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    Helmsley - travel guide
    1. Home
    2. Cities
    3. Helmsley
    1. Home
    2. Home
    3. Cities
    4. Helmsley

    Helmsley

    Helmsley is a historic market town on the edge of the North York Moors, known for its medieval castle, independent shops, and cultural events.

    Find tours, hotels, restaurants, and guides in Helmsley

    Things to See and Do

    • Helmsley Castle: visit the extensive ruins and castle grounds maintained by English Heritage.
    • The Walled Garden: Visit restored gardens offering horticultural displays and seasonal events.
    • Helmsley Arts Centre: Attend exhibitions, theatre performances, and live music.
    • The Market Place: Browse the monthly market featuring local produce and crafts.
    • Duncombe Park: Stroll the landscaped grounds of this stately home just south of Helmsley.
    • North York Moors National Park: Access walking and cycling trails starting near the town.
    • St Peter’s Church: View the historic church with architectural features dating back to the 12th century.

    Food and Drink

    • The Black Swan: Traditional pub serving Yorkshire ales and classic British dishes.
    • The Feathers Hotel Restaurant: provides seasonal menus with locally sourced ingredients.
    • Helmsley Brewing Company Taproom: Sample craft beers brewed on-site.
    • The Olive Branch Café: Provides light meals and homemade cakes in a relaxed setting.
    • The Pizza Company: Serves a variety of stone-baked pizzas.
    • Tea on the Steps: A small café known for its afternoon tea and pastries.

    Getting There

    • By Car: Accessible via the A170 road connecting to Thirsk and Scarborough; several public car parks are available.
    • By Bus: Regular services link Helmsley to Pickering, York, and nearby villages.
    • Parking: Town centre car parks include Castle car park and Market Place car park, both within walking distance of key sites.
    • Accessibility: Most public areas and attractions accommodate wheelchair users; some historic sites have limited access due to terrain.
    • Nearest Train Station: Malton railway station, approximately 15 miles away, with bus connections to Helmsley.

    Where to Stay (7)

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    Stone cottages with red tiled roofs and hanging flower baskets along a paved path in a garden courtyard
    Bed & Breakfasts
    Booking.com
    4 Star Rating
    8.5/10
    (438 reviews)
    Stilworth House

    Historic Setting: Stilworth House in Helmsley offers a 4-star bed and breakfast experience within a historic building.

    €133
    per night
    View →
    Book on Booking.com
    Row of traditional stone and timber buildings with outdoor seating under clear blue sky
    Hotels
    Booking.com
    4 Star Rating
    8.5/10
    (517 reviews)
    The Black Swan - The Inn Collection Group

    4-star hotel in Helmsley featuring historic Elizabethan, Tudor, and Georgian architecture. Rated 8.5/10 by guests.

    €161
    per night
    View →
    Book on Booking.com
    Stone cottages with red tiled roofs surrounding a gravel courtyard and stone wall under a partly cloudy sky
    Holiday Cottages
    Booking.com
    8.2/10
    (367 reviews)
    Valley View Farm Holiday Cottages

    Comfortable Accommodations: Valley View Farm Holiday Cottages in Helmsley offers a serene garden and free WiFi.

    €95
    per night
    View →
    Book on Booking.com
    Bright living room with pink armchair, blue ottoman, grey sofas with red cushions, and open kitchen in background
    Hotels
    Booking.com
    8.2/10
    (331 reviews)
    3 Bed in Helmsley oc-y111

    Three-bedroom holiday home in Helmsley with private garden and fully equipped kitchen.

    €347
    per night
    View →
    Book on Booking.com
    Spacious bathroom with freestanding tub, walk-in shower, pedestal sink, toilet, and window with patterned blind
    Guesthouses
    Booking.com
    8.2/10
    (365 reviews)
    Porters Coffee Shop and B&B

    Guesthouse in a historic building in Helmsley with free WiFi and private bathrooms. Rooms include a TV, wardrobe, and views of local landmarks.

    €142
    per night
    View →
    Book on Booking.com
    green logo with horse head outline inside letter C and letter S with trees and text helmsley
    Holiday Cottages
    Booking.com
    8.2/10
    (332 reviews)
    Cliff Stud Retreat - Luxury lodges and cosy cottages

    Elegant Accommodations: Cliff Stud Retreat in Helmsley offers luxury lodges and cozy cottages. Each unit features a private bathroom, kitchen, and garden views.

    €140
    per night
    View →
    Book on Booking.com

    Restaurants (13)

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    Coopers of Helmsley restaurant in Helmsley

    Coopers of Helmsley

    · ⭐ 4.9

    Coopers of Helmsley is a international restaurant in Helmsley, Yorkshire, rated 4.9/5 with 46 reviews.

    Crema Coffee House restaurant in Helmsley

    Crema Coffee House

    · ⭐ 4.3

    Crema Coffee House is a affordable cafe restaurant in Helmsley, Yorkshire, rated 4.3/5 with 252 reviews.

    Deep Blue Fish & Chips restaurant in Helmsley

    Deep Blue Fish & Chips

    · ⭐ 4.7

    Deep Blue Fish & Chips is a affordable seafood restaurant in Helmsley, Yorkshire, rated 4.7/5 with 1054 reviews.

    Helmsley Brewing Company restaurant in Helmsley

    Helmsley Brewing Company

    · ⭐ 4.6

    Helmsley Brewing Company is a budget-friendly bar restaurant in Helmsley, Yorkshire, rated 4.6/5 with 507 reviews.

    Hunters of Helmsley restaurant in Helmsley

    Hunters of Helmsley

    · ⭐ 4.8

    Hunters of Helmsley is a affordable bakery restaurant in Helmsley, Yorkshire, rated 4.8/5 with 568 reviews.

    La Trattoria restaurant in Helmsley

    La Trattoria

    · ⭐ 4.4

    La Trattoria is a affordable italian restaurant in Helmsley, Yorkshire, rated 4.4/5 with 611 reviews.

    Practical Info

    Food & Drink
    🍜 Food & Drink
    • The Black Swan: Traditional pub serving Yorkshire ales and classic British dishes.
    • The Feathers Hotel Restaurant: provides seasonal menus with locally sourced ingredients.
    • Helmsley Brewing Company Taproom: Sample craft beers brewed on-site....
    Attractions
    🏛️ Attractions
    • Helmsley Castle: visit the extensive ruins and castle grounds maintained by English Heritage.
    • The Walled Garden: Visit restored gardens offering horticultural displays and seasonal events.
    • Helmsley Arts Centre: Attend exhibitions, theatre performances, and live music....
    Getting Around
    🚕 Getting Around
    • By Car: Accessible via the A170 road connecting to Thirsk and Scarborough; several public car parks are available.
    • By Bus: Regular services link Helmsley to Pickering, York, and nearby villages....

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is Helmsley Castle open year-round?
    Helmsley Castle is open to visitors throughout the year, but opening times may vary seasonally. Check English Heritage's website before visiting.
    Are there guided tours available in Helmsley?
    Guided tours are occasionally offered at Helmsley Castle and during local festivals. The Helmsley Arts Centre and tourist information can provide schedules.
    What parking options are available in Helmsley?
    Several public car parks are located near the town centre, including Castle car park and Market Place car park, both offering pay-and-display facilities.
    Can I access walking trails to the North York Moors from Helmsley?
    Yes, multiple marked walking and cycling routes start near Helmsley, providing direct access to the North York Moors National Park.
    Are there accommodations suitable for families in Helmsley?
    Helmsley has a range of accommodation options including family-friendly hotels, guesthouses, and bed and breakfasts catering to different needs.

    Helmsley at a Glance

    Population
    1,500
    Founded
    12th century (market town origins)
    County
    North Yorkshire
    Elevation
    80m
    Best time to visit
    May to September
    Summer temp
    17°C
    Nearest airport
    Leeds Bradford (40 miles)
    Postcode
    YO62
    Known for