One of Yorkshire's most popular market towns, Helmsley’s large market square is dominated by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott's gothic memorial to the second Baron of Feversham and a stone market cross. Flanked by attractive shops, pubs and tearooms it’s a lovely place to shop, especially on Friday when it’s market day.

Overlooking the town is Helmsley Castle, a medieval ruin with its Tudor manor, which is now in the care of English Heritage. The great estate of Duncombe Park lies on the outskirts of the town, and consists of one of the finest restored houses in Yorkshire. Surrounded by a vast landscaped green garden and parkland, much of which is designated a National Nature Reserve, the estate is well worth a visit. The estate’s 18th century walled garden is also open to the public and home to an array of plants, from fruit and vegetables to rare old English roses, and lots of home made treats in its coffee shop.

For walkers, Helmsley is also known as the starting point of the Cleveland Way National Trail, the Inn Way and Ebor Way; all in all the best place start discovering the North York Moors on foot.