Helmsley, located in North Yorkshire, is a charming market town that makes for an ideal weekend destination and can be reached in under two hours by car from Greater Manchester
Tucked away in the Yorkshire Dales lies a stunning market town that ‘everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime’.
Helmsley, found in North Yorkshire, serves as the perfect weekend getaway and is less than two hours’ drive from Greater Manchester.
Close to Pickering and Thirsk, the region is home to countless beautiful walking trails, with the magnificent Rievaulx Abbey merely a short stroll away.
The Cistercian abbey, built around 1130, was amongst England’s most important abbeys until its seizure in 1538 during the Dissolution of the Monasteries.
Today, the exceptionally well-preserved ruins stand as a popular tourist attraction that opens its doors all year round, reports the Manchester Evening News.
The town is also home to Helmsley Castle, described by English Heritage as a “formidable medieval fortress, an Elizabethan mansion, a besieged Civil War stronghold and a Georgian romantic ruin.”
The heritage organisation added: “The castle’s impressive stonework defences include the tall, keep-like east tower, which still dominates Helmsley”.
Should the castle not prove enthralling enough, it’s encircled by sweeping parkland brimming with wildflowers and wildlife to delight visitors.
English Heritage added: “The castle’s west range was converted into an Elizabethan mansion, and some of its fine timber panelling and plasterwork has been conserved. Displays explore life in the castle through five centuries of war and peace.”
Just a stone’s throw away, you’ll find a meticulously kept walled garden, brimming with colourful flower beds and pristine green lawns, adorned with floral arches and birds of prey displays.
The bustling high street is home to an array of independent shops and boutiques, including the charming Holme Lea Country Interiors, as well as cosy cafés, bakeries, delis, pubs and restaurants.
For those who enjoy cycling, there are plenty of routes through the North York Moors National Park, essentially Helmsley’s extended backyard.
Visit Yorkshire said: “The Discovery Trail showcases local history on an easy loop, while cyclists can enjoy routes like the Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey ride and the challenging North York Moors Cycleway, passing through heather landscapes and hidden valleys on quieter roads.
“One of the highlights is the Cleveland Way, a renowned national trail that starts in Helmsley.”
Visit North Yorkshire added: “One of North Yorkshire’s most popular market towns (officially – it won the Great British High Street Award’s best market town category), Helmsley is somewhere everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime.
“Although if you go once, you are likely to go back time and time again -a visit to this picturesque place, which has so much going on, feels like a breath of fresh air.”