Plan The Perfect Weekend in Malton and Pickering
Discover Yorkshire's food capital or explore this vibrant market town on the edge of the North York Moors
Malton
Known as Yorkshire’s food capital, people flock to this market town to get a taste of what’s on offer
Eat
Don’t be fooled by its sleepy exterior, Malton has a big culinary reputation. Head to The Patisserie Malton for stellar cakes, afternoon teas and coffee, or try The Pantry Coffee House & Eatery for brunch or a light lunch. Roost Coffee shop is where to get your caffeine fix before picking up a tasty slice from Pizza on the Square. The Crown and Cushion is a must-visit for great gastropub dining and locally-brewed ales, while you’ll find sharing boards and small plates at Forty Six and authentic Italian dishes at La Trattoria.
Sleep
The Talbot Hotel is a 17th century coaching inn with plenty of bedrooms and suites. Each with comfy beds and plump pillows, you’ll not want to leave – except to sample their fantastic seasonal dishes which can be enjoyed by the fires in winter and in the gardens in summer. If three acres of manicured gardens and a Tudor mansion is what you’re looking for, you’ll want to stay at The Old Lodge on the edge of the town, or if a luxury converted shipping container with specular country views is more your thing, we recommend The Box BnB.
Browse
Malton’s Talbot Yard food court celebrates the town’s artisan makers and producers, with master patissier Florian Poirot, Bluebird Bakery, Food 2 Remember, Groovy Moo Gelato and Rare Bird Distillery all housed here. Elsewhere, stock up on seasonal produce at Malton Relish, prime cuts of meat at Derek Fox Butcher and fill your refillable tubs at The Beecham Weigh. Art-lovers will want to drop by The Gallery to browse the fine art, ceramics and jewellery, and there are plenty of events happening throughout the year. Cosy Cottage Soap specialise in plastic- and palm oil-free skincare, and Plum will be your go-to for candles, womenswear and gifts.
DON'T MISS
With a bustling artisan food scene, you won’t want to miss a visit to The Cook’s Place where you can perfect your culinary skills and learn about the town’s commitment to being the larder of Yorkshire. Nearby, Castle Howard is a magnificent 18th century house with ornate interiors and landscaped gardens. There’s an amazing adventure playground for children of all ages and the gardens and grounds are dog friendly.
Pickering
A vibrant market town on the edge of the North York Moors with plenty of historic sites to explore
Eat
You’ll find decadent cakes, giant scones and homemade savouries at Nosh, plus they’re dog-friendly so feel free to bring your four-legged family members. At The White Swan Inn the focus is on local and seasonal ingredients served alongside traditional Yorkshire hospitality, and Willowgate Bistro is popular with locals, serving modern British dishes inside their cosy and relaxed restaurant. A little further out of the town centre, The Fox & Rabbit Inn is a traditional country pub serving all the classics alongside local ales.
Sleep
For those looking for a self-catering option, High Oaks Grange is a holiday destination with a large farm house, luxury cottages and woodland lodges, while Yorkshire Burrows offer beautiful Hobbit-like glamping pods, each with its own private hot tub. For an award-winning bed and breakfast stay, book into the elegant Georgian townhouse that is 17 Burgate House or try Cawthorne House guesthouse for an artisan take on a traditional B&B.
Browse
Satisfy your sweet tooth at Birdgate Chocolatiers, where you’ll find an abundance of chocolate all handmade with locally-sourced ingredients. Hares and Hedgerows is a family-run jewellery shop and art gallery where most of the jewellery is created in their workshop. Book-lovers will want to take a peek inside Pickering Book Tree, whereas foodies will not want to miss Cedarbarn Farm Shop’s stock of fabulously fresh food, local produce and award-winning homemade ready meals.
Around the corner
Located just to the east of Pickering, Dalby Forest is a beautiful area popular with walkers, cyclists, adventure sportsmen and nature lovers alike. To experience life at a new pace, visit Dalby’s Go Ape site to swing from the treetops and zip through the forest. For something more relaxing, jump on board the North Yorkshire Moors Railway at Pickering station to explore the moors by steam train – there’s no better way to see them.
