Sproxton Hall Cottages are set in beautiful, peaceful countryside with unique views overlooking the Howardian Hills National Landscape and the North York Moors National Park. There are walks from the doorstep into both, plus a country ramble into Helmsley (c. 2 miles) on the Ebor Way and to Harome.
Guests with dogs relax in the absence of fireworks.
Guests with families love Helmsley’s castle, heated outdoor swimming pool (seasonal) and the National Centre for Birds of Prey.
You can stay in a hidden gem but be within easy reach of North Yorkshire’s best scenery and attractions. Sproxton Hall Cottages are perfectly located for exploring North Yorkshire’s two National Parks, Whitby, Castle Howard and York. You don’t have to travel far once you reach the cottages – here are some suggested days out and activities. Feel free to ask us for suggestions or take a look at visitor facing websites such as the North York Moors National Park and English Heritage (Yorkshire).
Within walking distance
You can ramble into Helmsley from the cottages, over picturesque fields alongside the River Rye (day light only in walking gear, approx 2 miles). From Helmsley you can access the start of the Cleveland Way, walk to Rievaulx Abbey and enjoy the grounds of Duncombe Park.
Helmsley is a tourist hotspot (and a 1.5 mile drive). Helmsley welcomes visitors throughout the year and is well known for its dog friendly shops, eateries and market. Helmsley Castle and the Walled Garden, provide opportunities for getting fresh air in beautiful surroundings. The heated open air swimming pool (seasonal opening, plus sauna) is a popular choice, and if you have booked all the cottages create a special memory by booking a private pool session too. The National Centre for Birds of Prey is located within Duncombe Park and welcomes guests of all ages. Helmsley’s Arts Centre offers film screenings, live performances and craft workshops.
The Ebor Way and St Aelred’s Pilgrim Trail run close to the cottages and take you through the undulating countryside of the Howardian Hills National Landscape. You can also walk into the North York Moors National Park or follow the walking directions (in each cottage) to the picturesque village of Harome (c. 2.5 miles).
A short drive (c. 5 – 10 miles)
The National Park Visitor Centre at Sutton Bank and the White Horse offer stunning views (described by James Herriot as being the finest in England), with walks on the Cleveland Way and cycling routes in open moorland.
Nunnington Hall, Rievaulx Abbey and Terrace are a short drive away, as is Ampleforth Abbey. A walk around Byland Abbey and a meal at the Byland Inn combine into a relaxing couple of hours.
A walk on the North York Moors is refreshing and invigorating – there are many walking routes on the moors and dales around Helmsley. Hutton-le-Hole is a picture perfect moorland village with an impressive museum. Continue your drive up to Rosedale or Blakey Ridge for breathtaking views.
Try something new – go horse riding over the North York Moors (Bilsdale Riding Centre) or soar in the sky on a glider flight.
Within easy reach (up to 25 miles)
York is a year-round city bursting with history, culture and visitor attractions. Voted as one of the best destinations for visitors in the UK, guests love to explore the city (approx 22 miles/45 minutes) and then return to the tranquility of the countryside. We recommend the Park and Ride, then a walking tour of the City Walls, Minster and Shambles. Allow plenty of time for shopping, particularly during the famous Christmas market, and for refreshments – some of the best restaurants and bars can be found in York. York is a popular choice when the weather turns wet or cold – visit the National Railway Museum, Yorvik, York’s Chocolate Story and other indoor attractions.
Castle Howard is the location for many TV shows (most recently Bridgerton), with a stunning stately home and grounds, adventure playground, garden centre. Time your trip to take in an outdoor concert or event – from the proms to headline bands, and from country shows to drive in cinema. Castle Howard’s Christmas displays are a ‘must see’ attraction for all the family. Cross over the road to visit the Yorkshire Arboretum which now also hosts red squirrels.
The North Yorkshire Moors steam railway (Pickering) is the best way to take in the scenery en route to Goathland (Heartbeat, Harry Potter station) and Whitby (see below).
Dalby Forest (just beyond picturesque Thornton le Dale – home to TV show Bangers and Cash) is popular with walkers and cyclists – with miles of forest trails, and you can swing through the trees at the Go Ape forest climbing experience.
Flamingo Land theme park and zoo provide a fun day out for all the family. Try Lightwater Valley too in Ripon – which is also the location for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fountains Abbey.
Day trips
The Yorkshire coast is a must for many families and dog owners. Everyone loves Whitby – think abbey, Dracula, quaint streets and picturesque harbour. Robin Hood’s Bay was infamous for its smugglers and Staithes with its traditional fishing heritage, offer historic villages set right on the coast. We love Filey for dog walking, plus Fraisthorpe and Runswick Bay. We can recommend beaches suitable for uncrowded dog walks throughout the year. The coast is about 35 miles away.
The Yorkshire Dales (the film location for the original and current James Herriot series) are a popular day out – showcasing green dales and dry stone walls, impressive waterfalls, and picturesque towns.
Make a full day of it with a trip up the A1 to either Beamish or Hadrian’s Wall.
