周辺の天然記念物・トップ20

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

following on the trip there is a beautiful downhill forest path

One of only a few such mazes left in the country and the only one in Yorkshire.

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).

The public footpath down to the nature reserve from the Cleveland Way (at the location on OS maps marked as "Great Relief Pot") is reasonably steep, but can be very narrow in places with short wooden planks driven into the ground along the downward side of the path, presumably to prevent the path from eroding and collapsing. In other places there are plenty of stones and tree roots to help stabilise your ascent/descent. As you approach Gormire Lake look out for a very curious and quite large boulder that is almost an 8-10 foot high perfect cube. The nature reserve consists of ancient woodland and is very peaceful. Easy to access the water's edge at Gormire 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

The Trig Point offers commanding views north across Helmsley and East Moors. On a great public footpath running from Clark Bank / Cowhouse Bank to the east, along the ridgeline at the northern tip of Rievaulx Moor, following Helmsley Bank, Rievaulx Bank, Ayton Bank and then towards Newgate Bank to the west. One of my favourite places due to the number of parking and routing options in the surrounding areas.

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.

Worth stopping on your ride here - this is a gem! "City of Troy" here is the only surviving instance (in North Yorkshire) of an ancient game. A similar name is given to these kinds of maze games in Scandinavia (Trojeborg = Troy Town), which shows early association between these parts of the world. There is a plaque with further information here as well as a bench to rest on to enjoy this place. The views are also quite lovely, particularly down the Bonnygate Lane road.

"City of Troy" here is the only surviving instance (in North Yorkshire) of an ancient game. A similar name is given to these kinds of maze games in Scandinavia (Trojeborg = Troy Town), which shows early association between these parts of the world. There is a plaque with further information here, as well as a bench to rest on to enjoy this place after. The views are also quite lovely, particularly down the Bonnygate Lane road.

"City of Troy" here is the only surviving instance (in North Yorkshire) of an ancient game. A similar name is given to these kinds of maze games in Scandinavia (Trojeborg = Troy Town), which shows early association between these parts of the world. There is a plaque with further information here as well as a bench to rest on to enjoy this place. The views are also quite lovely, particularly down the Bonnygate Lane road.

Absolutely amazing views from Helmsley Bank and Rievaulx Bank to the north. Also, spot the Roppa Edge trig point here (328 m), painted bright white.

On a Yorkshire hill bagging round

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.

Something a bit different on the roadside between stabby climbs! Worth slowing down for

A perfect place to hike whether you want a flat walk along the top or about 800ft ascent