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Pickering Cottages

Pickering is set in North Yorkshire and was originally a Celtic settlement, founded in 270 BC. Legend has it that the tribe's King lost a ring in the river, which was then found in the belly of a pike. Pickering's name is said to have derived from this incident and the town's coat of arms includes a pike with a ring in its mouth. For details about Pickering cottages see below.

The town is set in the rolling cornland and pastures of the Vale of Pickering. This rural landscape is drained by the River Derwent, which meets the Rye, just outside Pickering. It is a region punctuated by small hamlets and market towns of red brick, that nestle in folds between the cultivated hills.

Pickering itself is considered to be the gateway to the North Yorkshire Moors and is located on its southern fringes. It is one of the oldest market towns in the country - its castle which is located on the north side of town dates back to the 12th century and dominates the skyline. The well-preserved Church of St Peter and St Paul of Pickering is also an important historical site and overlooks the main street. Built on Saxon foundations, it contains some impressive 15th century frescoes and is a Grade 1 listed building.

Pickering attracts a large volume of visitors, many of whom come to see the steam railway and museums - it is a small town that boasts a large range of visitor attractions. See the guide below for further information. We've also provided a selection of Pickering holiday cottages for rent and a link to a rental agent with a wider choice of holiday properties.

Rent Pickering Cottages with Cottages 4 You

Bracken Brow - Pickering cottages with Cottages 4 You
An award winning cottage set in Wrelton near Pickering. It has been converted from a Grade II listed building and retains many original features. This holiday property is situated near the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and is a short drive from the Yorkshire coast. The interior consists of a hall with understairs storage, a lounge with well-equipped kitchen and a dining area. There are 3 bedrooms; 2 doubles (1 with en suite shower room) and a twin bedded room. Visit the link for more details.

The Old Reading Rooms Cottage - Accommodation in Pickering from Cottages 4 You
Situated on the Pickering to Helmsley road, this self catering cottage includes original features such as an open fire and beamed ceilings. Refurbished throughout, the interior consists of a living room, bathroom and kitchen. There are 3 bedroom that sleep up to 5 people; 1 double, 1 single, 1 twin. It has a small garden and pets are welcome. The holiday property is also close to Pickering town centre. See the rental agent above for this and other holiday cottages in Pickering.

Pickering self-catering attractions

This section provides further information regarding visitor attractions and local entertainment such as opening times and admission. Scroll down for details of local supermarkets and shops in the town.

Outdoor activities
The North Yorkshire Moors Steam Railway is a major local attraction and passes through a number of villages including Pickering. It is one of the longest heritage railways in Britain and runs for 18 miles through the magnificent North Yorkshire countryside. Steam locomotives and heritage diesel engines run on its lines regularly. Fares range from £7 - £14. The Flamingo Land Theme Park is also nearby. The Zoo area features lions, giraffes and baboons and there's also a selection of extreme rides. See the website for details.

White Swan Inn

Food and drink
Pickering has a collection of pubs such as the Bay Horse (Market Place), the Buck Inn (Wrelton Cliff Road) and the Black Bull on Malton Road. Good restaurants include the Castlegate Taberna and the White Swann Inn Restaurant. The latter, which is located on Market Place, specialises in traditional local dishes and serves fixed lunches and dinners from £15.

History and Culture
The Beck Isle Museum in Pickering town centre, exhibits a large collection of rural artifacts showcasing the history and customs of the region. It's open from 10am - 5pm. The award-winning Eden Camp Museum is also popular and celebrates wartime Britain through llife-like exhibits and re-enactments. Admissions is £4 for kids, £5 for adults. Other places worth seeing include Helmsley Walled Garden, a beautiful 18th century property and Castle Howard, one of the UK's most impressive stately homes.

Supermarkets and shops
For supermarkets see Moors Fresh on Thornton Road and the Co-Op on Hungate Road. Chemists include Beckside Pharmacy at Maltongate and a Boots on Market Place.