North York Moors Walking Break – Rosedale & Hidden Corners
Explore the beautiful valleys, open moorland and fascinating industrial heritage of the North York Moors on a friendly, sociable walking weekend.
Join us for two nights in the historic market town of Pickering, with two days of guided walking through some of the North York Moors National Park's quieter corners.
Our main walk takes us into Rosedale, where we'll follow the old Victorian ironstone railway high above the valley, enjoying wide views across the moors and discovering the area's mining history. On Sunday, we'll explore more of the national park, with villages such as Hutton-le-Hole and Lastingham providing plenty of possibilities.
With a comfortable hotel base, breakfasts included and transport to our walks taken care of, you can simply enjoy the countryside and good company. Most people join us on their own, so it's an easy weekend to enjoy with fellow walkers.
Holiday at a Glance
Duration
2 nights · 2 walking days
Walking grade
Leisurely
Distance
Approx. 8-10 miles per day
Price
From £245pp
Group size
Maximum 8
Accommodation
Hotel
Transport
Car-free · Transport included
Meals
Breakfasts included
Check Dates & Book Your Place
Upcoming departure dates:
Friday 29 - Sunday 31 January 2027
Choose your preferred date and room type in the booking form to check availability and reserve your place.
Deposits – Pay a 20% deposit when booking more than 12 weeks before departure. The remaining balance is due 12 weeks before departure.
SPECIAL OFFER – £100 OFF SINGLE ROOMS
Save £100 on sole occupancy.
Use code ROSE27 at checkout.
Ends Sunday 25 October 2026.
Exploring Rosedale & the Hidden Corners of the North York Moors
There's much more to the North York Moors than its famous heather-covered hills. Hidden among the valleys are old railway tracks, picturesque villages, peaceful woodland paths and fascinating reminders of the area's industrial past.
Our main walking day takes us into beautiful Rosedale, one of the national park's most interesting valleys. Here, we'll follow sections of the old ironstone railway, once used to transport iron ore from the mines high above the valley.
Today, these former railway tracks provide wonderful walking routes, with sweeping views across the surrounding moorland and the remains of the old mining industry still visible along the way.
We'll also tackle the climb up Chimney Bank, taking our time to enjoy the scenery and catch our breath before continuing our walk.
On Sunday, we'll explore another part of the North York Moors, discovering quieter countryside and traditional villages, with places such as Hutton-le-Hole and Lastingham among the possibilities.
Our base for the weekend is Pickering, a lovely market town on the edge of the national park. With two nights in a comfortable hotel, breakfasts included and transport to our walks arranged, there's plenty of time to enjoy the countryside and relax with the group in the evenings.
Highlights
Walk the historic Rosedale Railway – Follow old ironstone railway tracks high above the valley, with wide views across the moors.
Discover Rosedale's industrial heritage – Explore the remains of the area's Victorian ironstone mining industry.
Enjoy beautiful North York Moors scenery – Walk through open moorland, peaceful valleys and rolling countryside.
Explore traditional moorland villages – Discover quieter corners of the national park, with places such as Hutton-le-Hole and Lastingham.
Two days of guided walking – Enjoy a rewarding Rosedale walk on Saturday and a shorter countryside walk on Sunday.
Stay in historic Pickering – Two nights' hotel accommodation with breakfasts included.
A small, sociable group – Enjoy good company and relaxed evenings together, with most guests joining on their own.
Suggested Itinerary
Here’s what we’ve got planned - of course, we may have to offer alternatives or make amendments if the weather misbehaves or other unexpected situations arise!
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You're welcome to check into the hotel from 15:00, giving you time to settle in and relax before the weekend begins.
If you're travelling by train, we offer a complimentary pickup from Malton railway station at 18:00, with transport to our hotel in Pickering.
We'll meet in the hotel bar at 18:30 for introductions before heading out together for a relaxed evening meal at a local restaurant (not included).
It's a great opportunity to get to know your fellow walkers and chat about the plans for the weekend ahead.
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After breakfast, we'll head into the heart of the North York Moors for a 10-mile (16 km) guided walk around beautiful Rosedale, combining wonderful scenery with the valley's fascinating industrial history.
Starting in the picturesque village of Rosedale Abbey, we'll follow countryside footpaths and cross open fields before tackling the climb up Chimney Bank. This is the day's main steep ascent, and we'll take it steadily, with time to catch our breath and enjoy the views.
Once at the top, we'll join the old Rosedale Railway, following its relatively level trackbed around the valley high above the surrounding countryside. The views are fantastic, and along the way we'll discover reminders of Rosedale's ironstone mining past, including old miners' cottages and the impressive calcining kilns at Bank Top.
There are opportunities for refreshments along the route, including Dale Head Farm Tea Garden and Graze on the Green, depending on opening times, our route and the group's progress.
We'll return to Pickering during the late afternoon, with time to relax and freshen up before heading out together for a sociable evening meal in town (not included).
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another beautiful corner of the North York Moors National Park.
Depending on the weather and conditions, we may explore the rolling countryside around Appleton-le-Moors, follow sections of the Tabular Hills or discover picturesque villages such as Lastingham and Hutton-le-Hole.
Expect a lovely mixture of established countryside footpaths, woodland trails, open fields and traditional moorland villages, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery and discover a little local history along the way.
We'll walk at a relaxed, sociable pace, with time for photographs and short breaks.
We aim to finish during the early afternoon, with the opportunity for a pub lunch or a coffee before saying our goodbyes and heading home.
Essential Information
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Meeting Locations & Times
Our meeting point is:
Premier Inn Pickering
40 Thornton Road
Pickering
North Yorkshire
YO18 7HZYou can check into your room from 15:00 on Friday.
Your Large Outdoors guide will meet everyone in the hotel bar at 18:30 for introductions before we head out together for a relaxed evening meal in Pickering (not included).
Travelling by Train
The nearest convenient railway station is Malton, where we offer a complimentary collection on Friday evening.
Malton has rail connections with York and Scarborough, making it straightforward to join us by public transport.
You can check train times and plan your journey at National Rail.
Station Pickups
Friday: Complimentary collection from Malton railway station at 18:00, with transport to our hotel in Pickering.
Sunday: Complimentary return transfer to Malton railway station after our final walk.
Station transfers must be requested when booking or arranged with the Large Outdoors team at least 48 hours before departure.
Travelling by Car & Parking
You're welcome to drive directly to our hotel in Pickering.
Parking is available at the hotel. Please check any applicable parking arrangements or charges before travelling.
You won't need to use your own vehicle for the organised walks.
Transport During the Trip
Transport to and from our guided walking routes is included in your booking.
Our Large Outdoors vehicle will take the group from the hotel to the start of each walk and collect us afterwards.
There's no need to drive between walking locations or arrange your own transport during the organised weekend.
Ferries & Boat Transfers
There are no ferry journeys or boat transfers involved in this trip.
Departure & Return Travel
Our final guided walk takes place on Sunday, exploring the countryside of the North York Moors.
We aim to finish the weekend between 14:00 and 16:00, including our return to Pickering or Malton railway station.
The exact time may vary depending on the walking route, weather, group pace and any refreshment stops.
If you're travelling home by train, we recommend booking a flexible return ticket or allowing plenty of time for your onward journey.
Important Travel Information
You can enjoy this weekend without bringing a car, with complimentary Malton station transfers and transport to our guided walks included.
Please remember that travel to and from Pickering or Malton itself is not included.
Your guide will confirm any important arrangements before departure, and walking routes may be adjusted if weather or other circumstances require it.
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Accommodation Location
We'll be staying for two nights at:
Premier Inn Pickering
40 Thornton Road
Pickering
North Yorkshire
YO18 7HZThe hotel is conveniently located in Pickering, a traditional market town on the edge of the North York Moors National Park, with pubs, restaurants and shops nearby.
Accommodation Type
Our accommodation is a comfortable Premier Inn hotel, providing a convenient base for our weekend of walking.
We'll stay at the same hotel for both nights, so there's no need to move accommodation between walking days.
Bedrooms & Sleeping Arrangements
We offer a choice of private hotel bedrooms, suitable for guests joining on their own or booking together.
If you're travelling solo, you can book a room for sole occupancy, giving you your own bedroom and bathroom.
Room Options
Shared Female Room – Share a room with another female guest, with separate beds.
Shared Male Room – Share a room with another male guest, with separate beds.
Twin Room – A private room with two separate beds for two guests booking together.
Double Room – A private room with a king-sized double bed for two guests booking together.
Sole Occupancy Double Room – A private room with a king-sized double bed for one guest.
All room options are subject to availability when booking.
Bathrooms
All bedrooms have their own en-suite bathroom.
Guests booking a double room together will share the en-suite bathroom.
Bedding & Towels
All bedding and towels are provided by the hotel.
You'll just need to bring your own toiletries and personal items.
Breakfast
Breakfast is included on both mornings.
We'll enjoy the hotel's cooked breakfast buffet before heading out for our guided walks.
Packed Lunches
Packed lunches aren't included.
We'll arrange an opportunity to stop at a local shop to purchase lunch before our walks, but you're welcome to bring your own.
We recommend carrying a packed lunch, walking snacks and a reusable water bottle on both days.
Evening Meals
Evening meals aren't included in the trip price.
On Friday, we'll meet in the hotel bar before heading out for a relaxed group dinner at a local restaurant or pub in Pickering.
We'll also arrange an opportunity to eat together on Saturday evening after our walk.
Meals and drinks are paid for individually, giving everyone the freedom to choose what they'd like from the menu.
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Accommodation & Meals
Included
Two nights' accommodation at Premier Inn Pickering.
Breakfast on Saturday and Sunday.
Bedding and towels.
Tea and coffee-making facilities in your bedroom.
Not Included
Packed lunches and walking snacks.
Evening meals on Friday and Saturday.
Drinks and additional refreshments.
Guiding & Support
Included
Two days of guided walking with an experienced Large Outdoors guide.
A 10-mile guided walk exploring Rosedale, its historic ironstone railway and surrounding moorland.
A shorter guided countryside walk on Sunday, exploring another part of the North York Moors National Park.
A friendly, sociable group of fellow walkers.
Pre-trip information and support from the Large Outdoors team.
Not Included
Personal walking clothing and equipment.
Transport & Transfers
Included
Complimentary collection from Malton railway station at 18:00 on Friday, if requested at least 48 hours before departure.
Return transfer to Malton railway station after Sunday's walk, if requested.
Transport between our hotel and the planned walking routes on both days.
Not Included
Travel to and from Pickering or Malton.
Any personal transport arrangements outside the organised itinerary.
Additional Costs & Exclusions
Not Included
Personal travel insurance.
Purchases from cafés, pubs, restaurants and shops.
Admission to attractions or museums unless specifically stated in the itinerary.
Optional activities and other personal expenses not specifically listed as included.
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Walking Grade
Leisurely
Our North York Moors Walking Weekend is graded Leisurely, with two days of guided walking through beautiful moorland, valleys and traditional villages.
Saturday is our longer day, with approximately 10 miles around Rosedale, including the historic ironstone railway and wonderful views across the valley.
Although much of the route follows relatively level paths along the old railway, there is one significant steep climb up Chimney Bank. We'll take this slowly, with plenty of time to catch our breath and enjoy the views.
Sunday is a shorter, more relaxed countryside walk, giving us another opportunity to explore the North York Moors before heading home.
Terrain & Conditions
Our walks follow a mixture of established countryside footpaths, grassy trails, old railway tracks and moorland paths.
Saturday's Rosedale walk includes field paths, a steep ascent up Chimney Bank and longer, relatively level sections along the former railway.
Some paths may be uneven, rocky or muddy, particularly after rain. There may also be stiles, gates and occasional rougher sections.
Good walking footwear with reliable grip is recommended.
Fitness & Experience
You don't need to be an experienced hillwalker, but you should be comfortable spending several hours walking and covering approximately 10 miles in a day.
The main physical challenge is the climb up Chimney Bank. Although we'll take it steadily, it's a steep hill and requires a reasonable level of fitness.
Once we've reached the old railway, much of the walking becomes easier, allowing us to enjoy the scenery at a relaxed, sociable pace.
If you regularly enjoy countryside walks and are happy tackling an occasional steep hill, this should be a suitable weekend for you.
Seasonal Conditions
The North York Moors can be enjoyed throughout the year, although conditions vary considerably with the seasons.
Open moorland sections can be exposed to wind and rain, while field paths and woodland trails may become muddy or slippery after wet weather.
We recommend bringing waterproof clothing, suitable walking footwear and warm layers appropriate for the forecast.
Our guide will assess the conditions and may adjust the planned routes if weather or ground conditions make this necessary.
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Walking Clothing & Footwear
Our North York Moors Walking Weekend includes countryside paths, open moorland and a steep climb up Chimney Bank, so it's important to bring suitable walking clothing and footwear.
We recommend:
Comfortable walking boots or sturdy walking shoes with good grip.
Waterproof jacket and waterproof trousers.
Comfortable walking trousers and breathable walking tops.
Warm layers, such as a fleece or insulated jacket.
Walking socks.
Hat, gloves or sun protection, depending on the season.
Good footwear is particularly important, as moorland paths and grassy slopes can become muddy or slippery after rain.
What to Carry on Walks
You'll need a comfortable day rucksack with enough space for:
Packed lunch and walking snacks.
Plenty of drinking water in a reusable bottle.
Waterproof clothing and an extra warm layer.
Any personal medication you may need.
Mobile phone.
Payment card or some cash for refreshments.
Sun cream and sunglasses when appropriate.
Saturday's walk is approximately 10 miles, so make sure you have enough food and water for a full day outdoors.
Clothing for Accommodation
Bring comfortable casual clothing and footwear for relaxing at the hotel and heading out for evening meals in Pickering.
Bedding and towels are provided, so there's no need to bring these.
Trip-Specific Extras
Walking Poles – Optional, but particularly useful if you appreciate extra support on the climb up Chimney Bank or when descending uneven paths.
Camera or Phone – Rosedale offers wonderful views across the valley, along with fascinating remains of the old ironstone railway and mining industry.
Weather Protection – Parts of the route cross exposed moorland, where conditions can change quickly. Bring suitable layers and waterproof clothing, even if the forecast looks promising.
Full Kit List
We've put together a useful walking kit list to help you prepare for your holiday.
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Booking Confirmation
Once you've booked, you'll receive a confirmation email with your booking details and our full booking terms.
Deposits & Balance Payments
If you've paid a deposit, we'll automatically email you a reminder when your remaining balance is due. Balances are normally due 12 weeks before departure.
Your Trip WhatsApp Group
Ahead of your trip, we'll invite you to join a dedicated WhatsApp group for your holiday.
It's a great way to say hello to your fellow walkers, ask questions and get to know everyone before you arrive. Most of our guests join us on their own, so it's a nice way to break the ice.
Joining is entirely optional.
Final Details
A couple of days before departure, we'll send you a final reminder with your guide or host's name and contact number, along with any important last-minute information.
Keeping Up to Date
Everything you need to plan your trip, including meeting locations, times, accommodation and travel arrangements, is provided on this page.
We recommend checking back here from time to time before departure, as we'll update the page if any arrangements change. You don't need to wait for your final email to organise your travel.
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Can I come on my own?
Absolutely! Most people joining Large Outdoors trips come on their own, so you'll be in good company.
Our walking weekends are designed to be friendly and sociable, with plenty of opportunities to get to know everyone during the walks and over evening meals.
Is this weekend suitable for my first Large Outdoors trip?
Yes! This is a great introduction to Large Outdoors, particularly if you enjoy countryside walking and would like to explore somewhere new with a friendly group.
Our guide will help everyone feel welcome, whether it's your first trip with us or you've joined us many times before.
Do I have to join both walks?
You're welcome to sit out a walk if you'd prefer a quieter day.
However, our transport is organised around the planned itinerary, so if you choose not to walk, you'll generally need to make your own arrangements for the day.
Can I join with a friend or partner?
Of course! Friends and couples are very welcome.
You can book a twin or double room together, subject to availability. If you'd prefer separate bedrooms, you can each book your own room.
Will I have time to explore Pickering?
Yes. You'll have some free time around our planned activities, particularly on Friday after arrival and during the evenings.
Pickering is a lovely market town with traditional pubs, cafés and independent shops, making it a pleasant base for the weekend.
What happens if the weather is poor?
Our walks normally go ahead in typical British weather, including rain.
Your guide will keep an eye on the forecast and ground conditions and may change the route if necessary to keep the group safe and comfortable.
Can I bring my dog?
Unfortunately, we're unable to accommodate dogs on our guided walking weekends, other than assistance dogs by prior arrangement.
Do I need to know anyone before booking?
Not at all. There's no need to arrive knowing anyone, and you won't be the only person joining solo.
That's a big part of what Large Outdoors is about: enjoying good walks, exploring new places and meeting people along the way.
Check Dates & Book Your Place
Upcoming departure dates:
Friday 29 - Sunday 31 January 2027
Choose your preferred date and room type in the booking form to check availability and reserve your place.
Deposits – Pay a 20% deposit when booking more than 12 weeks before departure. The remaining balance is due 12 weeks before departure.
SPECIAL OFFER – £100 OFF SINGLE ROOMS
Save £100 on sole occupancy.
Use code ROSE27 at checkout.
Ends Sunday 25 October 2026.
Questions Before You Book?
Not sure whether this walking holiday is right for you? We're always happy to help with questions about the walks, accommodation or joining us on your own.
Email hello@largeoutdoors.com or get in touch through WhatsApp.
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