North York Moors and Whitby Day Tour From York

The North York Moors and Whitby Day Tour from York offers a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. Travelers embark on a journey through picturesque landscapes, exploring quaint towns and iconic sites along the way. From the charming market town of Pickering to the serene village of Goathland, the tour promises an enriching experience enhanced by knowledgeable guides. However, the true highlight awaits in the coastal town of Whitby, where visitors can savor local delicacies and uncover the region’s fascinating past.

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Key Points

A full-day excursion from York to explore the North York Moors and the charming town of Whitby, with highlights including Goathland, local fish and chips, and Beggars Bridge.
Travel in a small mini-coach for an intimate experience, with knowledgeable driver guides providing commentary throughout the scenic journey through picturesque North Yorkshire landscapes.
Kick off the tour in Pickering, exploring its historic streets and medieval castle, before visiting the tranquil and charming village of Goathland, known as ‘Hogsmeade’ from Harry Potter.
Enjoy the highlights of Whitby, including savoring traditional fish and chips along the harbor, discovering the iconic Whitby Abbey, and climbing the 199 steps to the Church of St Mary for panoramic views.
The tour includes round-trip transportation from York, English commentary, a designated lunch stop for fish and chips, and periodic toilet breaks, but excludes entrance fees and gratuities.

Tour Overview

The North York Moors and Whitby Day Tour from York is a full-day excursion that takes visitors on a journey through the picturesque landscapes of North Yorkshire.

Starting in the historic city of York, the tour travels in a small mini-coach to explore the North York Moors and the coastal town of Whitby.

Highlights include visiting the village of Goathland, known as "Hogsmeade" from the Harry Potter films, enjoying local fish and chips in Whitby, and concluding at the scenic Beggars Bridge in Glaisdale.

The tour operates daily and is led by knowledgeable driver guides who provide engaging commentary throughout the experience.

Looking for more options in York? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Highlights of the Day

Visitors on the North York Moors and Whitby Day Tour can expect to explore a range of captivating highlights throughout the day.

The tour begins in Pickering, before heading to the quaint village of Goathland, known as ‘Hogsmeade’ in the Harry Potter films.

Next, guests can:

Savor local fish and chips in the picturesque harbor town of Whitby.
Stroll through the charming streets and visit the iconic Whitby Abbey.
Conclude the day at Beggars Bridge in Glaisdale, admiring the scenic Yorkshire Moors.

Throughout the tour, enjoy insightful commentary from the knowledgeable driver guide.

Exploring Pickering and Goathland

The North York Moors and Whitby Day Tour kicks off in the charming market town of Pickering, an ideal starting point to explore the region’s natural beauty and rich history.

Guests wander Pickering’s historic streets and visit the magnificent medieval Pickering Castle.

The tour then continues to the picturesque village of Goathland, known to many as "Hogsmeade" from the Harry Potter films.

Visitors experience the tranquility of this unspoiled moorland setting, exploring its quaint cottages, charming steam railway station, and the famous Goathland Hotel, which served as the "Aidensfield Arms" in the British TV series Heartbeat.

Enjoying Whitby’s Charm

From Goathland, the tour whisks guests to the charming coastal town of Whitby, a highlight of the day.

In Whitby, visitors can:

Enjoy traditional fish and chips along the harbor front.
Explore the iconic Whitby Abbey, a stunning Gothic ruin perched on the clifftops.
Stroll the winding streets and discover quaint shops, galleries, and historical sites.
Climb the famous 199 steps to the Church of St Mary, offering panoramic views of the town and coastline.

The tour provides ample time to soak up Whitby’s unique atmosphere before continuing the journey.

Visiting Whitby Abbey

Perched atop the cliffs, Whitby Abbey commands a picturesque presence over the town below. Founded in 657 AD, this historic monastery played a significant role in England’s early Christian heritage.

Visitors can explore the striking Gothic-style ruins, which feature impressive arched windows and intricate stonework. The abbey’s hilltop location offers panoramic views of the North Sea and the charming seaside town.

Guests can wander through the grounds, imagine the abbey’s former glory, and learn about its connection to Bram Stoker’s Dracula. A visit to Whitby Abbey provides a glimpse into the region’s rich spiritual and architectural history.

There's plenty more to explore in York

Discovering Beggars Bridge

After exploring the picturesque town of Whitby, the tour proceeds to the charming village of Glaisdale, where visitors discover the historic Beggars Bridge.

This 17th-century stone footbridge is a local landmark with a fascinating history:

It was built by a young man named Thomas Ferris to cross the River Esk and visit his love, who was forbidden to see him.
The bridge’s unique design features a high arch to allow the passage of ships.
Beggars Bridge is said to have been a popular meeting place for local residents.
Today, the bridge remains a cherished symbol of local heritage and romantic legend.

Guest Experiences and Feedback

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly driver-guides, such as John and Ben, who provide insightful commentary throughout the tour.

Guests appreciate the scenic views of the North Yorkshire Moors and historical sites like Byland Abbey and Whitby Abbey.

Many enjoy the opportunities to observe wildlife and savor local cuisine, particularly the fish and chips in Whitby.

Some wish for more free time to explore and shop.

Tour Inclusions and Logistics

The tour includes round-trip transportation from York in a small mini-coach that accommodates up to 16 passengers.

The tour experience includes:

Commentary provided by a knowledgeable driver guide in English
A designated lunch stop in Whitby for local fish and chips
Periodic toilet breaks throughout the day
Storage for luggage at the York train station, as each passenger requires their own seat on the mini-coach.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t suitable for children under 5 years old.

Entrance fees and gratuities for the driver are excluded from the tour price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Cancel the Tour Within 24 Hours Without a Penalty?

Yes, you can cancel the tour within 24 hours before the experience starts without incurring any penalties. The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior to the start time.

Is There a Maximum Number of Passengers Allowed on the Tour?

The tour has a maximum of 16 passengers on a small mini-coach. This ensures a more intimate and personalized experience for participants.

Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?

The tour is limited to a maximum of 16 passengers. Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the tour. The small mini-coach size and nature of the tour make it unsuitable for bringing pets along.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration for Additional Activities?

The tour duration can’t be extended, but travelers can explore Whitby and the North Yorkshire Moors at their own pace after the guided tour. Additional activities and free time would need to be arranged independently.

Is There a Discount for Senior Citizens or Students?

The tour operator does not offer discounts for senior citizens or students on this tour. Pricing is a flat rate per person, regardless of age or student status. However, the tour may be eligible for other promotional offers or bundled deals.

The Sum Up

Exploring the North York Moors and Whitby on this day tour from York offers a delightful mix of historic sites, quaint villages, and stunning natural scenery. From the charming town of Pickering to the iconic Whitby Abbey, travelers will be immersed in the region’s rich heritage and picturesque landscapes. With knowledgeable guides, delicious local cuisine, and a variety of included activities, this tour provides a comprehensive and memorable experience.