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Helmsley is an ancient and popular market town on the edge of the North York Moors National Park. It has many attractions including Duncombe Park, Helmsley Castle and a small theatre. Full details of the attractions in the area are available from the town's Tourist Information Centre in the old Town Hall just opposite the hotel in the Market Place.
The walled gardens, which once provided the Castle and then Duncombe Park with produce are now a popular visitor attraction.
Helmsley lies on the side of the River Rye and its banks make a popular Picnic destination. An attractive small tributary runs behind the market square and is equally popular with the Ducks.
Further down the River Rye about five miles away is another stately home Nunnington Hall, a Jacobean manor now cared for by the National Trust and a little further on is Ryedale's greatest stately home Castle Howard a Vanburgh master-piece and one of the greatest houses in the country
One of Europe's largest medieval monasteries is only two miles away at Rievaulx and it makes a popular walk for people staying in Helmsley.
The town, with its traditional market square, is overshadowed by a large medieval castle which was one of the last bastions to hold out against Cromwell.
Helmsley Castle dates from 1186; it was besieged for three months during the Civil War and later bought by Sir Charles Duncombe whose descendants still own it.
The castle ruins contain a fine exhibition illustrating its history.
The Parish Church has some interesting murals which illustrate the history of the church and the parish. Duncombe Park, family home of Lord and Lady Feversham, has extensive historic parkland and a National Nature Reserve.
The Cleveland Way national trail starts in Helmsley and there are good local walks.
Around Ryedale there are numerous other treasures, from Eden Camp, Old Byland Abbey and Hovingham Hall to Flamingo Land we look forward to seeing you |
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