Attractions and Places To See around Danby - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Danby include a variety of historical sites, natural monuments, and coastal villages. The region offers diverse landscapes, from moorland peaks to dramatic waterfalls and sandy beaches. Visitors can explore significant landmarks, enjoy outdoor activities, and discover local heritage. This area provides opportunities to experience both historical significance and natural beauty.
Best attractions and places to see around Danby
- The most popular attractions is Captain Cook's Monument on Easby Moor, a historical site that stands at the 1,063-foot peak of Easby Moor. This monument honors Captain James Cook and offers views of the surrounding Moors.
- Another must-see spot is Staithes Fishing Village, a historical site and settlement. Visitors can wander through winding streets, explore a traditional bay, and find a small beach with rock pools.
- Visitors also love Mallyan Spout Waterfall, a natural monument with a vertical drop of 70 feet. It is the tallest waterfall in the North York Moors.
- Danby is known for its historical sites, natural monuments, and coastal areas. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, including fishing villages, railway stations, and beaches.
- The attractions around Danby are appreciated by the komoot community, with 265 upvotes and 114 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Captain Cook's Monument on Easby Moor
Highlight • Historical Site
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Mallyan Spout Waterfall
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Staithes Fishing Village
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Grosmont Station – North Yorkshire Moors Railway
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Runswick Bay Beach
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Tips from the Community
Great views and early on a Sunday morning is best to beat the crowds. The obelisk is hollow and originally had a doorway you could walk through, before it was sealed during a 19th‑century restoration. A lightning strike in 1960 almost split the monument down the middle after the lightning conductor installed in 1895 rusted away. Earlier lightning strikes in the 19th century had already blown off the original doorway and obliterated the cast‑iron plaques. Fun fact - allegedly - the monument contains a hidden time capsule. When the foundation stone was laid in 1827, commemorative items were placed inside, including a portrait of Captain Cook and a glass plate etched with details of the event.
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Unique for its 1835 George Stephenson tunnel and its role as both a working engine shed and a visitor hub, the station is quite spectacular even on a dreary winter's day when there are no events on and no locomotives in the station. A flashback to the mid-twentieth century.
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Directly in front of the monument, take a stroll about 30-50 paces and you will have some very decent views of the area!
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The best beach in Yorkshire :). Quiet, decent tidal range. I travelled north just after high tide with not much walking room after descending from Claymoor Beck, but then a few hours later I returned the opposite way to find an expansive beach at low tide. Lots of seaweed, interesting erosion, hollows and shallow caves in the cliffs. Peaceful beach with a few dog walkers and great views.
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Uniquely nestled between tall cliffs to the north and south, Staithes is a truly picturesque village with its characteristic river mouth and harbour. Cleveland Way from the south is quite steep (I turned around here so can't comment on routes to the north), but well worth the effort.
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Whilst this waterfall is relatively accessible, as others point out it is a bit of a scramble, with the rocks still quite slippery and treacherous in the height of summer, as they are permanently in the shade and damp. In summer, the valley that the track to the waterfall runs through provides welcome respite from the heat of the day.
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Beautiful village, steep but thankfully relatively short climb out, lot of places to chose from for refeshments
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The beautiful 70 ft high Mallyan Spout waterfall is the tallest one in the North York Moors National Park. It is not recommended for anyone with mobility issues as it involves scrambling over rocks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in and around Danby?
Danby offers a rich history, including the Captain Cook's Monument on Easby Moor, a significant landmark honoring the celebrated circumnavigator. You can also visit the Grosmont Station – North Yorkshire Moors Railway to experience heritage steam locomotives. Beyond these, the region is home to the historic Danby Marble Quarry, the architecturally significant Danby Village Historic District, and the Danby Congregational Church, built in 1838.
Where can I learn about Danby's local history?
To delve into Danby's past, you can visit the Mt. Tabor-Danby Historical Society, which is housed in the basement of the S.L. Griffith Library. The library itself is a historical landmark, established in 1904 by Silas L. Griffith, Vermont's first millionaire.
What natural attractions are there near Danby?
Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the Mallyan Spout Waterfall, the tallest waterfall in the North York Moors with a 70-foot drop. The area is also characterized by the scenic Taconic Mountains, including Dorset Peak, and the Green Mountain National Forest, which offers extensive opportunities for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing. Otter Creek forms part of Danby's eastern boundary and is popular for fishing.
Are there opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities around Danby?
Yes, Danby is an excellent base for outdoor activities. The Green Mountain National Forest provides extensive trails for hiking, biking, and caving. For specific routes, you can explore options like the 'Commondale and Esk Valley from Danby' or 'Danby Dale and Castleton Rigg loop from Castleton'. Find more details on these and other trails in the Hiking around Danby guide.
Where can I find scenic views in the Danby area?
For breathtaking vistas, head to Captain Cook's Monument on Easby Moor, which offers expansive views of the surrounding Moors. The Taconic Mountains and Dorset Peak also provide stunning mountainous scenery. Additionally, the cliff-top paths around Runswick Bay Beach offer spectacular sea views.
What family-friendly attractions are available near Danby?
Families can enjoy exploring the charming Staithes Fishing Village with its winding streets, traditional bay, and rock pools. Runswick Bay Beach is another great option, offering a sandy beach, clean waters, and opportunities for rock pooling and fossil hunting. The Grosmont Station – North Yorkshire Moors Railway is also a hit with families, allowing visitors to see and ride heritage steam locomotives.
Are there any charming coastal villages or beaches to visit near Danby?
Absolutely. The picturesque Staithes Fishing Village is a must-see, known for its timeless atmosphere and traditional bay. Just a short distance away, Runswick Bay Beach offers a beautiful sandy stretch, perfect for relaxing, swimming, and exploring rock pools.
What cycling routes are available around Danby?
Danby offers diverse cycling opportunities. For touring cyclists, consider routes like 'Moor to Sea Cycle Network: 7b Danby to Whitby' or 'Moor to Sea Cycle Network: 6b Danby to Great Ayton'. Road cyclists can explore routes such as 'Westerdale, Danby High & Glaisdale Moors loop from Castleton'. More detailed information can be found in the Cycling around Danby guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Danby guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions near Danby?
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking views from places like Captain Cook's Monument on Easby Moor and the dramatic sight of Mallyan Spout Waterfall. The serene and traditional atmosphere of Staithes Fishing Village and the beautiful sandy shores of Runswick Bay Beach are also highly appreciated for their charm and opportunities for relaxation and exploration.
Are there any unique cultural events or connections in Danby?
Danby has a notable cultural connection as it was once home to Pearl S. Buck, the Nobel Prize-winning writer. The community also celebrates with events like the Danby Olde Country & Bluegrass Festival, which is a cultural highlight for both locals and visitors.
Can I find places for wild swimming near Danby?
Yes, a popular swimming hole can be found in Mill Brook, offering a refreshing spot for wild swimming in the Danby area.
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