The Top 20 Attractions around Ampleforth

Gormire Lake is a natural lowland lake that lies at the foot of Whitestone Cliff, a western escarpment of the Hambleton Hills

Expensive parking but some nice routes

Open at all daylight hours. No charge.

Meaning "filthy swamp", there are many local legends and myths surrounding this lake, such as it is bottomless (it is 6.5m deep) and was created by an earthquake that swallowed a village resulting in the lake today (it is a glacial lake).

Large car park under the White Horse, £2.50 all day as at July 2024. Free parking in a smaller off-road car park on Osgodby Bank at the southern end of Hood Hill Plantation. Very steep steps up to the top, but there is a metal handrail that alternates from the left to right side of the steps. Fabulous views from the top, although as others mention, you can only really see and appreciate the horse from the bottom of the bank.

Needs to be viewed from the bottom carpark

Interesting for their sheer size alone, the old remains of the abbey also have an air of transience about them. Only the sometimes horrendous entrance fees prevent people from taking a closer look at the remains of the walls. It would certainly have been interesting.

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A beautiful abbey ruin, easily accessible on a walk from Helmsley.

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Picturesque, but then many of the tracks and lanes all around this area are too. The area is well served by public rights of way - check out the North Yorks Council map and explore!

This is a lovely place to stop. (If you don't, you're missing one of the most famous landmarks in North Yorkshire!). Typically there's an ice-cream and tea/coffee van here, so you should be able to get a snack. There are a few benches provided from which you will be able to admire the massive Kilburn White Horse on the slopes above. Near where the van is usually parked, you will see the steep steps heading up to the Horse. It's worth securing your bike somewhere and walking up to enjoy the superb views from above.

This is the North York Moors National Park visitor centre, café and information centre. An excellent place to stop for food and drink or, of course, to start your adventures from. There is a wonderful pump track here, minutes from the centre itself (in Hambleton Plantation) and great rides through Cliff Plantation, too. There are excellent views all the way to Yorkshire Dales from near here. Also, spot the lovely wooden sculptures of animals peppered all over the place!

Absolutely non-miss this one. This is one of the finest and greatest monasteries in England. Byland Abbey inspired the way churches were built throughout the north. These almost preposterously amazing and extensive ruins used to be a Cistercian abbey in the 12th century, with 36 monks and 100 lay brothers. The Abbey is maintained by English Heritage and completely free to enter as long as it's daylight.

On a Yorkshire hill bagging round

Lots of amazing walks from here, lots of parking, food and toilets to use and a very handy bus stop to get you back to Helmsley

Amazing views of Gormire Lake from the high paths of the Cleveland Way

The Kilburn White Horse is one of only four such hill figures in the UK and is an impressive sight to behold. Carved into the hillside in 1857, it has stood the test of time and is a testament to the ingenuity and skill of its creators. Legend has it that the horse was created to honour a local racehorse named "White Surrey," who won a famous race in the area in the 18th century. The story of the horse and its creators is a fascinating one that is sure to interest history buffs. If you make the climb to the top of the hill you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding North York Moors National Park. It's a great spot for a picnic or to take in the natural beauty of the area.

Gormire Lake is a stunning natural wonder surrounded by picturesque woodland and steep cliffs, providing breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. It is a hidden gem, as it can only be accessed on foot, which adds to its charm and exclusivity. Gormire Lake is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest, as it is home to a diverse range of plants and wildlife, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. With its tranquil beauty and ecological importance, Gormire Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a peaceful and enriching outdoor experience.

Stunning view points all along the high path over lake.

Cafe and toilets here. Great for a little break!

Rievaulx Abbey was the first major abbey of the Cistercian order in England, which arose in Burgundy in the late 11th century.

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