Exploring the Yorkshire Wolds with Dan and Helen – A Journey Through History, Nature, and Hidden Gems
In Episode 6 of Yorkshire Great and Small with Dan and Helen,( you can find here their Yorkshire Coast episode and their Yorkshire Moors episode) the duo ventures into the picturesque and lesser-known Yorkshire Wolds, an area of rolling hills, historic sites, and scenic beauty. This episode takes viewers through a variety of landscapes and fascinating locations, from ancient folklore to modern art, offering plenty of inspiration for anyone considering a holiday in the region.
Starting at Filey Brigg, Dan and Helen explore this dramatic rocky peninsula that juts out into the North Sea. Filey Brigg is steeped in local legend—according to folklore, Ralph Parkin, a tailor from Filey, killed a dragon that had been terrorizing the local area, after the dragon ate some Yorkshire Parkin. The dragin died, and what remains is Filey Brigg sticking out in to the sea.
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From here, Dan and Helen head inland to Filey Dams Nature Reserve, one of Yorkshire’s most important wetland sites. This peaceful reserve is a haven for wildlife, particularly birds, and offers visitors the chance to see species like water rails, snipe, and kingfishers in their natural habitat. The reserve’s serene atmosphere is a wonderful reminder of the quieter, more contemplative side of the Yorkshire landscape.
Yorkshire Great and Small Yorkshire Wolds
Their journey continues to Winteringham, where they visit the art installation Enclosure Rites. This stunning piece of public art is set high on a hill, offering sweeping views over the Vale of Pickering, where Cliff House Holiday Cottages is nestled. The installation pays tribute to the ancient ritual landscapes of the area and is the perfect spot to stop and appreciate the vastness of the Yorkshire Wolds.
One of the highlights of the episode is the visit to Wharram Percy, one of the best-preserved deserted medieval villages in England. Located on the edge of the Yorkshire Wolds, Wharram Percy was once a thriving village, inhabited for over 600 years before being abandoned in the 16th century. Today, the remains of the village church and several farmsteads still stand, offering a haunting glimpse into Yorkshire’s past. The walk to Wharram Percy is peaceful and scenic, making it an ideal place for history lovers and walkers alike.
Yorkshire Great and Small with Dan and Helen : Yorkshire Wolds, Wharram Percy
Next up is the Yorkshire Wolds Railway, a unique attraction that celebrates the region’s railway heritage. This volunteer-run railway is the only one in the Yorkshire Wolds, and visitors can enjoy a short ride along a restored section of the old railway line. For railway enthusiasts, it’s a great way to experience a piece of history and see some of the beautiful Wolds countryside from a different perspective.
After exploring the railway, Dan and Helen head to the small hamlet of Thixendale, tucked away in a narrow dale. Thixendale is known for its isolation and picturesque setting, offering visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Surrounded by the rolling hills of the Wolds, it’s a perfect spot to enjoy a quiet walk and take in the views.
The episode concludes with a visit to Little Wold Vineyard, located near the Humber Estuary. The vineyard offers stunning views across the estuary and produces a range of award-winning English wines. It’s a fitting end to the episode, showcasing the diversity of the Yorkshire Wolds, from its ancient history to its modern agricultural innovations.
Make Cliff House Holiday Cottages Your Base for Exploring the Yorkshire Wolds
This episode of Yorkshire Great and Small highlights the rich history, natural beauty, and hidden gems of the Yorkshire Wolds, all of which are easily accessible from Cliff House Holiday Cottages. Situated on the edge of the North York Moors National Park and with stunning views across the Vale of Pickering, our cottages are the perfect base for exploring not only the Wolds but also the nearby coast and countryside.
Whether you want to walk in the footsteps of history at Wharram Percy, enjoy the coastal beauty of Filey Brigg, or sample local wines at Little Wold Vineyard, there’s plenty to discover just a short drive from Cliff House. Our family-friendly, pet-friendly cottages offer the ideal retreat after a day of exploring, with an indoor heated pool, games room, and two acres of gardens to relax in.
Come stay with us and experience the best of Yorkshire—from the coast to the Wolds, there’s something for everyone.
