Walking and rambling in Helmsley
Overview
If you're planning on staying at YHA Helmsley, why not download a free map and get out exploring?
All our self-guided walks start and end at a YHA hostel and are graded so that you can explore the area at your own pace.
Helmsley Castle and Walled Garden
A lovely stroll through the town with shops, castle and gardens
Easy route (PDF, 0.7MB)
1.5 miles, takes 30m - 1h
Rievaulx Abbey
A lovely walk along the Cleveland Way to Rievaulx Abbey and back
Moderate route (PDF, 0.8MB)
8.4 miles, takes 3h 30m - 5h 45m
Rievaulx Moor
A great walk through forest to Rievaulx Moor and back past Rievaulx Abbey
Challenging route (PDF, 0.8MB)
14 miles, takes 6h 15m to 10h
All our walking routes are tried and tested to help you explore this beautiful part of England. To assist with route selection and planning, you’ll also find a description of the hazards and facilities, accessibility information and points of interest on the maps
What makes it special
- Explore the local area at your own pace
- Tried and tested walking routes with detailed instructions
- Points of interest highlighted along the way
Useful guides
Want to understand more about our maps or develop your walking skills? Here are some useful guides we have created to help you to prepare for your chosen walk
Hostels nearby
Other things to do nearby
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Cleveland Way in Helmsley
2019 marks the 50th anniversary of the nation’s favourite national trail that starts here in Helmsley.
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A food lover's paradise in Helmsley
Helmsley and Ryedale have an enviable reputation as a destination for foodies.
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Cycling in Helmsley
Situated between the North York Moors, The Howardian Hills and the Vale of Pickering, YHA Helmsley is one of the best locations in the country for cycling.
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Mountain biking in Helmsley
Situated between the North York Moors, The Howardian Hills and the Vale of Pickering, YHA Helmsley is one of the best locations in the country for mountain biking. The variety of the ar
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Moorsbus (around Helmsley & other hostels)
A fantastic community run bus service connecting surrounding towns within the North York Moors allowing you to leave your car at home. The services run on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Ho
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Helmsley Castle
This medieval castle’s impressive ruins stand on a rocky outcrop overlooking the River Rye and still dominate the town.
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Helmsley Walled Garden
Built in 1759, the beautiful five-acre walled garden is within the grounds of Duncombe Park and beneath Helmsley Castle.
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National Centre for Birds of Prey
Set in the ancient woodlands of Duncombe Park, the centre houses the largest collections of birds of prey in the north of England with daily flying displays and winter owl evenings.
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Rievaulx Abbey
Rievaulx is one of the most atmospheric and complete of all the ruined abbeys. Don't miss the 18th century Terrace. There are also special events, such as falconry displays.
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Nunnington Hall
In a sheltered walled garden by the River Rye, this National Trust run 17th century manor house has a fascinating collection of period miniature rooms.
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Ryedale Folk Museum
Explore the displays that brings to life the lives of ordinary people from pre-historic times to the present day.
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Flamingo Land
One of the county's top theme parks, with rides for all of the family, including Mumbo Jumbo, which has the steepest drop in the world. Visit the website
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Castle Howard
Set within 1000 acres of breathtaking landscape, the estate houses the Arboretum Trust - a collection of botanically important trees. Visit the website
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World of James Herriot Museum
An unforgettable experience and chance to see the veterinary practice that was at the heart of the much loved stories. Visit the website
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Walking and Rambling in Osmotherley
Cote Ghyll Mill is adjacent to the Cleveland Way, the Coast to Coast and is at the start of the Lyke Wake Walk route.
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Mountain biking in Osmotherley
There are numerous trails across the North Yorkshire Moors to test all abilities.
