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The “Moor to Sea” cycle network connects Scarborough, Whitby, Dalby Forest, Great Ayton and Pickering across a series of moorland, forest and coastal loops.

There are around 150 miles to explore through the heart of the North York Moors National Park, on quiet winding roads, woodland tracks and bridleways, as well as along the route of the former Scarborough to Whitby railway (the ‘Cinder Track’).

Riding the whole network would provide 5 or 6 days’ great cycling, however it is split into eleven separate sections so that you can tackle shorter stages on day rides and outings. It’s also possible to do smaller circular trails off the main network, particularly starting from nearby Dalby Forest.

The ‘Moor to Sea Cycle Network’ book, a useful route guide, is available from the National Park Centres at Danby and Sutton Bank and from local shops and tourist information centres. As well as the route guide, we recommend you use Ordnance Survey maps OL26 and OL27, which cover the area and have information available in our Thirley Cotes cottages and on-site reception.

The route is marked all the way, using cycle route signs and waymark arrows. Although the odd sign may be missing, so make regular map checks to save unnecessary miles.

Looking for a great day ride? Discover Yorkshire Coast have planned a 32-mile (51.5km) circular route taking in some of the best bits of the Moor to Sea. Download the directions from the DYC website – then all you have to do is pedal!

Basic cycling skills and reasonable fitness are required to cycle the “Moor to Sea” network. It is suitable for family cycling, although it does pass through remote countryside in places, offering little in the way of shelter or facilities.

• The route uses forest tracks, green lanes and minor roads, as well as the Cinder Track. Surfaces are mostly good, although some sections are stony and there may be seasonal rain damage

• “Moor to Sea” crosses varied terrain, from the largely flat Cinder Track to gradual ascents and descents within the forests. It is mostly moderate, but there are also shorter / steeper sections (clearly indicated on the downloadable detailed route directions)

• Be aware that there is limited mobile telephone reception along much of the route

Summer has arrived and full-leaf oaks, ashes and beeches are supporting hundreds of birds across our Thirley Cotes Farm estate and beyond, which is a spectacle to see / hear.

White carpets of cotton-grass on the fell plateaux, filled with soft seed heads, are also a glorious sight; the fluffy ‘flower’ tops appear like cotton wool balls blowing in the warm breeze and were once used for stuffing mattresses and pillows.

Blakey Ridge between Hutton le Hole and the Lion Inn is a good spot, looking west to Farndale.

At the National Trust managed Bridestones, stroll through the wildflower meadows at Dovedale along the route of the Bridestones Trail, and, as harvesting gets underway toward the end of the month, the scent of lavender will be filling the air, along with bees, dragonflies and butterflies.

Kingfishers are one of the most brilliantly coloured birds in Britain and you may be fortunate to see a flash of blue as you walk by, should one dash across the water or dive to catch small fish.

July is the perfect time for a woodland walk at Thirley Cotes Farm and ‘Seafest’ is Scarborough’s annual maritime weekend celebration, taking place from the 14^th – 16^th.

The West Pier on Scarborough’s South Bay comes to life with a great musical programme, street entertainers, family activities and a variety of stalls from local businesses.

A fantastic fireworks display on Saturday evening rounds off the first day’s events and there will be plenty of entertainment to start the summer season here on the North Yorkshire coast.

Lambing season is in full swing here in North Yorkshire and Thirley Cotes Farm is bustling with new life.

The weather is warming, hedgerows are filling with colour and new life is flourishing in the fields and garden beds – spring has arrived here at Thirley Cotes Farm, the perfect place to experience our surrounding scenery as it awakens.

See the wildflowers blossom on our woodland trails, spot daffodils, bluebells, birds and bees and witness a flurry of spritely young animals finding their feet in the neighbouring fields. Meanwhile over on the coast, gannets and puffins make an appearance at RSPB Bempton and Common Seal colonies come ashore to nurture their young*.

We are also the perfect base for exploring the North York Moors, where wildlife and walking experiences are a must-do at this time of year, as the forests fill with birdsong and our iconic moorland birds perform extravagant displays.

If you can’t book a stay this spring, don’t worry, as summer and beyond are just as special too!

*Please enjoy and respect our grounds, wildlife and areas of natural beauty from a safe distance

One of the most popular walks in the Lake District takes you to Skiddaw from Keswick and offers fantastic views of the surrounding scenery at every juncture.

You’ll reach 931 metres at the summit and it’s a 10-mile route in total – so worthy of a full day out. Plus you have the added bonus of returning home to Keswick, where there are plenty of places to refuel, including our collection of self-catering holiday cottages.

The Route

Begin by following Victoria Street from the centre of Keswick, in the direction of Windermere, then head to the nearby War Memorial, taking a left then right turn after onto Station Road.

Walk past Fitz Park and cross the bridge at the YHA hostel, before continuing to pass Keswick’s Museum and Art Gallery, as far as the leisure pool. Head out of the car park to the rear, crossing the mini roundabout and follow the steps to the footpath, which runs along the road.

Cross a side trail and stay on the same footpath until it disappears. Here, the hill you can see to your left is Latrigg – head in that direction for 200 yards, before turning off to the bridle path which is signposted “Skiddaw 4 miles”.

Follow Spooney Green Lane over the A66 via a footbridge and steep hill. Keep left when the path forks and head towards Mallen Dodd – passing through the gate and along the conifer plantation, which is fenced. You then follow the path up / around a car park, where you can choose to start, if seeking a shorter stroll.

Walk to the top of the car park and ahead you will see Blencathra. Turn left and head towards the kissing gate, then continue through another gate beyond this. You will eventually pass the Hawell Memorial (a stone cross) and then follow the fence line which leads to a widened gravel path and on towards the mountain.

Pass through a further gate, which leads to a zigzagged path and the steepest section of the trail, where you can spot the Little Man peak ahead. Turn right just before approaching its summit and pass through a final gate to follow the gentle incline up to Skiddaw.

Once you reach the end of this ramble, climb to a cairn and admire the panoramic views beyond! Meanwhile on the way home, simply retrace the trail back to Keswick.

Recommended For …

This is a relatively long but slower paced stroll and there are very few hazards or difficult terrain along the way. It could easily be enjoyed by walkers of most ages and experiences and the route is perfectly ok for canine companions.

2023 is the Year of the Coast, and, with 26 miles of marvellous shoreline set here in the North Yorkshire Moors National Park – sandwiched between beautiful countryside and the North Sea – we’re encouraging you to come and celebrate with us.

The days will soon be a little longer, temperatures a little warmer and North Yorkshire’s breath-taking coast will be waking up to spring. Where sweeping sandy beaches, iconic nature reserves and daisy-strewn moorland awaits.

Spring is a fantastic time to visit – as the weather is typically pleasant, but the summer crowds haven’t yet arrived, so you can explore the pretty seaside towns, coastal walks and fascinating wildlife in relative peace.

Events season is just beginning, too, providing plenty to keep you entertained during your stay.

Superb seaside towns

Scarborough – where the North York Moors meet the sea – is a gem among UK coastal towns.

With its wide sandy beaches, streets lined with traditional shops and a busy working harbour, this charming coastal spot has it all.

Spend the morning browsing the traditional town, before heading to the amusement arcades.

Get lost among nature

Bempton Cliffs near Bridlington, is home to half-a-million seabirds soaring above chalk cliffs.

During spring, you can spot guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes, herring gulls, fulmars and shags nesting here, as well as the largest seabird in the UK, the majestic gannet, and we can’t forget everyone’s favourite, the puffin!

The shorelines of Whitby and Saltburn are also great for sea life spotting, regularly scattered with fin, sei, pilot, mink and humpback whales, as well as porpoise – though it is important to admire these wonderful wildlife from a safe distance.

If prepared for a bit of a climb, the seal colony at Ravenscar are well worth quietly visiting.

Great food for the sole

When you think of the coast, most think of fish and chips, and for very good reason, of course.

Whitby, though, is not only crammed with award-winning fish and chip shops, but because it’s a working port, the catch is a fresh as you can get! The crab and lobster landing along our coast is also not only enjoyed locally, but so special, that it is shipped to restaurants around the world – so make sure to try some whilst you are here.

Plenty for all to enjoy

With springtime, comes the start of events season and North Yorkshire’s beaches, towns and attractions are filled with music, fantastic floral displays, thrilling shows and mouth-watering food. So what are you waiting for? Spring into spring with a stay on the coast.

If you’re planning a stay in one of our Yorkshire cottages, you won’t be stuck for things to do, with an abundance of outdoor activities on our doorsteps, from walking, hikes and rambling to rock climbing and canoeing.

For those looking to explore at a slower pace, the surrounding North Yorkshire Moors and Coast are also home to many wonderful private and public gardens.

Here’s a few of our favourites, which are are just a short hop from our properties in Whitby, Staithes and Scarborough.

Castle Howard, York

York is the second most popular city in the UK, after London and it’s little wonder, when it’s home to such stunning spots at the Castle Howard estate.

Whilst there, be sure to explore the gardens and grounds – used extensively as the backdrop for TV mini-series Brideshead Revisited and the site showcases 1000x acres of surrounding woods and parkland. In the Boar Garden alone, 2.5 tonnes of daffodils and 10,000 spring bulbs are planted every year, providing an early blaze of spring colour.

Burton Agnes Hall, Driffield

Just over an hour’s drive from Whitby, is the quaint market town of Driffield and following the A614 will direct you to the beautiful Elizabethan Hall of Burton Agnes.

Highlights of its 10 acres of parkland and 7 acres of manicured gardens include a fish filled pond, traditional fountains and wonderful waterfalls, and, with over 3000x different plants, herbs and vegetables, a maze and ‘jungle’ to explore, there’s something for every green fingered guest.

Scampston Walled Garden, Malton

Malton is just a 45 minute drive through the moors from Whitby, where, set in the grounds of the impressive Scampston Hall, sits Scampston Walled Garden. Offering something for all the family, especially those with green fingers, the site was designed by Capability Brown and showcases 4 acres of gardens, 80 acres of park and woodland, a restaurant and and beautiful plants and gifts.

RHS Garden Harlow Carr, Beckwithshaw

The picturesque village of Beckwithshaw sits a couple of miles outside of Harrogate and is around a 90-minute drive from Whitby. RHS Harlow Carr is owned and operated by the Royal Horticultural Society and showcases an impressive 58 acres of gardens, as well as 15 acres of park and woodland.

From heather strewn spaces to workshops, guided walks and seasonal trails, there’s plenty for all the family to enjoy.

Dale Head Farm Tea Garden, Pickering

Though not an extensive, foliage-filled garden, if you’re staying in one of our North Yorkshire cottages, a trip to Dale Head Farm is recommended.

Nestled away in Rosedale East near Pickering, soak in stunning views over the valley and wash it down with a traditional afternoon tea – canine companions welcome.

What better way to stretch off the festive season than with a wrapped-up wander?

If you’re looking to burn off the mince pies, we have mapped out a few of our favourite North Yorkshire winter walks. Complete with scenery stretching from the cobblestone streets of Staithes to the wild and rugged coastline of Port Mulgrave.

Or perhaps you’d prefer to stay closer to home and explore the Thirley Cotes Farm estate.

Runswick Bay – Staithes

Our neighbouring coastline is studded with beautiful bays and headlands and this walk connects two coastal villages in an outing of very distinct halves – the first passing through wildlife-filled woodland and the second a breezy stroll along the rim of the county.

Start in the centre of Runswick Bay and, to really appreciate the village’s character, it is best to use the beach car park, though this does require a steep climb back to the top.

For a less picturesque, though simpler start, opt for the car park by Cliffmount Hotel and pass behind the buildings of Boulby potash mine. Here, more than 3,000ft underground is Yorkshire’s own version of the giant hadron collider, where scientists are trying to identify the mysterious Dark Matter particles of our universe.

Staithes – Port Mulgrave

Experience fresh sea air on this 4-mile circular route, leaving the sheltered harbour of Staithes and following the Cleveland Way National Trail for the first half of the walk. Ramble across the high cliffs to Port Mulgrave and enjoy spectacular coastal views, before returning across rolling fields through the small hamlet of Dalehouse.

The Maw Wyke Walk

If you’d prefer a challenge, why not head out on the 6-mile Maw Wyke Walk?

It’s one of the most strenuous of the Yorkshire coastal rambles, but also one of the most rewarding, starting at Robin Hood’s Bay, where panoramic views set the scene for the path ahead.

From here, make your way past Ness Point, a particularly tough route that requires you to navigate a series of jagged rocks, soaking in the fresh sea air as you return via the gentler Cinder Track – once an old railway line.

If you’re joining us for a stay at on the edge of the North Yorkshire Moors and Coast, keep these wonderful winter walks front of mind.

Nothing gets us into the yuletide spirit quite like a visit to a Christmas market, and, while it’s a little early to start sipping mulled wine and singing carols, you’ll still want to plan ahead for your seasonal shopping trip.

With handmade gifts galore, spiced aromas in the air and ornate decorations aplenty, this is the occasion to soak up the magical merriment traditions, and we’re certainly spoilt for choice when it comes to celebrating the festive season.

Fortunately for us, some of the region’s best Christmas markets are only a short hop away and here are three of our favourites to visit when joining us for a stay in The Lake District this November and December.

Windermere Christmas Celebration

Windermere Christmas Celebration gears up for a family fun-packed weekend coming on the 10^th and 11^th of December to the streets of Windermere. The event will feature live music and on-street entertainment, with food and craft stalls and Taylor’s Fun Fair making an appearance.

The celebrations draw crowds of thousands from across the country to enjoy food, drink, and family festivities. With Father Christmas expected to make an appearance – but watch out for the Grinch!

Keswick Victorian Christmas Fayre

If you’re looking for traditional family entertainment, then this is the fayre for you.

From Victorian costumes and a nativity scene to the arrival of Santa and Mrs Claus in a reindeer-drawn sleigh, this is a spectacle that will warm any wintertime chills.

There will be over 30 stalls selling a selection of Christmas and homemade crafts, alongside festive food and drink, a children’s funfair, live music and performances throughout the day on 4th December. This is also an outdoor event, so wrap up well.

Winter Wonderland at Hayes Garden

Embark on a journey through Santa’s Winter Wonderland and help to search for his missing reindeer. See if you can remember all their names, play snowball games along the way and fish for food for the penguins. Plus post a ticket and eagerly await to be taken to the big man himself, and don‘t forget the Christmas wish list. Open 1st November – 23rd December.

Plan on visiting The Lake District this Christmas? Why not book a break with Cottage Escapes? Take a look at our selection of Cumbrian cottages perfect for making the most of the festivities.

There are so many wonderful places to sample fresh local food and drink when joining us for a stay in North Yorkshire and, depending on the season, you’ll find a whole range of homemade produce, often organic, from beer, cider, pies and cakes to jams, chutneys, chocolate and more.

For the gardening enthusiast, you’ll also often find a range of herbs, plants and shrubs, too. Perfect for a take-home treat to tend.

Enjoy the friendly atmosphere and have a chat with the passionate people behind your produce at one of many monthly farmer’s markets across the North York Moors and a number of towns in the area still host weekly stalls, including Scarborough and Whitby, which are great places to pick up fresh local fayre. In addition to fabulous farm shops on the doorstep.

As well as enjoying great tasting Yorkshire produce, by buying direct, you’ll also be helping the brilliant communities which maintain much of our outstanding surrounding landscape.

Here are some of our recommended places to sample fresh local produce when renting one of our holiday cottages in North Yorkshire.

Hovingham

Hovingham Village Market is a previous winner of the Yorkshire Life Farmers’ Market of the Year.

It’s held on the first Saturday of every month (10.30am-1.30pm) and there are no market in January, but there’s an extra Christmas market in December. Dates for 2022: 5 Nov, 3 and 17 Dec

Malton

The Malton Monthly Food Market is held on the second Saturday of the month (9am – 3pm) from March until December. Over 35 food and drink stalls are set in and around the Milton Rooms and can be found located in Malton’s central Market Place, with live music and cooking.

Saltburn

Run by social enterprise Food First, find Saltburn Farmers’ Market outside Sainsbury’s, Milton Street on the second Saturday of the month from February until December (9am – 3pm). More details on their Facebook page.

Tree Top Press Farm Shop

Based in Suffield on the eastern side of the National Park near Scarborough, stock up on home grown and pressed juices, cordials and cider made using fruit from their restored / traditional orchard and vegetables from the no-dig market garden (half a mile from the shop.) They also stock other seasonal organic fruit and vegetables, jams, chutneys, cakes and more.

Cedarbarn Farm Shop & Café

A well-stocked shop is filled with great Yorkshire food, as well as their home-reared Aberdeen Angus beef and lamb and organic asparagus (April-June). There’s also a ‘choose your own fruit farm (June – August) where you can jump on their miniature train ‘The Flying Yorkshireman’ which will take you to the picking fields.

On-site is great children’s play area and tearoom, with a menu that reflects the seasonal local produce and keep an eye out for regular Vintage Afternoon Tea (pre-booking required).

Flossies Farm Shop

Nestled in the southeast corner of the National Park, just north of Scarborough, this farm shop stocks homemade cakes, free range eggs, handmade pasta, ice cream, meat, pies, pasties, bread, local Whitby cheese and much more – and it perfectly complements the dog-friendly tea garden.

Castle Howard Farm Shop

There’s an excellent butcher’s counter supplied with meat and game from the Castle Howard Estate (or within a 30 mile radius) and the few shops are well-stocked by local producers with regional cheeses, artisan bread, home baking and English wines. Finding a spot to spread your foodie delights amongst the 1000 acres won’t be too difficult either.

Peasholm Park is a picturesque natural landmark here in Scarborough and a perfect spot to spend a day with the whole family, four-legged friends included.

Set around a large lake, which comes alive in the summer months, Peasholm Park plays host to just a small sample of the wonderful wildlife that calls North Yorkshire home and is a brilliant location for a spot of nature watching.

There are also paddle boats for hire, a floating bandstand, annual events and other activities to enjoy, including rowing, kayaking and canoeing.

If you explore a little further afield, you’ll stumble upon plenty of interesting things to see and do too. Look out for babbling waterfalls and fish filled ponds, one of which is known for its brilliant model sail boats.

During “tourist season”, there are two cafes where hot and cold drinks can be purchased and, of course, ice cream. As well as sandwiches and a fuller menu if preferred. Or, you can simply bring along a picnic and enjoy an afternoon alfresco.

There is a decorative, Oriental theme to the area, with beautiful bridges and manicured pathways capturing this style. In addition to an abundance of wildflowers and rare trees to look out for, many of which are unusual breeds.

Peasholm Park is a fabulous spot to spend a day year-round and, even when the weather is warm, there’s still a quiet corner to be found.

That is, if you can drag yourself away from the comfort of your Yorkshire holiday home.