North Yorkshire and the Heritage Coast for Solo Travellers

NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS, WHITBY AND GUIDED COASTAL WALK

The day begins with a drive to the village of Hawkser just south of Whitby. We enjoy the path less travelled with a guided walk. We amble through the village accompanied by a local walking expert and onto part of the Cleveland Way National Trail along the Coastal path the views from the path are stunning and as we walk towards Whitby we will see Saltwick bay with its “Nabs”  unusual outcrops  which were part of historical Alum quarries and now listed as monuments in their own right. Whitby comes into view as we continue along the Cleveland way ending at the top of the town , next to the ruins of Whitby’s iconic Abbey, which inspired Bram Stoker to write “Dracula”,  making Whitby the place where count Dracula came ashore. The views from the headland are stunning. You then can walk down the 199 steps into the old town to explore at leisure.

With its cobbled lanes leading to the traditional harbour, it’s the perfect place to wander and explore the many shops and workshops that sell the famous Whitby jet, a semi-precious organic gemstone that can be polished to a mirror finish. The history of Whitby jet actually goes back to the bronze age, Romans in Britain used it in magical amulets, but it was made most famous during the Victorian period when it was used as a mourning stone, these days it’s made into traditional and more modern jewellery. It’s also home to the Captain Cook memorial museum, where you can learn about the famous explorer’s life.  If that’s not your thing, then maybe enjoy some of the world-famous fish and chips Whitby has to offer by the harbourside washed down with a locally brewed beer?

We leave Whitby in the late afternoon on what has been described as one of the world’s greatest heritage railway experiences “The North Yorkshire Moor Railway” from Whitby to Pickering. We travel through the North Yorkshire National park, bordered by the Cleveland Hills to the North, the Hambleton Hills to the West, the Vale of Pickering to the South and the magnificent coast to the East, the beauty of the landscape, history and nature combine to create something truly special. The line itself passes through the beautifully restored stations of Grosmont and Goathland, famously used for the Harry Potter films and in the long running TV series Heartbeat. (On some occasions, this day may operate in reverse).

 Hawkser to Whitby Coastal walk

A one way walk which takes in the coastal views of part of the Cleveland Way south of Whitby. The Journey begins in Hawsker taking the coastal path to Whitby

Moderate walk - Duration: approx 2.5 hours / Distance:  4.5 miles / Terrain: paths along the cliff side, and lanes, some steep inclines and stairs on the trail – 199 steps at the end of the walk at Whitby Abbey to go down to reach the town.

HISTORIC YORK

We spend the whole day in one of England’s finest and most historic cities, York. The city’s history goes back Millennia and has had many names over time. Founded by the Romans in 71 AD, it was first hailed Eboracum. To the Saxons, it was Eoforwick. The Vikings, who came as invaders but stayed on in settlements, called it Jorvik. The name York as we know today comes from the Vikings, known then as Yorvik, after they raided the city, settled and made York one of their centres for their trading routes throughout Europe. 

There is much to explore here from the magnificent York Minster, the historic Shambles, known as the best-preserved Medieval street in Europe, the well-maintained city walls, gates and Clifford’s Tower. We will uncover some of the stories linked to the city on a guided walking tour as well as discovering some of the less well known hidden gems. The afternoon is free to explore further, perhaps visit the Yorvik Viking Centre, or the National Railway museum, discover York’s Chocolate Story, or perhaps simply stroll along by the river.

FOUNTAINS ABBEY, STUDLEY WATER GARDENS & GRASSINGSTON WALK

After breakfast, this morning we head west of Harrogate to the UNESCO listed Fountains Abbey and Studley Water Garden. The Abbey was once one of the largest Monasteries in the country, there is a chance to explore and find out what life was life for the monks who lived there. Their work was continued by John and William Aislabie in the 18th century when they designed the water gardens, which were later granted heritage status in 1986. We then head towards the market town of Grassington starting our walk in the village of Hebden. Its attractive location by the river Wharfe, surrounded by the Yorkshire Dales, makes it a perfect starting point for today’s walk. Returning to Grassington there is time to explore before we return to the hotel.

Hebden to Grassington Walk

Our guided walk begins on a riverside path, passing limestone cliff towers, deep pools and stepping stones. We see evidence of the beauty of nature and engineering entwined, as we spy waterfalls and weirs. As we ramble along the riverside, you might even spy brave swimmers and snorkelers plunging into the natural rocky pools. We then arrive in the small market town of Grassington, with its quaint stone cottages and cobbled market square. Easy walk - Duration: 2 hours / Distance: 3.5m / Altitude gain: 330ft (100m) / Terrain: riverside and farmland paths, tracks and woodland

HAREWOOD HOUSE & RETURN HOME

Known as one of England’s greatest treasure houses, this morning we visit Harewood House. Built by the 1st Baron of Harewood Edwin Lascelles, no expense was spared when he employed some of the finest craftsmen of the time, including the architect John Carr, interior designer Robert Adam and   “Capability” Brown’s to design the landscapes which you can admire from the award winning terrace.

The interior of Harewood House features rare Chippendale furniture: looking around it’s not surprising that Chippendale received his largest ever commission when he designed for Harewood. You’ll also spot Renaissance masterpieces, works by Reynolds and Gainsborough, as well as many other antiques and paintings. After time to explore the house, including below stairs and gardens, we return to Harrogate to depart the tour.