There’s something magical about the North York Moors in autumn. As the last warmth of summer fades into memory, this unassumingly beautiful landscape transforms. For those who appreciate the finer things in life while craving authentic outdoor experiences, this season offers an unbeatable blend of natural splendour and refined adventure.
The great outdoors
Wildlife at its Best
The Yorkshire coast in autumn is absolutely prime for wildlife watching. Whales are following shoals of mackerel and herring around our coastline, and there’s nothing quite like spotting these magnificent creatures. Take the short drive to the coast and look out from the clifftops, or partake in one of the regular whale-watching boat trips out of Whitby or Staithes.
Come November, grey seals start hauling out on our beaches to give birth. Around half the world’s grey seals live in UK waters, and many choose our National Park coast for breeding. The pups with their soft white coats are adorable, though you’ll need to keep your distance. Stay at least 100 metres away to avoid distressing the seals and to protect yourself – they give a seriously nasty bite when threatened.
It’s also salmon season. Watching these powerful fish leap up waterfalls is something you might only expect to see on a David Attenborough programme. But the River Esk is one of the few Yorkshire rivers that still supports salmon, and Salmon Leap point in Sleights gives you a front-row seat when the water’s running high. These fish have travelled from the North Sea to spawn in the exact streams where they were born – a privilege to witness.
Woodland walks
The woodlands here are spectacular year-round, but autumn brings something extra. You’ll find every shade of red, orange, and gold, plus fascinating fungi growing on fallen timber. It’s not just pretty – these walks connect you to landscapes that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.
For those who consider themselves serious outdoormen (or women), try your hand at foraging. There’s something deeply satisfying about sourcing wild food from these ancient landscapes – it’s sustainable, authentic, and connects you to the land in the most fundamental way. Taste the Wild run courses that teach you how to identify, find and prepare all manner of edible plantsand fungi.
Dark skies
When night falls, the magic continues. As a designated Dark Sky Reserve, the North York Moors offers stargazing that urban dwellers can only dream of. While February is the prime time for gazing into the galaxy, October-November comes a close second. The Dark Skies Fringe Festival celebrates this with events showcasing some of the clearest night skies in England.
Towns and villages
Villages worth discovering
The moors are scattered with villages that have retained their character despite the pressures of modern tourism. Each has its own story, from former mining communities to ancient market towns. The pace is different here – slower, more thoughtful, and infinitely more relaxing than city life.
Whitby’s Gothic charm
October brings Whitby Goth Weekend, when this historic fishing town transforms into something from a Victorian novel. It’s quirky, atmospheric, and uniquely British. Whether you’re into the scene or just curious, it’s quite the spectacle.
Beyond the gothic weekend, Whitby itself is worth exploring – cobbled streets, the famous abbey ruins, and some of the best fish and chips you’ll find anywhere.
Culture & history
Steam heritage
The North Yorkshire Moors Railway isn’t just transport – it’s a journey through time. Consider ditching the car for a day and traversing the Moors in breathtaking style, with regular departures between Pickering and Whitby, stopping off at picturesque heritage stations along the way. The Autumn Moorlander Dining Train offers a unique culinary experience. Enjoy a mouthwatering seasonal menu – think spiced parsnip soup and blackberry crumble tart – as you glide through the countryside in the comfort and elegance of a restored railway carriage.
The Annual Steam Gala showcases the golden age of rail travel in late Septemer, and around Halloween, the Mad Alice Ghost Train adds theatrical flair to autumn evenings (visitors to York may recognise her from her famous tours of the city).. There’s something deeply satisfying about the rhythm of steam engines crossing landscapes that seem untouched by modern life.
Train buffs will jump at the chance to ride The Flying Scotsman, which is in action between Pickering and Grosmont late October to Early November.
Local autumnal delicacies
The North York Moors are a real hotspot for dining. Every village has restaurants serving up the best local,seasonal produce prepared with love, with plenty of rustic charm on the side. Several villages boast their one Michelin-starred restaurants. You’re truly spoilt for choice – you can find a few of our recommendations in our blog on romantic getaways in the North York Moors.
If fine dining isn’t your thing, you’ll find plenty of artisan producers selling their seasonal fare in local shops and markets – everything from pies and cheese to ale and gin.
Local autumnal delicacies
The North York Moors are a real hotspot for dining. Every village has restaurants serving up the best local,seasonal produce prepared with love, with plenty of rustic charm on the side. Several villages boast their one Michelin-starred restaurants. You’re truly spoilt for choice – you can find a few of our recommendations in our blog on romantic getaways in the North York Moors.
If fine dining isn’t your thing, you’ll find plenty of artisan producers selling their seasonal fare in local shops and markets – everything from pies and cheese to ale and gin.
A historic house and pocket of Yorkshire history
Nunnington Hall givs you a bit of everything – a glimpse into local history, cultural depth, and stunning outdoor spaces. The National Trust property regularly hosts exhibitions that showcase the connection between art and nature, offering contemplative moments alongside more active pursuits. This year’s highlight is All The Wood’s a Stage, an exhibition celebrating the best woodland photography.
The staff there are amazing – knowledgeable, passionate and welcoming – and it’s small enough that you can really explore it in detail without it taking up your whole day. You might even meet one of the site’s majestic peacocks as you wander the gardens.
Your unique base for adventure
The beauty of luxury self-catering accommodation is the freedom to craft your days exactly as you wish. This is how country living should be – where adventure meets quality, where wild encounters are balanced by creature comforts, and where every day brings something new. Whether you’re watching salmon leap waterfalls, coasting through the countryside in an vintage train, or simply walking through woodlands of autumn’s finest colours, the North York Moors guarantees an unforgettable experience.
And there’s no better base from which to discover what makes this corner of Yorkshire so extraordinary than our newly renovated Moors Church – we’re sure you’ll ever have stayed anywhere quite like it. Find out more about our accommodation – your autumn adventure awaits.
