Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy a winter break in the North York Moors. Step into the snow-dusted landscape, where ancient woodland shelters in deep valleys and heather moorland covers rugged hill tops. What could be better then curling up in your cosy woodland lodge, gazing out at the frozen trees beyond? The North York Moors is a beautiful landscape all year round, but winter brings with it a special kind of magic.
In this post we'll highlight a few reasons why a winter escape to the North York Moors is a must. We'll tell you about some of the wonderful experiences you can enjoy at this time of year. And we'll also share with you some of our top tips for making the most of a woodland lodge in the winter time.
Why Choose the North York Moors for a Winter Getaway?
The North York Moors is easily accessible, making it a great option for a UK winter holiday. Whether you're travelling from somewhere else in the north of England, or further afield, North Yorkshire is a short drive from the M1 or A1. It's a also easy to get to via coastal routes. Ladycross is located in Egton, near Whitby, which is about an hour's drive from York, 40 minutes north of Scarborough and 30 minutes south of Middlesbrough.
The Yorkshire coast and North York Moors are popular destinations for visitors throughout the year. The breathtaking beauty of the Moors offers something special during the winter months. Frost-covered trees, snowy hill tops, quiet walking trails and a peaceful atmosphere descends. You'll find cosy pubs and restaurants in the nearby villages and towns, with roaring open fires. Historic towns and picturesque villages make for wonderful days out. A winter escape to the North York Moors will leave you with lifetime of magical memories.
The Benefits of Staying in a Woodland Lodge
Our woodland lodges are comfortably furnished and equipped with cosy wood burners. Beautifully decorated and finished to a high standard, a woodland lodge at Ladycross is a true home from home. Spacious open-plan living areas paired with well-appointed bedrooms and bathrooms provide space for the whole family. Kitchens are well-equipped, with everything you need to make the most of your stay.
Sleeping up to 6, a woodland lodge nestled amongst the trees makes an amazing holiday home. We've purposefully designed our park to offer an intimate connection with nature. Large windows let in plenty of daylight, with views of mature woodland on all sides. Our lodges are positioned to offer privacy, peace and quiet to our guests. They're spaced well apart, and each one benefits from private car parking space right outside.
We have a number of woodland holiday lodges available to rent, as well as holiday lodge ownership options for those who are looking to invest. Rental lodges are available 10 months of the year, which includes the Christmas break. Woodland lodge ownership brings additional benefits such as affording year-round access.
Our guests love staying in our wooded park. 95 acres of mature woodland surround our lodges, home to wildlife including deer, foxes and badgers. Ladycross is ideal for families, with our 'freedom field' being well used by children and those with pets. We've also developed 2 miles of nature trails, winding throughout the park.
Things to do During your Winter Break in the North York Moors
There's so much to see and do during your winter break in the North York Moors. Here are our suggestions for ways you might make the most of your winter holiday.
Winter Walks and Outdoor Activities
For those who love walking and cycling, the North York Moors leaves you spoiled for choice. Our recommended routes for winter walks include:
- The Cleveland Way
Enjoy a cliff-top stroll with amazing views over the Yorkshire coast. The Whitby to Robin Hood's Bay section takes 2 - 3 hours to complete. You'll pass Whitby Abbey, Whitby Lighthouse and are greeted by the most amazing view over the Bay to Ravenscar towards the end of the walk. Enjoy a delicious meal in a cosy pub and get the bus back to Whitby. - Roseberry Topping
An iconic hill a few miles north of Ladycross. It's a steep climb, but well worth the effort on a clear day when you'll benefit from 360 degree views of the surrounding area. On a frosty day this is a beautiful walk. - Sneaton Forest
Head to May Beck car park and then follow the beck as it winds its way to Falling Foss Waterfall. Extend your walk with a stroll down to the Hermitage, or even venture down to the base of the waterfall. Various circular routes are also possible from here, including from Falling Foss to Littlebeck village.
Other options including walking and cycling at Dalby Forest or following the Whitby to Scarborough Cinder Track. This disused railway path makes for an excellent family-friendly walking or cycling route.
Visit Yorkshire's Historic Towns and Villages
Ladycross is a short drive from Whitby, one of the UK's best loved holiday destinations. There's plenty to see and do in Whitby itself, but there are also plenty of other options which all offer something slightly different. Here are some suggestions:
- Pickering
Head over the North York Moors to Pickering and enjoy this quiet and traditional market town. There are several cosy pubs and restaurants, independent shops and a weekly market. - Malton
Known as the food capital of North Yorkshire, Malton is slightly further towards York from Pickering. Go prepared to enjoy some tasty treats, including coffee from Roost, gelato at Groovy Moo and sourdough from Bluebird Bakery. - Helmsley
A historic market town with a castle, Helmsley is also home to several independent delis, cafes and food producers (including a brewery). Definitely worth a visit, whatever time of year.
Enjoy North Yorkshire's Food & Drink
As mentioned above, the North York Moors is home to many amazing food & drink producers. Even within Whitby itself we have a number of businesses which will delight your tastebuds. Here are our recommendations:
- Whitby Brewery
Situated next to Whitby Abbey, Rich and his team have been brewing beer for over a decade. Enjoy a fantastic pint from their range, alongside a hand-stretched pizza, made to order and cooked in the tap room itself. Can't be missed! - Whitby Distillery
Luke and Jess have created some of the most wonderful gins around and are currently based on the edge of town. Plans are afoot to develop a new distillery next to the Abbey, but for now you can visit their shop and even enjoy a distillery tour at 8 Botany Way, Whitby. - Whitby Deli
Catherine and her team have been part of Whitby's food & drink scene for the last several years. Sourcing delicious treats from around the country, and the world, you won't be short of tempting options. - The Homestead, Goathland
Pete and Cecily set up the Homestead a couple of years ago and have quickly gained an excellent reputation. Fine dining, but in a relaxed and comfortable setting. Make sure you book well in advance to be certain of getting a table.
Magical Christmas Experiences Across North Yorkshire
If you're visiting the North York Moors shorlty before or over the Christmas period then there are a number of Christmas events which are worth mentioning.
- Santa Specials on the Steam Railway
Get in the festive spirit as you and your family start your festive railway adventure at our beautifully decorated Pickering Station. You’ll be greeted by twinkling lights, real Christmas trees and the joyful sounds of Christmas music filling the air. You'll take a magical journey from Pickering to Levisham Station return, whilst being entertained by our onboard performers and meet Father Christmas. - Made in Whitby Christmas Festival
This is a relatively new fixture in the Christmas calendar, but one we hope will continue for years to come. Head to Whitby Brewery the weekend of 14th/15th December 2024 to enjoy all the fun and festivities and finish your Christmas shopping by purchasing some gifts which are truly 'Made in Whitby'. - Christmas at Castle Howard
A festive extravaganza like none other. Enjoy the beautifully decorated surroundings of one of Yorkshire's finest country houses. - York Christmas Market
Running for several weeks up until Christmas, York Christmas Market brings together some of the regions best suppliers of food & drink, gifts and more. Enjoy live music and a stroll about York city centre, one of the most beautiful and historic cities in the UK.
The Perfect Winter Lodge for all Occasions
Designed to help you relax, our woodland lodges are the perfect accommodation option in an ideal setting. From curling up on a comfy sofa with a good book, to cooking and sharing meals together, to enjoying your private deck and observing the twinkling stars by night - our woodland lodges make it all possible.
If you're celebrating a special event, like a birthday or anniversary, our woodland lodges make a great venue. Open plan living spaces and well-equipped kitchens make catering for families a breeze. And with spacious bedrooms to enjoy, there's always a quiet space to retreat to should it be needed.
For those looking for a romantic getaway, our smaller lodges are perfect for couples. Make the most of the generous accommodation, enjoying the space and luxury as you spend time together in the beautiful surroundings.
With family-friendly amenities available, including cots and high chairs, a winter break in the North York Moors is the perfect option for young families.
Book Your Winter Break in the North York Moors Today
If you're looking to rent a cosy woodland lodge in North Yorkshire, we've several options available:
We're also able to offer woodland lodge ownership to those looking to invest. Remember, investing in a woodland lodge is more than a financial investment. It's an investment in your quality of life.
We'd always encourage those interested in holiday lodge ownership to come and spend some time at Ladycross. So why not book yourself a few days away in one of our rental lodges? You'll be able to experience the magic of the North York Moors for yourself, and get a feel for what Ladycross offers owners.
Our team are always happy to talk through options. Why not give Kieran or Lisa a call on 01947 895 502?
A Winter Wonderland Awaits You in the North York Moors
We hope this post has whetted your appetite and given you a glimpse into what a winter holiday in the North York Moors can offer. From food & drink to walking & cycling, from towns & villages to magical Christmas experiences, there's truly something for everyone.
Go ahead, book your cosy woodland lodge and begin planning your winter trip to Yorkshire. It's a beautiful place, with so much to see and do on our doorstep, you'll be spoiled for choice and make memories which will last a lifetime.
