A Weekend in North Yorkshire

TRAVEL GUIDE | CABANA TRAVEL | WORLD OF CABANA

Yorkshire-born Richard Vermont and his wife, Sophie, relocated from south-east England to a farm on the edge of the North Yorkshire Moors in 2020. The couple have since renovated their farmhouse and a collection of beautiful cottages and cabins on their land. They share an insider's guide to this wild and lesser-visited part of the English countryside, an inspired choice for a weekend-away. 

BY RICHARD & SOPHIE VERMONT | CABANA TRAVEL | 30 SEPTEMBER 2025

Where to Eat: The Fish Cottage, Sandsend © Camilla Frances

Where to Stay

West Cawthorne Farm: Deep in the North York Moors near Pickering, West Cawthorne's restored stone cottages – renovated by Richard and Sophie Vermont – and contemporary A-frame cabins are beautifully decorated, featuring linen-draped beds, wood burners, and views that roll on forever. Walk straight onto moorland paths from your doorstep, take a steam train to the coast, or simply stay put, with your book and coffee in hand. West Cawthorne offers Yorkshire at its most refined—deeply restorative.

Where to Shop

Hare & Wilde, Malton: A delightful collection of simple, sustainable homewares to browse in the market town of Malton. With lots of lovely things curated by owners Laura and Will, you will definitely find something you’ll want to leave with.

What to See & Do

Mallyan Spout Waterfall: A spectacular 70 foot waterfall tucked away in a wooded valley near Goathland (a short walk from the Homestead Kitchen after an indulgent lunch). The walk is a real treat in spring—winding through ancient woodlands filled with bluebells and wild garlic, with the sound of the beck rushing beside you. It’s a peaceful, slightly rugged route, but well worth the effort, especially after rain when the waterfall is at its most dramatic. If you’re feeling adventurous, go for a dip in the river! 

Castle Howard: Just a 30-minute drive from West Cawthorne (see 'Where to Stay'), Castle Howard is a Baroque masterpiece, made even more world famous as the location for Brideshead Revisited. Begun in 1699 for the 3rd Earl of Carlisle, it was designed by Sir John Vanbrugh at the height of England’s love affair with grand European architecture. It's a must-visit with an excellent adventure playground for younger visitors. 

Farndale Daffodil Walk: One of the true highlights in Spring. Every year, these wild daffodils transform the banks of the River Dove into a golden spectacle. If you want to experience the daffodils at their finest without the crowds, aim for an early weekday morning. The flowers typically bloom from mid-March to mid-April, and catching them in the soft morning light makes for an even more special experience.

Sandsend Beach: Our top pick when it comes to beach walks, Sandsend beach is much quieter and far easier to access than neighboring Whitby. You'll find a huge stretch of beach with a river that provides hours of entertainment for little ones in particular.

Castle Howard, a Baroque masterpiece and seat of the Howard family © Billal Taright 

Where to Eat 

The Abbey Inn, Byland: A beautiful country gastro pub with food from respected chef, Tommy Banks (winner of ‘Britain’s Best Roast Dinner’). The Abbey Inn is a great destination all year round, with cosy seating inside and a large garden to enjoy in the summer, overlooking the ruins of the old Byland Abbey. Try Tommy’s signature burger - or a roast dinner is a must if you are lucky enough to visit on a Sunday.

Homestead Kitchen, Goathland: Relaxed fine dining, by owners Peter and Cecily as they invite you in to their homestead. The restaurant has a lovely, homely feel so you’re in a beautiful, relaxed environment from the start – and then the food starts coming and you’re blown away by how good it is! They regularly update the menu, with plenty of seasonal ingredients grown in their kitchen garden (that you can see out of the restaurant window), recently earning them a Michelin green star.

Mannion & Co, Helmsley: One of our favorite daytime dining options, with bistro food in the beautiful market town of Helmsley. Sitting outside in the sunshine, enjoying brunch before taking a stroll around the town is a great way to start the weekend. Make sure you grab one of their fabulous cakes or pastries to go.

The Fish Cottage, Sandsend: This pretty whitewashed cottage with blue windows is a stone's throw from Sandsend beach (see 'What to See & Do' below) and serves delicious fish and chips, excellent fish tacos and a range of seafood dishes. Don't miss, but be aware they are only open Friday-Monday (perfect for a weekend visit).