Seaside Escapes, Foodie Heaven & James Herriot Country 2026

Overview

UPDATED TOUR

Our scenic 5-day tour of North Yorkshire showcases the best of this beloved county from the dramatic moorland landscape of the North York Moors National Park to the iconic seaside towns of Scarborough and Whitby and its historic country houses, all waiting to be explored. A nostalgic steam train journey, and visits to Malton, ‘Yorkshire’s Food Capital’ as well as Thirsk, the inspiration for the wonderful books by James Herriot completes this unique tour.

Itinerary

PACKAGED ITINERARY

Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.

Day 2 Scampston Hall & Malton
This morning, we visit the beautiful Scampston Hall and Walled Garden, one of the finest regency country houses in North Yorkshire. We enjoy a guided tour of the hall, allowing us to marvel at the stunning interior and art collection before we see the spectacular contemporary gardens. We finish our visit with a cream tea picnic box lunch with tea/coffee in the conservatory, but don’t fill yourself up… Our final stop today is Malton, known as Yorkshire’s Food Capital, where artisan producers and independent shops sell unique gifts and delicious food and drinks.

Day 3 North Yorkshire Moors Railway & Whitby
This morning, we make our way to Pickering to embark on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, with a cup of tea or coffee and slice of cake for our journey to Whitby. In Whitby we have free time to explore the bustling fishing port. With plenty to do and see, you can visit the Captain Cook attractions or stroll along the waterfront for souvenirs and delicious fish and chips. See the dramatic abbey ruins, the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

Day 4 Helmsley Walled Garden & Thirsk James Herriot World
We begin the morning with a guided tour of Helmsley Walled Garden where we’re taken through the themed garden rooms ablaze with colour, a haven for bees, butterflies and lovers of tranquillity. We enjoy a freshly baked scone and cup of tea at the Vine House Café before departing. Afterwards we travel to Thirsk where we spend time at leisure enjoying a nostalgic look around Thirsk World of James Herriot. Home of the famous vet, this is where James Herriot worked and wrote his books, from which several television and film adaptations have been made, including the 1975 film All Creatures Great and Small and the BBC television series of the same name.

Day 5 Departure
After breakfast, we make our way home.

Map
Hotel

Crown Spa Hotel

Scarborough, North Yorkshire

AAA+

The 4 star Crown Spa Hotel is a grand hotel in Scarborough. Built in 1844, it is not only the town’s oldest hotel, but is also one of its best. Located on the south side of Scarborough, the hotel overlooks the promenade and is around 10 minutes’ walk from the main town centre. It retains many of its original features complemented by contemporary touches and décor. The tastefully decorated bedrooms are lift accessible, all offering TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. Taste Restaurant offers a blend of European and traditional Yorkshire cuisine in a modern setting with separate dining sections and rooms, while Taste Café Bar and TV room offers a more informal spot for relaxing with pre or post dinner drinks. Leisure facilities include a pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, ice room, retreat lounge, gym and spa.

BarLeisure FacilitiesLiftParking On Site & Free of ChargeRestaurantTea & Coffee making facilities

Norbreck Hotel

Scarborough, North Yorkshire

AAA

In a spectacular location on the headland between Scarborough’s two bays. Its elevated location means it is the only hotel that has views over the North & South Bay. Norbreck Hotel Scarborough is the perfect base for touring this beautiful area. All bedrooms feature Wi-fi, telephone, TV and tea/coffee making facilities, hairdryer and comfy bedding. The hotel restaurant offers beautiful views across the bay. Picture yourself unwinding in the bar/lounge enjoying pre-dinner drinks or afternoon tea.

BarLiftParking Off Site & ChargeableRestaurantTea & Coffee making facilities
Pricing

Crown Spa Hotel

Scarborough, North Yorkshire

 

4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £465pp
Double for Sole Use Supplement from £165
Based on Monday arrivals

Inclusions
• One way journey on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, Pickering – Whitby with tea & cake
• Guided tour and admission to Scampston Hall Garden with cream tea
• Guided Tour of Helmsley Walled Garden & Cream Tea at the Vine House Café
• Entrance to World of James Herriot

Please refer to your quote for hotel inclusions.

 

Norbreck Hotel

Scarborough, North Yorkshire

 

4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £399pp
Single Supplement from £69
Based on Monday arrivals

Inclusions
• One way journey on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, Pickering – Whitby with tea & cake
• Guided tour and admission to Scampston Hall Garden with cream tea
• Guided Tour of Helmsley Walled Garden & Cream Tea at the Vine House Café
• Entrance to World of James Herriot

Please refer to your quote for hotel inclusions.