Rievaulx Abbey
Escape to this peaceful corner of the North York Moors and discover the impressive ruins of one of England’s most powerful Cistercian monasteries. Previously Rievaulx Abbey was one of the largest and wealthiest monastic settlements in Britain. Additionally, there is a scenic walk from Helmsley Castle to Rievaulx Abbey. The recently enhanced visitor experience shares secrets of the Abbey. Plenty of space to play and picnic within the grounds. www.english-heritage.org.uk

Whitby Abbey
Located high above the seaside town with stunning cliff top views sits Whitby Abbey. Bram Stoker was inspired by its gothic splendour when writing Dracula. Dating back to the 7th century the Abbey provides a long history of monastic life. Stunning views are a fine reward if you tackle the steps from Whitby town centre. While in Whitby, why not take a trip around the cobbled streets for a spot of shopping and don’t forget to taste the fish and chips. www.english-heritage.org.uk

Kirkham Priory
Set in the peaceful Derwent Valley between Pickering and York the riverside ruins of Kirkham Priory are set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Enjoy a picnic by the river, discover the story of a monk’s life or why Winston Churchill secretly visited here in World War II www.english-heritage.org.uk

Byland Abbey
Distance 19 miles from Low Costa Mill Inspiration for the York Minster rose Window, Byland Abbey is a truly outstanding example of early Gothic architecture. Once one of the greatest monasteries in England, Byland Abbey inspired the design of church buildings throughout the North. www.english-heritage.org.uk

Helmsley Castle
Helmsley Castle has towered over the picturesque market town of Helmsley for over 900 years. Originally a Medieval Castle, a Tudor mansion was added in the 1600s, before Cromwell’s men, in a show of power, blew up the great keep, slicing it in half and leaving the dismembered remains to look down on the town as a permanent reminder. www.english-heritage.org.uk

Scarborough Castle
With its stunning location and panoramic views over the dramatic Yorkshire coastline, the castle will be the pinnacle of your visit to Scarborough. Come and see objects from its 3,000 years of history, play on the grassy headland, and make time to relax with a coffee and a cake in the Master Gunner’s house. www.english-heritage.org.uk

Castle Howard
One of England’s finest historical homes, and still a private residence, set within 1000 acres of parkland, Castle Howard is certainly impressive. Tour the house and discover the 300 year history. Explore the grounds, the woodlands and the walled garden, all are delightful. For the younger visitors, Skelf Island is a fabulous Adventure Playground in the gardens of Castle Howard. With rope bridges, slides and nets, as well as climbing equipment, there’s plenty to keep you all busy. From the lake, to the temples, Castle Howard is a great location for a day out, as well as an excellent restaurant and unique gift shop, the Farm Shop is stocked full of local Yorkshire Produce. www.castlehoward.co.uk

Nunnington Hall
Now in the hands of the National Trust, Nunnington Hall is a picturesque 17th Century Manor House, with impressive walled gardens, and a family of very friendly peacocks wandering around. Exhibitions are often in the house and there’s a fab ta room with gardens by the river. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/nunnington-hall

Duncombe Park
Duncombe Park is set in over 450 acres of parkland, with formal gardens, trails and orienteering through the park and woodland, plus an abundant wildlife reserve. The house is no longer open to the public.

It is also home to the National Centre for Birds of Prey, an award-winning visitor attraction which houses the largest collection of birds of prey in the north of England, and holds impressive flying demonstrations. www.duncombepark.com

Ryedale Folk Museum and Hutton le Hole
Set in the picture postcard village of Hutton le Hole, Ryedale Folk Museum is an open air museum set on a 6 acre site. Step back in time and explore the collection of heritage buildings around the site, displaying the history and lives of people from Ryedale. Don’t forget to allow a little time to explore this picturesque village and its craft shops and cafes. www.ryedalefolkmuseum.co.uk

Eden Camp
Set in the buildings and grounds of an original Prisoner of War camp, Eden Camp is a memorable day out. Focussing around WWII, take a tour through the huts to experience a wide range of scenes from the Blitz to a 1940s singalong. www.edencamp.co.uk

Scampston Hall and Gardens
Wander around the beautiful gardens, their individual “rooms” designed by Piet Oudolf. Explore the Walled Garden and the recently restored Victorian Conservatory, often home to exhibitions. All next to the Capability Brown parkland with the well photographed Palladian Bridge, the rock garden, the fairy-trail and playground, plus miles of trails to walk. www.scampston.co.uk

Sealife Centre, Scarborough
Walk through the underground tunnel and marvel at the amazing mix of sea creatures on display, from Penguins to Seals, Sea Dragons and more. At Sea Life you can see them all, and maybe even help feed some of them www.visitsealife.com/scarborough

Alpamare
A fabulous waterpark to keep all the family entertained. For the adventurous there’s a children’s splash area, wave pool and 4 exciting slides. If you prefer relaxing, there are fabulous views over the Scarborough coast from the outdoor infinity pool, and don’t forget the the Wellness Spa with it’s range of treatments www.alpamare.co.uk

Bay Watersports/North Yorkshire Water Park
Bay Watersports run a range of water sport activities along the North Yorkshire Coast, including SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding), Dinghy Sailing, Raft Building and Kayaking. Plus adrenalin filled fun such as Coasteering or Sea Kayaking. If this is your dream a visit to the coast is on the cards.

North Yorkshire Water Park is based at Wykeham lake, where you’ll find a large floating inflatable course with slides, balance bars, climbing walls and blast bags! Other activities available include Wakeboarding, Stand up Paddleboarding, Pedalos, Kayaking and a climbing wall, as well as a Zip Wire across the lake! All safety equipment, buoyancy aids and helmets are provided for these adventurous activities. North Yorkshire Water Park is also home to a lakeside park-run course. www.bay-watersports.co.uk www.northyorkshirewaterpark.co.uk

North York Moors National Park
Peaceful, stunning, picturesque, there are many words to describe the North York Moors. Often known for the stunning heather moorland, there is much more to discover for everyone; walking, cycling, horseriding and photography are all great ways to explore the North York Moors. Pretty little moorland villages, coastal walking trails steeped in history, forests full of adventure, along with the historic abbeys and castles make the moors a truly magnificent landscape to enjoy. Two national park centres at Danby and Sutton Bank are a great way to lean more about North York Moors. To begin with, Sutton Bank has an easy trail to “Englands Finest View” along with bike hire, and a walk along to the White Horse of Kilburn. With a wide range of walking trails, family friendly activities and the Inspired By Gallery, Danby Lodge is nestled in the Moors with fantastic scenery and views. www.northyorkmoors.org.uk