7 Night North York Moors Gentle Guided Walking Holiday
A picturesque landscape, the North York Moors is treasured for its heather moorland, deep valleys, unspoilt woodlands, and quaint fishing villages. Ideal for those wanting to discover this region’s beauty at a more relaxed pace, our gentle guided walking holiday rewards with breathtaking trails, big-name historic attractions, comfortable accommodation, and more. You’ll also enjoy a choice of up to three different-grade daily walks, the shortest of which is from just three miles.
What you’ll love
- Exploring this stunning national park at a relaxed pace
- The option to climb Roseberry Topping
- Learning more about the region’s wildlife and cultural heritage
- Spending time with like-minded people in the great outdoors
- Visiting the timeless fishing village of Staithes
- Staying at Larpool Hall, our Grade II-listed country house
What’s included
- Comfortable en-suite accommodation in our country house
- Cream tea on arrival day
- Cooked or continental breakfast every morning
- Daily packed lunches
- Three-course evening meals, plus tea & coffee
- Guided walking with experienced HF Holidays Leaders
- Choice of up to three guided walks (on walking days)
- All transport to and from walks where necessary
- Easy-to-follow routes, maps, and information in our Discovery Point if you want to explore independently
Trip Notes
Easy to download as a PDF, our trip notes provide detailed information for every holiday. Please click below to find the trip notes for your departure date.
All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take alternative routes or adapt the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.
Enjoy a complimentary cream tea on arrival, served from 4.30pm.
Option 1 - Stokesley To Great Ayton
Distance: 3½ miles (6km)
Ascent: 100 feet (40m)
In summary: Walk from the elegant market town of Stokesley heading along the banks of the picturesque River Leven to the village of Great Ayton, childhood home of Captain James Cook.
Highlight: Fantastic Farmer’s market in Stokesley, then there will be time to explore Great Ayton in the afternoon and learn about its famous son – Captain James Cook.
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: 9.5 miles (15.5km)
Ascent: 1,700 feet (520m)
In summary: Walk along the escarpment of the North York Moors. Our route ascends from near Guisborough over the moors to the impressive viewpoint at Captain Cook's Monument before ascending to the summit of Roseberry Topping and ending in Great Ayton.
Highlight: The distinctively shaped summit of Roseberry Topping - the Yorkshire Matterhorn - dominates the local skyline.
Option 1 - Goathland to Grosmont
Distance: 4 miles (6km)
Ascent: 150 feet (40m)
In summary: From Goathland we follow the Esk Valley through Beck Hole and on to Grosmont.
Highlight: Goathland is the setting of the village of Aidensfield in the TV series Heartbeat then on to Grosmont station, why not take a look around the impressive engine sheds.
Option 2 - Goathland & Grosmont Circuit
Distance: 7 miles (11km)
Ascent: 950 feet (280m)
In summary: From Goathland station we cross moorland & farmland to reach Grosmont. Our return route follows the old railway trail between the two villages.
Highlight: Today's walks centre on the village of Goathland - made famous as the setting for the TV series Heartbeat. You may also recognise Goathland station from its role in the Harry Potter films.
Option 3 - Goathland Circuit
Distance: 8½ miles (13.5km)
Ascent: 950 feet (280m)
In summary: From Goathland, a gentle descent along the old railway track takes us to Beck Hole. Woodland and field paths will take us to Wheeldale Beck from where we make our way across a lovely moorland path via a secluded tarn to Goathland church. From there, feld paths & more of the old railway track bring us back to Goathland.
Highlight: A stretch of walking along a moorland edge give views of the magnificent scenery in the heart of the National Park.
Discover more about Larpool Hall and the local area for ideas on how to make the most of your free day.
Option 1 - Boulby Cliffs to Staithes
Distance: 4 miles (6km)
Ascent: 340 feet (10m)
In summary: Starting from Easington we walk to the coast and follow the Cleveland way to Boulby and then descend to Staithes.
Highlight: Exploring the village of Staithes, which was once one of the largest fishing ports in the North East
Option 2 - Runswick Bay to Sandsend
Distance: 6 miles (9.5km)
Total ascent: 1,000 feet (300m)
In summary: Enjoy a glorious section of the Yorkshire coast between Runswick Bay and Sandsend. We start along the beach, then ascend onto the cliff-top path which takes us around the headland at Kettleness and on to Sandsend.
Highlight: There's time to explore Staithes before rejoining the coach to start our walk at Runswick Bay. Staithes is a timeless fishing village with cobbled streets and historic buildings.
Option 3 - Staithes to Sandsend
Distance: 9½ miles (15.5km)
Ascent: 1,750 feet (540m)
In summary: Starting from Staithes we follow the impressive cliff top section of the coast to Runswick Bay. Our walk continues along the Cleveland Way to Kettleness and Sandsend.
Highlight: Look out for the once-thriving harbour at Port Mulgrave, built in the 1850s to transport iron ore. You can see the remains of the 1 mile tunnel that connected the mine to the 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 1 - Pannett Park and Whitby
Distance: 4 miles (6.5km)
Ascent: 200 feet (60m)
In summary: A pleasant walk taking us from Larpool house to Pannett park and then on to Whitby town
Highlight: Exploring Whitby
Option 2 - Robin Hood, Little John and the Cleveland Way
Distance: 7 miles (11.5km)
Ascent: 1,000 feet (300m)
In summary: We begin following the cinder track and then farmland, passing a site commemorating a visit to Whitby by famous outlaws, then take a fabulous cliff top walk along part of the Cleveland Way back to Whitby.
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 - Cinder Track to the Coast and Cliffs of Whitby
Distance: 9 miles (14km)
Ascent: 1,400 feet (440m)
In summary: The cinder track takes us South East before returning to Whitby using part of both the Coast to Coast walk and the Cleveland Way.
Highlight: Fabulous coastal views along the Cleveland Way.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home.
Larpool Hall
Given that the Yorkshire coast never loses its capacity to enchant, it’s easy to see the appeal of this Grade II-listed house overlooking the Esk Valley and the North Sea. The setting is perfect; in the former fishing town of Whitby that’s best known for its fish and chips, quaint harbour, and Dracula connections (Irish author Bram Stoker drew his inspiration for his Gothic novel when holidaying here in 1890). You’ll have all the sightseeing greats within walking or driving distance, including the 13th century Whitby Abbey, the wonderful Whitby Sands, and the 199 Steps leading up to the old St. Mary’s Church (it’s customary to count them as you climb). Not only are the North York Moors right on your doorstep, but the walk along Cleveland Way to Robin Hood’s Bay is rather special, too.
Rooms
Designed with your comfort in mind, Larpool Hall has 29 well-appointed guest rooms available in three categories: Classic, Premium, and Superior.
Classic Rooms are comfortable en-suite guest rooms, ideal for a peaceful night's sleep. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, and shower gel), and a TV.
Premium Rooms are more spacious en-suite guest rooms*. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, body lotion, shower gel), and a 32-inch TV. Extras include bathrobes, slippers, and comfortable mattresses.
Superior Rooms are even more spacious en-suite guest rooms offering upgraded views of the surroundings*. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, body lotion, shower gel), and a 32-inch TV. Extras include bathrobes, slippers, and comfortable mattresses.
We love: The spacious Room 15 on the ground floor for its lovely décor, comfy sofa, large fireplace, and views across the Esk Valley. Room 2 on the first floor offers fabulous views while Room 30 on the second floor has eaves and exposed beams.
The Choose Your Room service is available at our UK country houses, allowing you the option of choosing and confirming a specific room for an extra charge of £30 per room. This is subject to availability. Upgrade supplements apply.
Check in & check out
You are welcome to check in from 4:00pm at the earliest. On arrival, you’ll enjoy a complimentary cream tea and get to meet your fellow guests, our HF Holidays Leaders, and the rest of the friendly team.
On the day of departure, we kindly ask all guests to check out by 10:00am. You’ll be asked to settle your bill prior to leaving. You may, of course, make a charitable donation to our HF Holidays Pathways Fund if you wish. Please note that we only accept card payments.
Room supplements
| Superior | Premium single | Premium double/twin | Choose your room |
| £25 pppn | £20 pppn | £20 pppn | £30 per room |
*Views and layout reflect each properties unique character and location
About your stay
A warm welcome
We want you to feel comfortable from the moment you arrive. You’ll find a welcome pack in your room with guest registration forms, menus, order forms for dinners and picnic lunches, the Wi-Fi password, and the front door code. Our houses are locked at night, so we recommend noting the Duty Manager’s number on arrival in case of an emergency (or getting locked out).
Evening entertainment
While evening entertainment varies from house to house, the HF Holidays Big Pub Quiz held after dinner on Wednesdays is a weekly staple. Your HF Holidays Leader may be around for tips on guided and self-guided walking routes as well as visit-worthy local attractions.
Walks talks
Our HF Holidays Leaders host guided walking information briefings before dinner on arrival days. This is followed by a group Walks Talk for information on the following day’s walking delights (held before dinner every evening). Self-guided walking guests are, of course, welcome.
The walking day
Prior to setting off on walks, your HF Holidays Leader will run you through a short safety briefing. There’s also an up-to-date weather forecast on display at the house to ensure you have appropriate clothing and footwear. If you choose to do your own walks or are on a self-guided walking holiday, we ask that you please complete an Independent Walker Card each day. These can be found near the Discovery Point in the house.
Food & drink
Led by experienced chefs, we serve a wide range of dishes made with fresh and seasonal ingredients. We always aim to source the best produce available and use home-grown herbs and vegetables from our own gardens whenever possible. Additionally, we have a licensed bar with beers, soft drinks, and a superb selection of spirits. Full-board comes as standard and includes a cream tea on arrival and a hearty breakfast on departure day.
HF Holidays understands the importance of managing allergens effectively to ensure food is safe for guests with food allergies. Whilst we are always able to confidently inform guests which allergens are present in our ingredients and dishes, we are unable to guarantee absolute freedom from the 14 main allergens in our kitchens. Vegetarian and vegan menu choices are available. If you have allergies, food intolerances, or any special dietary requirements, please inform our reservation team at the time of booking.
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 InformationAddress
Larpool Hall
Larpool Drive
Whitby
North Yorkshire YO22 4ND
Tel: +44 (0)1947 602737
By train
The nearest station is Whitby.
However, travelling to Scarborough station may be more convenient. Check National Rail for routes and journey times.
By taxi
The two-mile journey from Whitby station takes approximately 10 minutes.
From Scarborough train station, it’s a 21-mile journey, taking 40 minutes.
For pricing, please contact Whitby Taxis directly.
Whitby Taxis
You can pre-book a taxi from our recommended company, Abbey Taxis*. We recommend booking your taxi at least seven days in advance by contacting:
Tel: +44 (0)1947 601212
Email: abbeytaxiswhitby@gmail.com
A return journey can be arranged on your behalf by the HF Holidays House Manager at Larpool Hall.
*Whitby Taxis is not owned or managed by HF Holidays.
By bus
The 93 and 94 buses run regularly between Scarborough station and Whitby taking around an hour. As you approach Whitby, alight by the Larpool Lane Industrial Estate. From here it’s an 800m walk up Larpool Lane to Larpool Hall. Please note that Larpool Hall's driveway is not lit.
Check Traveline for up-to-date bus information.
By car
There’s a free car park at Larpool Hall if you decide to drive.
The A171 from Teesside and the A169 from Pickering converge at a roundabout about two miles outside Whitby.
After this roundabout and as you approach Whitby, cross another roundabout then turn right at the traffic lights signposted Scarborough. Cross over the River Esk, then immediately turn right into Larpool Lane. Towards the top of the hill, turn into Larpool Drive – you'll see Larpool Hall at the end of this road.
By air
The nearest airport is Leeds Bradford Airport.
Catch the airport bus to Leeds where there are connecting trains to Scarborough taking about 90 minutes.
There’s also Manchester Airport, which is served by a range of long-haul flights. From here, there are trains every hour to Scarborough with one change at Manchester Piccadilly or York. Allow around three hours to reach Scarborough.
Flying to London Heathrow airport is another option but it’ll take you around 4.5 hours to reach Scarborough. From Heathrow first take the Piccadilly line to London Kings Cross station, then connect to Scarborough (with one change at York).
Check National Rail for train information.
The UK has a famously unpredictable climate so it's best to be prepared for weather that’s sunny one minute and raining the next. To make it easier, here’s a list of items you should consider packing.
Essentials
- Suitable footwear such as waterproof walking boots that provide ankle support and good grip
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Comfortable clothing (jeans & waterproof capes are not suitable)
- Mid-layer(s) to keep you warm. Fleeces make a good choice
- Waterproof overtrousers
- Gloves and a warm hat
- Rucksack with waterproof liner
- Flask for hot drinks
- Water bottle (at least 1 litre capacity)
- Sunscreen
- UV sunglasses
Recommended
- Several base layers (long-sleeve or short-sleeve)
- Cushioned walking socks to avoid blisters
- First aid kit, including plasters and insect repellent
- Sit mat
- Waterproof pouch for valuables
- Rubbish bag (remember to always leave no trace)
- Wallet/purse
- Camera
- First-aid kit
Larpool Hall Calendar
- Guided Walking
- Self-Guided Walking
- Special Interests
- Unavailable to Book
Guest reviews
All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.
Non-member fee: £30 per person.
All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take an alternative route, or vary the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.
Holiday prices
| Date (Start - End) | Itinerary | Double / Twin Room | Single Room | Notes / Offers | Trip Notes | Book | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | ||||||||
|
18 Apr - 25 Apr 2025 7 nights |
Gentle Walks
Single Call to Enquire
Double from £1,089 £1,029 pp |
from £1,089 £1,029 pp |
Call to Enquire | Save £60 Per Person |
Trip Notes
|
Book Now | ||
|
19 Sep - 26 Sep 2025 7 nights |
Gentle Walks Single from £1,379 £1,289 Double from £1,239 £1,149 pp |
from £1,239 £1,149 pp |
from £1,379 £1,289 |
Save £90 Per Person |
Trip Notes
|
Book Now | ||
7 nights
from
£1,089pp
£1,029pp
On offer
or call 020 3974 8865
161Kg of CO₂e
Average carbon footprint per person Learn More
