Top 8 Natural Monuments around Bagby
Natural monuments around Bagby offer a diverse landscape for exploration, featuring tranquil lakes, ancient woodlands, and historical landmarks. The area is characterized by its natural beauty, with opportunities to experience serene environments and impressive views. These sites provide insights into both geological formations and human ingenuity within the natural setting. Visitors can discover a range of outdoor experiences, from peaceful walks to significant historical monuments.
Best natural monuments around Bagby
- The most popular natural monuments is Gormire Lake, a…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Gormire Lake
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
Kilburn White Horse
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Cube-like Boulder near Gormire Lake
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
Beacon Banks Trig Point
Highlight (Segment) • Natural Monument
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more natural monuments around Bagby.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Gormire Lake is a natural lowland lake that lies at the foot of Whitestone Cliff, a western escarpment of the Hambleton Hills
0
0
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).
0
0
The public footpath down to the nature reserve from the Cleveland Way (at the location on OS maps marked as "Great Relief Pot") is reasonably steep, but can be very narrow in places with short wooden planks driven into the ground along the downward side of the path, presumably to prevent the path from eroding and collapsing. In other places there are plenty of stones and tree roots to help stabilise your ascent/descent. As you approach Gormire Lake look out for a very curious and quite large boulder that is almost an 8-10 foot high perfect cube. The nature reserve consists of ancient woodland and is very peaceful. Easy to access the water's edge at Gormire Lake.
1
0
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.
2
0
A very curious and isolated boulder on the track down to Gormire Lake. Nearly, but not quite a perfect cube. It is around 8-10 feet on all sides.
1
0
easy route to follow - more than half on tarmac but quiet roads and beautiful views
0
0
This is a lovely place to stop. (If you don't, you're missing one of the most famous landmarks in North Yorkshire!). Typically there's an ice-cream and tea/coffee van here, so you should be able to get a snack. There are a few benches provided from which you will be able to admire the massive Kilburn White Horse on the slopes above. Near where the van is usually parked, you will see the steep steps heading up to the Horse. It's worth securing your bike somewhere and walking up to enjoy the superb views from above.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Bagby?
Around Bagby, you can explore diverse natural features including tranquil lakes like Gormire Lake, ancient woodlands such as Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve, and impressive viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the North York Moors National Park.
Are there any unique geological formations to see in the Bagby area?
Yes, Bagby offers unique geological sights. Gormire Lake is thought to be fed by an underground spring and drained by a limestone channel. Additionally, near Gormire Lake, you can find a curious and isolated Cube-like Boulder, which is nearly a perfect cube measuring 8-10 feet on all sides.
What historical natural monuments can I visit near Bagby?
The most prominent historical natural monument is the Kilburn White Horse. This turf-cut figure, dating from 1857, is one of North Yorkshire's most famous landmarks and offers panoramic views from its summit.
What outdoor activities can I do near the natural monuments around Bagby?
The Bagby area provides various outdoor activities. You can find numerous MTB Trails, Road Cycling Routes, and Hiking Trails suitable for different skill levels. Many of these routes pass by or offer views of the natural monuments.
Can I go wild swimming in any of the natural monuments?
Yes, Gormire Lake is extremely popular for wild swimming. Its water is very clean, there are no currents, and it's surprisingly warm, making it a glorious addition to a day of hiking through the nature reserve.
Are there hiking trails suitable for beginners or families near Bagby's natural monuments?
Yes, there are easy hikes around Bagby that are suitable for beginners and families. Many of these trails offer pleasant walks and can be combined with visits to natural monuments.
Is there parking available at the natural monuments?
For the Kilburn White Horse, there is a large car park directly below it, which charges a fee for all-day parking. Free parking is also available in a smaller off-road car park on Osgodby Bank at the southern end of Hood Hill Plantation.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter in the natural monuments around Bagby?
In areas like Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve, you can expect to find a diverse range of plants and wildlife. The woodland thrives with lichens, mosses, ferns, and flowers such as fleabane, ragged robin, and common spotted orchid, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
What is the best time to visit the natural monuments around Bagby?
The natural monuments around Bagby can be enjoyed year-round. Autumn offers vibrant amber and gold foliage in the woodlands, while warmer months are ideal for activities like wild swimming in Gormire Lake. Always check local conditions before your visit.
What makes the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/632930" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve</a> special?
This nature reserve is special for its peaceful woodland, a fresh lake, and dramatic cliffs that rise from the treetops. It features predominately birch, oak, and holly woodland, rich with lichens, mosses, and ferns. It's also a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its diverse plant and wildlife, offering a serene and enriching outdoor experience.
Can I find good viewpoints among the natural monuments?
Yes, many natural monuments in the Bagby area offer excellent viewpoints. From the summit of the Kilburn White Horse, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding North York Moors National Park. Additionally, the Beacon Banks Trig Point also provides impressive views, though some may be obscured by gorse.
Most popular attractions around Bagby
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Bagby:
