What to do in Helmsley

Activities, attractions and tours

A medieval castle surrounded by a lush green landscape and a small village in the background.
An ancient stone structure with arches, surrounded by lush green fields and dense forest.
A historic castle ruin surrounded by lush green fields and a clear blue sky.
A forest path with purple flowers and green foliage.
A wheat field with a solitary tree under a partly cloudy sky.

Things to do

York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

City Sightseeing York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

CA $32
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
City Sightseeing York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
York: Witches and History Old Town Walking Tour

York: Witches and History Old Town Walking Tour

CA $32
per adult
York: Witches and History Old Town Walking Tour
The York Dungeon Tour

The York Dungeon Tour

CA $37
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
The York Dungeon Tour
RHS Garden Harlow Carr Entry Ticket

RHS Garden Harlow Carr Entry Ticket

CA $25
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
RHS Garden Harlow Carr Entry Ticket
Shared Walking Tour in York

Shared York Walking Tour – Hidden Gems & History

CA $34
per adult
Shared York Walking Tour – Hidden Gems & History
York Evening Escape On The Ouse Cruise

York Evening Escape On The Ouse Cruise

CA $27
per adult
York Evening Escape On The Ouse Cruise
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What to do in Helmsley

Stay near popular Helmsley attractions

Helmsley Castle

8.6/10 (12 reviews)
You can find out about the history of Helmsley with a visit to Helmsley Castle. Check out the lively bars or top-notch restaurants in this relaxing area.
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Day trip destinations from Helmsley

A large Gothic cathedral with intricate stonework and pointed arches.

York

A pier extending into the sea with a beach and buildings nearby.

Middlesbrough

A thatched-roof cottage with a stone wall and a bench in a rural setting.
Photo by colin grice (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0)

Nawton

Frequently asked questions

Is Helmsley worth visiting?
Whether you're coming to discover the local charm and cultural hotspots or try regional foods and venture into nature, there are plenty of things to do in Helmsley.
How do I spend a day in Helmsley?
Kick your day off with a visit to Ryedale Folk Museum and Yorkshire Lavender. Then, tour different parts of Helmsley for a quick bite and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Helmsley?
Ryedale Folk Museum is one of the top tourist attractions in Helmsley and deserves a place on every itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Helmsley?
Three days will give you time to tick off popular city sights, like Ampleforth Abbey, National Trust Nunnington Hall and Byland Abbey. The average stay in Helmsley is two days. If you have the time to extend your break, York isn't far away.
What are some activities to do in Helmsley with kids?
If you're looking for sights and tours for all the family, have a look at these great ideas for what to do in Helmsley with kids.

What to do in Helmsley for adults?
Adults of all ages will find plenty of things to do in Helmsley. Whether you're into culture, outdoor activities or just love exploring new places, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Helmsley?
In Helmsley, Ampleforth Abbey is a popular spot for anyone wishing to see the city without taking their wallet out. Also, wander around the other neighbourhoods and green spaces, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's a good way to find out about the best free things to do in Helmsley.

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