Pickering

Pickering is known as "The Gateway to the Moors". The town is reputed to be the oldest town in the District, dating back to 270 BC when founded by Peredurus, King of the Brigantes.

It is the starting point of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, an 18-mile steam railway running through the spectacular scenery of the North York Moors.

At the top of the sloping market place, where a busy street market takes place on Mondays, is the parish church of St. Peter and St. Paul. 15th century murals decorate the walls of the church, and the magnificent spire dominates the skyline.

Pickering Castle lies to the north, a splendid example of a 12th century motte and bailey construction, and which was once also a royal hunting lodge. Nearby is Beck Isle Museum, filled with artefacts mainly from the Victorian era and a collection of local photographs by Sidney Smith. Pickering Trout Lake and the Moorland Trout Farm, where you can catch your tea and feed the fish, are close at hand.