Thornton Dale Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Thornton Dale Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Thornton Dale itself is worth exploring on foot. The village pond, historic almshouses and the 14th-century All Saints Church show off the area's heritage. Don't miss the Thornton Beck, the stream that runs through the village centre, with its pretty stone bridges.

The North York Moors National Park surrounds the village, offering countless walking and cycling routes. Dalby Forest (YO18 7LT, open daily 8am-8pm summer, 8am-5pm winter) scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor for its trails, Go Ape course and bike hire facilities.

Castle Howard (YO60 7DA, open 10am-5pm) sits just 12 miles away. This stately home featured in Brideshead Revisited and gets 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. The gardens alone are worth the trip, especially in spring when the rhododendrons bloom.

The market town of Pickering is only 2 miles away, with its 12th-century castle (4/5 on TripAdvisor) and the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (5/5) which runs steam trains to Whitby.

Pet Friendly

Many Thornton Dale cottages welcome dogs, often with enclosed gardens where they can run safely while you enjoy your hot tub. The village has several dog-friendly pubs including The New Inn and Thornton Dale Tearoom, both providing water bowls and treats.

Dalby Forest offers miles of woodland paths perfect for dog walks. The visitor centre provides maps of routes suitable for dogs of different fitness levels. Most trails allow dogs off-lead in designated areas.

The beaches at Scarborough (30 minutes' drive) have seasonal dog restrictions, but North Bay allows dogs year-round on certain sections. I recommend bringing towels specifically for your dog - Yorkshire weather can make for muddy paws!

The local pet shop in Pickering (YO18 7AE) stocks emergency supplies and the vet practice on Eastgate (YO18 7DW) takes emergency appointments if needed.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Thornton Dale

Beck Isle Museum (YO18 8DU, open 10am-5pm Apr-Oct) houses over 27 themed rooms showing life in rural Yorkshire through the ages. The photography collection includes thousands of glass plate negatives from local photographer Sidney Smith. Visitors rate it 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor, with many commenting on the friendly volunteer guides who bring the exhibits to life.

Thornton Dale Motor Museum (YO18 7TH, open weekends 10am-4pm) is a small but fascinating collection of vintage vehicles. It includes motorcycles from various eras and classic cars. What makes this place special is the hands-on approach - unlike bigger museums, you can get really close to the exhibits. One TripAdvisor reviewer wrote: "A hidden gem with no ropes or barriers between you and automotive history."

Lady Lumley's Almshouses date from 1670 and represent one of Yorkshire's best examples of 17th-century charitable housing. The buildings form a quadrangle with a central courtyard garden that's particularly pretty in summer. While not a formal attraction (people still live here), the exterior architecture is worth seeing. Walk there after dinner and enjoy the evening light on the stonework before heading back to your cottage for a soak in the hot tub.

Is Thornton Dale suitable for families with young children?

Yes! The village has a good playground and the flat terrain makes it easy with pushchairs. Many cottages provide high chairs and travel cots. Dalby Forest has family-friendly trails and a Gruffalo spotting route that kids love.

How far is Thornton Dale from the coast?

Scarborough is about 15 miles away (30 minutes' drive). Whitby is slightly further at 25 miles but worth the journey for its abbey ruins, connections to Dracula and excellent fish and chips.

Can I get around without a car?

There's a limited bus service connecting Thornton Dale to Pickering and Scarborough (routes 128 and X28). However, a car makes exploring much easier, especially for reaching walking trails and more remote attractions.

What's the best time of year to visit?

Spring and early autumn offer mild weather and fewer tourists. Summer brings the fullest range of open attractions but also the most visitors. Winter can be magical with frosty landscapes and your hot tub feels even better in cold weather!

Are there good places to eat in the village?

Yes! The Chocolate Factory (YO18 7TD) makes handmade chocolates and serves excellent coffee. The New Inn offers traditional pub meals with local ingredients. For something special, The Star Inn at Harome (30 minutes' drive) holds a Michelin star.

What should I pack for a Thornton Dale holiday?

Walking boots are essential even in summer. The Yorkshire weather can change quickly, so bring layers and waterproofs. Swimming costumes for your hot tub, of course and binoculars if you enjoy wildlife spotting.

1. North York Moors National Park official site
2. North Yorkshire Moors Railway timetables and tickets
3. Dalby Forest visitor information
4. Beck Isle Museum opening times and exhibitions