Full-Day Whitby and The North York Moors Private Tour from York
Active
8h
If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
For group sizes of up to 4, 8 or 16 passengers, this Private Day Trip from York, just for your party, provides the opportunity to spend three hours enjoying Whitby, as well as exploring the scenic and picturesque North York Moors National Park. You will have a full three hours of free time in the fishing port of Whitby on this trip, to see Whitby Abbey (inspiration for the Dracula books), visit the Captain Cook Attractions, shop for some Whitby Jet or Gothic Fashion, sample Fish & Chips from the famous Magpie Café or just enjoy the bustling port and waterfront – the choice is yours! As well as photo stops on the moors, you will also stop at the famous Kilburn White Horse, the market town of Helmsley (with its quaint cafes, shops and medieval castle) and the beautiful, traditional English villages of Goathland (Heartbeat and Harry Potter filming location) and Lealholm (with its stepping stones across the River Esk).
Available options
Medium Group (up to 8)
Up to 8 Passengers<br/>Pickup included
Large Group (up to 15)
Pickup included
Small Group (up to 4)
Up to 4 Pasengers<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Comfortable air-conditioned vehicles
Regular photo/refreshment/toilet stops
Friendly, local Professional Driver
Private tour just for your group
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Our first stop is at the Kilburn White Horse hill figure on the boundary of the North York Moors National Park, where your guide will tell you the story of how it was carved into the hillside in 1857.
2
Stop 2
We then stop in the picturesque market town of Helmsley where you can view the medieval castle, explore the quaint shops or just have a leisurely Yorkshire Brew in one of the cafes – the choice is yours!
3
After Helmsley, we head off through Hutton-le-Hole into the heart of the North York Moors National Park for some photo stops, passing the 16th century Lion Inn on Blakey Ridge (the highest point on the Moors) and Ralph’s Cross, then stop in the quaint and picturesque Yorkshire village of Lealholm to see the stepping stones over the River Esk – a great photo opportunity! It is then just a short journey into Whitby, whilst hearing stories about the seaside town’s history from your guide who will also tell you about the main places of interest that you may want to visit.
4
As you arrive in Whitby, there will be a brief stop at the Captain Cook Statue and Whalebone Arch on the West Cliff then alternative drop-offs at the Harbour or Whitby Abbey, if you want to start your visit there to avoid having to climb the 199 steps! You will have three hours free time in Whitby, with options to visit Whitby’s newest attraction, The Endeavour Experience (one of only two full-size replicas of the HM Bark Endeavour in existence), the Captain Cook Museum, take the Bark Endeavour scale replica boat trip around the harbour, view Whitby Abbey (inspiration for the Dracula Books) or just explore the shops and market of the seaside town and experience Fish & Chips from the famous Magpie Café – the choice is yours!
5
Stop 5
You will arrive in the picture-postcard village of Goathland (filming location for “Aidensfield” in the Heartbeat television series and “Hogsmeade” in the Harry Potter Movies) where you can explore the filming locations, or maybe just grab an ice cream from the village store – the choice is yours!
6
We leave Goathland for our final stop to enjoy the stunning views at the Hole of Horcum before heading back to York.
What's not included
Entrance fees to optional attractions
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
34 reviews
5★
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Minimum age is 5 years
Children under 5 years can be accepted on private tours, on the condition that the customer brings a suitable Child Car Seat with them
Collapsible wheelchairs can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them board and disembark
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Some visitor attractions close between November - March. During this period, if weather/road conditions are adverse, the tour may have to follow a different route/itinerary
Service animals are allowed by prior arrangement only
Important notes
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Minimum age is 5 years
About York
York is a historic city in northern England, known for its well-preserved Roman and Viking heritage. With its medieval walls, stunning Gothic cathedral, and charming cobbled streets, York offers a unique blend of history, culture, and picturesque scenery.
Top Attractions
York Minster
York Minster is one of the most magnificent cathedrals in the world. It is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and has been a place of worship for over 1,000 years.
Historical
2-3 hours
£14
The Shambles
The Shambles is a historic street in York that dates back to the 14th century. It is one of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe and is known for its narrow, cobbled lanes and overhanging timber-framed buildings.
Historical
30-60 minutes
Free
York Castle Museum
The York Castle Museum is a fascinating museum that tells the story of York from the Victorian era to the present day. It is housed in a former prison and features a range of interactive exhibits and displays.
Museum
2-3 hours
£15
Jorvik Viking Centre
The Jorvik Viking Centre is a museum that brings the Viking Age to life through a range of interactive exhibits and displays. It is built on the site of a major Viking settlement and features a ride that takes visitors on a journey through Viking York.
Historical
1-2 hours
£16.50
Clifford's Tower
Clifford's Tower is a historic tower that dates back to the 13th century. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in York and offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
Historical
1-2 hours
£8.50
National Railway Museum
The National Railway Museum is a museum that tells the story of Britain's railway history. It features a range of interactive exhibits and displays, as well as a collection of historic locomotives and carriages.
Museum
2-3 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Yorkshire Pudding
A traditional British dish made from a batter of eggs, flour, and milk, which is baked until crispy and golden. It is often served with roast beef and gravy.
Main Course
Contains gluten and eggs
Yorkshire Curry
A unique fusion of British and Indian cuisine, featuring a curry made with local ingredients such as Yorkshire lamb or pork.
Main Course
May contain gluten, dairy, and nuts
Fat Rascal
A traditional Yorkshire scone made with currants, citrus peel, and spices. It is often served with clotted cream and jam.
Dessert
Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs
Yorkshire Wontons
A modern twist on a traditional Chinese dish, featuring wontons filled with local ingredients such as Yorkshire cheese or pork.
Appetizer
May contain gluten, dairy, and pork
Popular Activities
Hiking in the North York Moors
Cycling along the River Ouse
Kayaking on the River Ouse
Spa treatments in Harrogate
Picnicking in the Museum Gardens
Strolling along the River Ouse
Visiting York Minster
Exploring the Jorvik Viking Centre
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the warmest and most popular time to visit York, with long daylight hours and numerous festivals and events. The city is bustling with tourists, and the weather is generally pleasant.
15-22°C
59-72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT+0 (Greenwich Mean Time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
York is generally a safe and welcoming city for visitors. However, as with any destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas, so it is advisable to keep your valuables secure and be vigilant.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep your valuables secure and be vigilant in crowded areas
- • Avoid isolated areas at night
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests
Getting there
By air
- Leeds Bradford Airport • 50 miles (80 km)
- Manchester Airport • 80 miles (129 km)
By train
York Railway Station
By bus
York Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus network in York is comprehensive, with frequent services to all parts of the city and surrounding areas. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
The City Centre
Bootham
Micklegate
The Groves
Haxby
Day trips
Castle Howard
15 miles (24 km) • Half day
Castle Howard is a stunning stately home and gardens located just outside of York. It is known for its beautiful architecture, extensive gardens, and fascinating history. The estate is home to a range of attractions, including a museum, a library, and a number of walking trails.
The North York Moors
20 miles (32 km) • Full day
The North York Moors is a beautiful national park located just outside of York. It is known for its stunning landscapes, extensive walking trails, and fascinating wildlife. The park is home to a range of attractions, including a number of historic sites, as well as a number of charming villages and towns.
Whitby
30 miles (48 km) • Full day
Whitby is a charming coastal town located just outside of York. It is known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and fascinating literary connections. The town is home to a range of attractions, including a number of museums, a historic abbey, and a number of charming shops and cafes.
Festivals
York Festival of Food and Drink • September
York Christmas Market • December
York Early Music Festival • July
Pro tips
- Visit York Minster early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Explore the city's historic streets and alleys, such as The Shambles and Stonegate, for a unique and charming experience
- Take a guided tour of the city's medieval walls and underground chambers for a fascinating insight into its history
- Visit the York Castle Museum to learn about the city's social history and see a range of interactive exhibits and displays
- Attend a performance at the York Theatre Royal or the York Early Music Festival for a unique cultural experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
