Sutton Bank National Park Centre sits at the top of the A170's 1-in-4 climb from Thirsk and is the natural starting point for the western moors. Inside there is an exhibition on the landscape, a shop, a café with a terrace and a friendly information desk; outside there is a play area, an outdoor picnic space and a network of waymarked walks and cycle trails.
The short, level path to the Finest View in England (James Herriot's phrase) and on to the Kilburn White Horse starts from the car park, and the Sutton Bank Bikes hire shop next door rents mountain bikes, e-bikes and children's bikes for the family-friendly trails through the forest below the escarpment. Gliders from the Yorkshire Gliding Club launch almost overhead on fine days.
Getting there
On the A170 between Thirsk and Helmsley, postcode YO7 2EH. Pay-and-display parking (National Park charges). The Cleveland Way National Trail, which starts at Helmsley, runs along the escarpment edge past the centre.
🎈 Family days out
🎈 Family days out
🎈 Family days out