Nestled in the North York Moors National Park, Goathland offers a unique blend of natural beauty, village charm, and fascinating history. Whether you’re visiting for the day or staying a little longer, there are plenty of things to do in Goathland for all ages and interests. From scenic walks and heritage attractions to cosy tearooms and iconic TV locations, here’s your guide to making the most of your time in this moorland gem.
Goathland Village in the North York Moors National Park, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, village charm, and fascinating history. Whether you’re visiting for the day or staying a little longer, there are plenty of things to do in Goathland for all ages and interests. From scenic walks and heritage attractions to cosy tearooms and iconic TV locations, here’s your guide to making the most of your time in this moorland gem.
One of Goathland’s biggest draws is the Goathland Station, famous for its role as Hogsmeade Station in the Harry Potter films. From here, you can board a steam train on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and enjoy a nostalgic ride through beautiful countryside to destinations like Grosmont, Pickering, and Whitby. It’s a fantastic family-friendly day out.
Community life is at the heart of Goathland. The Goathland Hut hosts regular events, from coffee mornings and library days to craft fairs and music nights. It’s a great place to meet locals, get information, or take part in village life. Visitors are always warmly welcomed.
One of the quirks of Goathland is its free-roaming sheep, who wander the village as they please. They’re a charming and photogenic feature — just be sure to drive carefully and respect their right of way!
Thanks to its location, Goathland is a perfect base for exploring the wider moors and coast. Whitby is just 30 minutes away by car, with its famous abbey, seaside charm and fish and chips. The villages of Egton Bridge, Grosmont and Beck Hole are also close by, offering riverside walks, historic inns and woodland adventures.
Goathland is a walking paradise. Easy access to scenic trails makes it ideal for hikers and casual walkers alike. The Rail Trail is a popular circular route following an old railway line between Goathland and Grosmont, with gentle gradients and lovely views. Don’t miss a visit to Goathland Waterfall, also known as Mallyan Spout — a peaceful, hidden gem nestled in a wooded ravine.
For a deeper connection to the village’s heritage, take a moment at St Mary’s Church on the edge of the moor. The peaceful setting and striking views are worth the short stroll. Back in the centre of the village, look out for the Goathland History Board, which offers fascinating insight into the area’s past, including ancient settlements and the rise of tourism in Victorian times.
From traditional tearooms to welcoming pubs, there’s no shortage of places to eat in Goathland. The Goathland Hotel (famous as the Aidensfield Arms in Heartbeat) serves hearty meals and local ales. For afternoon tea or a home-baked treat, try one of the independent cafes near the village green.
The Waterfall and path to the Waterfall is open all year around with no restrictions to access. The Waterfall is completely free.
This is the nearest Car Park to the Waterfall. It is located near the village centre, approximately 5 to 10 mins walk away.
There are no facilities at the Waterfall, just a couple of benches or so on the path down to the Waterfall.
Be advised that the Waterfall is only suitable for people with full mobility, as it is a steep walk down the uneven (sometimes muddy) path. Once you reach the bottom, you will need to maneuver over and around small to medium-sized boulders for a very short length, 20/30 meters or so, to reach the fall.
After visiting Mallyan Spout, return to Goathland village to enjoy some local hospitality. The Mallyan Spout Hotel offers traditional Yorkshire meals, drinks, and a cosy setting to relax in. There are also quaint tearooms, gift shops, and a village store for refreshments and souvenirs.
Public toilets and parking are available near the centre of the village. During peak times, it’s advisable to arrive early to find a parking space.
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