Take your time, there's no rush here
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend pause or a longer retreat, there’s no shortage of peaceful pleasures to enjoy at and around Crossing Cottage. From gentle walks and coast day trips to local favourites and countryside calm, here are 10 ways to slow down, explore, and make the most of your stay.
1. Soak in the Hot Tub Under the Stars
The cottage hot tub is one of the best seats in the house — especially on clear nights. Settle into the warm water and gaze up at the wide North Yorkshire sky. We’re in a designated Dark Sky area, so star-spotting is encouraged.
2. Enjoy a Ryeburn Ice Cream in Helmsley
Made just minutes away, Ryeburn’s handmade ice cream is a local favourite. There’s always something seasonal to try — and it tastes even better on a sunny wander around Helmsley.
3. Walk the Old Railbed into Town
From the cottage gate, you can follow the old railway line all the way into Helmsley. It’s a flat, easy walk (about 25 minutes) through peaceful countryside, perfect for a car-free trip into town.
4. Breakfast at Beadlam Farm Shop
Start your morning with a proper farm shop breakfast just a short drive from the cottage. While you’re there, pick up fresh bread, local cheese, chutneys and something sweet for later.
5. Spend a Beach Day at Runswick Bay
One of Yorkshire’s most beautiful and peaceful sandy beaches, Runswick Bay is a perfect place for a gentle paddle, a quiet picnic, or a good read. Dog-friendly, charming and well worth the short drive.
6. Take a Day Walk to Rievaulx Abbey
This 11-mile circular walk takes you through woodland and countryside to the spectacular ruins of Rievaulx Abbey. Pack snacks and take your time — it’s a full-day outing and the views are well worth the effort.
7. Discover Byland Abbey + The Abbey Inn
Tucked away and often quiet, Byland Abbey is one of our favourite hidden spots. After exploring the ruins, head next door to the beautifully restored Abbey Inn for lunch or a relaxed pint.
8. Visit Helmsley Market (Fridays Only)
If you’re here on a Friday, don’t miss the market in Helmsley’s square. It’s full of local charm — we especially love the fresh bread stall. Expect seasonal produce, plants, pies and good Yorkshire chat.
9. Picnic and Relax in the Meadows
Six acres of peaceful meadow surround the cottage — perfect for a picnic, a lazy read, or just listening to the birds. Bring a blanket, grab some supplies from the farm shop, and make an afternoon of it.
10. Book a Massage with Natural Therapies To You
For the ultimate wind-down, book a massage right here in the cottage. Natural Therapies To You offers deeply relaxing treatments that bring the spa to your door. A perfect way to round off your stay.Explore Helmsley Castle
Ready to slow down and just enjoy being here?
Crossing Cottage at HelmsleyMeadows is your place to pause, recharge and rediscover the simple things.
Plan your stay at Helmsley Meadows
After a day of exploring, unwind at Helmsley Meadows, our luxurious, dog-friendly holiday retreat. With a wood-fired hot tub and stylish accommodations, it's the perfect base for discovering Helmsley and beyond.
Book your stay today.
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We can’t wait to host you!
Karen, Darren and Cody
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