NEARBY

Nestled between the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (Howardian Hills Natural Landscape) and the North York Moors National Park, The Flower Belt and its surrounding area provide the ideal backdrop for exploration. Just a 40-minute drive from York, this region is home to a rich blend of cultural, historical, and natural attractions.

Nearby, you can visit the breathtaking Castle Howard, an iconic stately home set in vast gardens and parkland, and Nunnington Hall, a charming National Trust country house with scenic gardens and a fascinating history. For those interested in local heritage, Helmsley Castle, and Rievaulx Abbey are both easily accessible.

Helmsley itself is a wonderful destination for a day trip or weekend break, offering a perfect balance of history, shopping, and outdoor activities. You can explore Duncombe Park, stroll through the bustling market square with its independent shops and cafés, or visit the Bird of Prey Centre and Helmsley Walled Garden. Food enthusiasts will delight in the town’s mix of traditional pubs, cosy cafés, and even Michelin-starred restaurants. As the starting point of the Cleveland Way, it’s also an excellent base for walkers. With its proximity to the North York Moors, Helmsley is a haven for nature lovers, offering something for everyone.

The North York Moors National Park itself offers a diverse landscape of expansive moorland, dense woodland, and rugged coastline, perfect for walking, cycling, and exploration. The national park is home to historical sites like Rievaulx Abbey and Whitby, as well as scenic routes like the Cleveland Way and the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. With miles of trails, peaceful villages, and exceptional stargazing opportunities, it’s an excellent place to immerse yourself in nature.

For those drawn to the coast, seaside towns such as Whitby, Sandsend, Scarborough, and Filey are only an hour away and offer a classic British seaside experience with stunning coastal walks.

With convenient bus connections to the Coast, Thirsk, Middlesbrough and York, The Flower Belt is the perfect base for discovering both the countryside and the coast.

Helmsley is also a fantastic shopping destination, with a wide range of independent boutiques and shops. For luxury, country style, Fairfax & Favor and Crowberry Wood are must-visits. Carters Countrywear is ideal for outdoor clothing and gear, while Bradley’s Jewelers offers a collection of exquisite jewellery. Browns provides a quintessential British department store experience, offering everything from clothing to home essentials. Helmsley Wines and Hunters of Helmsley are perfect for fine wine and gourmet foods, while the Helmsley Traditional Sweet Shop is a delightful stop for nostalgic sweets and treats. With its diverse range of shops, Helmsley is the perfect place to indulge in some local retail therapy while supporting independent businesses.

When it comes to accommodation, there is something to suit every need. Studford Luxury Lodges offer luxury in nature, perfect for a relaxing getaway. The Fairfax Arms provides a warm, inviting atmosphere with exceptional food and comfortable rooms. There are also several charming local hotels such as The Pheasant and The Star Inn in nearby Harome, as well as Myse at Hovingham, all Michelin-starred. For more independence, B&B’s and self-catering cottages offer flexibility and comfort, while campsites and shepherd’s huts provide a more rustic, nature-filled experience. Whether you prefer a luxurious stay or a more laid-back retreat, Helmsley has something to suit every traveler.