From York: North Moors and Whitby Tour

North Yorkshire Moors and Whitby Full-Day Tour from York

This full-day tour from York explores the North Yorkshire Moors, the seaside town of Whitby, historic villages, and famous filming locations. It suits history and nature enthusiasts.

Highlights

• Explore the North Yorkshire Moors and Whitby
• Visit traditional villages including Goathland
• See filming locations from Heartbeat and Harry Potter
• Enjoy time in the seaside town of Whitby

Description

Discover the scenic North Yorkshire Moors and Whitby on this full-day guided tour. Begin with Whitby, where sampling the traditional fish and chips is recommended before exploring the historic port town.

Next, visit Byland Abbey, a notable monastic ruin inside the North York Moors National Park that highlights Yorkshire’s rich history.

Travel through ancient forests around Wass, then climb Wass Bank to reach the market town of Helmsley. Here you can take a break, browse independent shops, and refresh.

Your guide will explain the area's historical significance, including burial mounds, religion, farming, mining, and the industrial revolution. The tour covers lesser-known routes via country lanes and glacial valleys across heather moorland.

Visit Goathland, the real village behind the TV show Heartbeat’s 'Aidensfield,' with an opportunity for photos. Then see the quaint old railway station featured as Hogsmeade Station in the Harry Potter films.

From April to October, the tour includes a heritage train ride on the North York Moors Railway to Whitby. On selected dates when the train is not running, entry to Whitby Abbey is included instead.

Upon arrival in Whitby, you have up to two hours of free time for lunch, sightseeing, or visiting Whitby Abbey. Learn about Captain Cook’s voyages and the town’s maritime history. Your guide will provide local advice to help plan your time.

The return journey crosses the moors back to York.

Note: In 2025, on Thursdays and Fridays the train will not operate; instead, the tour includes entrance to Whitby Abbey. The route may vary on September 5th, 2025, due to a bike race but the tour length and attractions remain unchanged.

Includes

• Transport by air-conditioned minibus
• Driver/guide with commentary throughout
• Heritage train ride on selected dates from April to October
• Entry to Whitby Abbey on selected non-train operation days

Excludes

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Food and drink
• Tips

Important Information

• This tour is not suitable for children under 5 years old.
• Routes may change due to weather, traffic, or operational reasons.
• Food and drink are not included.
• From 23 March to 27 September 2026, the heritage train will not run on Thursdays and Fridays except selected dates; Whitby Abbey entry will be provided instead (closed 11-14 June).
• Late arrivals cannot be accommodated; full cancellation charges apply with no refund or alternatives.
• On 5 September 2025, the route is adjusted due to a bike race but attractions and tour length remain unchanged.

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Booking tip: Bring comfortable walking shoes and dress for changeable weather. The best time to visit is between April and October to enjoy the heritage train ride.