North Yorkshire Walking Weekend April 2024

This time, our first stop was Duncombe Park in Helmsley, a picturesque town in the North Riding area of Yorkshire. Those who had arrived early enjoyed a peaceful stroll through the park’s scenic grounds before taking some time to explore Helmsley’s quaint streets. Once we had taken in the surroundings, we continued our journey to Pickering, where a cluster of six cottages awaited us.

After unpacking and settling in, it was time for our customary Friday night Jacobs Join, where those participating contributed a delightful mix of savoury and sweet treats. Meanwhile, some members of the group opted to dine at a local hostelry instead. Before turning in for the night, we gathered briefly to discuss plans for the next day’s walk, set start times, and finalize arrangements. Then it was off to bed, ready for a full day of adventure ahead.

This time, our first stop was Duncombe Park in Helmsley, a picturesque town in the North Riding area of Yorkshire. Those who had arrived early enjoyed a peaceful stroll through the park’s scenic grounds before taking some time to explore Helmsley’s quaint streets. Once we had taken in the surroundings, we continued our journey to Pickering, where a cluster of six cottages awaited us.

After unpacking and settling in, it was time for our customary Friday night Jacobs Join, where those participating contributed a delightful mix of savoury and sweet treats. Meanwhile, some members of the group opted to dine at a local hostelry instead. Before turning in for the night, we gathered briefly to discuss plans for the next day’s walk, set start times, and finalize arrangements. Then it was off to bed, ready for a full day of adventure ahead.

Day 2: Steam Train Nostalgia and the Hole of Horcum Walk
Saturday dawned, and after a hearty breakfast, we made our way into Pickering, just down the road from our cottages, to meet at Pickering Railway Station—home to the famous North Yorkshire Moors Railway. Our adventure began with a nostalgic steam-hauled train ride to Levisham Station. Although only six miles long, the journey in the vintage corridor coaches, complete with the distinctive scent of coal smoke, evoked memories of a bygone era.

Upon arrival at Levisham, we ensured everyone was accounted for before setting off toward Levisham village, as the station itself is quite a distance from the village proper. Once there, the real walk commenced—The Hole of Horcum circular route. This stunning trek took us along the rim of a vast natural amphitheater before we descended into its depths and returned along the valley floor. According to local legend, the ‘hole’ was created when a giant, in a fit of rage, scooped up a handful of earth and hurled it at his wife!

Back at Levisham Station, we awaited our return train to Pickering, another enjoyable steam-powered journey that made the day even more memorable. Once back in town, some of us restocked supplies while others finished off the remaining Jacobs Join feast from the previous evening.

That evening, we gathered once again to discuss the next day’s plans before diving into an evening of quizzes, games, and even some singing—expertly led by our designated entertainment manager, Mark Archer. Then it was time for bed, recharging for another day of exploration.

 Day 3: Coastal Adventures – Robin Hood’s Bay and Boggle Hole
Sunday’s destination was the spectacular coastal village of Robin Hood’s Bay. After breakfast, we set off, eventually regrouping in the main car park. Our walk began in earnest along the disused railway line, now a scenic walking and cycling route. Before long, we veered off onto a quiet road leading to Boggle Hole, home to a unique Youth Hostel styled as a pirate’s hideout. Here, we took a well-earned coffee break before descending to the shore.

The next section of our journey saw us navigating the rocky and sandy shoreline toward Robin Hood’s Bay. Upon reaching the picturesque village, we paused for lunch, enjoying the fresh sea air and stunning North Sea views. With some free time to explore the winding streets and historic buildings, the group dispersed before reconvening at the car park for the second leg of our journey.

This time, we headed north along the dramatic cliff-top path toward Whitby. Along the way, we stopped at the remnants of the old alum works, now a fascinating historical site with plenty of information about its past. Continuing along the coastal path, we eventually climbed back up to rejoin the railway line, which led us back to our starting point.

After returning to our cottages, everyone agreed that the only fitting way to conclude the day was with a massive fish and chip order—an established tradition from our Northumberland trip. Once the feast was collected and consumed (this time without any missing sausages!), we rounded off the evening with another lively session of quizzes, games, and entertainment courtesy of Mark Archer.

Day 3: Coastal Adventures – Robin Hood’s Bay and Boggle Hole
Sunday’s destination was the spectacular coastal village of Robin Hood’s Bay. After breakfast, we set off, eventually regrouping in the main car park. Our walk began in earnest along the disused railway line, now a scenic walking and cycling route. Before long, we veered off onto a quiet road leading to Boggle Hole, home to a unique Youth Hostel styled as a pirate’s hideout. Here, we took a well-earned coffee break before descending to the shore.

The next section of our journey saw us navigating the rocky and sandy shoreline toward Robin Hood’s Bay. Upon reaching the picturesque village, we paused for lunch, enjoying the fresh sea air and stunning North Sea views. With some free time to explore the winding streets and historic buildings, the group dispersed before reconvening at the car park for the second leg of our journey.

This time, we headed north along the dramatic cliff-top path toward Whitby. Along the way, we stopped at the remnants of the old alum works, now a fascinating historical site with plenty of information about its past. Continuing along the coastal path, we eventually climbed back up to rejoin the railway line, which led us back to our starting point.

After returning to our cottages, everyone agreed that the only fitting way to conclude the day was with a massive fish and chip order—an established tradition from our Northumberland trip. Once the feast was collected and consumed (this time without any missing sausages!), we rounded off the evening with another lively session of quizzes, games, and entertainment courtesy of Mark Archer.

By the end of the day, everyone had safely returned, bringing our wonderful weekend walking holiday to a close. With another successful trip in the books, we all looked forward to where our future adventures would take us next.

You can see all the photos from the weekend in the gallery here