If one were to journey through the small but idyllic village of Hutton-le-Hole, you’d swear you were turning the pages of a sweet age-old fairy tale.
With a population of around 400 people, this beautiful locale is nestled away in the Ryedale district of Yorkshire, near the Tabular Hills, and is something of a hidden gem—despite being just 25 miles outside the city of York.
Sitting on the majestic River Dove, and inside the remarkable North York Moors National Park, the village is renowned for its “charming red roof cottages, babbling brook and grazing sheep”, according to the town’s official page.
This, alongside all the “picturesque stone cottages and traditional village green”, leaves visitors in awe with their jaws aghast.
Despite its few residents, Hutton-le-Hoyle attracts a number of tourists each year. They often flock to the town for its various festivals and events, most notably the annual sheep fair, as well as May Day celebrations and Christmas markets.
Plus when they bunker down here, you’d be amiss to think there wouldn’t be enough for them to do, in-fact there’s a whole lot. Nature-related activities such as hiking, cycling or fishing are the most common, while there are also attractions perfect for those who love to learn the town’s history and culture with 29 listed buildings scattered about, as well as gift shops and cosy tea rooms.
Rydale Folk Museum, an open-air museum, is found here and it tells the stories of local people from days gone to the present day. To many, it is regarded as one of the ‘must visits’ for anyone who finds themselves in Hutton-le-Hole at any given time.
“An excellent range of attractions and very informative” said one visitor, who posted their overwhelmingly positive review of the museum on Tripadvisor. “It’s probably around 90-minutes long.
“Highlight (for me) was the extraordinary and unusual time capsule of an early photographic studio complete with large windows for sunlight, and a sunlight driven enlarger. The village of Hulton le Hole where the museum is located is also crazily pretty.”
A second added: “Throughly enjoyed the museum and was totally surprise how lovely and fantastic value for money and set in beautiful village,” while another made sure to mention: “The first word to come to mind is…wow! The museum is made with utter dedication, every little detail is perfect.
“I was very quickly transported to a past I had never experienced and could have spent hours here (unfortunately we arrived later than we had intended). I was blown away by the thought and care put into making such a magical place. There are lots of information boards to guide you through the history of the museum as well as a lovely gift shop staffed by friendly, helpful people.
“We visited at Halloween and every effort had been made to make the experience brilliant for young children. 5*, more if it were possible. Thank you.”
Another activity on offer is the village’s very own Chocolate Factory where you can purchase some amazing and delectable gifts for friends and family. Plus if you’ve ever been curious as to how chocolate is made, you can find out for yourself and watch the process in person here.
If you’re looking for a place to stay in the ‘hidden heart of Yorkshire’, there are plenty of B&Bs and self-catering cottages littered throughout. While you can always find somewhere just outside Hutton-le-Hoyle and venture in by car as there’s plenty of car parking spaces available—it’s completely up to you.