North York Moors

The North York Moors National Park is in the county of Yorkshire, UK. They are world famous for their picturesque views and history. Understand Located in North Yorkshire, the Moors are a national park regulated by the North York Moors National Park Authority [1]. In contrast to National Parks in some other countries, the North York Moors are not public land and The National Park status, which it received in 1952, prevents inappropriate development. Displaying a range of stunning landscapes: heather-clad hills, woodland, impressive sea cliffs and secluded beaches; this area is one of the gems of Britain. At 554 square miles and with more than 1,400 miles of paths and tracks to choose from it really is worth a lengthy stay to truly enjoy the many faces of this part of the world. History The history of the North York Moors can be explored through the many prehistoric sites found dotted around the park including remains of burial chambers, forts and stone circles. Landscape The North York Moors are a plateau, or table-land, with a sudden drop-off to the north, west and south, and sea-cliffs to the east. The plateau is covered with tree-less moor, interspersed with valleys. It is the most wooded National Park in England, with woodland and forest accounting for more than 20% of the National Park. Flora and fauna As one of the largest expanses of heather moorland in the World, this plant undoubtedly dominates the upper landscape and the moors change colour throughout the months of the year depending on the type that is in bloom. A variety of bog plants and heathland plants can also be found. Merlin, Golden Plover, Red Grouse, Curlew, Lapwing, Ring Ouzel and Adder can all be found on the North York Moors. Climate Get in By air Leeds-Bradford airport [1] is the closest airport offering flights from Europe with links to London Gatwick and Amsterdam. Durham Teesvalley airport [2] is the closest airport to the Moors themselves. Newcastle International Airport [3] is is the third closes airport with the most number of links from Europe. with links to London, Paris, Italy, France, Spain, Amsterdam, Greece, Dubai. See the entry for Whitby. By rail There is a heritage steam railway (Http://www.nymr.co.uk) which runs from Whitby in peak season. The nearest mainline railway station is York from here there are regular buses to Malton, Grosmont, and onto Whitby. Alternatively the nearest train station to the moors is Malton, from here take the bus. There is also a daily rail service from Middlesbrough to Whitby along the Esk Valley line calling at many of the moorland villages along the Esk Valley. Fees/Permits Get around There is a comprehensive Moorsbus service, which runs from April to October and can take you (and your dog!) all across the park. You can hop on and off at the many stops and by parking your car at designated areas and taking the bus, you are also saving this wonderful environment from unnecessary pollution. See Pickering - a pretty town with castle [4] and steam railway [5]. Whitby Farndale is famed for its beautiful wild Daffodils and attracts about forty thousand visitors a year just to see them. Generally at their best during the first two weeks of April (weather dependent) it is believed that medieval monks brought the first daffodils to the area. If you visit at this time of year then you must do the daffodil walk, which is about 1½ miles (2½ kilometres) long and runs alongside the River Dove between Low Mill and High Mill. You will find welcome refreshments at the Daffy Caffy and if it has been raining, take your wellington boots - it can be very muddy! Helmsley is a lovely market town at the south-western edge of the park. It is a popular foodie destination, with plenty of places to stay, eat and drink, good shopping, and historic sites including a castle and one of England's finest medieval abbeys. Do North Yorkshire Moors Steam Railway [6] From Pickering 18 miles (29 kilometres) through the Moors to famous coastal town of Whitby. Featured on UK TV series Heartbeat and the Harry Potter film. If you are not sure about going out on your own then a great way to see the park in all its glory is with a guide. Guided walks and mountain bike rides can all be booked and with 500 miles (800 kilometres) of bridleways throughout the park, horseback is a fabulous way to see this amazing countryside. If you have your own horse you could spend a week trekking in the area staying at designated B&Bs, or there are plenty of stables dotted around who will happily take you on hacks. Go Ape is a tree top assault course in the Dalby Forest. http://www.goape.co.uk Buy Eat There is a place near Helmsley (more specifically Wass) to the south-west named Byland Abbey. There is a very good pub in the nearby village of Wass, named the "Wombwell Arms". Drink Sleep Berry Banks Cottage Whitby [7] Luxury Self-Catering Accommodation Riverside View, Whitby. Berry Banks Cottage is in an outstanding and tranquil location in an elevated position above the valley of the River Esk and by the side of a Grade II listed railway viaduct. Watch the steam train pass by from the cottage. Lodging Camping Backcountry Stay safe There is little crime in the Moors except for petty theft from cars so leave valuables hidden. Take precautions against the weather [8] if going out walking etc. Get out York - one of the UK's most famous historical city. Leeds - the biggest city in Yorkshire. Bradford Middlesbrough for being only 10 min Drive from the Moors themself great place to stay. 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