Where is Ryedale

04 August 2010

Ryedale, North Yorkshire is a region of stunning contrasts with many places to visit. The unique scenery and special nature of the area has been recognised with the establishment of the North York Moors National Park.

The National Park extends from Scarborough, Whitby, Staithes and Saltburn on the coast, to the charming towns of Pickering, Helmsley and Thirsk inland, via some stunning moorland and perfect walking country.

About one fifth of the National Park is forestry and, with a forest drive, waymarked walks and cycle routes and easy access trails, Dalby Forest is one of the main recreational areas of Ryedale. Two of Ryedale’s abbeys lie within the National Park boundary, both of which are English Heritage sites. The largest of these is Rievaulx Abbey and these ruins are known to be the most splendid in Yorkshire. The ruins of Byland Abbey are smaller, but the site has the largest collection of medieval floor tiles in their original location. The National Trust site of Rievaulx Terrace and Temples is also in the National Park. This half-mile grass covered terrace gives wonderful views over Rievaulx Abbey and the Rye valley.

Our market towns in the North Yorkshire Moors all have something different to enjoy. Helmsley offers local shopping with a number of delis and an award winning ice cream shop. Thirsk is the centre of James Herriot country and home of the Herriot Museum. Pickering is a great base for Dalby forest and its renowned cycling, walking and off roading routes.

It's easy to find holiday ideas for all the family to enjoy. You'll be within easy reach of a castle or country house one day and stunning outdoor scenery and great walks the next. And for the kids or young at heart, make sure you visit one of the great beaches along the North Yorkshire Coast.

To get the most out of your North Yorkshire holiday and the North York Moors National Park keep browsing the site for more ideas and inspiration.