From York: North Moors and Whitby Tour

Discover the beauty of North Yorkshire on this well-loved full-day tour from York, priced at $92.94 per person. Spanning 8.5 hours, the tour covers iconic locations such as Whitby, Helmsley, the North Yorkshire Moors, and Byland Abbey. This trip offers a blend of scenic landscapes, historic ruins, and charming villages, making it ideal for visitors eager to explore the countryside without the hassle of self-driving.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the inclusion of a train ride on the North York Moors Railway on selected dates from April to October. When the train isn’t running, the itinerary substitutes this with an entry to Whitby Abbey, ensuring you still experience the area’s rich history and stunning views. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, and the scenery along winding country lanes and windswept moorlands is truly breathtaking.

While the tour does not include hotel pickup or meals, it offers ample time in Whitby—up to 2 hours—to enjoy fish and chips, explore the seaside town, or visit Whitby Abbey. The tour departs promptly from Memorial Gardens at 9:00 AM, making punctuality key, and is best suited for those comfortable with moderate walking and outdoor exploration. Children under 5 and wheelchair users may find this trip less suitable, given the route and activity nature.

Key Points

• Price: $92.94 per person, covering transportation, guides, and train or abbey entry
• Duration: 8.5 hours, with a prompt 9:00 AM departure from York
• Includes: Air-conditioned minibus, commentary, and a train ride on the North York Moors Railway on selected dates
• Highlights: Whitby seaside town, historic ruins at Byland Abbey, charming villages like Goathland, and scenic moorland views
• Guide: Known for enthusiasm, humor, and detailed knowledge, guides like Ben, Barry, and John receive high praise from past travelers
• Stops: Frequent stops for photos, brief explorations, and refreshments at locations such as Helmsley and the North York Moors

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Access Details in York

This tour begins at Coach Bay A, situated opposite Memorial Gardens on Leeman Road, with the meeting point just a 5-minute walk from York Railway Station. Arriving 5 minutes early is recommended to ensure a smooth start at 9:00 AM, as the vehicle leaves promptly. No hotel pickup is included, so participants need to make their way to the departure location.

Exploring Whitby: The Seaside Charm and Historic Treasures

In Whitby, travelers have up to 2 hours to enjoy this lively seaside town. The visit typically includes free time for lunch, where sampling the famous fish and chips is a popular choice. Whitby is also known for its connection to Captain Cook, who set sail from the harbor on the Bark Endeavour.

Visitors can choose to explore Whitby Abbey, which is linked with Dracula, or stroll through the town’s narrow streets filled with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. With the option of a train ride (April-October), passengers experience a nostalgic journey that adds a special touch to the day.

Journey Through the North York Moors and Yorkshire Villages

The tour takes travelers over famous moorlands, offering sweeping views of windswept heather and deep valleys. The route includes a visit to Goathland, a village made famous as Heartbeat’s Aidensfield and as Hogsmeade Station in the Harry Potter films.

A short drive from Goathland leads to Byland Abbey, one of over 70 monastic ruins in Yorkshire. This site, just inside the North York Moors National Park, provides a compelling glimpse into the region’s medieval past. The guide shares stories about religion, farming, and the industrial revolution that shaped the area.

The Charm of Helmsley and Local History

The tour stops at Helmsley, an ancient market town with a history stretching back over 1500 years. Here, visitors have around 30 minutes to explore independent shops, visit facilities, or enjoy some refreshments. The guide explains the region’s importance in burial mounds, mining, and farming, adding context to the scenery and towns visited.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Unique Appeal of the Old Railway and Its Alternatives

On selected dates from April to October, the trip includes a nostalgic ride on the North York Moors Railway to Whitby, a favorite feature among past travelers. When the train isn’t running, the visit to Whitby Abbey compensates with its dramatic Gothic architecture and links to Count Dracula.

This railway journey adds a memorable layer of charm, offering scenic vistas from vintage carriages. The experience is praised for its entertaining guides and picturesque views, making the journey as much a highlight as the destinations.

The Role of the Guides and Their Personalities

Reviews consistently highlight the guides’ knowledge and storytelling skills, with names like Ben, Barry, and John standing out. They are described as friendly, humorous, and well-informed, capable of sharing enchanting stories about each location. Past travelers appreciate the personalized attention and enthusiasm that make the day feel special.

Practicalities and Tips for the Tour

The tour involves moderate walking, especially at stops such as Helmsley and around Whitby, so comfortable shoes are advised. Rain gear is recommended, given the unpredictable UK weather, and bringing cash allows for small purchases or snacks.

Since food and drinks are not included, travelers should plan to buy lunch or snacks in Whitby. The tour emphasizes punctuality and early arrival due to the prompt departure time at 9:00 AM.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, scenery lovers, and fans of British villages. The combination of historic sites, picturesque landscapes, and coastal town exploration makes it appealing for those interested in culture, architecture, and nature.

However, children under 5 and those with mobility challenges may find some stops less accessible due to the route’s outdoor nature. The train ride adds a nostalgic touch but is only available on certain dates.

Final Thoughts on the North Moors and Whitby Experience

With a high rating of 4.8 from 594 reviews, this tour offers a comprehensive day out through some of Yorkshire’s most scenic and historic areas. The expert guides and well-planned itinerary ensure visitors get a good mix of nature, history, and seaside charm.

The price of $92.94 provides excellent value, especially considering the train ride and entry to Whitby Abbey on non-train days. The trip suits those seeking a relaxing, informative, and scenic escape from York, with plenty of photo opportunities and local stories to take home.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour from York?
The tour lasts 8.5 hours, starting at 9:00 AM and returning to York by late afternoon.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transport by air-conditioned minibus, a driver/guide, live commentary, and either a train ride (April-October) or entry to Whitby Abbey when the train isn’t running.

Is food included?
No, food and drink are not included, but there is ample opportunity to buy lunch in Whitby.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from Coach Bay A, opposite Memorial Gardens on Leeman Road in York.

Are children allowed on this tour?
The tour is not suitable for children under 5 years. Physical routes and outdoor stops may be challenging for some.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start date.

Is there wheelchair access?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of stops and routes.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, rain gear, and cash for snacks or souvenirs.

How punctual is the tour?
The tour leaves promptly at 9:00 AM, so arriving 5 minutes early is advised. No late arrivals can be accommodated.

Can I customize my experience?
While the itinerary is fixed, guides offer recommendations for additional visits like Whitby Abbey or local shops during free time.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of scenic landscapes, charming villages, historic ruins, and the train ride creates a memorable day, all delivered by guides praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby