The City of York

With more attractions per square mile than any other city in the UK, a holiday in Yorkshire is not complete without a visit to York. Don’t miss the Jorvik Viking Centre, The Shambles, The National Railway Museum, The Minster, Ghost tour, Harry Potter locations tour, walk the old city walls, visit the castle, have an afternoon tea at Bettys tea rooms, go for a sight-seeing cruise on the River Ouse…….

The Jorvik Viking Centre

Travel back to the year AD 975 and witness life as it was in 10th century York.

The Minster and Shambles

Visit the quirky shops in The Shambles, and explore the magnificent Minster.

The Railway Museum

xperience the age of steam & enjoy the Flying Scotsman VR experience.

Flamingo Land Theme Park & Zoo

Experience Unparalleled Family Entertainment!

Flamingo Land is conveniently located just a 7 minute drive from Galtres Retreat.  The park boasts some of the best theme park rides in Europe, ensuring thrills and excitement for all that includes a captivating lineup of free shows, carousels, junior coasters and fun slides.  

North Yorkshire Moors Heritage Railway

Taking you on a scenic journey across the moors.

Hop on the train at Pickering, just a short drive from the park & travel through 24 miles of scenic landscapes in the North Yorkshire Moors National Park. Explore the charming Goathland station, recognised as Hogsmeade in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. In the summer enjoy a picturesque train ride to Whitby and in December join Santa for his festive specials. 

Beck Isle Museum, Pickering

The heart of Pickering’s heritage.

Pickering has a long and fascinating history. Step back in time and find out what life was like in this thriving market town, the gateway to the North Yorkshire Moors. Visit shops from the past, discover the ancient art of the blacksmith and more. With special events, changing exhibitions and family activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

Eden Camp

Step back in time to WW II

A 10 minute drive from Galtres on the outskirts of Malton, Eden Camp is a modern history museum on the site of a former prisoner of war camp. Realistic tableux with moving figures, authentic sights, smells and sounds transport you back in time to World War II. 

Whitby and the Abbey

Gothic Splendour and Dracula

The monastic ruins of Whitby Abbey dominate the East Cliff headland, offering fantastic views overlooking the historic seaside resort. With it’s quirky narrow streets and bustling harbour, Whitby is a seaside town like no other. It inspired Bram Stoker in 1890 to write the Dracula novels and no visit is complete without having fresh caught fish & chips from Trenchers in Whitby!

North Yorkshire Heritage Coast

A Dramatic Mix of Towering Cliffs & Sheltered Bays

This protected coastline marks the boundary of the North York Moors National Park and the North Sea and boasts the highest cliffs in England. From Whitby, with it’s sandy beaches to Robin Hood’s Bay, there is so much to see and all within easy reach from Pickering.

Castle Howard

One of Britain’s Most Exceptional Stately Homes

Think Brideshead Revisited, Bridgerton, Victoria and you have Castle Howard. Glorious grounds with a lake and temple, lavish interiors with a rich collection of art and a statue trail. This magnificent 18th century residence has something for everyone in it’s 1000 acres! Castle Howard website


Dalby Forest

In the heart of the North Yorkshire moors

Just a few miles from Pickering, the forest has 8500 acres of breath-taking views, running, walking and cycling trails, activity centre and Go Ape course. Dalby Forest is home to an abundance of important wildlife species and is a designated Dark Sky Discovery Site, where you can experience the magic of seeing the Milky Way with the naked eye. 

North Yorkshire Moors

Take a walk on the wildside

The largest heather moorland in England, you can discover coastal wonders, scenic hikes, woodland adventures or unmissable cycling routes. With dozens of walks to choose from, you can enjoy the splendour of the moors in peace. Leaflets from the visitor centre or website.

Yorkshire Air Museum 

Explore the history of this former air base

The UK’s largest independent aviation museum and among the top ten places to visit in York, sitting on the site of RAF Elvington, a World War II bomber base just outside the city. Just over 40 minutes from Galtres Retreat, the air museum is a wonderful interactive museum for all ages and includes a refurbished Halifax bomber!