Imagine waking up to the sound of birdsong and the scent of pine trees in the air. You're staying in a woodland lodge at Ladycross, on the edge of the North York Moors, with the promise of adventure just beyond your doorstep.
North Yorkshire is an ideal destination for an adventure and activity holiday. The rugged Yorkshire coast, dramatic forests and moors are all within easy reach. Your woodland lodge makes a fantastic base from which to explore the area. Enjoy all the creature comforts you need to relax and unwind after a day's adventure.
In this post we'll discuss some of North Yorkshire's top adventure & activity attractions, giving you plenty of fantastic ideas and inspiration for your next trip.
Why North Yorkshire is Perfect for Adventure & Activity Holidays
Firstly, North Yorkshire is a beautiful county. It's home to some of the UK's most dramatic scenery and diverse countryside. You'll find forests, moors, lakes and coastlines all within a short distance. This makes it the perfect place to enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities.
Secondly, when it comes to family-friendly activities, North Yorkshire has it all. A popular destination for families, you'll find activities to suit all ages and skill levels on our doorstep.
Thirdly, North Yorkshire offers a wide choice of outdoor activities. With such a diverse landscape, visitors can enjoy everything from rock climbing to surfing.
Whether you're planning a weekend break or an extended summer holiday, adventure awaits in North Yorhire!
Top Outdoor Activities Near Our Woodland Lodges
Hiking and Walking
Visitors to Ladycross have a great choice of walking routes close by. Here are some of North Yorkshire's walking highlights:
- The Esk Valley Walk - a 30 mile route which follows the River Esk from source to sea. This can be tackled in sections over several days, and passes close to Ladycross. Why not tackle the section from Egton to Whitby and treat yourselves to a fish & chip supper!
- The Cleveland Way - one of the UK's most scenic coastal routes. It passes over the highest cliffs on the east coast as it winds its way from Helmsley to Filey. At 109 miles in total this is a true challenge. You could tackle various sections of the walk over several days. The entire route is within a short drive of Ladycross.
- North York Moors - grab your Ordnance Survey map and head out into the moors. You'll find plenty of trails, footpaths and bridleways to enjoy offering views across the heather moorland.
Cycling Adventures
Yorkshire has long been a favourite with cyclists. The Tour de Yorkshire really put the county on the map, especially for road cyclists who enjoy the challenge of the undulating terrain! Here are our top suggestions for cycle routes:
- Whitby to Scarborough Cinder Track - following the route of the disused railway path this is a family-friendly route. It's about 20 miles in length and takes 2 to 4 hours to complete. If you don't fancy the full distance, why not tackle a section such as Whitby to Robin Hood's Bay?
- Dalby Forest - offering some of the best mountain bike routes in the UK, Dalby Forest is managed by Forestry England. You'll find various routes aimed at different riders, from short flat circuits for children to 20+ miles of technical terrain for more advanced riders.
- Route YC - a newly created series of cycling routes along the Yorkshire coast, from Whitby all the way down to Bridlington. Mostly road cycling with the occasional trail section, these well-designed circuits take in the best views and offer plenty of refreshment options en route!
Watersports
With the Yorkshire coast just a stone's throw from your lodge, watersports are a great option for visitors to Ladycross. But there are other options nearby too, here are our favourites:
- Whitby Surf School - enjoy a 1 to 1 or family lesson as you take to the surf on Whitby beach. Equipment hire is available throughout the summer season and they also offer week-long clubs for budding surfers in the summer. This is a great way to get to grips with the basics.
- Scaling Dam - just a few miles up the road from Ladycross you'll find Scaling Dam, a resevoir and watersports location. Here you can learn to sail, kayak and paddleboard. This is a great way to grow in confidence without having to deal with the waves and currents of the North Sea, although it can still get fairly choppy out on the water!
- North Yorkshire Aqua Park - a relatively new addition, this amazing facility offers various kinds of watersports as well as a huge floating obstacle courses! Fantastic fun for the whole family, you'll have a great day out enjoying something truly memorably and exciting.
Adventure Parks & Forest Activities
Ladycross is set in 95 acres of mature woodland, and we've 2 miles of nature trails for guests to enjoy within our boundary. Nearby there are various options for those who love spending time in the woods. Here are some woodland recommendations:
- Go Ape - head to Dalby Forest and enjoy a tree-top adventure with Go Ape as you swing from branch to branch. Great fun and a proper advanture for all ages. You'll need a head for heights and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone!
- Forest School - there are various forest school providers based in North Yorkshire. Whether you're looking to do something as a family or just for the children, there are plenty of options. Forest school is a great way to grow in confidence with things like fire lighting and den building in a safe environment and under the tuition of qualified instructors.
Wildlife
The North York Moors is home to a diverse ecosystem. Woodland mammals like deer, fox and badger are regularly seen at Ladycross. If you'd like to spend time spotting wildlife here are some options:
- RSPB Bempton Cliffs - head an hour down the coast to visit this amazing nature reserve. Home to various kinds of sea birds including puffins, this is a must for the ornathologists!
- Scaling Dam - as well as being a top watersports location, Scaling Dam is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, especially birds. Take a walk around the resevoir, and don't forget the binoculars!
- Coastal wildlife - dolphins, seals and porpoise are regularly spotted off Whitby throughout the summer. Whales have also been known to visit too! Whitby's Yellow Boats offer wildlife trips throughout the season.
- Moorland wildlife - head out across the North York Moors and you're likely to spot something interesting, whatever the time of year. From birds of prey and owls to deer, foxes, badgers and more. A visit to Danby Moors Centre or Sutton Bank Centre is recommended where wardens will be able to advise on the best options for wildlife spotting.
Local Guided Tours
A guided tour of Whitby can be a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the landscape. Our recommendation would be to contact Rose Rylands, the Whitby Storyteller. Rose offers a wide range of options, including bespoke walking tours of Whitby and the surrounding countryside. Having grown up in the area, Rose has extensive knowledge of local history, culture and wildlife. She loves the countryside and joining Rose for a guided tour is a unique and memorable experience for all ages.
Someting Out of the Ordinary
And then there are the things which you might not be expecting! Here are a few suggestions for the adrenaline junkies:
- Bungee Jumping - the UK Bungee Club offer bungee jumping off Whitby Viaduct several times a year. This is a unique opportunity to jump off one of the most iconic local landmarks, which spans the valley through which the River Esk flows. You'll enjoy amazing views as you plummet towards the water below!
- Gliding - try gliding at the Yorkshire Gliding Club, less than an hour's drive from Ladycross. They offer various packages, perfect for those looking to take to the skies and enjoy amazing views across the county.
- 4x4 Off Road Driving - try your hand at 4x4 driving in Robin Hood's Bay. Under the guidance of experienced instructors you can get behind the wheel of a Land Rover and try your hand at off road driving.
- Clay Pigeon Shooting - available at various locations within a short distance of Ladycross. Whether you're a beginner or more experienced, learn the art of clay pigeon shooting and enjoy a day out in the countryside.
Stay in Comfort: Your Woodland Lodge Experience
With all of these amazing activities to do nearby you'll have plenty of options to choose from. But what about your accommodation? If you've spent the day battling the waves or marching across the moors you'll want somewhere warm, cosy, comfortable and calm to return to.
Ladycross woodland lodges are the perfect choice!
Our lodges built to the highest standards. They're spacious too, with open plan living space, perfect for families to enjoy together. Comfortably furnished and with well-equipped kitchens and luxurious bathrooms, there's nothing quite like returning to your cosy lodge after a long day's adventure!
Woodland lodges are an eco-friendly choice too. With various environmentally-friendly features, our lodges are sustainably built and highly insulated. Our lodges are thoughtfully designed, with private decking areas and woodland views to all sides.
Each luxury cabin is positioned to optimise privacy, peace and quiet. Guests often remark about how quiet and tranquil Ladycross is. And with convenient parking space alongside each lodge, you'll feel right at home.
Why Choose Our Woodland Lodges for Your Adventure Holiday?
Ladycross holiday lodges are conveniently located in close proximity to some of Yorkshire's top attractions. Guests staying at Ladycross enjoy the benefits of our peaceful woodland setting, but within easy reach of adventure. Just a 10 minute drive from Whitby and the North Yorkshire coast, we're on the edge of the North York Moors and only an hour's drive from York.
Whatever activities you prefer, being based at Ladycross in a cosy woodland lodge ensures you can make the most of all the options. And, if you'd like more ideas or suggestions, our helpful team are on hand to point you in the right direction. Visit our reception building where you'll find plenty of up to date information.
And after a long day in the saddle, striding up Roseberry Topping, or wildlife-watching you can return to your cosy cabin. Enjoy cooking together, order a take-away or visit one of the areas pubs or restaurants - the choice is yours! Then, as the sun sets, sit out on your private deck with a glass of your favourite, watching the stars appear overhead. Or, snuggle up on the comfy sofas and enjoy playing a game or watching a movie together before drifting off to sleep in your comfy bed. Sounds good, right?
Seasonal Activities: Adventure All Year Round
Different seasons bring different opportunties for adventure. Depending on the time of year you might want to adjust your schedule, or prioritise certain activities. It also might be necessary to change your plans, if unusually hot, cold or wet weather arrives! We've put together the following suggestions for the best times of year to tackle different activities.
Spring Adventure Activities
- Walking - get out in the countryside and enjoy seeing the dafoddils and spring lambs in the fields. Pack up a picnic and set out across the moors, or along the cliff tops.
- Cycling - enjoy the country lanes of North Yorkshire or muddy trails of Dalby Forest on two wheels.
Summer Adventure Activities
- Watersports - with the warmer weather comes the opportunity to enjoy the sun, sea and surf! Book yourselves a surf lesson at Whitby Surf School, or head to Yorkshire Aqua Park for some family-friendly fun.
- Forest activities - enjoy the shade of the canopy as you take the trees at Go Ape or enjoy some forest school activities as a family.
Autumn Adventure Activities
- Wildlife - one of the best times of year to see wildlife, pack your binoculars and a Thermos and head out into the countryside. Be prepared to sit and wait, enjoying the cooler autumn air and the colours of the changing seasons.
- Photography - bring your camera too, if that's your thing. You won't be short of things to shoot, from the dramatic landscapes of the North York Moors to the quaint coastal villages.
Winter Adventure Activities
- Festive experiences - you'll find winter markets, Christmas lights, festivals and plenty of festive fun nearby. Our top recommendations are the Made in Whitby Christmas Festival and Christmas at Castle Howard. While not strictly 'adventure' these make memorable days out. Discover more winter activities.
- Star-gazing - with little light pollution to contend with, we often enjoy beautifully clear skies above Ladycross, revealing the beauty of the night sky. The Dark Skies Festival provides a fantastic opportunity to engage in astronomy activities, led by experts.
Guest Testimonials
Here are a selection of comments from guests who have recently stayed in a woodland holiday lodge at Ladycross:
Fantastic lodge, we stayed at Shunner Howe, absolutely brilliant felt like a lottery winner, definitely recommend, will be back.
Our stay at Shunner Howe lodge was amazing. The property was simply stunning throughout. Located in the gorgeous North Yorkshire Moors, its location was great for commuting to Whitby and other places close by. We could quite easily live in the property, but hope to be back for a short stay in the future!
Absolutely beautiful lodge on a peaceful campsite. It was very modern, spacious and we felt right at home. Beautiful grounds and my toddler loved the chickens roaming the site! Lovely woodland walk onsite and plenty to do in driving distance nearby. We had the best stay, thank you so much!
Read more reviews here and here.
Book Your Yorkshire Adventure Holiday Today!
Ready to embark on your North Yorkshire adventure? Book your stay in one of our amazing woodland lodges today and start planning your unforgettable holiday:
Once you've booked your lodge you'll be able to begin planning your activities and looking forward to your adventures! It's always a good idea to leave time in your schedule for the unexpexected, or to re-visit your favourite locations before it's time to go home. However, some activities will only be available at certain times such as Go Ape or surf lessons, so it's a good idea to get these booked as early as possible.
Two of our lodges are pet-friendly, so you can bring your four-legged friend too!
Own a Holiday Lodge in North Yorkshire
Holiday lodge ownership is the most flexible way to enjoy Yorkshire's attractions. Our lodge development plan is now underway, with lodges priced from just over £225,000. Owners benefit from year-round access to the park, and are also able to generate rental income from their lodge should they wish to. We have a range of holiday lodges for sale.
With a choice of layouts available our woodland lodges can be tailored to your specific needs. Choose your own furniture, fixtures and fittings, or have our team handle all of that for you - the choice is yours!
Owning a holiday lodge in North Yorkshire is an increasingly popular investment option for people who love the great outdoors. With so much to see and do nearby, our lodge owners love the freedom ownership offers as they can return as often as they like throughout the year.
Kieran and Lisa are available to talk to anyone exploring lodge ownership. We'd always encourage potential owners to book a stay in one of our rental lodges and to arrange to talk to our team during your trip. You'll get a proper feel for Ladycross and the local area. Please call us on 01947 895502 to start a conversation.
Conclusion
We hope you've found this introduction to adventure holidays in North Yorkshire helpful. There really is so much to see and do on our doorstep. This is one of the reasons why so many choose to return to Whitby, the North York Moors and Yorkshire coast regularly.
Our woodland holiday lodges make the perfect base from which to experience North Yorkshire. Whether you're renting for a week or own your very own woodland lodge, you're sure to have a wonderful time and make memories which will last a lifetime.
If you have any questions about our accommodation options, or want to discuss holiday lodge ownership, please get in touch with our team. We're happy to help!
Yorkshire Adventure Holiday FAQs
What Outdoor Activities Are Available Near Ladycross?
Here are some options within a 15 minute drive:
- Cycling - road routes starting in Egton and off-road trails across the moors nearby, Whitby to Scarborough Cinder Track
- Walking - footpaths from Egton, the Cleveland Way, the Esk Valley Walk, guided tours and walks in and around Whitby
- Watersports - Whitby Surf School, Scaling Dam Resevoir, Ruswarp Pleasure Boats, sea swimming
- Wildlife - marine life off Whitby, bird life along the river Esk, over the Moors and on the cliffs north and south of Whitby
- Bungee Jumping - check out UK Bungee Club, several times per year off Whitby Viaduct!
Are Your Lodges Suitable for Families with Young Children?
Yes, we can provide high chairs and cots. Some of our lodges are single storey too, making them safer for younger children to navigate (and also wheelchair friendly). Woodland lodges make a great family-friendly holiday accommodation option.
What's the Best Time of Year to Visit for Adventure Activities?
That depends on what you want to do! Our personal favourite time of year is autumn. There's usually still some summer sun to enjoy, as well as the changing colours of the leaves. After the schools go back Whitby's a little quieter, though there's still a friendly buzz about the place. It's generally warm enough to still enjoy water based activities, but cool enough to make the most of longer cycle or walking routes too.
What Are the Benefits of Lodge Ownership vs. Short Term Renting?
Our rental lodges are only available 10 months of the year, but owners can visit as often as they like. Lodge owners are able to personalise their lodge, filling it with their choice of furniture, fixtures and fittings. Lodge owners can benefit from the rental income generated from their lodge, if they choose to rent it out.
What On-Site Facilities Does Ladycross Have?
Guests can enjoy our 'freedom field', perfect for exercising dogs, or children! We've 2 miles of nature trails winding their way throughout the park too. Our on-site shop is small but perfectly formed and staffed by our friendly team who are always available to answer questions and make suggestions. We've free WIFI across the park, as well as an on-site laundry (in addition to the washing machines in the lodges), a 'dog wash' facility and bucket loads of peace and quiet!
