If you have 7 days to spend in Ryedale, there are many things you can do to make the most of your time. Here are some suggestions:
Spend the day exploring the quaint market town of Helmsley. Visit the medieval Helmsley Castle, stroll around the Walled Garden or take a hike to the top of nearby Rievaulx Terrace for stunning views. Finish off the day with a relaxing meal at one of Helmsley's many restaurants or tearooms.
Head to the village of Hutton-le-Hole and take a leisurely walk around the picturesque Ryedale Folk Museum. Afterwards, visit nearby Kirkbymoorside and the 15th century All Saints' Church. End the day with a drink at one of the local country pubs.
Take a drive over to Castle Howard, a stately home and gardens that has been used as the backdrop for many films and TV shows. Spend the day wandering around the house and gardens, and maybe even have a picnic on the grounds if the weather is nice.
Visit the historic city of York, just a short drive away from Ryedale. Walk along the medieval city walls, explore the winding streets of the Shambles, or visit the Jorvik Viking Centre for a firsthand experience of Viking-era York.
Spend the day in the North York Moors National Park. Take a walk through the stunning countryside, stop off in sleepy villages like Rosedale Abbey and Goathland (which you may recognize as the fictional town of Aidensfield in the TV show Heartbeat), and visit the beautiful ruins of Rievaulx Abbey.
Take a trip to the seaside town of Whitby. Climb the 199 steps up to the dramatic ruins of Whitby Abbey, wander around the charming town center and harbor, and enjoy some fresh seafood at one of the restaurants overlooking the sea.
Round off your trip with a visit to the historic town of Pickering. Visit Pickering Castle or the Beck Isle Museum, take a ride on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (which runs from Pickering to Whitby), and enjoy a final meal in one of the town's many cozy pubs or restaurants.
There are plenty of accommodation options in Ryedale, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels. Some suggestions include: