The only market town in the 554 square miles of the North York Moors National Park, Helmsley is full of history, character and stunning architecture (including 51 listed buildings) making it a great place to visit. Helmsley is where the North York Moors National Park meets the Howardian Hills. It’s where the Cleveland Way meets the Ebor Way and the Inn Way. It’s where the valleys of Bilsdale and Ryedale leave the moorland and meet the flat Vale of Pickering.
The Norman Helmsley Castle, dating back over 900 years, evolved over the centuries, from a mighty medieval fortress to a luxurious Tudor mansion, to a Civil War stronghold and a romantic Victorian ruin. It is open all year round for visitors to enjoy, under the care of English Heritage.
Helmsley has everything you’d expect in a quintessentially English market town, a vibrant market square, independent, specialist shops, excellent places to eat and drink, an imposing castle. It also has a walled garden, bird of prey centre, microbrewery, open air swimming pool, luxury spa, nature reserve, galleries and an arts centre.
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