Christmas Markets & Winter Walking in the North York Moors
Add an extra sprinkling of magic to your winter. Our Christmas Markets & Winter Walking breaks combine a choice of guided walks in the North York Moors with visits to some of the best festive experiences in Britain.
What you’ll love
- Exploring the North York Moors in winter
- A choice of guided walks with our experienced HF Holidays Leaders
- Admiring York Minster in its full festive splendour
- Christmas shopping at York’s festive markets
- Staying at Larpool Hall, our country house in Whitby
What’s included
- Entry to York Minster
- 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.
Gallery
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.
Start the day with a guided tour of York Minster, a true city landmark steeped in centuries of history. In the afternoon, there will be time for you to independently explore York city centre and its famous Christmas markets.
Choose one of three guided walks that explore the stunning North York Moors. For maximum flexibility, all walks begin and end on the doorstep of our country houses. Without need for transport, leaders can adjust walk times to suit weather windows and there’s no need to call time at the café or pub to rush back for a coach.
Option 1 - Sneaton and Stainsacre
Distance: 7½ miles (11.5km)
Ascent: 750 feet (240m)
In summary: We make our way to Ruswarp then ascend, with great views as far as Whitby Abbey, to the village of Sneaton. Our return takes us via the village of Stainsacre.
Highlight: Check out the award winning ice cream maker in the village of Sneaton.
Option 2 - Iburndale & Ugglebarnby
Distance: 9 miles (15km)
Ascent: 1,050 feet (320m)
In summary: We follow the Esk valley to Sleights before ascending through Iburndale to the delightfully named Ugglebarnby then on to Sneaton and Stainsacre.
Highlight: Walk through pretty villages and enjoy lovely riverside vistas.
Option 3 - Ugglebarnby, Rigg Mill & Stainsacre
Distance: 11½ miles (18km)
Ascent: 1,200 feet (360m)
In summary: On this lovely route, we walk along the Esk valley to Sleights then beside lovely Iburndale Beck before ascending to Ugglebarnby. Our return journey takes us via the site of a disused water mill once belonging to Whitby Abbey.
Highlight: A lovely leg stretcher through beautiful countryside taking in quaint villages along the 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.
For sightseeing
Much of your day will be spent on your feet at a venue, so we recommend bringing sturdy shoes. There may also be stairs to climb, uneven surfaces (cobbles or rocky paths), or wet and muddy paths as expected at this time of year.
For walking
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, preferably insulated
- Comfortable clothing (jeans & waterproof capes are not suitable)
- Waterproof overtrousers
- Gloves and a warm hat (or sunhat)
- Rucksack
- Water bottle (at least 1 litre capacity)
- A small torch
- Sunscreen
- Mobile phone and portable charger
- Watch
- 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
- Spare pair of socks
- Energy snacks
- Waterproof pouch for valuables
- Rubbish bag (remember to always leave no trace)
- Wallet/purse
Optional extras
- Walking poles, useful for descents
- Flask for hot drinks
- Durable lunch box
- Gaiters
- Blister kit
- Waterproof rucksack liner
- Head torch
- GPS device
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 | ||||||||
21 Nov - 24 Nov 2025 3 nights |
Itinerary Single from £459 Double from £459 pp |
from £459 pp |
from £459 |
Trip Notes
|
Book Now | |||
28 Nov - 01 Dec 2025 3 nights |
Itinerary Single from £459 Double from £459 pp |
from £459 pp |
from £459 |
Trip Notes
|
Book Now |
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