White Horse, Thirsk

 The White Horse at Kilburn is a significant historical figure in the North Yorkshire Moors. The chalk figure is carved into the hillside above this attractive village. The brainchild of Thomas Taylor, a Kilburn native, who in 1857 decided that his village needed a white horse even more grand and exciting than established chalk figures in the south of England. It is currently 318 feet long and 220 feet high, covering about 1.6 acres. It is the most Northernly chalk hill figure in England and can be seen from Orchard Cottage on a clear day.

Begin at the Sutton Bank visitor centre for a walk with breathtaking views. The path is directly above the White Horse and the linear route along the escarpment gives you ample opportunity to savour one of the finest views in England, from the top of Sutton Bank.  

Where history, beauty and nature meet.  

Stately home with 40 acres of gardens and woodland to explore. Events throughout the season. Open April to September. 

Accessible Gardens and playground via pea shingle gravel paths. Three motorised scooters and two manual wheelchairs for loan. House access is via one shallow step, ground floor accessible.

Adventure playground for children, miniature ride on railway, boat hire, Dolls house and Teddy Bear exhibitions.

 Award-winning, generous, unpretentious and prepared to perfection. If you’re serious about food, a visit to the highly acclaimed Crab & Lobster Restaurant is a must. 

Just 5 minutes up the road from Orchard Cottage, the ‘Crab’ offers a wide variety of gourmet dishes, from fresh local seafood to traditional English fare. We recommend booking in advance. 

 Very much part of the Yorkshire countryside, RHS Harlow Carr, located on the outskirts of Harrogate, is a delight in every season. 

RHS Garden Harlow Carr captures the essence of Yorkshire within a beautiful garden setting and is a must-visit destination. From growing landscapes, running and still water, to woodland and wildflower meadows, you will experience so much beauty. 

Highlights include the lavish Main Borders, bursting with generous prairie-style planting, and the lush, moisture-loving plants around Streamside. Bettys Tearoom is on site for a spot of lunch.

No visit to Yorkshire is complete without a trip to the famous Bettys Café Tea Rooms. Choose from Harrogate, York or Northallerton, all within 30 minutes. 

 The Bettys story started in Harrogate over 100 years ago. Much has changed since 1919 but at least two things remain the same: the treats are just as delicious and their welcome is just as warm. 

Bettys at York, with beautiful interiors inspired by the Queen Mary ocean liner, has been making a splash since 1936. 

Elegant Georgian architecture, majestic skylights and a secret sun-trap terrace give Northallerton's Café Tea Room it's unique character. 

 First settled in Roman times, Boroughbridge is a centre for the history, scenic beauty, attractive villages, and leisure activities of North Yorkshire. An ancient market town with many attractions and amenities and only a 10 minute drive from Orchard Cottage. Adjacent to the A1M on the banks of the River Ure, Boroughbridge is only is 2 minutes from junctions 48 & 49.

With a handful of really nice pubs, Boroughbridge is a popular place to browse the boutique shops, excellent butchers, delicious bakery or simply book a hair appointment.

Visitors to the area will find Boroughbridge is ideally located as a centre for many local and regional attractions many of which can be found within a few minutes of the town centre itself. 

 Ripley Castle and Gardens, situated 3 miles from Harrogate in North Yorkshire on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. A historic attraction, its is open to the public all year round and a visit to the Estate makes for a fascinating and entertaining day out, in a beautiful location.

The history is one of political, military, religious and social turbulence, of plague and persecution, of renaissance, enlightenment and industrial revolution. It is a tale of romance, courage, loyalty and recklessness and definitely worth a visit.

The original home of All Creatures Great and Small. The multi-award winning visitor attraction, just 15 minutes from the cottage, celebrates the life of Alf Wight, the real James Herriot. 

Set inside his original 1940's home and surgery, the museum brings his world to life with faithfully restored rooms, hands on exhibits and fascinating memorabilia from the books and TV series. 

Whether you're a life long fan or simply looking for a unique day out, you'll find something unforgettable here.

Just 5 minutes away in the nearest village of Helperby. The Oak Tree is a cosy, country pub serving delicious food. 

 Since acquiring this North Yorkshire gem back in 2010, Provenance Inns & Hotels, has breathed a whole new life into this award-winning, warm and welcoming public house. 

With access to the most incredible produce from their own kitchen garden at nearby Mount St John, chefs at The Oak Tree are in their element crafting the most mouth-watering menus throughout the year. 

  York Minster is one of the largest and most magnificent Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe. Dedicated to Saint Peter, the Minster serves as the seat of the Archbishop of York and has been a centre of Christian worship for over a thousand years. 

With its stunning stained glass windows, intricate stonework, and rich history, York Minster is not only a place of spiritual significance but also a masterpiece of medieval craftsmanship. 

Just 30 minutes away, York is home to a variety of museums that cater to tourists, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history and culture. 

Spoilt for choice, the following museums are definitely worth a visit. These museums provide a range of experiences, from historical reenactments to interactive exhibits, ensuring visitors can learn and enjoy the wonders of York's past.

York Castle Museum, York Dungeon, Yorks Chocolate Story, National Railway Museum, Jorvic Viking Centre, Yorkshire Air Museum.

  North Yorkshire is home to several charming market towns, each offering unique attractions, local culture, and vibrant markets. You will be spoilt for choice with Malton, Helmsley, Thirsk, Easingwold, Northallerton and Ripon all only a short drive from Orchard Cottage. 

Knaresborough is another market town famous for its stunning riverbank and iconic Victorian viaduct towering over the River Nidd. The town’s history dates back to the 5th century, with ancient walkways and cobbled paths. For some adventure, you can hire a rowing boat on the River Nidd and enjoy the impressive views from the water.

Discover Mother Shipton's Cave and the Petrifying Well along the waterfront. Remember to toss a coin and make a wish in the wishing well.