Photo of Pickering

About Pickering

A popular base for exploring North Yorkshire, Pickering is a wonderful destination for outdoorsy visitors. Couples, groups and families will find stacks to see and do in the area, and flexible accommodation options range from luxurious coaching inns to simple B&Bs or self-catering cottages fit for an array of budgets. Our pick of the best places to stay promises a hearty Yorkshire welcome and a characterful place to lay your head after days of adventure.

Pickering itself is a vibrant market town on the edge of the North York Moors. Pop into quirky independent shops, cosy cafés, lively pubs and great eateries, or catch a show at one of the town’s three theatre spaces. Don’t miss seeing the Beck Isle Museum, admiring the stunning wall paintings at the Saxon Church, or visiting Pickering Castle whilst you’re there.

The region’s big draw is, of course, the North York Moors National Park, which boasts spectacular scenery, as well as myriad walking trails and cycling paths. Particular sites of interest include the Kilburn White Horse, the famed Hole of Horcum and Sutton Bank — offering striking views over the Vale of York and the Vale of Mowbray. Try wild swimming in gorgeous waterfalls fringed with bright green ferns, take the family to Flamingo Land for an insight into conservation and fun theme park rides, or ‘Go Ape’ with adrenaline-filled high rope courses and zip wires across the valley. A steam train trip on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway is great for travellers of all ages, whilst history buffs will adore guided tours or workshops at imposing Castle Howard.

Whether you’re in North Yorkshire for steam trains, countryside rambles or horse riding, the best places to stay in Pickering are warm and friendly, with excellent local teams ready to offer superb recommendations for nearby attractions — as well as top-notch places to eat! A great escape for travellers of all ages.

The Best Places to Stay in Pickering

For a chic town stay

  • The White Swan Inn is a charming, central spot right on Pickering's market place, perfect for couples, groups or families eager to explore the area. The 21 rooms are chic and characterful, there's a great two-bedroom cottage for families, and the restaurant serves delicious dishes crafted from locally-sourced ingredients. Also dog-friendly!

For A HOLIDAY COTTAGE OR APARTMENT

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Leeds Bradford Airport or to Manchester Airport, and take the train to Malton, just a short taxi ride from Pickering.
  • Alternatively, the journey from London takes around 3 hours by rail and 3.5 hours by road.
  • Yorkshire is great for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Whilst the weather is warmest in July and August (with temperatures peaking at around 19°C), clear, crisp spring and autumn days are also well-suited to exploring — and ensure that you'll avoid the crowds.

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Best Hotels in Pickering

  • The Horseshoe Inn Pickering 8 rooms from €109

    Owner managed  -  Brothers Charles and Toby Wood play a hands on role as host and chef giving this pub a personalised touch
    Active Holiday  -  Set within the North York Moors National Park, this is the perfect base for rambling or cycling holidays
    Country Escape  -  A cosy pub located within the North York Moors National Park, ideal for a country escape
    Great walks  -  Whether you want an all day hike or a shorter amble, the North York Moors have a vast network of trails
    RestaurantGardenPet friendlyParking

    A traditional village inn set right amidst the North Yorkshire Moors National Park. The handful of rooms are individually styled and have a fresh take on traditional design. The best have freestanding roll-top baths. With a firelit pub serving hearty cuisine & good ales, this is a cosy rural stay. See More

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  • White Swan Inn Pickering (North Yorkshire) 21 rooms from €183

    Value chic  -  A charming and characterful spot with chic interiors, warm and heartfelt service and gourmet cuisine, at a reasonable price.
    Back to Nature  -  A warm a cosy spot to retire to after a tiring day exploring the beautiful Yorkshire Moors.
    Great walks  -  North Yorkshire Moors on the doorstep with miles od spectacular walking and breathtaking views.
    Sights nearby  -  Visit Castle Howard, Hovingham Hall, Duncombe Park or Helmsley Walled Garden
    RestaurantGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays

    Traditional Georgian coaching inn, overlooking the market square, with creaky floors and low ceilings, a smart dining room and a choice of traditional or contemporary bedrooms. Great location and a genuinely friendly Yorkshire welcome. See More

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