The home of Duncombe Park (in turn home of Lord and Lady Feversham), Helmsley Castle, and the Walled Garden, Helmsley also marks the start of the Cleveland Way. There are also two great "foodie" shops: Perns & Hunters and Friday is Market Day.

Hutton is the star of many a scenic calendar, and also the home of the Ryedale Folk Museum (where they have reconstructed a number of old dwellings from the area), good teashops and excellent ice cream. It's possible to walk there and back, or you could make part of the journey by Moorsbus and walk the rest of the way. As with Appleton, sheep graze on the verges and common land.

The Manor House is a National Trust Property, steeped in history and with a totally organic walled garden, a permanent dolls house exhibition and additional changing exhibitions. It is set in a lovely village worth a visit in its own right.

Pickering is home to the start of the North Yorks Moors (steam) Railway, which now has services through to Whitby, a 12th Century castle, museum, shops and restaurants.

Rievaulx Abbey is an English Heritage property, which was founded by Cistercian Monks. The Abbey holds many events through the year and also provides a great destination for a walk from Helmsley.

A quaint village, formerly a base for the ironstone industry in the area, Rosedale is now best known for great walking, picturesque views and its glassmaking studio, Gillies & Jones.

There's a great circular walk from the cottage door, through undulating woodland and across the River Seven to Sinnington, which is one of the prettiest villages in North Yorkshire. And there's a pub too!

And if you are prepared to travel further...

Scarborough - approx 28 miles

York - approx 28 miles

Whitby/Runswick Bay - approx 34 miles