Great Abbeys of Yorkshire – the remains of the some of the finest abbeys and priories are within easy distance of Rievaulx. Spend some time exploring the abbeys of Whitby, Easby, Byland and Fountains, a World Heritage site and the beautiful 14th century Mount Grace Priory.

Castle Howard – there are year round events and activities for everyone at this 18th century palace – from an adventure playground, boat trips on the Great Lake and a maze of pathways through an enchanted woodland for children, to pop concerts for teenagers and glorious palace interiors and gardens for adults.

Fortified Castles of Yorkshire – thousands of years of Yorkshire’s turbulent history are waiting to be discovered at Scarborough Castle, Pickering Castle, Richmond Castle and Helmsley Castle, a cradle of English chivalry.York – there are ‘must sees’ in this fascinating city to please the whole family. Glorious Gothic York Minster and The Shambles, a neighbouring maze of medieval streets and tempting shops and cafes stand within the city walls. At the Jorvik Centre travel back 1000 years exploring York’s Viking history then why not visit the nearby Railway Museum which has an incredible collection of trains and interactive fun.

The North York Moors Railway – buy a Day Rover ticket at Pickering or any other station, and you can get on and off this most popular of all heritage steam railways all day long.

North York Moors walks – this area is a walkers’ paradise with miles of footpaths over some of the most dramatic countryside in England. Among the best trails are the Cleveland Way Trail, the Esk Valley Walk, and the Inn Way, an 89 mile circular route via 31 of the finest inns in the area.

Yorkshire Food and Farmers’ Markets – there’s a fantastic tradition of good food in Yorkshire. There are regular farmers’ markets where the best of locally reared meat, vegetables and dairy products such as Wensleydale and Yorkshire Blue cheeses can be bought. Try some Yorkshire Parkin, a dark, spicy and delicious ginger cake or a Yorkshire Fat Rascal, similar to a currant tea cake and, of course, Yorkshire pudding, the county’s most celebrated dish.