Christmas is fast approaching and the lights at the famous Christmas Tree Festival at Helmsley were officially switched on the 29th November. It offers visitors to the area the chance to see more than 20 trees individually decorated around the theme of Christmas Favourites. The Helmsley Christmas tree decorations have been steadily updated every year since they were launched back in 2012 making this lovely market town brighter and even more festive every Christmas for all to enjoy.
In addition to the delights of the Christmas Tree Festival there is much to enjoy at the classic market town of Helmsley. Explore the many independent and unique shops, castle ruins, fascinating art galleries or an enjoyable afternoon in one of the many little charming tea rooms or inviting inns.
Only three miles away from Helmsley, our cosy Helmsley Hideaway, Overdale Cottage is set within the charming village of Harome which is right on the edge of the North York Moors National Park making it a wonderful location to stay all year round, particularly over the Christmas period.
As well as getting out and about during this festive time exploring the North Yorkshire Moors countryside, heading off for a hearty walk with your dog or visiting the local market towns you can head back to the delights Harome village itself. Before you settle down toasting your toes in front of the open fire you can spoil yourself further with a well-deserved drink or dinner out at The Star Inn or the Pheasant Hotel, both within a short walking distance of the cottage.
The Star Inn at Harome – http://www.thestaratharome.co.uk/
The lovely thatched Star Inn pub / restaurant at Harome is a real rustic and popular gourmet delight with a menu serving ‘modern Yorkshire’ fare which is all locally sourced. This superb Michelin Star restaurant is consistently rated as one of the UK’s top eateries.
The Pheasant Hotel, Harome – https://www.thepheasanthotel.com/
The Pheasant is sited in a delightful position the in the picturesque village of Harome overlooking the duck pond and has one of the most beautiful hotel settings in North Yorkshire, Enjoy an afternoon tea, drinks or a meal at the award winning restaurant.
Another magical Christmas highlight in the area is to take a trip on the Northern Lights Express on the North Yorkshire Moor Railway from Pickering Station. The sixty minute festive journey will travel through the illuminated Yorkshire countryside and a twinkling lit forest, with special surprises unveiled along the way, before a dazzling light show awaits and unfolds at Levisham Station before heading back to Pickering. This is delight for all ages and to help put that Christmas spirit and happiness into everyone, see more at www.nymr.co.uk
With so much going in and around this beautiful area, Overdale Cottage provides the perfect base for a wonderful holiday over Christmas time and wonderful memories to take home with you. Let the adventures begin, the relaxing kick in and may the wonderful Christmas lights brighten the dark December skies.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all from Overdale Cottage, our Helmsley Hideaway.