Autumn is quietly arriving across the North York Moors. The heather has faded from purple to brown, bracken is beginning to bronze, and the woods around Goathland are starting to glow in shades of gold and rust. It’s a lovely time to get out with a camera and take in the changing season.
Today, Alastair headed out early to catch the first steam train of the day departing Pickering Station — a plume of smoke drifting above the rooftops, the sound of the whistle echoing down the valley. From there, he made for Upper Thomason Foss, a tucked-away waterfall hidden beneath the arches of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. It’s one of those places where steam trains, woodland, and water all come together in a single frame — a dream for photographers and anyone who enjoys a quiet walk.
After photographing the falls, he wandered on to The Birch Hall Inn in Beck Hole — one of the smallest pubs in the country. Inside, there’s just room for a handful of people, a few pints of proper Yorkshire ale, and (if you’re lucky) a pork pie or two.
The walk back to Goathland climbs gently up the old railway incline. It’s a steady way to take in the views — autumn woods below, open moorland above, and that feeling of space the Moors do so well.
Goathland makes a perfect day trip from Cliff House Holiday Cottages. It’s only a short drive away, and it offers a glimpse of everything that makes this part of Yorkshire special: heritage steam trains, woodland walks, waterfalls, and those first touches of autumn colour that make you slow down and look a little longer.
If you’re thinking about an autumn break, it’s a wonderful time to visit. The paths are quieter, the air is clearer, and the landscape takes on a warmth all its own. Bring your walking boots and your camera — and take time to explore the North York Moors at their most peaceful.
Plan your stay at Cliff House Holiday Cottages — your base for autumn walks, waterfalls, and steam trains.
