Explore the forest, and beyond at Cropton
Forest Rangers
An entire forest at your feet. Let us show you around...
Our Forest Rangers are experts in helping you have fun in the great outdoors. They know the forests like the back of their hand and will help you to understand and connect with the forest. With experiences that are designed to show you the very best of our location, whichever activity you choose, you'll have an unforgettable experience.
Make sure you book in advance as our experiences are popular! Just choose your activity in my account.
Guided Woodland Walk
Suitable for families, groups and couples
With an entire forest waiting to be explored, it’s hard knowing where to start! Join our Forest Rangers for a guided tour, taking in some unforgettable views whilst learning a thing or two about the wildlife who call our forests home.
Mini Forest Rangers
Suitable for families and 5-11 year olds
Become a mini bird detective! Spread your wings and get ready to discover the world of bird spotting and migration. Through exciting games, crafts and immersive activities – put our feathered friends into the spotlight with help from your Forest Ranger.
Little Wild Ones
Suitable for families and pre-schoolers
When imaginations run wild, a love for nature begins to grow. And there’s no better playground than the forest! Your Forest Ranger will guide your tiny explorers through woodland activities and imaginative play – bringing stories to life as they find their first Forest Feeling.
Forest Survival
Suitable for families, groups and couples
It’s the simple things in life — like how to light a fire and build a woodland shelter. Learn it all with your Forest Ranger, then it’s time to relax around the campfire, toast some marshmallows and enjoy a well-deserved cuppa from freshly foraged herbs.
Nature by Night
Available September to March, suitable for all
Evenings in the forest just got even more extraordinary. Join a guided walk as you uncover the world of biofluorescence, using UV light to unveil a whole new world of wonders.
Outdoor adventures
Throw yourself into adventure and enjoy the very best of the outdoors on these incredible local experiences...
Tramper vehicles
Explore the forest with our new all-terrain mobility scooters, exclusive to both Keldy and Cropton. Tramper hire prices start from £2.50 for three hours, with daily slots available between 10am and 5pm.
All users must be accompanied during the session and follow the designated forest pathways.
Forest Spa
Unwind with a spa experience like no other, surrounded by the forest and a natural soundtrack outside. Switch off with soothing treatments designed for couples' time, group relaxation, or simply some time just for you.
You'll need to pre-book our in-cabin spa treatments to make sure we can get everything in place for your stay.
Book your spa experience
You'll need to pre-book our in-cabin spa treatments to make sure we can get everything in place for your stay.
Book your spa experience
Bike hire
Looking to explore more of the forest? Venture out for the day on our bikes and discover acres of woodland, or go at your own pace with full break bike hire. There’ll be a helmet and bike lock for you too, so you can keep your bike just outside your cabin door:
Our cycling options:
- Adult bike hire | £18 per day or from £32 per break
- Child bike hire | £15 per day or from £28 per break
- Child seat | from £10
- Tag along | from £20
- Trailer | from £30
Just pre-book in my account, or ask at the Forest Retreat while you're here.
Elvis Owl Nature Trail
Get hands-on in the forest with this brand-new, self-led Forest Nature Trail.
Explore the incredible wildlife around you, get stuck into activities and learn amazing things about nature.
Use your discovery pack and follow our five stepping stones to nature while you get to know your forest friends. See, hear and touch nature all around you... and have an incredible adventure in the forest.
Quiz nights
Come along to our Forest Quiz every Wednesday and Saturday! Grab a drink, choose your team name and put your knowledge to the test for a chance to win. It’s free and everyone’s welcome - with special rounds for kids! Join us in the Forest Retreat from 5pm.
Good to know...
You can reserve a table for the quiz by booking in for dinner at the Forest Retreat. Pre-order our Quiz Night specials in my account, or speak to our team while you're here.
Pottery painting
Head to the Forest Retreat and discover your creative side. Choose from a selection of our favourite woodland animals and experiment with spongy foam clay or paint a masterpiece to take away the same day.
Small Bisque - foam or paint | £6.95
Medium Bisque - foam or paint | £10.95
Large Bisque - foam or paint | £13.95
Rainy days
On rainy days, look out for TV messages for any indoor activities we're running. We also have plenty of board games in the Forest Retreat so why not pop in, pick up a game and grab a drink.
Build a Forest Friend
Looking for something to keep little hands busy indoors?
Head to the Forest Retreat, where mini explorers can build their own Forest Friend to join them on their adventures when they’re back outside. You can pre-book yours so they’re ready and waiting for when you arrive.
Local recommendations Cropton
Pubs and restaurants
Proper pubs, dog-friendly spots and dinners out after a day of exploring. Take your pick from our top pubs and restaurants close to the forest to get a taste of the local.
Cappleman’s Fish & Chips
The award-winning Cappleman’s Fish & Chips do traditional fish and chips to eat in or take away, plus home-made desserts, ice creams and sundaes. 17-minute drive away.
Figaro’s Italian
Fortune Inn Cantonese
Enjoy authentic cantonese food just a short drive away at Fortune Inn Cantonese. 16-minute drive.
Namaste Bengal
Namaste Bengal is another firm favourite in nearby Pickering. Call 01751 472 444 to order. 16-minute drive.
Two of the best dog-friendly pubs on Pickering Marketplace, across the road from each other.
The Moors Inn, Appleton le Moors
An inn since the 17th Century, The Moors Inn sits in the beautiful village of Appleton le Moors, in the North York Moors. Cosy up by the open fire, enjoy dinner, or relax in the new snug. Dogs are also allowed, in the bar area only. 11-minute drive.
The Blacksmiths Arms, Lastingham
Enjoy proper Yorkshire hospitality at The Blacksmiths Arms, Lastingham, with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Psst! Dogs are only allowed in the outside area here – they've got a great garden serving pizza al fresco, so you (and the dog) won't miss out. 10-minute drive.
The Crown, Hutton le Hole
A traditional pub with local ales, The Crown serves daily specials, sandwiches and a seasonal menu. 15-minute drive.
The Coach House Inn
The Coach House Inn, in the village of Rosedale Abbey, is a great country inn within the North York Moors National Park. 10-minute drive, post code: YO18 8SD
Places to visit
History, amazing scenery and even a steam railway − head out beyond the forest and discover what the area has to offer.
Castle Howard
Take a trip to Castle Howard, with gardens adventure playground, farm shop, cafe and garden centre. 40-minute drive.
North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Try the North Yorkshire Moors Railway experience and travel all the way to the coast by steam train. 16-minute drive.
Rievaulx Abbey
Visit a tranquil valley of the North York Moors and discover the impressive ruins of one of England's most powerful Cistercian monasteries, Rievaulx Abbey. 30-minute drive.
Cedarbarn
Bit of a foodie? Cedarbarn is an award-winning farm shop and café. 19-minute drive.
Walking trails
Cinder Track | 33.8km or 11.3km
This famous route follows along the old Whitby to Scarborough railway line is a glorious 33.8km hike. For a shorter day trip, take the 11.3km section from Whitby to Ravenscar, where you’ll find smugglers coves, sea views and natural beauty.
Cleveland Way | various distances
Bask in some of Yorkshire’s most beautiful scenery on the stunning Cleveland Way walking route. Stretching over 175km from the delightful market town of Helmsley to the Victorian seaside destination, Saltburn-by-the-Sea, the dramatic landscapes of both moorland and coastline are guaranteed to take your breath away. Only half an hour from our cabins and a favourite of our Forest Ranger. Don’t forget your camera!
Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey | 11.3km
Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey gives you glorious views of Helmsley Forest and the Yorkshire landscape. This 11.3km walk climbs gently from Helmsley, taking in beautiful views of the town and castle. It continues into the woods, carpeted by bluebells in the spring, to the beautiful abbey ruins at Rievaulx. Heading back, the views of the abbey from Rievaulx Terrace are breath-taking.
Howdale Moor and Brow Moor | 6.4km
The 6.4km circular is another, shorter, coast and moorland walk, where you may spot birds of prey over Flyingdale Moor.
Ravenscar to Robin Hood's Bay | 17.7km
An 17.7km moorland-to-coast walk is Ravenscar to Robin Hood's Bay – take a break at Boggle Hole for some rock-pooling.
Roseberry Topping & Cook's Monument | 11.3km
Take a scenic drive through the North York Moors to Roseberry Topping, known locally as the ‘Yorkshire Matterhorn’ to begin this 11.3km circular walk. It includes a strenuous climb that’s well worth it! Look south from the summit to heather-clad moors; look north to the contrasting industrial landscape of Middlesbrough and Redcar. The walk also takes in Cook’s Monument, another of Yorkshire’s iconic landmarks.
Rosedale Trail | 4.8km
Try the Rosedale trail, a 4.8km loop with views of Rosedale, Hartoft Valley and the distant moors. A longer 16km loop offers more great views and a variety of landscapes.
Dalby Forest walks | various distances
For walks in Dalby Forest, take the moderate Bridestones Trail, with natural sandstone sculptures along the way. Meet the wildlife on the more demanding Deepdale Habitat Trail and savour the sweeping views over the Moors on the 7.5km Woodcock Way. The Visitor Centre at Dalby Forest is a great place to start and here you can pick up details of the many walks, as well as enjoying some refreshments.
North York Moors National Park | various distances
Looking to make it a day out? Take the 6.4km circular walk connecting the moorland villages of Hutton le Hole and Lastingham, and visit the open-air Ryedale Folk Museum at Hutton.
- For a riverside ramble, Thornton-le-dale to Ellerburn is hard to beat.
- Take the 3.2km walk in the heart of Little Beck wood to discover the enchanting Falling Foss waterfall.
- For a more challenging hike, take the Wainstones 12.9km route end enjoy views of the whole of the moors spread out before you.
Cycling trails
Long distance routes around North Yorkshire
National Route 1 takes in the coast from Whitby down to Scarborough, along the Cinder Track while Route 165 runs through the beautiful Esk Valley.
Bransdale Loop | 44km | Advanced
No trip to North Yorkshire would be complete without visiting the North York Moors. Featuring moorland, coast, forest, and dales the North York Moors is truly beautiful and a must see for anyone visiting the area. At 44km, Bransdale loop is an ideal route for keen cyclists offering a mix of moorland road cycling and spectacular broad valley views. For the best experience we recommend tackling it from an anticlockwise direction starting at Kirkbymoorside. Towards the end of this route, you will be greeted to a string of cafés and country pubs - perfect for a welcomed break.
Ellerburn trail | 2.8km | Beginner
We recommend the Ellerburn trail for family friendly cycling! Choose the short cycle route (2.8km) or the longer route (4.5km) - ideal for children learning to ride their first bike! This route is a multi-user pathway for walkers and wheelchair users so bear this in mind when letting your little one’s roam free.
Spauton Manor Circuit | 14.5km | Beginner
At just 14.5km, Spaunton Manor circuit offers a short ride with some level stretches across moorland and the occasional climb. Offering beautiful views across the North York Moors this is a great family friendly cycle path. It's worth noting, that due to steep inclines, this one is better suited to older children. Follow quiet country lanes through nearby villages and you will find a pub or two – a welcome break for a bite to eat.
The Cinder Track | 35km | Advanced
This long-distance cycle path takes in views of the coast and parts of the popular Cinder Track. At 35km this delightful coastal route offers breath-taking views from Scarborough to Whitby, featuring everything you need for a perfect bike ride. Look out upon secluded coves, ancient castles, and ruins this is an ideal route for those that want to make some pitstops along the way.
World Cup MTB Trail | 6.4km | Advanced
This course is best saved for the experts. If cycling is your forte – then this technical course could be the one for you. With steep climbs and challenging decents, this trial makes a tough but memorable experience.
North York Moors cycling trails
Tackle the 26.5mile Bransdale Loop, or the nine-mile Spaunton Manor Circuit which passes by local villages and plenty of country pubs.
Dog-walking trails
Bring your furry friend on an adventure and explore one of the many forest trails, where acres of woodland and country roads make a great spot for a scamper.
Boggle Hole
Boggle Hole is a hidden gem situated about a mile south of Robin Hood’s Bay. A sheltered cove in front of an old converted watermill, it was famous for smuggling ‘treasure’ and thought to be the perfect hiding place for pirates. The clifftop path offers beautiful views of Robin Hood’s Bay and the route also follows the Cinder Track, with on and off lead areas your pup will love exploring.
Boggle Hole can be reached by taking the narrow road through Fyling Park or Fylingthorpe, but be mindful, the road is not suitable for large vehicles. Our tip? Stroll along the rocky cliff tops and when the tide is low walk along golden sandy beaches.
North Yorkshire Steam Railway
A short 15 minute drive from your cabin, discover the North Yorkshire Steam Railway. Dogs are welcome aboard standard coaches (except dining trains) providing they are well behaved, settled under tables or seats and not obstructing the walkway.
A doggy ticket can be purchased for just £3 and the train stops at many tourist hotspots including Whitby Abbey and Robin Hood’s Bay. All aboard!
Robin Hood’s Bay
A little further afield, Robin Hood’s Bay is a great place to visit with your four-legged-friend. This circular walk joins the Cleveland Way coastal path towards Maw Wyke. Or switch things up on the way back by joining the Cinder Track for the return leg of the journey.
This loop is a 9.5 kilometre trail and the paths can get a little muddy after periods of wet weather. The Cleveland Way includes climbs and slopes through gullies so be careful when travelling through this area. Dogs should be kept close as the cliff edges are unfenced with steep drops. If you decide to return via the Cinder Track be mindful of horse riders and cyclists.
Runswick Bay
Runswick Bay (known as one of the prettiest areas on the Yorkshire coast) is well worth the 45 minute drive from your cabin at Keldy or Cropton. A former fishing village, this quaint area offers an ideal setting for your dog walk in Yorkshire.
With its beautiful crescent of sandy beach, Runswick Bay is a fantastic day out for families. Perfect for traditional bucket-and-spade fun, rock pooling, fossil hunting and of course coastal walks, where you can admire the outstanding views. The best part is that Runswick Bay is pet-friendly so there’s lots of opportunities for beach games with your pup.
Whitby Abbey
The instantly recognisable Whitby Abbey offers a circular walk overlooking the popular seaside town of Whitby. It's one of the most romantic and atmospheric ruins in Britain and a fun place to walk your dog if you’re into sightseeing.
The route takes you away from the town along the Whitby Lighthouse and towards Saltwick Bay where you can enjoy the wonderful sea views. A little further on you approach the historic views of Whitby Abbey and the infamous 199 steps leading to St. Mary’s Church.
Dogs are welcome on leads at Whitby Abbey and on the east side of the River Esk lies a beach which is also pet-friendly – ideal for those warmer months when your dog could do with a dip to cool off.
Castle Howard Arboretum
If you’re looking for dog walks in Yorkshire that the whole family can enjoy, The Yorkshire Arboretum is a definite must. Less than 40 minutes away from our Yorkshire locations, Castle Howard is situated in the Howardian Hills - a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
There are two trails you can follow shown in the map provided. The short walk takes around an hour and the long walk lasts up to 2 hours. But you can spend the whole day exploring if you’d like.
In order to preserve the wildlife, your dog needs to be on a lead in designated areas so they don’t disturb any birds and animals. However there’s a good few off lead areas for your pup to explore.
Go Ape
Take a trip through the trees, full of adventure! Save 10% on your Go Ape experience when you stay with us, including on Saturdays.
Look out for our emails with offers and activities to book before your stay – they'll include your unique discount code. Go Ape Dalby Forest is a 40-minute drive away, where you can experience:
- Go Ape Tree Top Challenge
- Go Ape Tree Top Adventure
Activities nearby
Discover local activities and adventures just beyond the forest, and experience North Yorkshire at its very best.
Wildlife experiences
Get close to the wildlife
Meet some of our forest friends up close with incredible experiences near to the forest. Why not try...
- Horse Riding hack or lesson
- National Centre for Birds of Prey flying demos and experiences
You can pre-book your horse riding with us! Just visit my account or speak to the team at the Forest Retreat when you're here.
Wildlife and trees
Wildlife at Cropton
What can you spot?
Roe Deer
Stay quiet and you may just stumble across a roe deer in a forest glade. See its reddish grey-brown coat and short antlers. The roe deer is the most common type of deer found in the UK.
Tawny Owl
In winter the hooting of the nocturnal tawny owl fills the air, with their striking gingery-brown feathers standing out against the frosty forest backdrop. Watch as they hunt for mice and ‘talk’ to each other during the courting season.
Wildflowers
Take a moment to enjoy the beautiful wild blooms along the edges of Cropton's limestone tracks. From deep purple bugles and bright yellow buttercups to foxgloves and primroses, these wildflowers create a picture-perfect, natural rainbow of colour.
In Cropton's meadows, remember to look for a glimpse of bird's foot trefoil (nicknamed ‘eggs and bacon’ for the yellow and orange colouring of its flowers).
Want to learn more about the wildlife here? Book onto a Forest Ranger experience and discover all the secrets of the forest!
Trees at Cropton
Trees you'll find in the forest
Sitka Spruce
With needle-like leaves that are sharp, straight and flattened, the Sitka Sprice is much more prickly than the similar Norway Spruce. Sitka spruce trees grow close together, forming a dense canopy which few plants can grow beneath. This dense foliage provides cover from the wind and rain for larger mammals, while birds of prey and smaller birds, such as crossbill, tree creeper, coal tit and siskin, can use it for nesting.
Scots pine
Scots pine is one of only three native conifers, and our only native pine. You'll spot this all-year round as its needle-like leaves are evergreen. It’s the perfect habitat for iconic Scottish wildlife such as the red squirrel, as well as animals like the pine marten and Scottish wildcat. Scots pines in southern England are also the main caterpillar foodplant for the pine hawk-moth.
Birch
Birch trees are hardy, able to live in a range of temperatures, from as far south as Spain to as far north as Lapland. Birch woods (either downy, silver birch, or both) have a light, open canopy and thrive in dry woodlands, downs and heaths. Their open canopy also helps grasses, mosses, wood anemones, bluebells, wood sorrel and violets to grow.
Silver birch provides food and habitat for more than 300 insect species, as well as homes for nesting birds like woodpeckers.
Supporting the forest
We’re more than just a holiday
Nestled within inspiring natural spaces, we offer a unique way to experience and enjoy the UK’s forests, helping you experience and reconnect with nature.
We look after the land we love for us all, protecting wildlife and helping to preserve the forest for the future. By putting nature centre-stage, we give you the best of the outdoors. A sense of freedom and a unique experience, where you feel connected to the forest and to each other. Because you don’t just visit the forest, you really feel it.
And once you’ve found that Forest Feeling, you’ll never let it go.
Let's look after what we love
Help to care for the wildlife around you in small, but important ways. You'll find it's as good for you as it is for nature!
Give nature a helping hand by....
- Creating habitat piles using old logs and branches
- Picking up any litter you see – the forest and wildlife will thank you for it
- Turning off the lights when they’re not in use to reduce energy use
- Using the bins provided to separate your waste and recycle properly
