Best attractions and places to see around Catterick include a variety of historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. This village in North Yorkshire is known for its Roman past and its proximity to the Yorkshire Dales. The area offers diverse experiences for those interested in history, outdoor activities, and local culture. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, market towns, and scenic natural landscapes.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
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Great place to stop for a break when out cycling. Richmond market place has plenty of cafes and pubs, for bite to eat and a refreshing drink.
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The wall paintings are wonderful - always a joy to see. The bike ride alongside the Swale is perfect. Watch out for herons, which can often be seen fishing on a rock. The ice cream at the parlour as you arrive at the station is delicious. The deli just inside is also fabulous…….
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Bedale is a small market town in the district of Hambleton. It is on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales and is ideally situated for many of the Dales attractions.
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Biggest ruins I've seen, no entry fee, lots of interesting places to see, my favourite part was the roof underneath the refectory
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Legend has it that at the end of the eighteenth century, a tunnel was discovered at Richmond Castle that was believed to lead to Easby, where there is a ruined abbey. It is said that the entrance to this tunnel was uncovered by soldiers but the passageway beyond was so narrow and full of rubble that they couldn’t fit through it. So a little drummer boy was lowered in and the boy was told to walk along the tunnel, banging his drum, whilst above ground the soldiers would follow his drumming and learn where the tunnel led. All was well at first. The soldiers walked along, listening carefully, and were led out of the castle, across the marketplace and down towards the river. It is told that they managed to follow the drumbeats all the way to Easby woods but all of a sudden the drumming stopped, still some distance from Easby and the abbey. The drumming never resumed and the Drummer Boy was never seen again. A marker of the tunnel above ground is the Drummer Boy’s Stone, on the path to Easby, pinpointing the spot where it’s said that the drumbeats of this poor unfortunate lad were last heard.
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Catterick and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit the stunning ruins of Easby Abbey, a well-preserved Premonstratensian monastery founded in 1152. Another significant site is Richmond Market Town and Castle, featuring a Norman castle and Georgian architecture. Don't miss Danby Wiske Parish Church, which incorporates its original Norman structure, or the intriguing The Drummer Boy's Stone, linked to a local legend at Richmond Castle.
Yes, Catterick offers several natural escapes. The Foxglove Covert Local Nature Reserve, located on Catterick Garrison, spans over 100 acres with diverse habitats like heathland, wetland, and ancient woodland. You can also enjoy the tranquil setting of the Catterick Stone Circle in Hipswell, ideal for walks, or explore the scenic paths around Scorton Lakes, a former RAF airfield now a wildlife haven. The River Swale also provides picturesque riverside walks.
Many attractions around Catterick are suitable for families. The Ruins of Easby Abbey offer open spaces for exploration, and Richmond Market Town and Castle provides historical interest alongside shops and cafes. Bedale Market Town, with its cobbled square and historical buildings, is also a pleasant family outing. The Foxglove Covert Local Nature Reserve is excellent for nature observation and walks with children.
There are numerous walking and hiking opportunities around Catterick. You can find routes that take you past historical sites like the Ruins of Easby Abbey or through natural landscapes such as Scorton Lakes. For more detailed routes, explore the hiking guide for Catterick, which includes trails like the 'Scorton Lakes Walk' or the 'Catterick Bridge – View of Easby Abbey loop'.
Beyond historical ruins, Catterick offers cultural experiences. You can visit Bedale Market Town, known for its Georgian square and 750-year-old market tradition. Catterick is also home to Catterick Racecourse, one of Yorkshire's horse racing venues with a history dating back to 1783. The Station in Richmond serves as a museum and art gallery, providing an indoor cultural option.
Yes, many outdoor areas around Catterick are suitable for dog walking. The Catterick Stone Circle in Hipswell offers a pleasant outdoor experience with open grassy areas. Riverside walks along the River Swale are also popular for dog owners. Always remember to keep dogs under control and check for any specific restrictions at nature reserves or historical sites.
For a unique historical insight, explore the Stanwick Iron Age Fortifications, representing an excavated section of a significant pre-Roman trading center. The Marmion Tower, a fine 15th-century gatehouse, is another intriguing remnant of a vanished riverside manor. For nature lovers, the tranquil paths around Scorton Lakes offer a peaceful escape with historical significance.
Catterick holds significant historical importance, particularly its Roman past. It was the site of Cateractonium, an important Roman fort built around 78 AD to protect the River Swale crossing. Archaeological digs have unearthed significant finds from this era. The area also features medieval structures like Easby Abbey and Richmond Castle, showcasing centuries of history.
Absolutely. The Catterick area provides various cycling routes suitable for different skill levels. You can find routes that pass by attractions like the Ruins of Easby Abbey or explore the local countryside. For detailed cycling tours, refer to the cycling guide for Catterick, which includes routes such as 'Ruins of Easby Abbey – Dales Bike Centre & Café loop' or 'Catterick Bridge – Scorton Lakes loop'.
Visitors frequently praise the historical depth and natural beauty of the Catterick area. Many appreciate the well-preserved ruins of Easby Abbey and the picturesque setting of Richmond Market Town and Castle. The tranquil and remote setting of Danby Wiske Parish Church is also noted for its historical charm. The komoot community has shared over 110 photos and given more than 120 upvotes, highlighting the area's appeal.
Yes, Catterick offers several running trails for various distances and difficulties. You can explore routes like the 'Catterick Village Café – Catterick Palet Hill loop' or longer, more challenging runs such as the 'Carnagill Plantation – Ash House Plantation loop'. For a comprehensive list of options, check out the running trails guide for Catterick.
Catterick itself was the site of the important Roman fort of Cateractonium, built around 78 AD. While the fort's remains are largely archaeological, you can learn about its significance in the region's history. The Stanwick Iron Age Fortifications, though pre-Roman, offer insight into the powerful Brigantes tribe who inhabited the area before the Roman arrival.


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