North York Moors National Park

Introducing North York Moors National Park

Wild, windswept and oh so interesting, the North York Moors – much of them protected by the boundaries of a national park – exist in isolated splendour; lonely, heather-clad hilltops staring down on steeply cut valleys and across to some of the most spectacular views you’ll see in the north of England. The ridge-top roads and high open moors afford terrific views of the dramatic countryside – where you will spot an isolated farm or village or come across the odd castle and ruined abbey – while to the east the moors suddenly give way to an even more dramatic coastline of sheer cliffs, sheltered bays and long sandy beaches.

If you visit anytime between July and early September you will be met by the explosive bloom of heather, all bright pinks and mauve. Outside the flowering season, the colours are broody browns and purples – in vivid contrast to the deep greens of the Dales – giving the park its characteristic moody appearance.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009