The North Yorkshire Moors are fabulous at any time of year. The period from November to March is probably our favourite. It's true that the weather is somewhat, well, changeable but there are fewer people around and the Moors really take on a character of their own at this time of year. With all our lives getting busier it's never been more important to take a break and reconnect with nature every now and again. The North Yorkshire Moors is the perfect place to explore and relax.
There is a lot to do in the area - so much that sometimes it's difficult to know where to start. How do you choose what include if you only have a couple of days or a long weekend? We've picked from some of our favourite things in this quick-fire guide of what to do in 3, 4 or 5 days at Lock Cottage.
A weekend/3 days
Day 1: Do the 1-mile walk from Lockton to Levisham and have a delicious lunch at The Horseshoe Inn.
If you're feeling energetic, walk the extra 1.5 miles down to Levisham station and then hike back to Lock Cottage for a cosy evening in.
Day 2: Explore the trails around Dalby Forest. You can spend a couple of hours there or make a full day of it - take a picnic or grab a bite to eat at the visitor centre. Use our guest pass for free parking.
Day 3: Head out to the charming village of Hutton le Hole and pop in to the Ryedale Folk Museum to learn a bit about North Yorkshire history before heading home.
Long weekend/4 days
Day 1: Start your weekend in Pickering. Walk up to the castle, have lunch at one of the cafés or tearooms and wander round the independent shops.
Day 2: Head out to the Hole of Horcum for a good walk (5-mile loop) with some spectacular views.
Day 3: Visit the North Yorkshire Moors Railway - start in Pickering and get the train up to Grosmont. If the trains aren't running (timetables are limited over the winter season), drive up to Goathland and visit 'Hogsmeade' station.
Day 4: Blow the cobwebs away with a day at the coast - walk the 199 steps up to Whitby Abbey, take in the magnificent views, explore the winding streets and taste some of the best fish and chips in the country.
Short break/5 days
Day 1: Start your trip gently - drop into Lockton Tearooms and Gallery for lunch or tea and cake before settling in at the cottage.
Day 2: Walk out of Lockton to the Bridestones - stunning natural rock formations in the heart of the national park.
Day 3: Go Ape at Dalby Forest - challenge yourself on the high ropes (the highest point is 35m!). If you don't have a head for heights explore the walking or cycle trails instead.
Day 4: Check out Malton, the food capital of North Yorkshire. Foodies will be spoilt for choice for a spot to lunch. Wander round the independent shops and find some unique Christmas gifts!
Day 5: East or West? Go coastwards to take in the traditional British seaside town of Scarborough or head inland to Rievaulx Abbey to soak up some of the region's history.
Whatever you choose to do always make sure you have appropriate clothing and footwear, especially for walking. When walking always take a map - there are lots of different trails and there's not always a phone signal. We recommend you check websites for opening times and availability and book ahead where necessary. What else? Oh yes, have fun!
Lock Cottage is a self-catering holiday home sleeping 6, situated in the heart of the North Yorkshire Moors National Park. Check availability, find out more about the cottage and book your stay here.
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