Events and Activities
![]() Events
Click here for a comprehensive list of activities and events in the National Park. Places to visit Castle Howard - one of Britain’s finest historic houses, just 25 minutes from High Rigg. Gardens are currently open daily and the House will be re-opening on 2 April 2022. Nunnington Hall (National Trust) – a picturesque Yorkshire manor house with organic garden and exciting exhibitions. From March 2022 the house and gardens are open Tuesday to Sunday. National Centre for Birds of Prey Situated at the magnificent Duncombe Park estate, the National Centre for Birds of Prey houses the largest collection of birds of prey in the north of England. Open 7 days a week- no need to pre-book. Rievaulx Abbey (English Heritage) The scale and majesty of Rievaulx, one of England's most powerful Cistercian monasteries, never fails to inspire. ‘Everywhere peace, everywhere serenity, and a marvellous freedom from the tumult of the world.’ So said Aelred, Rievaulx Abbey’s most famous abbot. That description of Rievaulx is still true today. The Abbey is open 7 days a week; booking is recommended but not required, Helmsley Castle (English Heritage) In the picturesque market town of Helmsley, the castle has evolved over the centuries, from a mighty medieval fortress to a luxurious Tudor mansion, to a Civil War stronghold and a romantic Victorian ruin. The Castle is open 7 days a week; booking is recommended but not required. North York Moors Railway Services run between Pickering and Whitby, normally with several stops en-route, including Goathland station (Hogsmeade station in the Harry Potter films). Tickets can be booked on-line for trains running from 4 April to 30 October 2022. Food and Drink There’s an abundance of food and drink events in the area, from typical farmers markets to more comprehensive events such as Malton’s Monthly Food Market, which has live chef demonstrations, street food and music. The farmers’ markets of the North York Moors area are wonderful places to experience the best in North Yorkshire food and drink and there is one or more most weekends. Helmsley - 3rd Friday of the month Hovingham - 1st Saturday of the month Malton - Monthly food market 2nd Saturday of the month; Pickering - 1st Thursday of the month The North York Moors area is Britain’s "Capital of Cake" ! Check out the cafes, coffee shops and tea gardens where you can treat yourselves to a refreshing brew and freshly baked cake. Walking High Rigg is recognised as a Walking Friendly accommodation provider by the National Park. We really are spoilt for choice when it comes to walking, with breath-taking scenery and fascinating seasonal and natural variation from wooded dales to heather clad moor to coastline routes. The Cleveland Way, one of England's seven great trails, starts just three miles away in Helmsley. Lots of walking information is available from the National Park (click here), with favourite routes and a comprehensive programme of guided walks (scroll down to find the free ones!). We are also happy to share our experiences and lend maps and guide books, as well as providing kit washing/drying services. Cycling There are three cycle centres within the National Park, providing mountain bike trails and cycle hire in the wonderful settings of Sutton Bank, Dalby Forest and Fryup Dale respectively. High Rigg is conveniently in the middle of these three centres. Of course there are many great bike rides in the area. What better way to see the natural beauty of the countryside and coastline? Click here for details of some of the established trails and downloadable maps (the lovely Bransdale Loop is on our doorstep). For the highly energetic and competitive cyclist there are several organised events throughout the year - details here. |