On foot, horseback and pedal powered...
Rains Farm provides a whole range of opportunities for those who like to explore the countryside on foot, on horseback (or with a llama!) or using a bicycle. Located as it is in the Vale of Pickering, the Farm's immediate countryside is relatively flat, making any exercise much less strenuous.
Having said that, depending on the visitor’s preference for terrain, the country tracks in the Wolds, woodland walks in the forests, cliff-top walks on the coast and the more demanding territory of the Moors should cover most choices.
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On foot ...
Several planned walking routes are also located only a short distance from the farm - one route, the Blue Man Walk, even starts at the nearby village of Allerston. It takes in the edges of the Moors and then explores some of the hidden areas within Dalby Forest.
‘Walking on the web’ identifies 63 formal walking routes in North Yorkshire, at least 25 of which are in the area between the northern edge of the moors and the southern edge of the Wolds.
For those who welcome a challenge, the famous Lyke Wake Walk from Osmotherly to Ravenscar crosses some of the most demanding parts of the North York Moors, and the eastern flank of the Coast to Coast Walk follows a slightly different route to arrive at Robin Hood's Bay. The Cleveland Way skirts the moors along its northern edge, and then adopts various coastal footpaths on its way from Helmsley to Filey Brigg.
Further West, the Howardian Way from Coxwold to Kirkham Priory explores the less-known hills surrounding the famous Castle Howard (an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty). Finally, the Wolds Way begins as far south as Hessle on the River Humber, but meanders all the way to Ganton near Scarborough, passing only a few miles from the farm on its way.
The Countryside Rights of Way Act has opened up many hitherto unexplored areas of the countryside, giving walkers the 'Right to Roam' over extended areas of countryside. Visitors should carefully consult access land maps, however, to clarify which areas have been opened up and which have not. Some areas are restricted due to health and safety risks, seasonal activities such as game shooting and military exclusion zones. Even in areas where land is open, there are often restrictions on dogs to avoid problems with livestock.
On horseback, pony back or with a llama! ...
There are horse and pony stables in all directions from the Farm, covering all grades from beginner to the more experienced. Indoor, outdoor and cross-country are all covered, and tuition is available for those who need it.
Taking all stables into account, they can provide hacking in farmland, on the moors, beaches and through forestry. At a trekking centre near the coast at Staintondale, you can lead a llama for a few hours in the countryside - which is said to be a gentle and calming experience.
Pedal powered ...
For the cyclist, the terrain is equally varied. The White Rose Cycle Route (part of the National Cycle Network) follows the River Ouse and skirts the Vale of York before eventually arriving at the edge of the North York Moors. The Moors to Sea Cycle Route visits Pickering, Scarborough and Whitby whilst taking in views of a wide variety of landscapes.
Finally, Dalby Forest provides a variety of cycle routes to suit both the beginner and the expert The routes are graded and they are helpfully marked along the way. There are also numerous opportunities for cycling along the towpaths of canals in the southern part of North Yorkshire and in the East Riding.
Use the menu system to explore our cottages and B & B accommodation, as well as other articles about the history of the farm and its transformation.