Amazing autumn experiences on the North York Moors

Snuggle down for a night of star-gazing or get up-close to nature, immerse yourself in autumn’s vibrant colours before winter’s arrival.

Easily reached by ferry to Hull/Newcastle or by Eurostar, a short autumn break is the perfect tonic before Christmas. Come here to star-gaze, pick up beautiful Christmas presents or for a romantic coastal escape of fine dining and windswept walks by the sea. 

The Moors have some of the lowest pollution in the UK giving a spectacular canopy of millions of twinkling stars. This is one of only 21 International Dark Sky Reserves in the world, you can glimpse up to 2,000 at any one time! 

To really discover what sits above us in the heavens, plan a trip in October or February when Dark Skies Festivals take place.  Join in night walks, daytime adventures, craft activities like bat-boxing, mindful experiences and much more.  And 2025 will be extra special, it marks the 10th anniversary of the North York Moors Dark Skies Festival. 

Book a stay-and-gaze packages with a dark skies-friendly business and they’ll lend you telescopes, binoculars, reclining chairs and blankets for a comfy night with a hot drink under the stars. 

Rich with wildlife, autumn is ideal for forest walks to catch the brilliant auburn leaves, nature’s last roar before winter.  Spot birds, animals and wildflowers on woodland strolls or explore the stunning Cleveland Way along the coast glimpsing whales and porpoises. 

Choose a walker-friendly bed and breakfast, pub or hotel, they’re used to muddy boots and offer kit storage and drying facilities and will offer maps and route recommendations.  You’ll also be able to arrange baggage carriers to transfer luggage to your next stop. 

With the freshest seafood, cosy cafes and fine-dining bistros, pick a friendly local pub or upscale hotel - you won’t go hungry on this coastline! 

Ready to eat? Look no further! You’ll discover a talented pool of chefs, food producers and plenty of farm shops brimming with local produce. 

Head to the coastal resorts of Whitby, fishing villages like Staithes and Robin Hood’s Bay for the very freshest catch of the day at their warming bars and pubs. Look out for wild salmon, lobster, dressed crab, sea bass or the crispiest fish ‘n’ chips best eaten right by the beach. 

Autumn is harvest time for cider, enjoy the local Ampleforth and Husthwaite ciders, look out also for Whiby Gin and Whitby Brewery tours, award-winning cheeses, artisan breads and home-made cakes. 

Enjoy sandwich and scone afternoon teas, cosy cafes or Michelin-starred fine-dining, you’ll find generous Yorkshire portions and warm service. 

When you’re ready to walk off your lunch, the North York Moors provides miles of walking routes offering amazing sea views. Take the Miles without Stiles short clifftop walk, suitable for all the family, gaze across Gothic Whitby Abbey and boats arriving in the harbour. 

For more serious hikers, the 11-mile Ravenscar to Robin Hood’s Bay provides iconic moorland scenes with the chance of fossil-hunting and rock-pooling en route, the very best of the park in one big day out. 

Everyone is welcome on the North York Moors, there are scores of attractions accessible for all visitors. 

Explore the ruins of Whitby Abbey, the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula novel. Its level paths are easily navigable on foot or with wheels. 

Enjoy a ride steaming through the moors on the majestic North Yorkshire Moors Railway in an accessible heritage carriage and arrive in style at Whitby. 

Choose from a range of adapted cycles from Dalby Forest Cycle Hub to explore miles of accessible trails.  Hire a beach wheelchair at Whitby, there’s also easy access to the beach at Sandsend, whether you’re after outdoor experiences, beaches, gardens or galleries, you’ll find it easy to access the best of the North York Moors National Park.