Looking for the best things to do near Pickering in North Yorkshire? Whether you're exploring the North York Moors National Park, visiting Dalby Forest or riding the famous North Yorkshire Moors Railway, there are plenty of attractions close to High Oaks Grange. Our luxury lodges and cottages provide the perfect base for discovering the countryside, coast and charming villages of North Yorkshire.
Guests staying at High Oaks Grange are ideally placed to explore everything the area has to offer. Our luxury lodges, cottages and glamping pods sit in 60 acres of countryside just minutes from Pickering.
If you’re looking for inspiration for your next trip, you can also browse our
👉 https://highoaksgrange.co.uk/holiday-ideas-and-inspiration
Here are ten of the best things to do during your stay.
1. Explore Dalby Forest
Just a short drive from High Oaks Grange, Dalby Forest is one of the most popular attractions in the area. Known as the “Great Yorkshire Forest”, it offers miles of walking and cycling trails through stunning woodland.
Visitors can enjoy:
• Forest walks and wildlife spotting
• Mountain bike trails
• Go Ape treetop adventure
• Scenic picnic spots
• Outdoor concerts and events
Dalby Forest is perfect for families, couples and dog walkers alike. Many guests choose to stay in our Woodland Lodges, which are ideal for guests wanting to explore the forest and surrounding countryside.
👉 https://highoaksgrange.co.uk/accommodation/lodges
2. Visit the North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Step back in time with a ride on the famous North Yorkshire Moors Railway, which runs steam trains through the spectacular scenery of the national park.
The railway travels between Pickering and the seaside town of Whitby, passing through charming villages and dramatic moorland landscapes.
Throughout the year the railway also hosts special events including steam galas and themed weekends. You can see what’s coming up on our
👉 https://highoaksgrange.co.uk/events-in-north-yorkshire
3. Discover Thornton-le-Dale
Often described as one of the prettiest villages in England, Thornton-le-Dale is just a few minutes from High Oaks Grange.
Highlights include:
• The famous thatched cottage by the village stream
• Independent shops and cafés
• Beautiful countryside walks
• Traditional Yorkshire pubs
Many guests enjoy visiting Thornton-le-Dale during their stay before returning to relax in their accommodation.
👉 https://highoaksgrange.co.uk/accommodation
4. Explore the North York Moors National Park
The North York Moors National Park offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the UK.
Visitors can enjoy:
• Walking across heather moorland
• Cycling quiet country lanes
• Exploring hidden valleys and villages
• Visiting historic abbeys and castles
Our location makes High Oaks Grange the perfect base for exploring the national park and surrounding countryside.
You can find more ideas for exploring the area on our
👉 https://highoaksgrange.co.uk/holiday-ideas-and-inspiration
5. Visit the Yorkshire Coast
One of the best things about staying near Pickering is how easy it is to reach the Yorkshire coast.
Within an hour’s drive you can visit:
• Whitby
• Robin Hood’s Bay
• Scarborough
• Filey
These seaside towns offer beautiful beaches, historic harbours and fantastic seafood.
Many guests enjoy spending the day by the coast before returning to their lodge to relax in the countryside.
👉 https://highoaksgrange.co.uk/accommodation/lodges
6. Visit Flamingo Land Resort
Families staying at High Oaks Grange often enjoy visiting Flamingo Land Resort, located just outside Pickering.
The park features:
• Thrill rides and rollercoasters
• A large wildlife zoo
• Family shows and entertainment
Its close proximity makes it an easy and fun day out during your stay.
7. Explore Historic Pickering
Pickering itself is well worth exploring during your visit.
The town features:
• Pickering Castle
• The historic parish church with medieval wall paintings
• Independent shops and cafés
• Traditional Yorkshire pubs
Pickering is also home to several fantastic events throughout the year.
👉 https://highoaksgrange.co.uk/events-in-north-yorkshire
8. Enjoy Local Food and Farm Shops
Yorkshire is famous for its food, and there are some fantastic places to eat near Pickering.
Local favourites include:
• Cedar Barn Farm Shop
• Traditional village pubs across the moors
• Independent cafés in Pickering and Thornton-le-Dale
Many visitors enjoy combining a countryside walk with a relaxed pub lunch.
9. Experience Local Events and Festivals
North Yorkshire hosts a wide range of events throughout the year.
Some highlights include:
• Pickering 1940s Wartime Weekend
• Steam galas on the heritage railway
• Food festivals and markets
• Seasonal events across the North York Moors
You can explore upcoming events here:
👉 https://highoaksgrange.co.uk/events-in-north-yorkshire
10. Relax at High Oaks Grange
After a day exploring the North York Moors and surrounding attractions, there’s nothing better than returning to relax in the countryside.
At High Oaks Grange guests can enjoy:
• Luxury lodges and cottages
• Glamping pods
• Peaceful countryside surroundings
• Dog-friendly stays
• Easy access to Pickering and the North York Moors
Our location makes us one of the best bases for exploring North Yorkshire.
👉 https://highoaksgrange.co.uk
Plan Your North Yorkshire Escape
If you're looking for a relaxing countryside break with plenty to see and do nearby, High Oaks Grange offers the perfect base for exploring Pickering and the North York Moors.
You can browse our accommodation and check availability here:
👉 https://highoaksgrange.co.uk/accommodation
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pickering famous for?
Pickering is known for the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, Pickering Castle and its location on the edge of the North York Moors National Park.
Is Pickering a good base for the North York Moors?
Yes. Pickering is one of the best places to stay when visiting the North York Moors because it provides easy access to Dalby Forest, the heritage railway and the Yorkshire coast.
How far is Dalby Forest from Pickering?
Dalby Forest is around 15 minutes by car from Pickering and offers walking trails, cycling routes and outdoor adventures.
If you're planning a countryside break near Pickering, High Oaks Grange offers luxury lodges, cottages and glamping pods set within 60 acres of peaceful countryside. It’s the perfect base for exploring the North York Moors, Dalby Forest and the Yorkshire coast.
