic inn, turned boutique hotel.…

Helmsley - Moors

Helmsley Walled Garden

This historic five-acre garden is just waiting to be explored. Enjoy a…

Events in Helmsley

Start Date

End Date

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

Adventures in Hundred Acre Wood

30 Aug 26

See the world through Christopher Robin’s eyes and step into the…

Helmsley - Dales

Tour of Britain, Helmsley to Leyburn

5 Sept 26

Sat 8 Sept: The race across North Yorkshire, professional cycling will…

Helmsley - Moors

Acquire at Ampleforth - Ampleforth Abbey

18 Sept - 20 Sept 26

Acquire at Ampleforth is a special selling exhibition showcasing 16…

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Festivals in Helmsley

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A woman looks out over the Yorkshire Dales