Attractions and Places To See around Carlton - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Carlton feature a landscape characterized by moorland summits, historical monuments, and natural rock formations. The area provides opportunities for exploring the North York Moors, with several viewpoints offering extensive vistas. Visitors can discover both natural landmarks and sites of historical significance within this region.
Best attractions and places to see around Carlton
- The most popular attractions is Captain Cook's Monument on Easby Moor, a historical site that honors the celebrated circumnavigator. This monument is located at the 1,063-foot (324 m) peak of Easby Moor.
- Another must-see spot is The Wainstones, a distinctive rocky outcrop. These rocks are situated on Hasty Banks and offer views across to Middlesbrough and the Tees.
- Visitors also love Carlton Bank Summit Trig Point, a natural monument at 408 m (1,339 ft). The summit provides extensive views of Teesside and the North York Moors.
- Carlton is known for its natural monuments, historical sites, and viewpoints. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from moorland summits to man-made monuments.
- The attractions around Carlton are appreciated by the komoot community, with 66 upvotes and 46 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
Carlton Bank Summit Trig Point
Highlight • Natural Monument
To the northeast, you can see the distinctively shaped Roseberry Topping. To the east and south, the stunning undulations of the North York Moors rise and fall. To the west, the hills drop away into the Tees Valley and you might just be able to see the shadowy form of the Pennines on the horizon.
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Captain Cook's Monument on Easby Moor
Highlight • Historical Site
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The Wainstones
Highlight • Climb
The rocks are situated on a hill called 'Hasty Banks', and there are fantastic views across to Middlesbrough and the Tees from here.
On the lower ground surrounding the Wainstones, there's a small collection of rocks with prehistoric carvings on them. Due to the area’s exposed location and consequent erosion, the carvings can be difficult to see, however.
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Cod Beck Reservoir
Highlight • Structure
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Osmotherley Village Green and Medieval Cross
Highlight • Monument
The village is a good access point for hill walking, with the Cleveland Way National Trail or Lyke Wake Walk passing through.
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Tips from the Community
Great views and early on a Sunday morning is best to beat the crowds. The obelisk is hollow and originally had a doorway you could walk through, before it was sealed during a 19th‑century restoration. A lightning strike in 1960 almost split the monument down the middle after the lightning conductor installed in 1895 rusted away. Earlier lightning strikes in the 19th century had already blown off the original doorway and obliterated the cast‑iron plaques. Fun fact - allegedly - the monument contains a hidden time capsule. When the foundation stone was laid in 1827, commemorative items were placed inside, including a portrait of Captain Cook and a glass plate etched with details of the event.
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This is where I realised wearing new boots for a hike this long was a BAD idea!
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Stayed at one of the local pubs, was good but their internet connection was non-existent, had to pay for a 24hr hotspot with EE
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Directly in front of the monument, take a stroll about 30-50 paces and you will have some very decent views of the area!
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Lots of view points, people rock climbing and the up and downs test you as they are short, but a touch punchy for their short elevation!
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Easy parking (ice cream van in summer!) at Sheep Wash, great path through the coniferous wood running along the southern edge of the reservoir, awesome views, cool breeze across the water, option to follow numerous tracks east into the woods around Cote Garth and Golden Square. Lots of familys, dog walkers and hikers - something for everyone here.
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Quintessential North Yorkshire village, very picturesque with good amenities and access points to the northwest of the NYM National Park. However, can be very congested with cars so parking is difficult. Drive north and park at Cod Beck Reservoir, then add Osmotherley to your hiking route. Lots of roads and public footpaths to choose from.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural features can I explore around Carlton?
The area around Carlton is rich in natural features, primarily moorland landscapes. You can visit Carlton Bank Summit Trig Point for extensive views of Teesside and the North York Moors, or explore the distinctive rocky outcrop of The Wainstones on Hasty Banks, offering views towards Middlesbrough. Cod Beck Reservoir also provides a beautiful setting with surrounding woodlands and moorland.
Are there any historical sites to visit near Carlton?
Yes, Carlton offers significant historical sites. The most prominent is Captain Cook's Monument on Easby Moor, a historical site honoring the celebrated circumnavigator. Additionally, the Osmotherley Village Green and Medieval Cross is a charming historical spot that has served as a meeting and preaching place for centuries.
What outdoor activities can I do around Carlton?
Carlton is an excellent base for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as the 'Gold Hill via Live Moor and Carlton Bank loop' or routes to 'Cringle Moor and Lord Stones'. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore trails like the 'Lord Stones Café & Car Park – Cod Beck Reservoir loop'. For runners, there are options like the 'Carlton Bank loop'. You can find more details on these activities and routes on the hiking, MTB, and running guide pages for Carlton.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Carlton area?
Yes, there are family-friendly options. Cod Beck Reservoir is noted as family-friendly, offering a pleasant walk around its edge through woodlands. The Osmotherley Village Green and Medieval Cross also provides a nice stop with amenities and a picturesque setting suitable for families.
Where can I find the best views around Carlton?
For breathtaking views, head to Carlton Bank Summit Trig Point, which offers extensive vistas of Teesside and the North York Moors. Captain Cook's Monument on Easby Moor also provides panoramic views of the surrounding Moors. Additionally, The Wainstones on Hasty Banks offers fantastic views across to Middlesbrough and the Tees.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Carlton?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning, far-reaching views from the moorland summits and rocky outcrops. The sense of history at sites like Captain Cook's Monument and the distinctive rock formations of The Wainstones are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the challenging yet rewarding hikes and the peaceful, bleak beauty of the moorland landscape.
Are there any good hiking trails that pass through or near historical sites?
Yes, the area is well-suited for combining hiking with historical exploration. The Captain Cook's Monument on Easby Moor is a popular hiking destination, offering both historical significance and rewarding views. The village of Osmotherley, home to the Medieval Cross, is also a good access point for hill walking, with the Cleveland Way National Trail passing through it.
Can I find places to eat or facilities near the attractions?
The village of Osmotherley, near Osmotherley Village Green and Medieval Cross, offers amenities such as a café, pub, and toilets. It's a convenient stop for refueling during your explorations. While many of the moorland attractions are remote, Osmotherley provides a good base with facilities.
What are the difficulty levels of the walks around Carlton?
The walks around Carlton vary in difficulty. You can find 'easy' routes like the 'Cringle Moor and Lord Stones loop', 'moderate' options such as the 'Gold Hill via Live Moor and Carlton Bank loop', and more 'difficult' trails like 'The Wainstones – Cold Moor loop'. Tips for Carlton Bank Summit Trig Point suggest that the approach from the west is easier than the steep, twisting steps from the east.
Is there parking available near the attractions?
For attractions like Osmotherley Village Green and Medieval Cross, parking can be found, though it can be congested. A tip suggests parking at Cod Beck Reservoir and adding Osmotherley to your hiking route to avoid village congestion. For moorland summits, parking is often available at trailheads or designated car parks, such as Lord Stones Café & Car Park mentioned in some route descriptions.
Are there any specific tips for visiting The Wainstones?
When visiting The Wainstones, it's recommended to go early in the morning to catch the rising sun, which creates spectacular light and shadow effects on the rock formations. The area can be exposed, so be prepared for varying weather conditions. There are also prehistoric carvings on lower rocks, though they can be difficult to see due to erosion.
What kind of landscape characterizes the Carlton area?
The Carlton area is primarily characterized by its moorland landscape, featuring rolling hills, distinctive rock formations, and summits that offer expansive views. It's part of the North York Moors, known for its rugged beauty and open spaces.
Most popular attractions around Carlton
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