Thirsk

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Thirsk is a popular town with a strong association with horses; the racecourse was established in 1854 and holds 13 popular meetings throughout the summer. In the centre of Thirsk is an attractive cobbled market square which dates back from medieval times. It is still the centre of commerce with markets being held here on Saturdays and Mondays; the second Monday of every month being a farmers market.

A tribute to Alf Wight, the famous author of the James Herriot novels is located in Thirsk. ‘The World of James Herriot’ is situated in ‘Skeldale House’ and takes visitors back to the 1940s. It has been voted the ‘Best Visitor Attraction of the Year’ by the York Tourism Awards. Opposite is Thirsk museum where Thomas Lord, the founder of Lords Cricket Ground, was born. It is open Easter to October.

Due to the picturesque countryside that Thirsk is set in, there are many outdoor activities on offer. Pony trekking and organised walks are popular; a Bird of Prey centre is open 7 days a week at Sion Hill Hall, just outside of Thirsk and the 15th century Saint Mary’s Church is an outstanding example of Perpendicular Gothic Architecture.

There is a wide variety of accommodation in Thirsk to choose from. Hotels offer comfortable places to stay in the centre of town, cosy bed and breakfasts are set in farmhouses and old coaching inns and self-catering holiday cottages are located on the outskirts of Thirsk in the wondrous hills. 3.5 miles away at Thirkleby is a Camping and Caravan site where dogs are permitted. Getting to Thirsk is easy-south of Middlesbrough just off the A19 and north of York on the A19. It is 14 miles west of Helmsley on the A170 and 12 miles north east of Ripon on the A61. There are regular trains running from York and Middlebrough.

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