4-Night North York Moors Family Walking Adventure
Whitby provides the perfect base from which to explore the beautiful North Yorkshire coast, Esk Valley and moors. As well as the area’s scenic beauty, there is a rich cultural heritage. Captain Cook was born and grew up here and Bram Stoker found his inspiration for the story Dracula. The pretty stonebuilt towns and villages have been used as TV locations and the railway station at Goathland was used as Hogsmeade Station in the first Harry Potter film. There are quaint fishing villages to explore, time to go rock-pooling on the beach and hear stories of smugglers. Out on the moors there are glorious elevated views and the sight of steam trains puffing their way through the countryside. Climb to the top of Roseberry Topping and see the view that may have inspired Captain Cook to explore the world.
Holiday Highlights
FAMILY FUN AT LARPOOL HALL
- Ride on a steam train
- Play fun games together
- Hunt for fossils on the beach
THINGS TO DO AND PLACES TO SEE...
- Explore Jorvik Viking Centre in York
- Captain Cook’s Monument (on the Cleveland Way)
- North York Moors Railway
- Whitby Abbey
- Danby Castle
- Esk Valley Railway
What’s included
- Full Board en-suite accommodation.
- Max guests in house: 68
- Family rooms: 11
- A full programme of walks guided by HF Leaders
- All transport to and from the walks
- Free Wi-Fi
Trip Notes
Trip notes are detailed, downloadable PDF’s for each holiday, please click the button below to find the right trip notes for your departure date.
On our Guided Walking holidays, we believe that choice is key. Our walks descriptions will help you choose according to your interests and fitness. The walks are grouped together with care by local experts to give the best experience. While every effort will be made to adhere to the described itinerary, we may occasionally vary the sequence shown here or substitute an alternative route to suit local conditions or for other operational reasons, potentially at short notice. Some of our breaks have more than one itinerary. To check which itinerary is running on your holiday date please refer to the Dates, Prices & Trip Notes tab.
You're welcome to check in from 4pm onwards.
Enjoy a complimentary Afternoon Tea on arrival.
Option 1 - Roseberry Topping
Distance: 4 miles (6.5km)
Ascent: 750 feet (240m)
In Summary: We start our walk in Newton under Roseberry, following the trail up through Newton Wood onto the summit of Roseberry Topping. We then descend into Hutton woods following the trail to Pinchinthorpe.
Highlight: Reaching the summit of Roseberry Topping 'the Yorkshire Matterhorn' and taking in the views.
Option 2 - Captain Cook's Monument
Distance: 7 miles (11km)
Total ascent: 1,000 feet (300m)
In Summary: Follow the Cleveland Way to the magnificent viewpoint at Captain James Cook’s monument; we then descend to the foot of Roseberry Topping and on to the village of Great Ayton.
Highlight: Walk in the footsteps of Captain James Cook who grew up in the village of Great Ayton. There may be time to visit the Captain Cook Schoolroom Museum at the end of the walk.
Option 3 - Roseberry Topping & Great Ayton
Distance: 8½ miles (14km)
Ascent: 1,300 feet (400m)
In Summary: Walk along the escarpment of the North York Moors. Our route ascends from near Guisborough to the summit of Roseberry Topping, then continues to the equally impressive viewpoint at Captain Cook's Monument and Great Ayton.
Highlight: The distinctively shaped summit of Roseberry Topping - the Yorkshire Matterhorn - dominates the local skyline.
Option 4 - Cleveland Way Circuit
Distance: 10 miles (16km)
Ascent: 1,700 feet (520m)
In Summary: From Great Ayton ascend past Cliff Rigg quarry through mixed woodland to reach the summit of Roseberry Topping, then continue along the Cleveland Way to visit Captain Cook’s Monument before returning to Great Ayton.
Highlight: Soak up the sweeping panorama over Teesside and the surrounding countryside; a great contrast of natural and man-made landscapes.
Option 1 - Ravenscar to Robin Hood's Bay
Distance: 3½ miles (6km)
Total ascent: 400 feet (120m)
In Summary Starting at Ravenscar we follow the Cleveland Way along the sweep of the coastline to the smuggling village of Robin Hood’s Bay. Explore the beach, rock pools and look for fossils. Returning to Larpool Hall, there’ll be time for games in the garden.
Highlight: Cracking rocks on the beach to find fossils.
Option 2 - Hawsker to Whitby
Distance: 7 miles (11km)
Ascent: 1,100 feet (360m)
In Summary: After time exploring Robin Hood’s Bay, our coach takes us to the village of Hawsker. A track from here joins the coastal path which we follow to Whitby. We'll pass the iconic ruins of the Abbey, before descending the steps to the harbour.
Highlight: The ruins of Whitby Abbey stand prominently on the headland above the harbour. Discover how this dramatic setting inspired Bram Stoker's gothic novel Dracula.
Option 3 - Robin Hood's Bay to Whitby
Distance: 8½ miles (14km)
Ascent: 1,800 feet (560m)
In Summary: Follow the glorious coast path from Robin Hood's Bay back to Whitby. We'll round the first headland then head towards the landmark of Whitby Abbey.
Highlight: The beach below Whitby's East Cliff is a good spot to look for fossils, and jet. In the nearby shops you can see how craftsmen have carved this into jewellery and ornaments.
Option 4 - Ravenscar to Whitby
Distance: 11½ miles (18.5km)
Ascent: 2,000 feet (620m)
In Summary: A glorious coastal walk starting high on the headland at Ravenscar. We'll initially head to Boggle Hole and the quaint fishing village of Robin Hood's Bay, before rounding the headland and continuing along the coast to Whitby.
Highlight: We'll descend the famous 199 steps from Whitby Abbey and enjoy the classic view over the bustling harbour.
Option 1 - Castleton to Danby
Distance: 3 miles (4.5km)
Ascent: 400 feet (120m)
In Summary: Starting in the village of Castleton we join the Esk Valley Way through Danby Park before ending our walk at The Moors Centre at Danby Lodge.
Highlight: Take time to explore the Moors Centre and learn more about the National Park.
Option 2 - Castleton Rigg to Danby
Distance: 6 miles (10km)
Ascent: 700 feet (220m)
In Summary: Starting high on Castleton Rigg. We then descend along the Rigg, following field and moorland paths to visit Danby Castle, home of Katherine Parr, before crossing the Esk Valley railway to arrive at the Moors Centre.
Highlight: The Moors Centre has excellent interpretive displays about the national park, and a rolling programme of exhibitions by local artists.
Option 3 - Danby Rigg
Distance: 9½ miles (15.5km)
Ascent: 1,550 feet (480m)
In Summary: From Castleton we make our way across fields and Danby Rigg to reach Little Fryup Dale. We continue via Danby Crag before crossing the River Esk to arrive at the pretty village of Houlsyke. After a short, sharp ascent will bring us to a quiet road and track from where we will enjoy splendid views of the Esk Valley before descending to The Moors Centre.
Highlight: Look out for the standing stones, cairns and long barrows on Danby Rigg - evidence of human settlement dating back to the Bronze Age.
Option 4 - Atop the Moors
Distance: 10 miles (16.5km)
Ascent: 1,800 feet (540m)
In Summary Explore the moors above the Esk Valley. From Castleton we will take in Westerdale Moor, Castleton Rigg punctuated by tranquil green valleys, we then follow Danby Dale back to the Moors Centre.
Highlight: Enjoy sweeping views from the top of the moors over the national park, and down the Esk Valley towards Whitby.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home.
Larpool Hall
Escape to Whitby, whose handsome harbour and medieval streets are famously the setting for Bram Stoker’s Dracula and home to the world’s best fish and chips, for a stay in Larpool Hall. This imposing Grade II listed Georgian mansion has been part of the town for hundreds of years and has evolved to offer an updated take on traditional hospitality. The Hall retains its original grandeur and styling, while offering guests the perfect mix of contemporary comforts to deliver a large amount of atmosphere and character. Sweep up the magnificent staircase, marvel at the impressive fireplaces, watch through the large picture windows and feel yourself transported. With 29 rooms, 14 acres of attractive grounds and views over the Esk Valley, you couldn’t be better placed. Step out to explore the coast, Captain Cook country or walk on the Cleveland Way. Discover Robin Hood’s Bay and hunt for fossils or head deep into the North York Moors for a contrasting landscape carpeted in sweetly scented heather.
Rooms
Tea & coffee-making facilities, TV, Hairdryer, Toiletries, Wi-Fi
Stay in one of the Hall’s smartly presented rooms, where contemporary design touches complement the original architecture and features. With 29 bedrooms, Larpool Hall has plenty of space and there’s a range of Classic, Premium and Superior Rooms to choose from. Choose the very spacious Room 15 on the ground floor for its lemon and grey styling, super-comfy sofa in front of a large fireplace and views across the Esk Valley. Climb to Room 2 on the first floor for similarly expansive vistas from the front of the house, or settle in under the eaves and exposed beams of beautiful Room 30 on the second floor of the house.
All ‘Classic’ rooms are ensuite and furnished to a high standard. There are also several ‘Premium’ and ‘Superior' Rooms that are either larger or have a desirable view, a more luxurious mattress and larger television – upgrade your stay for just an extra £15-25 per person per night. You can choose a specific room for an extra £30 per room, subject to availability. Upgrade supplements still apply.
Facilities
Free Wi-Fi, boot room and drying room, extensive garden, multi-purpose activity room, three lounges, library and board games to borrow
After a day exploring the tight and twisty streets of Whitby or the windswept headlands and smugglers’ haunts of the Yorkshire coast, come back to the house and its specially tailored walkers’ facilities. Relax outside in the pretty courtyard or stroll the 14 acres of grounds and gardens with their manicured lawns and mature trees. Grab a well-thumbed copy of Dracula and hole up in the lounge, or join fellow guests in the large ballroom with its comfy seating and central dance floor to discuss your own adventures. The small, sociable bar provides another great space in which to relax.
Food & Drink
As at all our country houses, holidays are full board, from afternoon tea served as a welcome treat through that evening’s meal to a hearty breakfast on the day of departure. Food at Larpool Hall is varied with a strong emphasis on the use of seasonal British produce. Our experienced chefs create each dish using only the freshest ingredients and, when in season, use home grown herbs and vegetables taken from our own gardens to give a true taste of the local area.
Accessibility
For accessibility and assistance information, please contact our expert team on 020 3974 8865 or view the accessibility information online for Larpool Hall
Getting to Larpool Hall
Find out more about this location including travel details and room types.
More InformationEssential Information
Suggested Kit List
- a rucksack,
- a waterproof jacket
- waterproof over trousers,
- a spare jumper or fleece,
- sun protection cream,
- a water bottle (at least 1 litre),
- some spare high-energy food such as a chocolate bar
- a small torch
- first aid kit – your leader’s first aid kit doesn’t contain any medication or blister kits (such as Compeed).
(in spring, autumn and winter)
- a hat and gloves (Britainis famous for its changeable weather after all!)
- You might find walking poles useful, particularly for descents (the kids usually find their own big stick en route!).
- thermos flask for a hot drink
- sun hat
- towel for paddling on hot days
Guest Reviews
All holidays are subject to availability. Prices are subject to change.
Prices based on two people sharing. Supplements may apply.
Non-member fee: £30 per person.
Holiday Prices
| Date (Start - End) | Nights | Itinerary | Price | Status | Trip Notes | Book | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | |||||||
|
25 Jul -
29 Jul 2022
|
4 | Guided Family Walks Verison 1 | £649 | Trip Notes | Enquire | ||
|
08 Aug -
12 Aug 2022
|
4 | Guided Family Walks Verison 1 | £519 | Trip Notes | Enquire | ||
Important Information
Maximum 3 free child places under 11 years per full paying adult price on UK country house stays.
Family rooms are subject to availability. Sole occupancy charges may apply.
Children under 11 go free
Children 11-17 years on 4-night breaks £59pp
All children's rates are based on sharing a bedroom with one or more adults.
Children under 14 must be accompanied by a responsible adult on all walks, though this need not be a parent or guardian
4 nights from £519pp
Under 11s Go Free
...or call 020 3974 8865
For group bookings of 10+ people click here
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