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Barn Owl CottageBrandsby · North Yorkshire
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Your Local Guide

You won't run out of things to do.

The Howardian Hills sit in one of Yorkshire's sweet spots — between York and the Moors, surrounded by market towns, ancient abbeys, and some of the best food in the north.

Walking
10 miles

Yearsley Woods

Explore Yearsley Woods — a peaceful woodland with scenic trails, beautiful views, and abundant wildlife.
Families
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12 miles

York

A proper market town. Walled garden, castle ruins, and Helmsley Brewing Co for something local.
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miles

Walking & Cycling

AONB trails with routes chosen by Annie herself.
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miles

Easingwold Market Place

Cafés, delis, and a Friday market worth a wander.
Dog Friendly
miles

Dog Friendly 3

Dog Friendly 3 Description
Dog Friendly
miles

Dog Friendly 2

Dog Friendly 2 Description
Walking
6 miles

Sutton Bank

The edge of the North York Moors. Panoramic views, gliding centre, mountain bike trails.
Walking
10 miles

Byland Abbey

Stunning Gothic ruin in open countryside. Pack a flask.
Walking
5 miles

Rievaulx Abbey

One of the most atmospheric ruins in England. The terrace walk above it is worth the visit alone.
Families
miles

Families 3

Families 3 Description
Couples
30 miles

Couples 3

Couples 3 Description
Couples
20 miles

Castle Howard

A grand Yorkshire day out without having to travel far. Castle Howard gives you sweeping gardens, historic rooms, cafés, lakeside views, and that lovely “we’ve escaped for the day” feeling. Perfect for couples who want a slow wander, a proper coffee stop, and somewhere that feels special without being too formal. Castle Howard says it is around 15 miles north-east of York and easily reached from the A64.
Dog Friendly
miles

Howardian Hills AONB

Rolling chalk hills, quiet lanes, ancient woodland. Annie's walking routes start here.
Families
25 miles

North Yorkshire Moors Railway

North Yorkshire Moors Railway Description
Couples
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11 miles

The Yorkshire Arboretum

A peaceful tree-filled escape where you can slow down, wander gently, and enjoy one of the calmest corners of the Castle Howard estate.
For Explorers

Countryside and Walks

Ancient ruins, panoramic views, and Annie's favourite trails.

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10 miles

Yearsley Woods

Explore Yearsley Woods — a peaceful woodland with scenic trails, beautiful views, and abundant wildlife.

Placeholder
10 miles

Sutton Bank

The edge of the North York Moors. Panoramic views, gliding centre, mountain bike trails.

Placeholder
10 miles

Byland Abbey

Stunning Gothic ruin in open countryside. Pack a flask.

Placeholder
10 miles

Rievaulx Abbey

One of the most atmospheric ruins in England. The terrace walk above it is worth the visit alone.

Food & Drink

Places to eat and drink nearby

Our personal picks — places we actually go ourselves.

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Nearby

Bettys Tea Room

16 miles

Award-winning pubs, farm shops, proper Yorkshire cooking.

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Michelin Star

Star Inn, Harome

16 miles

Michelin-starred dining in a thatched pub. Worth the drive for a special night.

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Village Local

The Bay Horse, Stillington

16 miles

Good food, friendly, and walkable from the cottage.

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Gastro Pub

The Durham Ox, Crayke

16 miles

Proper gastro pub with rooms. Book ahead for dinner.

Your Base In Yorkshire

Come Back To Calm At The End Of The Day

After Exploring, Walking, Or Dining Out, Barn Owl Cottage Offers A Peaceful Place To Return To — Ready For Another Relaxed Day Tomorrow.