Attractions and Places To See around Hawnby - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Hawnby include a variety of natural features and historical sites within the North York Moors National Park. The village is situated amidst moorland, rivers like the Rye, and prominent hills such as Hawnby Hill. This area offers a mix of outdoor exploration opportunities and insights into local heritage. Visitors can find diverse landscapes and historical landmarks throughout the region.
Best attractions and places to see around Hawnby
- The most popular attractions is The Wainstones, a climb that is a distinctive rocky outcrop. It offers far-reaching views across to Middlesbrough and the Tees, with prehistoric carvings found on some lower rocks.
- Another must-see spot is Rievaulx Abbey, a historical site. These are the ruins of a Cistercian abbey, once one of the grandest in England. The site offers a glimpse into medieval monastic life and features a cafe.
- Visitors also love Gormire Lake, a tranquil lake surrounded by woodland. It is believed to be fed by an underground spring and is popular for wild swimming due to its clean water.
- Hawnby is known for historical sites, natural monuments, and viewpoints. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient ruins to prominent moorland summits.
- The attractions around Hawnby are appreciated by the komoot community. The highlights have received 66 upvotes and feature 46 photos, showcasing the area's appeal.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Carlton Bank Summit Trig Point
Highlight • Natural Monument
To the northeast, you can see the distinctively shaped Roseberry Topping. To the east and south, the stunning undulations of the North York Moors rise and fall. To the west, the hills drop away into the Tees Valley and you might just be able to see the shadowy form of the Pennines on the horizon.
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The Wainstones
Highlight • Climb
The rocks are situated on a hill called 'Hasty Banks', and there are fantastic views across to Middlesbrough and the Tees from here.
On the lower ground surrounding the Wainstones, there's a small collection of rocks with prehistoric carvings on them. Due to the area’s exposed location and consequent erosion, the carvings can be difficult to see, however.
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Gormire Lake
Highlight • Natural
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Kilburn White Horse
Highlight • Historical Site
When you are above the White Horse it is difficult to get a sense of its enormous scale so it is worth following the steps down to view it from below.
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Rievaulx Abbey
Highlight • Historical Site
You have to pay to enter but there's a cafe that can be visited for free and, naturally, the view of the ruins doesn't cost anything from the road. If you park at Helmsley, there's a beautiful walk here along the Cleveland Way.
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Other adventures around Hawnby
Tips from the Community
This is where I realised wearing new boots for a hike this long was a BAD idea!
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Lots of view points, people rock climbing and the up and downs test you as they are short, but a touch punchy for their short elevation!
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Gormire Lake is a natural lowland lake that lies at the foot of Whitestone Cliff, a western escarpment of the Hambleton Hills
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Meaning "filthy swamp", there are many local legends and myths surrounding this lake, such as it is bottomless (it is 6.5m deep) and was created by an earthquake that swallowed a village resulting in the lake today (it is a glacial lake).
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Large car park under the White Horse, £2.50 all day as at July 2024. Free parking in a smaller off-road car park on Osgodby Bank at the southern end of Hood Hill Plantation. Very steep steps up to the top, but there is a metal handrail that alternates from the left to right side of the steps. Fabulous views from the top, although as others mention, you can only really see and appreciate the horse from the bottom of the bank.
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Interesting for their sheer size alone, the old remains of the abbey also have an air of transience about them. Only the sometimes horrendous entrance fees prevent people from taking a closer look at the remains of the walls. It would certainly have been interesting.
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Judging from the number of recommendations, photos and tips, this is a hugely popular spot. If you can, get up there nice and early (I started 5.30am in May) to catch the rising sun and see the stones in a mix of sunlight and shadow, both from afar and close up. Spectacular rock formations and views all round.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Hawnby?
Hawnby is rich in natural beauty within the North York Moors National Park. You can explore prominent hills like Hawnby Hill, which offers excellent walking routes and views, especially when the heather blooms. The area also features the River Rye and Ladhill Beck. A notable spot is Gormire Lake, a tranquil lake surrounded by woodland, popular for its clean and surprisingly warm water.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks to visit in Hawnby?
Yes, Hawnby and its surroundings offer several historical sites. Within the village, you can find All Saints' Church, dating back to the 12th century, and the Wesleyan Chapel, rebuilt in 1814. Nearby, you can visit the well-preserved ruins of Rievaulx Abbey, a Cistercian abbey, or explore Kilburn White Horse, the most northerly turf-cut figure of its kind in Britain.
Where can I find good viewpoints with panoramic scenery near Hawnby?
For breathtaking views, head to Carlton Bank Summit Trig Point, which offers extensive views of Teesside, Roseberry Topping, and the North York Moors. Another excellent spot is The Wainstones, a distinctive rocky outcrop on Hasty Banks, providing far-reaching views across to Middlesbrough and the Tees.
What outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, are available near Hawnby?
Hawnby is an excellent base for outdoor activities. You can find numerous walking and cycling trails directly from the village, ranging from 3 to 9 miles. The Cleveland Way National Trail is also nearby. For specific routes, explore the MTB Trails around Hawnby, Road Cycling Routes around Hawnby, and Running Trails around Hawnby.
Are there family-friendly attractions or walks suitable for children?
While many walks in the North York Moors can be adapted for families, specific family-friendly attractions include Rievaulx Abbey, which offers an engaging historical experience. Additionally, Monk Park Farm Visitor Attraction, located about 11.1 km from Hawnby, provides a farm and pastures experience suitable for families.
Can I go wild swimming near Hawnby?
Yes, Gormire Lake is a popular spot for wild swimming. It's known for its clean and surprisingly warm water, with no currents, making it a safe and enjoyable option for a dip amidst beautiful woodland scenery.
What are some popular walking trails around Hawnby?
Hawnby offers various walking opportunities. Hawnby Hill provides excellent routes with tremendous scenery. The Cleveland Way National Trail is also accessible nearby. For detailed routes and difficulties, you can explore the Running Trails around Hawnby, which include options like the 'Arden Great Moor & Black Hambleton loop'.
What is the best time of year to visit Hawnby for outdoor activities?
The North York Moors are beautiful year-round, but late summer is particularly stunning when the heather blooms across the moorland, offering vibrant purple landscapes. Spring and early autumn also provide pleasant weather for walking and cycling, with fewer crowds than peak summer.
Where can I find refreshments or places to eat in or near Hawnby?
In Hawnby village, you can find the Hawnby Stores & Tea Room, which offers a local spot for refreshments. The Owl at Hawnby, a refurbished hotel, also provides dining options with views. For those visiting Rievaulx Abbey, there is a cafe on-site.
What makes Hawnby unique or a 'hidden gem'?
Hawnby is unique for its serene setting within the North York Moors National Park, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical depth without the bustling crowds of larger tourist spots. It's also notable for being the first village in England to have all buildings switch to dark-skies friendly lighting, contributing to the North York Moors' dark-sky status, making it excellent for stargazing.
Are there any craft or cultural centers nearby?
Yes, for those interested in crafts, the Mouseman Visitor Centre (Robert Thompson's Craftsmen Ltd) is approximately 6.6 miles from Hawnby, showcasing the work of the renowned 'Mouseman' woodcarver. Greenwood Crafts, about 10.1 miles away, also offers craft workshops.
Can I fish in the rivers near Hawnby?
Yes, fishing for trout and grayling is available in the River Rye and Seph. Day tickets are often accessible from the local inn, providing an opportunity to enjoy the tranquil waterways.
Most popular attractions around Hawnby
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