Wharram Percy is the most famous, and one of the best preserved, deserted medieval villages in Britain. Positioned in a remote and picturesque valley in the Yorkshire Wolds, the village was continuously occupied for six centuries before it was abandoned soon after 1500. Historians are not sure why the residents left the village. Today, you can see the outlines of many lost houses above the crumbling remains of St Martin’s Church.

Michael Tilley

August 31, 2020

Hiking

I think the site is best approached from the south along the side of Deep Dale. Check out the patterns of the housing on the hill facing the church. The information boards are very useful.

RichD

April 13, 2025

Hiking

Fascinating diversion during a long trek. Plenty of information boards to read to learn about the site. english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/wharram-percy-deserted-medieval-village/history

Routes here

Best routes to Wharram Percy — Deserted Medieval Village

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1. Wharram Quarry Nature Reserve – Thixendale Circular Walk loop from Wharram

13.1km

03:36

220m

210m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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2. Thixendale Circular Walk – Wharram Quarry Nature Reserve loop from Thixendale

13.1km

03:39

230m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3. Cross Keys Free House – Wharram Quarry Nature Reserve loop from Thixendale

15.3km

04:18

310m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Details

Informations

Elevation 140 m

Open during reasonable daylight hours

Free Entry

Contacts

Centenary Way, Wharram-le-Street, Malton, North Yorkshire, YO17 9TD

www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/wharram-percy-deserted-medieval-village/

https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/forms/customer-services-contact-form/

0370 333 1181

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Saturday 7 February

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Max wind speed: 21.0 km/h

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Location: Wharram, Ryedale, North Yorkshire, Yorkshire And The Humber, England, United Kingdom

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Wharram Percy Deserted Medieval Village

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Wharram Percy — Deserted Medieval Village

1. Wharram Quarry Nature Reserve – Thixendale Circular Walk loop from Wharram

2. Thixendale Circular Walk – Wharram Quarry Nature Reserve loop from Thixendale

3. Cross Keys Free House – Wharram Quarry Nature Reserve loop from Thixendale

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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