North York Moors & Yorkshire Wolds (Slow Travel) : Including York & the Coast

Whether you're a walker, cyclist, wildlife-lover, family, foodie, or culture enthusiast, you'll find everything you need to plan and enjoy your time here. From the magnificent cliffs and beaches of Yorkshire's Heritage Coast to the rolling hills of the North York Moors—one of England and Wales's original nine National Parks—and the tranquil chalk grasslands of the Wolds, this region offers stunning variety. At its heart lies York, arguably Britain's best-preserved medieval city, home to the breathtaking Minster, northern Europe's largest Gothic cathedral.

The region has become increasingly popular for outdoor pursuits, and this guide reflects that passion. The Tour de Yorkshire cycle race has helped establish it as a cycling destination, while ten long-distance footpaths welcome walkers of all abilities. Sandy beaches, rocky coves, woodlands, and heather-clad moors make it perfect for families wanting to connect children with nature. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy whale- and dolphin-watching tours from Whitby, spot otters and adders, or marvel at the 'seabird skyscrapers' of Bempton Cliffs—home to England's only breeding colony of gannets, Europe's largest seabird.

Beyond outdoor adventures, the region is culturally rich and wonderfully diverse. Explore steam train journeys across remote moorland (featured in Harry Potter and Mission Impossible), discover local food and drink treasures, wander the Georgian splendour of Castle Howard, experience Whitby's famous Goth Weekend, visit Britain's oldest seaside resort in Scarborough, and uncover historical gems from the country's tallest standing stone to legendary burial sites. With coverage of places missed by other guidebooks, extensive practical information, and an emphasis on car-free travel, this is the essential guide to discovering this fascinating corner of England.