Things to do and places to visit in and around Pickering.

One of  the most frequently asked questions we get in the shop is what is there to do in Pickering? What should we see whilst we are here? Where would you recommend for lunch?

Those questions always put me on the spot because the simple answer is there is so much to do, see and visit. I am very luck to live and work in the area which remains largely unspoilt and is free from serious crime and traffic.

To try and answer the questions I thought I would start a list of attractions some well known others not so. It will very much be a work in progress as I think of things to add to the list.

Visitor Attractions

The North York Moors Railway - The NYMR is arguably Ryedale's biggest attraction and most certainly the biggest in Pickering, a must for all steam engine fans and generally a great day out. All tickets bought are rover tickets meaning you can travel wherever you want on the line all day long, 2014 sees platform improvements at Whitby meaning many more trains can visit there extending the lines appeal.

Flamingo land theme park and zoo - definitely one for the thrill seekers which state of the art rides all snaking around a real life zoo complete with Lions, Tigers and Rhino to name but a few.

Beck Isle Museum of Rural Life - this attraction holds a special interest for me as I used to live in it, pre museum days, and my Grandad had the small farm at the back for a short time. The museum is stuffed full of items and photographs of times gone by and is actually much bigger than in looks, well worth a visit especially on a wet day.

St. Peter and St. Paul's church - looks great on the outside, watch for the strangely placed stone carvings, but spectacular on the inside with its medieval wall paintings depicting George and the dragon amongst others.

Pickering Castle - set on the highest point in Pickering the castle must have been an imposing site a thousand years ago. This Motte and Bailey castle is very well preserved and covers a large area, run by English Heritage it is a great place to visit and let the kids blow off some steam. Don't forget to walk around the outside of the castle and then visit Newbridge Woods with its mountain bike park, picnic area and walking trails.

Outdoor and Sporting Pursuits

Pickering Swimming Pool - I don't think that many places the size of Pickering can boast an indoor pool, but this one is a little cracker, it is a 25 metre pool with a shallow and deep end. the pool also has a water slide, an ideal warm or wet weather retreat.

Pickering Climbing Wall - situated at the senior school called Lady Lumley's this small but feature packed wall is not always accessible but sessions on Monday evening and Saturday morning are popular.

Dalby Forest - a must visit for all with its award wining cycle tracks, Go ape and several playgrounds there is plenty to do. 2014 sees the visitor centre being updated, £300k being spent on the main playground, a new Blue cycle route and mini go ape being built which should make Dalby top of your visit list.