THINGS TO DO
NATURE WALK
West Cawthorne is set within 26 acres of the beautiful North Yorkshire countryside. Since the beginning of the farm's restoration we have embarked on a rewilding project that’s expanded the natural habitat of a number of species, including bats, badgers and buzzards.
There is an abundance of wildlife on display at all times of day, we would invite you to explore this yourself and take the nature walk through the fields. Mown paths are there to guide you round this 1km trail. Watch out for the barn owls at dusk swooping down in to the field!
STARGAZING
Being located on top of a hill West Cawthorne guests can enjoy the huge big skies above and the views are incredible in the day. On a clear, sunny day you can see for miles across the Vale without any obstruction.
At night, there is also the opportunity to see the dark sky panorama and it really is something to behold. Being situated so close to the North York Moors National Park, an International Dark Sky Reserve, we are uniquely located to take advantage of this natural wonder.
We provide binoculars in every property so the opportunity to stargaze is available to all guests.
PETANQUE AREA
West Cawthorne is lucky enough to have its own little slice of the Mediterranean, with a Petanque area available for guests to gather around and play with family & friends. Relax with a drink whilst the sun sets & enjoy some friendly competition!
All properties are provided with their own set of boules.
West Cawthorne Entrance Cabin
West Cawthorne Entrance Cabin
FURTHER AFIELD
Should you want to explore further afield here are some of our best recommendations for a good day out:
EXPLORE
There is an ancient scheduled monument located on the grounds which was once linked to Cawthorn Roman Camps. Cawthorn Roman Camps is less than 5 minutes walk away just north of the farm. It offers an easy 1-mile trail and takes you to a high vantage point where you can see the beauty of the Moors ahead of you.
Hutton Le Hole is a 4.5 mile drive away over the moors, here you will find a beautiful beck to dip your feet in whilst you enjoy ice cream from one of the many quaint shops here, our favourite is The Old School House where you can grab a tasty deli sandwich.
ADVENTURE
West Cawthorne is perfectly located on the edge of the North York Moors National Park. Walking trails & cycle routes of all abilities can be easily reached. With trails through a mixture of deep forest and dales, or across rugged moorland to the coast there is something for everyone.
If you’re looking for adventure in the Heart of the Moors, a good recommendation would be the Mallyan Spout waterfall accessed from Goathland. Its a 3-mile circular walk which takes you to the Mallyan Spout where the water cascades over the 70ft ravine to create the most beautiful waterfall. Take care crossing the wet rocks and boulders as they can be slippery underfoot.
Another beautiful spot if you’re heading out for a walk would be the Hole of Horcum accessed via the Whitby Road from Pickering. On this 5-mile scenic walk, you can enjoy the dramatic panoramic views and follow the track to Levisham Moor through to the rocky ravine of Dundale Griff.
FOR LITTLE ONES
If you're visiting with kids there is plenty to do to keep them entertained in the local area. You could spend the day at Castle Howard where the adventure playground at Skelf Island will keep them occupied for hours.
Piglets Adventure Farm is also great for kids of all ages to enjoy with animals, play parks & numerous cafes to explore.
This recommendation is truly for all ages, North Yorkshire Water Park at the beautiful Wykeham Lakes offers a range of watersport activities with inflatable structures, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, wakeboarding, open-water swimming and pedalo hire as well as a climbing wall & 250m long zipwire. It has a cafe too where you can enjoy a freshly made pizza in between activities.
A little closer to home, located in Pickering, is Cedar Barn Farmshop with delicious food, wonderful play area & PYO fruit & veg during the summer months. There's even a train for the little ones to ride!
BEACH
If you’re looking for some time near the beach, our favourite is Sandsend. You won’t find any busy arcades here, all you’ll find is a long stretch of beautiful, peaceful coastline and the best fish and chips you’ve ever had, at Fish Cottage.
Cayton Bay is another favourite, accessed via a steep long winding path you are greeted with the most beautiful stretch of coastline. Head towards Scarborough on the A170 to reach it.
FOODIE
You could also drive 20 minutes to Malton, it’s not surprising it’s named The Food Capital of Yorkshire with dozens of restaurants and delis to choose from. Sample the delicious ice cream and macarons from The Talbot Yard or hop across the road to The Talbot, a 17th Century Coaching Inn with the most fantastic seasonal menu to dine from.
Below we have listed some of our favourite places to eat and their contact information to book.
OUR FAVOURITE
PLACES TO EAT
Graze on the Green, Rosedale (for the best cake!)
01751 417468
Lockton Tea Rooms, Lockton
01751 460467
The Blacksmiths Arm, Lastingham
01751 417247
Fish Cottage, Sandsend
01947 899342
The Homestead Kitchen, Goathland
01947 896191
The Star Inn, Harome
01439 770397
Fox & Hounds Country Inn, Sinnington
01751 431577
The Pheasant Hotel, Harome
01439 771241
Mannion & Co, Helmsley
01439 770044
Bantam, Helmsley
01439 770479
THINGS TO DO AT WEST CAWTHORNE