Details for Great Ayton Self Catering Cottage Ref 4250

Location:  The village of Great Ayton lies on the edge of the North York Moors National Park, at the foot of the Cleveland Hills. Great Ayton is famous for being the boyhood home of Captain Cook, and is also mentioned in the Domesday Book. The village consists of a mixture of stone cottages and some new development housing. Great Ayton has two village greens, with a river running alongside, making it a popular picnic spot in the summer months. To the north of the village, the view is dominated by Roseberry Topping, a 330 metre hill. In the village are a good range of shops and inns, which, together with restaurants and cafes, cater well for holidaymakers. There is also the old school, now converted into the Captain Cook Schoolroom Museum. Around the village are several interesting walks and Great Ayton makes a great base for walkers wishing to explore the stunning countryside around, especially in the summer months when the moors turn purple with blooming heather.

The North York Moors National Park covers 554 square miles, with landscape ranging from heather-clad moorland and deep secluded dales, to the cliffs and coves of the magnificent coastline. A haven for walkers, the area also boasts great cycling, gliding, riding and fishing, whilst North York Moors Railway is the perfect way to enjoy the beautiful scenery in a more relaxed setting. Visit the market towns of Pickering or Thirsk; the latter famous for its links with the English country vet and author, James Herriot. Nearby, some of Yorkshire's best-loved villages including Thornton-le-Dale and Rosedale Abbey offer a taste of village life, as does Goathland - known as "Aidensfield" in the TV series Heartbeat. Finally, stop off at Castle Howard and Duncombe Park, two of Britain's most historic stately homes situated in breathtaking parklands and gardens. The cliffs, sandy beaches and smugglers caves of the Yorkshire coastline are a haven for beachcombers and coastal walkers. Discover the quaint fishing villages of Robin Hood's Bay and Staithes, with their brightly coloured fishing boats. Finally, there's the historic city of York, with its interactive Viking Centre, Roman walls, medieval streets, vibrant shops and gothic York Minster cathedral.