Perched on the edge of North York Moors National Park, Pickering is an ancient market town in England’s north-east. It’s home to a centuries-old church decorated with medieval wall paintings and lies on a heritage railway line linking Grosmont with Whitby.
Things to do in Pickering
You can delve into the local history at the Beck Isle Museum, which occupies a regency-period mansion and its surrounding farm buildings. After wandering through the living spaces and historic costume gallery, stop by the Victorian-era pub and the barbershop. A highlight of Beck Isle Museum’s collection is the photographic equipment of Sydney Smith, together with images he took throughout Pickering during the early 20th century.
Offering sweeping views across the North Yorkshire countryside is Pickering Castle, a 13th-century motte-and-bailey fortification that managed to survive the Wars of the Roses and the English Civil War. Marvel at its imposing stone towers and stop by the chapel where exhibitions detail the castle’s use as a hunting lodge and holiday home by a succession of medieval kings.
Travelling with kids? Head to Flamingo Land, a family-friendly theme park home to thrill rides and animals from around the globe. You can brave the inversions of the Kumali roller coaster, experience the drop of the Cliff Hanger or spot hippos, giraffes and lions on the Lost River Ride. Young kids will love the gentler Jungle Carousel, Frog Hopper and Flying Clowns.
Getting around Pickering
Pickering is a 30-minute drive from Whitby and just over an hour’s drive from Leeds. Leeds Bradford Airport is around 1.5 hours away and has flights to destinations across Europe. Buses travel from towns and cities across Yorkshire to Pickering while the North Yorkshire Moors Railway has seasonal services between Grosmont and Whitby.