Summer experiences in Helmsley
There’s something rather special about summer in Helmsley.
Longer days, flower-filled fields, walks beside the river, outdoor swimming and plenty of opportunities to eat outside while making the most of the Yorkshire countryside.
If you’re planning a summer break in Helmsley or the North York Moors, we’ve put together five of our favourite local experiences. Some are well known, others are a little more off the beaten track – but all are within easy reach of Helmsley and well worth adding to your summer list.
1. Pick Your Own Flowers at The Flower Belt
A field full of flowers with views across Helmsley towards the North York Moors – this is summer in Yorkshire at its prettiest.
The Flower Belt is just outside Helmsley and is one of our favourite places to visit during the summer months. Depending on the season, you can wander amongst wildflowers and towering sunflowers before picking your favourites to take home.
It’s not just about the flowers either. Once you’ve finished picking, find a spot at The Honey Tap, where you can sit with a coffee, cake or something cool and take in those wonderful views across the countryside.
The Helmsley site is open throughout the week during the summer, with later opening on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. There’s also pizza available – which sounds like a pretty good way to spend a summer evening to us.
Tip: Wear sensible shoes. This is a real flower field rather than a manicured garden, which is all part of its charm.
2. Spend a Summer Evening on a Friday or Saturday at The Cowshed at Nawton Grange
A few miles outside Helmsley you'll find The Cowshed at Nawton Grange, where summer weekends mean relaxed outdoor eating and a wonderfully informal atmosphere.
Think Texas-style BBQ, freshly made pizzas and long summer evenings in the countryside.
It's the sort of place where you can arrive hungry after a day exploring the North York Moors, grab some food and settle in for the evening.
We love places like this because they offer something a little different from the traditional pub dinner – and they’re exactly the sort of local finds we like sharing with our guests.
Check their latest opening times and food nights before making the trip at nawtongrange.co.uk
3. Swim Outdoors – and Warm Up in the Sauna
On a sunny summer's day, there aren't many better places to be than Helmsley Open Air Swimming Pool.
Tucked away just a short walk from the centre of town, the heated 25-metre outdoor pool has been part of summers in Helmsley for generations.
Take a morning swim surrounded by trees, book an adults-only session or combine your swim with time in the sauna. It’s a lovely way to slow down and do something a little different during your stay.
And you don't necessarily need blazing sunshine. There’s something rather wonderful about swimming outside on a cool Yorkshire morning before warming up afterwards.
Our tip: Check session times and book before you visit, particularly if you'd like to use the sauna, as sessions can fill up.
4. Pack a Picnic and Escape to Riccal Dale
You don’t have to visit an attraction to have a memorable day in Helmsley.
Sometimes all you need is a pair of walking boots, a picnic and somewhere beautiful to wander.
Riccal Dale is one of our favourite local spots when you want to escape the busier paths and enjoy a quieter side of the North York Moors. Follow the tracks through the countryside, walk beside the River Riccal and find a peaceful spot to stop for lunch.
Pick up a few treats from one of Helmsley’s independent delis or bakeries before you set off, then spend a few hours walking, talking and enjoying the countryside.
No timetable. No queues. Just a picnic beside the river and the sounds of the North Yorkshire countryside around you.
5. Experience a Yorkshire Agricultural Show – Ryedale Show 2026
If you’ve never been to a traditional Yorkshire agricultural show, put this one on your list.
Ryedale Show takes place on Tuesday 28 July 2026, It’s a proper celebration of Yorkshire country life, bringing together farmers, local producers and the wider rural community for one very busy day.
Expect cattle, sheep, pigs and goats, more than 90 horse and pony classes, sheepdog trials, vintage displays, local produce and crafts, trade stands and plenty of food. There’s even a Fun Dog Show from midday, and dogs are welcome at the main show provided they’re kept on leads.
The showground opens to visitors from 9am, with events and competitions taking place throughout the day. Parking is included with admission, and although tickets can be bought at the gate, the organisers recommend buying in advance where possible.
If you’re staying in or around Helmsley that week, we think this is one of those quintessential Yorkshire days out that really shouldn’t be missed.
Ryedale Show 2026: Tuesday 28 July, Duncombe Park, Helmsley.
Make a Summer of It in Helmsley
Of course, these are only five of the things we love about summer here.
There are walks straight from Helmsley, independent shops to browse, castles and gardens to explore, country pubs to discover and the North York Moors waiting just beyond the town.
But if you're visiting this summer, try at least one experience that allows you to slow down and enjoy this corner of Yorkshire rather than simply ticking places off a list.
Pick some flowers. Swim outside. Eat pizza as the sun goes down. Pack a picnic. Or spend a day experiencing a proper Yorkshire agricultural show.
And if you need somewhere peaceful to come back to afterwards, Helmsley Meadows is just outside Helmsley, with our cottage and adults-only crafted cabins surrounded by countryside.
Sometimes the best days are the simplest ones.
Click here to book your stay in Crossing Cottage or contact us for more details.
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We can’t wait to host you!
Karen, Darren and Cody
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