WHITBY

Whitby is an ancient fishing port that nestles between the North York Moors and the North Sea at the mouth of the River Esk. The town's skyline is dominated by the ruins of St Hilda's Abbey, high on the East Cliff. Spreading below, a maze of alleyways and narrow streets run down to the busy quayside. From the old town, 199 steps lead up to the parish church of St Mary, one of the finest examples of Anglo Saxon churches in the country, and whose churchyard gave Bram Stoker the inspiration to write his world famous book, Dracula.

Whitby has produced it's own famous sons. Among these are Captain James Cook, the 18th century explorer and voyager, the outstanding father and son whaling masters of the Scoresby family and pioneer photographer, Frank Meadow Sutcliffe.

Having a unique old world charm, for centuries Whitby has provided a safe haven for shipping and fishing fleets. It was once the Norths main whaling port and is now Whitby is part of the Heritage Coast of North East England. The town has a thriving holiday resort trade, bolstered by the recent arrival of the replica of Captain Cook's ship "HM Bark Endeavour", which was the focus of nationwide and global news.

PICKERING

Pickering is well known as the southern terminus of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and 'Gateway to the Moors'.  It is reputed to be one of the oldest towns in the area dating back to 270BC when founded by Peredurus - King of the Brigantes.  The skyline of the town is dominated by the magnificent spire of the Church of St Peter and St Paul, which contains some remarkable 15th century murals.  Whilst hidden high above the town, the ruins of Pickering Castle harbour a rich royal history.
THIRSK

Visit the World of James Herriot and take a journey through the famous author's life and the sights and sounds of a bustling 1940s veterinary practice.
YORK
York is often referred to as the capital City of the north of England and has retained the links with its medieval past more than most places in England. One of the most historic cities in Britain, York has 2000 years of history, which it unfolds for you in its streets, buildings and museums. It is a city where sight seeing is easy, most of the attractions lie within the city walls, the area is compact, yet nowhere else can you find so much history, a variety of architecture and heritage sites, so easily accessible.

The Medieval City Walls of York are almost three miles long and beautifully preserved. They have four gates or bars, the original gates to the city, today two of the gates house interesting museums. You can walk the entire length of the walls, which are open to the public daily.