Hidden gem UK village with forgotten ‘grand’ castle is ‘breath of fre | UK | Travel

One picturesque North Yorkshire market town steeped in history is a “breath of fresh air” hidden amid the Dales. Nestled between Pickering and Thirsk, is helmsley  is the perfect summer day trip, which “everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime”. 

Visit North Yorkshire said: “One of North Yorkshire’s most popular market towns (officially – it won the Great British High Street Award’s best market town category), Helmsley is somewhere everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime.

“Although if you go once, you are likely to go back time and time again - a visit to this picturesque place, which has so much going on, feels like a breath of fresh air.”

or those at home in the great outdoors, there are a number of scenic walks nearby, with the stunning Rievaulx abbey within walking distance.

The abbey was one of the first Cistercian abbeys in England in around 1130 and its towering arches remain intact today.  There are also fantastic cycling routes through the North York Moors National Park which effectively Helmsley’s back garden.

Visit Yorkshire added: “The Discovery Trail showcases local history on an easy loop, while cyclists can enjoy routes like the Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey ride and the challenging North York Moors Cycleway, passing through heather landscapes and hidden valleys on quieter roads.

“One of the highlights is the Cleveland Way, a renowned national trail that starts in Helmsley.” Swimmers are also in luck with the establishment adding “If you fancy taking a dip to cool off, the town’s open-air pool is a refreshing option in the summer months.”

Inside the town is Helmsley Castle, described by English Heritage as a “formidable medieval fortress, an Elizabethan mansion, a besieged Civil War stronghold and a Georgian romantic ruin.”

It added: “The castle’s impressive stonework defences include the tall, keep-like east tower, which still dominates Helmsley”. If the castle looses its novelty, it is surrounded by rolling parkland full of pot wildflowers and wildlife to keep you busy. 

English Heritage added: “The castle’s west range was converted into an Elizabethan mansion, and some of its fine timber panelling and plasterwork has been conserved. Displays explore life in the castle through five centuries of war and peace.”

One Trip Advisor review said of the site: “Given the castle looks like a ruin, was very pleasantly surprised with what we found. Lots of rooms as well as ruins to visit, with very informative and well placed information boards dotted around giving the full history and many uses of this grand old castle. Situated in wonderful Helmsley right next to the stunning walled garden, I would highly recommend a visit.”

There is also a beautiful walled garden nearby with blossoming borders and immaculate green lawns. The tourist site said: “Take a trip back in time at the town’s castle, admire the stunning blooms and floral arches at the walled garden, marvel at spectacular birds of prey displays at the nearby estate, or wander stunning National Trust sites just outside of town.”

If you fancy some retail therapy, there are an array of independent shops and boutiques such as Holme Lea Country Interiors as well as cafés, bakeries, delis, pubs and restaurants. If you want to spend more than one day there, you have options. There is everything you need from small authentic cottages to luxury spa hotels.