Autumn and winter are fantastic times to visit North Yorkshire. The countryside turns golden, local markets come alive, and historic houses open their doors for seasonal celebrations. Whether you’re planning a cosy getaway, a family break, or a quiet weekend exploring, there’s plenty happening across Malton, Ryedale, and beyond over the next few months.
Here’s a round-up of events, attractions, and local highlights to make the most of your stay at our Pheasant’s Roost Shepherd’s Hut in Thorpe Bassett.
🍂 Autumn in North Yorkshire
Castle Howard – A Grand Day Out
Just a short drive from Thorpe Bassett, Castle Howard is a must-see at any time of year, but autumn brings an extra touch of drama. The long avenues are lined with amber trees, the lakes shimmer with mist in the mornings, and the grounds are perfect for long dog walks. The Arboretum is the perfect spot for peace and tranquility, and also the home to red squirrels!
This year, the estate’s Autumn Garden Walks run through October, and the cafés offer warming lunches and seasonal bakes made with produce from the Castle Howard farm shop. From mid-November, the much-anticipated Christmas at Castle Howard returns, with this year’s theme being A Dickens of a Christmas – promising imaginative decorations and immersive displays throughout the house.
If you only visit one stately home while you’re here, make it this one. It’s perfect for a full day out, with dog-friendly walks, a great farm shop, café, and some of Yorkshire’s best festive experiences.
& North Yorkshire This Autumn & Winter 2025
Nunnington Hall – Riverside Charm
Nestled beside the River Rye, Nunnington Hall is a lovely stop for an autumn morning. The gardens are full of late blooms and crisp leaves, and the house itself is full of character and history. Throughout October and November, you’ll find local makers’ fairs and creative workshops. Why not try wreath-making and craft sessions?
Dogs are welcome in the grounds! The riverside path offers a peaceful stroll, before heading back to Malton for lunch.
Scampston Hall & Walled Garden – Seasonal Market
Closer still, Scampston Hall and its famous Walled Garden are beautiful in autumn, so why not visit? This space is uniquely designed by landscape architect Piet Oudolf, the garden’s grasses and seed heads create a soft, natural display even as the colder months set in.
Scampston Hall is famous for hosting various events throughout the year that attract people from all over the country, so keep an eye out! The end of November brings the Annual Charity Christmas Fair, filled with stalls, food, drink, and services all perfect for getting you in the festive spirit.
Fountains Abbey – Autumn Walks & Illuminations
If you don’t mind a slightly longer drive (about an hour from Thorpe Bassett), Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal are spectacular at this time of year. Season events include the Festive Trail from 28th November, Festive craft workshops throughout December and Carols by Candlelight on Sunday 6th and 13th December.
It’s a peaceful, atmospheric outing – and dogs are welcome in most outdoor areas.
🎄 Winter & Festive Highlights
Malton
Malton’s is a charming market town, with lots of unique things to do all year round including Blacksmithing workshops, soap and candle making workshops run by Cosy Cottage, a cookery school and our treasured independent Art Deco cinema.
Look out for events at the Milton Rooms, which hosts live music, theatre, and comedy throughout autumn and winter. There’s also an indoor artisan market on Saturday 14th November, with free entry and dogs welcomed.
The 4th Saturday of every month is the Artisan market held in the Market Square. The next one is on 27th November 2026.
Don’t miss the St Clement’s Festival on Saturday 21st November, from 10am to 6pm in the Market Place and the Milton Rooms. Wrap up warm and come and join in! As well as delicious food and drink you can try crafting and treat making, children’s activities,or you can watch blacksmithing demos. Llisten to some local bands, choirs and buskers. Some of the local retailers will also be open late too. Malton is a fantastic spot for Christmas shopping. From independent bookshops and gift boutiques to local chocolatiers and distilleries.
There are lots of cafes and restaurants in town. Stop for lunch at one of Malton’s many dog-friendly cafés (The Pantry Coffee House in Market St and Leoni’s in Wheelgate are local favourites) or settle in for a Sunday roast at The Talbot. Please note that Monday is generally very quiet and many shops are closed.
York’s Christmas Market
From 12 November to 21 December, York transforms into a festive wonderland for its Christmas Market. Wooden chalets line Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square, selling gifts, food, and mulled wine. You can easily spend a full day exploring; visiting the Minster, walking the city walls. Finish with a hot chocolate at Bettys, or a pint by the fire in one of York’s old pubs.
York streets can get very busy, which might be challenging for dogs and small children in pushchairs ! There is a train from Malton into the city centre. Alternatively, take the 843 bus from Rillington (10 minutes walk from us) into the city in around an hour. Driving? Take the Park and Ride from Monks Cross. Parking in York is becoming more expensive. Foss Bank Car Park on Jewbury, YO31 7PL starts at £5 an hour. All day parking is £25.
Country Pubs & Local Dining
If you prefer quiet evenings in cosy surroundings, this season is ideal for pub-hopping around Ryedale. Local favourites like The Star Inn at Harome, The Pheasant, and The Grapes at Slingsby offer roaring fires, seasonal menus, and a warm Yorkshire welcome.
Here’s some more we recommend!What’s On in Malton & North Yorkshire This Autumn & Winter 2025
- The Royal Oak, Old Malton.
- The Ham and Cheese, Scagglethorpe.
- The Fleece, Rillington.
- The Triton, Sledmere.
- FortySix, Malton.
- La Trattoria, Malton.
- Omni, Malton.
💡 Top Tips for a Perfect Autumn/Winter Stay
- Plan ahead: Castle Howard and Fountains Abbey events sell out quickly, especially at Christmas so make sure to book!
- Bring layers: Weather can shift from crisp sunshine to drizzle quickly – waterproofs and boots are essential if you plan on taking walks.
- Shop local: Malton’s independent shops and markets are ideal for finding gifts and local produce to enjoy back at your hut.
- Make time to slow down: Part of the magic of visiting North Yorkshire in autumn and winter is the peace and quiet. Balance sightseeing with time to simply unwind.
🏡 Why Autumn and Winter Are Perfect for the Shepherd’s Hut
If summer is all about exploring, autumn and winter are for slowing down. The Shepherd’s Hut offers a peaceful, comfortable retreat. A log burner for chilly evenings, views over open countryside, and miles of walking routes right from your door.
After a day out exploring Castle Howard or browsing Malton’s markets, there’s nothing better than returning to your own cosy space. You can cook a simple meal with local ingredients, pour a glass of wine, light the log burner and settle in under a blanket while the wind rustles outside.
For couples, it’s the ideal setting for a romantic escape – private, quiet, and full of charm. And if you’re bringing your dog, you’ll have all the freedom of the countryside without sacrificing comfort.
Don’t miss out and book your stay with us today!
