History and heritage


From gothic ruins to Victorian steam trains, Cistercian monasteries to 18th century stately homes; ironstone mines to fishing villages, the National Park can certainly boast a rich heritage.
We have some excellent guides too who will not only show you the top spots but also share the stories, myths and legends associated with each place.
Riches, ruins and romance
Lead guide Chris and his team at Grand Yorkshire are all professional driver-guides. Sit back and relax on the drive across our dales and moorlands. Tailor a tour to suit you, whether it’s visiting the abbeys at Byland, Rievaulx and Whitby or learning more about our ironstone mining heritage with a visit to beautiful Rosedale to see the atmospheric remains of kilns and railway lines.
Start your North York Moors tour by checking out Grand Yorkshire’s rundown of options.
Yorkshire on Screen
If you’re keen to scout out the locations that have appeared in films and TV programmes, then book a tour with Kirsty or Linda from Yorkshire & Beyond.
Both are excellent guides who have created screen-themed tours including one devoted to Downton Abbey, which includes visits to the steam train at Pickering and elegant stately home, Castle Howard.
Contact Kirsty or Linda to book your film-inspired day out.
Steam powered smiles on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway
From the moment you step aboard a heritage train, you’ll be transported back to the Victorian golden age of steam travel courtesy of its evocative sounds, sights and smells.
Hop aboard The Optimist service and enjoy 24-miles between Pickering and Whitby, taking in some of the finest scenery in the National Park. You'll have a few hours to explore the historic, seaside town before returning back to Pickering.
Other services include journeys to the beautifully quaint Levisham station while Harry Potter fans can relive the magic at Goathland, famous as Hogsmeade station in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone film.
Trains are operating at limited capacity and not all services are running so you'll need to pre-book your tickets to travel.