Take the train to Northallerton

Lying in the Vale of Mowbray in the heart of North Yorkshire, Northallerton is a market town with plenty of outdoorsy charm. Perfect for a family day out or a chilled weekend away, you can easily catch the train to Northallerton station on the London to Sunderland line.

Once you have arrived, there is plenty to keep you occupied. Whether you are interested in a spot of culture, a great hike or some great local food, here are a few recommendations of things to do in and around Northallerton: 

Ride the Wensleydale Railway from Leeming Bar Station

• Leases Road, Leeming Bar

For an authentic train ride hauled by a steam locomotive or a heritage diesel locomotive, head to Leeming Bar Station to board the Wensleydale Railway. Train enthusiasts of all ages will enjoy the ride along beautiful countryside into the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. Soon to be restored thanks to National Lottery funding, Leeming Bar station is at the hub of the railway line and is where the engines are lovingly maintained and stored in between journeys. Special events such as afternoon teas and gin-tasting sessions are also held regularly onboard and can be booked via the website.

Take a hike

• Various, Northallerton

If walking is your passion, then you will be in hiking heaven in Northallerton. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly two mile walk, or something much more intense, there are plenty of tried and tested walks to choose and experience. Passing over beautiful bridges, across trickling streams and next to railway lines you can get a good dose of fresh air and get your heart pumping. Plus, after you have reached your final destination and worked up a good appetite, you can sample one of the many gastro pubs and inns in the town for a well-earned Yorkshire feast!

Visit the Mount Grace Priory

• Mount Bank, Northallerton

One of the best-preserved Carthusian priories in England, Mount Grace Priory is a unique and unusual medieval site full of history and intrigue. If you are interested to learn how the monks used to live in the late 14^th century, then you can enter a reconstructed monk’s cell before exploring the three acres of glorious gardens and meadows. Spot birds on the lake and see a host of traditional varieties of Yorkshire apple trees in the orchards. Once you have finished exploring, stop for a picnic in the covered picnic area, or head to the Orchard Café to sample an original ‘Yoastie’ (Yorkshire pudding toastie!) or a Yorkshire-inspired sweet treat.

See breath-taking birds of prey displays

• Sion Hill Hall, Thirsk

Once in Northallerton, you are only a stone’s throw away from one of England’s most prestigious falconry centres, and if you are a bird lover then it’s definitely worth a visit. With over 70 birds and 30 species, you can see eagles, falcons, hawks, kites, vultures and owls within a beautiful English garden setting at the Thirsk Birds of Prey Centre. The skilled handlers will give great insight into the bird’s most intimate habits, such as why the birds hunt and fly as they do, where they come from in the wild and how they are trained. You can even get up-close-and-personal with a handling session after each display (free of charge). Experience days are also available to book for those looking for the ultimate personal falconry encounter.

Once you are ready to book your trip to Northallerton, then head over to our booking page to secure your train tickets in advance.