Attractions and Places To See around Upsall - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Upsall include a tranquil setting near the North York Moors National Park, offering views across the plain. The hamlet is known for its historical connections, including the ruins of Upsall Castle and other listed structures like Castle Farm. Most buildings in Upsall feature sandstone architecture, reflecting the local geology. The area provides a blend of natural landscapes and historical sites for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Upsall
- The most popular attractions is Gormire Lake, an other_natural lake surrounded by lush woodland. It is thought to be fed by an underground spring and is popular with wild swimmers due to its clean and surprisingly warm water.
- Another must-see spot is Osmotherley Village Green and Medieval Cross, a man_made_monument and historical site. This village serves as a good access point for hill walking, with national trails passing through, and features a medieval cross used as a meeting place.
- Visitors also love Sutton Bank National Park Centre, a cafe and viewpoint. This visitor centre offers facilities, information, and serves as a starting point for local walking trails, providing panoramic views towards the Yorkshire Dales.
- Upsall is known for historical landmarks, natural features, and visitor amenities. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient castle ruins to scenic lakes and national park facilities.
- The attractions around Upsall are appreciated by the komoot community, with 164 upvotes and 49 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Gormire Lake
Highlight • Natural
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Kilburn White Horse
Highlight • Historical Site
When you are above the White Horse it is difficult to get a sense of its enormous scale so it is worth following the steps down to view it from below.
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Sutton Bank National Park Centre
Highlight • Cafe
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Osmotherley Village Green and Medieval Cross
Highlight • Monument
The village is a good access point for hill walking, with the Cleveland Way National Trail or Lyke Wake Walk passing through.
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Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve
Highlight • Lake
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Tips from the Community
Stayed at one of the local pubs, was good but their internet connection was non-existent, had to pay for a 24hr hotspot with EE
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Gormire Lake is a natural lowland lake that lies at the foot of Whitestone Cliff, a western escarpment of the Hambleton Hills
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Expensive parking but some nice routes
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Meaning "filthy swamp", there are many local legends and myths surrounding this lake, such as it is bottomless (it is 6.5m deep) and was created by an earthquake that swallowed a village resulting in the lake today (it is a glacial lake).
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The public footpath down to the nature reserve from the Cleveland Way (at the location on OS maps marked as "Great Relief Pot") is reasonably steep, but can be very narrow in places with short wooden planks driven into the ground along the downward side of the path, presumably to prevent the path from eroding and collapsing. In other places there are plenty of stones and tree roots to help stabilise your ascent/descent. As you approach Gormire Lake look out for a very curious and quite large boulder that is almost an 8-10 foot high perfect cube. The nature reserve consists of ancient woodland and is very peaceful. Easy to access the water's edge at Gormire Lake.
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Large car park under the White Horse, £2.50 all day as at July 2024. Free parking in a smaller off-road car park on Osgodby Bank at the southern end of Hood Hill Plantation. Very steep steps up to the top, but there is a metal handrail that alternates from the left to right side of the steps. Fabulous views from the top, although as others mention, you can only really see and appreciate the horse from the bottom of the bank.
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Quintessential North Yorkshire village, very picturesque with good amenities and access points to the northwest of the NYM National Park. However, can be very congested with cars so parking is difficult. Drive north and park at Cod Beck Reservoir, then add Osmotherley to your hiking route. Lots of roads and public footpaths to choose from.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in and around Upsall?
Upsall is rich in history. You can visit the ruins of Upsall Castle, a fourteenth-century site believed to have been destroyed during the Civil War. Remnants like the southeast tower and an old gatehouse are still visible. Other notable historical structures include The Old Forge, dating back to 1859, and Castle Farm, a Grade II listed building. Further afield, don't miss the impressive Kilburn White Horse, a turf-cut figure from 1857, or the historic Osmotherley Village Green and Medieval Cross, a traditional meeting place.
What natural features and scenic views can I find near Upsall?
Upsall offers magnificent views to the west across the great Plain and towards the fells, as it's situated just east of the North York Moors National Park. A key natural attraction is Gormire Lake, a tranquil lake surrounded by lush woodland, thought to be fed by an underground spring. The nearby Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve features dramatic cliffs, ancient woodland, and diverse flora and fauna. You might also spot the rare Upsall Polled Shorthorns, a herd established in 1909.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Upsall?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Sutton Bank National Park Centre is an excellent starting point, offering facilities, information, and local walking trails, along with a pump track and wooden animal sculptures. Osmotherley Village Green and Medieval Cross is also considered family-friendly, providing a picturesque village setting with amenities.
What outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, can I do near Upsall?
The area around Upsall is ideal for outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore routes like the 'Gormire Lake loop from Thirlby' or the 'Kepwick Chapel – Kepwick Moor Lime Kiln loop from Cowesby'. Find more hiking options on the Hiking around Upsall guide. Cyclists can enjoy the National Cycle Network Route 65A, which passes through Upsall village. For gravel biking, consider routes like 'Hambleton Horizon – Gravel Explorer 50 km'. Discover more cycling trails on the Gravel biking around Upsall guide. Running enthusiasts can find routes such as the 'Castle Lodge loop from Cowesby' or the 'Running loop from Knayton with Brawith' via the Running Trails around Upsall guide.
What is the best time of year to visit Upsall for outdoor activities?
While specific seasonal advice isn't provided, the North York Moors area, including Upsall, is generally enjoyable for walking and cycling during spring, summer, and early autumn when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. These seasons offer the best conditions for exploring the natural landscapes and historical sites.
Are there any unique local legends or folklore associated with Upsall?
Yes, Upsall is associated with intriguing local folklore. These include 'The Man Who Became Rich through a Dream' folktale and stories of buried gold discovered at Upsall Castle. These tales add a layer of mystery and charm to the village's historical backdrop.
Where can I find facilities like cafes or pubs near Upsall attractions?
The Sutton Bank National Park Centre offers a cafe and toilets, making it a great stop for refreshments and information. The village of Osmotherley, a short distance away, also has a cafe, pub, and public toilets, serving as a convenient base for exploring the surrounding area.
What kind of architecture can I expect to see in Upsall?
Most buildings in Upsall are constructed from sandstone extracted from a local, old quarry. This gives the village a distinctive rustic aesthetic, contributing to its rural charm and historical character. The architecture reflects the local geology and traditional building methods of the region.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Upsall?
Visitors frequently praise the tranquil and majestic nature of Gormire Lake, noting its clean and surprisingly warm water, making it popular for wild swimming. The panoramic views from the top of the Kilburn White Horse are also highly appreciated. The Sutton Bank National Park Centre is valued for its facilities, information, and as a starting point for adventures. The picturesque setting and amenities of Osmotherley Village Green are also popular.
Is there parking available near the main attractions?
Yes, parking is available at some key attractions. For instance, there is a large car park under the Kilburn White Horse, and the Sutton Bank National Park Centre also provides parking. While Osmotherley village can be congested, parking is available, or you can park at Cod Beck Reservoir and incorporate Osmotherley into your hike.
What is the significance of Nevison Hall in Upsall?
Nevison Hall is reputed to be the birthplace and a former residence of the infamous highwayman Will Nevison, also known as Swift Nick. This connection adds a touch of historical intrigue and local legend to the hamlet of Upsall.
Most popular attractions around Upsall
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