There is a rich history of architecture within easy reach of Hillside Caravan Park, beautiful buildings, even those which are stood in ruined form, that have stood for centuries and still dominate the landscape today. Whilst some can be explored internally for an entrance fee, many can be admired for free. It’s worth remembering too that their real beauty can often best be enjoyed as part of an exhilarating walk across surrounding moorland.
Why not group several destinations together for a fabulous day out, Barnard Castle, Egglestone Abbey, Richmond and Easby Abbey flow together well, all providing wonderful views from pleasant riverside walking, along with lots of refreshment opportunities too, especially in the market towns of Richmond and Barnard Castle. Rievaulx Abbey and Helmsley are ideally located for a combined day out, taking in the Cleveland Way to incorporate into a scenic walk that takes in both of these locations, Helmsley then offers lots of choice of lovely cafes, bakeries or pubs to reward your efforts.
Mount Grace Priory, House, and Gardens, Mount Bank – 10.3 miles
Tucked away at the foot of the Cleveland Hills Mount Grace is the perfect place to get away from it all. Enjoy the lovely walks around the grounds, wander the rooms and hallways in the manor house and tuck into a sandwich at the Café to finish the day off.
Rievaulx Abbey, Helmsley - 12.4 miles
Explore the Abbey ruins, stop by the museum and visit their café. They also have an audio tour and discover 900 years of fascinating history. Learn about the monks in medieval times. Hear how they devoted their lives to spiritual matters yet at the same time established a thriving business to become one of the wealthiest monasteries in Britain.
Byland Abbey, York – 14.3 miles
Inspired the design of church buildings throughout the North, a truly outstanding example of early gothic architecture, Byland Abbey inspired the design of the famous York Minister rose window.
Helmsley Castle, Helmsley – 19.3 miles
A must see for any visitors to the picturesque market town of Helmsley in the North York Moors National Park. Why not also visit Rievaulx abbey and Byland Abbey nearby – the perfect stop on any family day out, or if you’re out walking or cycling. Discover how the castle evolved over the centuries, from a mighty medieval fortress to a luxurious Tudor mansion, to a Civil War stronghold and a romantic Victorian ruin.
Easby Abbey, Richmond – 21.7 miles
The impressive ruins of Easby Abbey lie in picturesque surroundings by the River Swale. Easby is one of the best-preserved monasteries of the Premonstratensian ‘white canons’, with the magnificent refectory, gatehouse and canons’ dormitory remaining. The parish church within the precinct, which is still in use, contains rare 13th century wall paintings.
Egglestone Abbey, Barnard castle – 34 miles
Walk both sides of the River Tees between the market town of Barnard Castle and Egglestone Abbey,
Richmond Castle, Richmond – 23 miles
Learn all about the castle’s past in the interactive exhibition before taking a peaceful stroll round the secluded Cockpit Garden. The castle’s fun and exciting events programme will give you the perfect chance to enjoy live action events and don’t forget to bring a picnic.
Gisborough Priory, Gisborough – 26.1 miles
The ruins of this priory in the Tess valley are dominated by the dramatic skeleton of the 14th century church’s east end, an outstanding example of the early Gothic architecture. One of the first Augustinian priories to be built in England, Gisborough was founded by the Bruce family, ancestors of Robert the Bruce, King of Scotland. The canons rebuilt their church no fewer than three times, and what survives gives us a tantalising glimpse of the priory’s former riches.
Middleham Castle, Middleham – 26.6 miles
No day out in the Yorkshire Dales would be complete without a visit to Middleham Castle. Once the childhood home of Richard III, you can relive the castle’s illustrious history and unlock the deeds of its great owners. Although roofless, extensive remains of the fortified palace still survive, making Middleham a fascinating castle to explore.
Pickering castle, Pickering – 28.2 miles
Set in the attractive Moors-edge market town of Pickering; discover how this splendid 13th century castle was used throughout the centuries. This tourist attraction in the heart of the North York Moors National Park has been a royal hunting lodge, holiday home and a stud farm by a succession of medieval kings.
Whitby Abbey, Whitby – 47.2 miles
Whitby Abbey has been inspiring visitors for nearly 1500 years – now it’s your turn. Discover stories of saints, poets, and Dracula as you explore soaring gothic ruins and take in the stunning sea views. There’s more to see and do at the abbey than ever before. With fantastic views over the coast, a revamped museum, and wide-open grounds to roam.
Scarborough Castle, Scarborough – 50.1 miles
With its stunning location, fascinating history and panoramic views over the coast, Scarborough Castle is one of North Yorkshire’s finest historic sites. This once-mighty fortress has endured attacks from Vikings, medieval barons, Tudor rebels, and a Parliamentary army during an epic Civil War siege. Today you can explore the castle’s majestic ruins, follow the long curtain wall with its many towers and climb viewing platforms in the Inner Bailey and the 12th-century Great Tower. Set on a 16-acre headland home to wildflowers and wildlife, it’s the perfect place for a family-friendly adventure in the fresh air.
Check out the site below for prices, booking, accessibility and availability. Membership can be quite good value if you are visiting more than one location in a year.
https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/