Places to Visit in Kirkbymoorside

Kirkbymoorside is a charming market town located in North Yorkshire, England, on the edge of the North York Moors National Park. It features a historic market square, a mix of traditional stone buildings, and several local shops and cafes. The town has a rich history, with roots dating back to the medieval period, and it serves as a gateway for exploring the scenic moorland and surrounding countryside!

Places to Visit in Kirkbymoorside North Yorkshire

  • Kirkbymoorside Town Hall in North Yorkshire

    Kirkbymoorside Town Hall

    The Kirkbymoorside Town Hall, also known as the Memorial Hall, has a notable history within the community. It was built in 1879 as a memorial to Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee. The hall served various purposes over the years, including hosting community events, council meetings, and social gatherings.

    The architecture of the Town Hall reflects Victorian style, with its distinctive facade and traditional design elements. It stands as a symbol of civic pride and community spirit in Kirkbymoorside, providing a venue for cultural, educational, and social activities. Today, it continues to be an important part of local life, hosting events ranging from concerts and performances to meetings and exhibitions.

  • Kirkbymoorside Market Cross in North Yorkshire

    Kirkbymoorside Market

    Kirkbymoorside Market is a traditional market held in the town center every Wednesday. It has a long history dating back centuries, with the market charter granted in the 13th century. The market typically features a variety of stalls selling fresh produce, local goods, crafts, clothing, and more.

    Visitors to Kirkbymoorside Market can enjoy a bustling atmosphere and a chance to interact with local vendors. It's a great opportunity to purchase fresh, locally sourced products and unique items. The market also serves as a social hub for the community, bringing together residents and visitors alike.

  • North York Moors National Park in North Yorkshire

    North York Moors

    The North York Moors is a stunning national park located in North Yorkshire, England. The park is characterized by expansive heather moorland, rolling hills, deep valleys (dales), and picturesque villages. It covers an area of 1,436 square kilometers (554 square miles). The moors are home to a variety of wildlife, including birds of prey like the red kite and merlin, as well as rare species such as the northern brown argus butterfly. The heather-covered hillsides provide a colorful spectacle in late summer. Within the park, you can find historical landmarks such as Rievaulx Abbey, a stunning medieval abbey ruin, and Helmsley Castle, a medieval fortress with an impressive history.

  • Kirkbymoorside Golf Club North Yorkshire

    Kirkbymoorside Golf Club

    Kirkbymoorside Golf Club is a scenic 18-hole golf course located near the town of Kirkbymoorside in North Yorkshire, England. Here are some key details about the club:

    The golf club is situated amidst the picturesque North York Moors countryside, offering beautiful views and a tranquil setting.

    s It features an 18-hole, par 69 course that spans a challenging layout with well-manicured fairways and greens. The course is known for its natural beauty and varied terrain, making it enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels.

    The club offers facilities such as a clubhouse with bar and restaurant, pro shop, practice area, and changing rooms. It's a welcoming place for both members and visitors.

    The golf club has a rich history dating back to its founding, providing a longstanding venue for golf enthusiasts in the region.

    Visitors are welcome at Kirkbymoorside Golf Club, although it's advisable to check availability and book tee times in advance, especially during peak times.

    For golfers looking to enjoy a round surrounded by scenic moorland views and a welcoming atmosphere, Kirkbymoorside Golf Club offers a memorable experience in North Yorkshire.

 Kirkbymoorside FAQs

  • Kirkbymoorside, located in North Yorkshire, has a rich history dating back to medieval times. The town's name reflects its Norse and Old English origins, indicating a settlement near a church ("kirk") by the moors. It developed as a market town and was mentioned in the Domesday Book. Over the centuries, it grew around agriculture and trade, with its market charter granted in the 13th century. The town has historic buildings, including inns and churches, and has maintained much of its traditional charm.

  • Kirkbymoorside is in North Yorkshire, England, situated on the edge of the North York Moors National Park. It lies between Helmsley and Pickering, serving as a gateway to the scenic moorlands. You can find it on the A170 Thirsk to Scarborough Road, not far from Helmsley and Pickering.

  • Kirkbymoorside's most popular attractions include:

    1. North York Moors National Park: Ideal for hiking and nature walks.

    2. Ryedale Folk Museum: Offers insights into rural history and culture.

    3. Kirkbymoorside Market: A traditional market held on Wednesdays.

    4. Helmsley Castle and Rievaulx Abbey: Nearby historical sites to explore.

    5. Kirkbymoorside Golf Club: A scenic course for golf enthusiasts.

  • Yes, Kirkbymoorside is dog-friendly. Many local cafes, pubs, and shops welcome dogs, and the surrounding North York Moors National Park offers plenty of walking trails that are great for dogs and their owners. Always check specific locations for any pet policies.

  • Kirkbymoorside has some accessible options for those with limited mobility. The town center is relatively flat, and many shops and cafes accommodate visitors with mobility challenges. However, some areas and older buildings may present difficulties. It's advisable to check specific accessibility details in advance, especially for attractions and accommodations.

Our Review of Kirkbymoorside Based on Our Visit

Kirbymoorside, a picturesque market town and a prominent entrance to the North York Moors National Park, is a vibrant hub of activity and charm. Its fame is largely attributed to its association with the beloved television show 'The Yorkshire Vet', where Peter Wright runs his veterinary practice within this quaint town.

It is also highly renowned for its bustling market, which takes place every Wednesday, drawing crowds from near and far to peruse the variety of goods on offer. Additionally, the town boasts a multitude of charming antique shops that are definitely worth exploring. During our visit in 2023, I had the pleasure of meeting the friendly owners of at least two of these fascinating antique stores, adding a personal touch to our memorable experience.

Unlike neighbouring Helmsley and Pickering, Kirkbymoorside may not offer as many activities, but it compensates with its charm, boasting numerous independent shops and eateries to explore. Positioned as a picturesque beauty spot in North Yorkshire, this town serves as an ideal base for those looking to venture into the North York Moors National Park. Enhance your visit to Kirkbymoorside by including trips to Rosedale Abbey and Hutton le Hole, which is home to the captivating Ryedale Folk Museum. These attractions are conveniently situated close to Kirkbymoorside, allowing you to make the most of your day in the region.

A good time of year to visit is during daffodil season because the surrounding area is well known for its myriads of yellow daffodils in spring, creating a truly spectacular sight to behold. However, for us, we prefer visiting during tulip season, which also offers a similarly spectacular experience with its vibrant colors and captivating beauty.

Yes, we would definitely recommend Kirkbymoorside as a worthwhile place to visit. It is a charming town, especially appealing for those seeking delightful dining experiences. Due to its smaller size, we suggest combining it with another destination for a more comprehensive day out. The surrounding moors boast breathtaking scenery, perfect for leisurely drives and exploration. Rest assured, a visit to Kirkbymoorside is sure to be a delightful experience!

Getting to Kirkbymoorside in North Yorkshire

  • If you are travelling to Kirkbymoorside by car, you may want to take the A170 that runs between Thirsk and Scarborough. Kirkbymoorside is situated between Pickering and Helmsley on this major A road.

    You will need to park at Town Farm Car Park that has 52 places. You can park up to an hour for free between 12pm and 2pm. Otherwise, you can pay £2 per hour (at the time of writing). For up to 3 hours it is currently £3.60 in 2024. Sadly, this car park cannot accommodate coaches and mobile homes.

  • The main bus service in Kirkbymoorside is the regular 128 service operated by East Yorkshire Buses. They travel between Helmsley, Pickering and Scarborough where you can make connections to other services such as the Coastliner that runs between Pickering, York and Leeds.

    Ryedale Community Buses run services from Malton but they tend to be on certain days. At the time of writing the 174 that runs on Monday’s operate from Kirkbymoorside to Pickering but via Hutton Le Hole. In this case, you could use this bus to visit Hutton Le Hole and Kirkbymoorside on the same day.

    The 176 operates on Wednesdays and Saturdays from Malton to Kirkbymoorside that also calls at Hutton Le Hole where the Ryedale Folk Museum resides.

    Please check official websites for up to date information on bus services.

    East Yorkshire Buses

    Ryedale Community Bus Services

  • Sadly, Kirkbymoorside has not had a railway station for some decades so it is very difficult to get here by train. You could however, board a train to Scarborough and use the 128 bus service to Kirkbymoorside along the A170. The bus leaves just outside the railway station.