Whitby and Captain Cook Countryside day trip from York
You will first head north for Captain Cook Country, skirting the North York Moors National Park with views of the imposing Cleveland Hills and Roseberry Topping, whilst hearing tales of the region's maritime past and Captain Cook's life on the way.
Your first stop is in the beautiful traditional English village of Great Ayton, perched on the banks of the River Leven, where James Cook lived through most of his childhood, with options to see his Schoolroom, the Church where he worshipped and his family are buried, his statue on the village green and the site of his cottage that was dismantled brick by brick and transported to Melbourne! Or, if you prefer, you can just explore the village yourself and enjoy a leisurely Yorkshire Brew with the locals in one of the Cafes - the choice is yours!
You will then leave Great Ayton and follow the scenic route over the North York Moors that Cook walked to reach the small fishing village of Staithes for his first contact with the sea, passing by the Captain Cook Monument on Easby Moor. The tour pauses on the cliffs overlooking Staithes, where the young James Cook first experienced local seafaring and smuggling traditions. Then follow the rugged coastline route to Whitby, stopping on the West Cliff overlooking the harbour to view and photograph the famous Whale Bones and Captain Cook Statue.
The tour stops for three hours free time in Whitby, with options to visit Whitby's newest attraction, The Endeavour Experience (one of only two full size replicas of the HM Bark Endeavour in existence), the Captain Cook Memorial Museum, take the Bark Endeavour scale replica boat trip around the harbour, climb the 199 steps to view Whitby Abbey (inspiration for the Dracula Books) or just explore the shops and market of the seaside town and experience Fish & Chips from the famous Magpie Café – the choice is yours!
Then leave Whitby and you can just sit back and enjoy the views as we head over the North York Moors back towards York, pausing for a final photo opportunity at the Hole of Horcum. We arrive back at the pick-up point at approximately 5:15pm and say our goodbyes.
