Goathland

Goathland

Goathland is in The North York Moors National Park in England.

Goathland, a picturesque village nestled within the North York Moors National Park, near Whitby in North Yorkshire, England, is a place steeped in history and natural beauty. Known for its stunning moorland scenery and a rich history that dates back to the Viking era, Goathland has become a popular destination for tourists seeking a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

The village’s origins can be traced back to the Viking age, evident from its name, which is derived from ‘Godeland’ as mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086. This historical significance is further accentuated by the remnants of medieval longhouses found in the area. The village’s layout, with its sprawling greens and traditional stone houses, reflects a bygone era, offering a glimpse into rural English life centuries ago.

Goathland is famously known as the filming location for the popular television series “Heartbeat,” which was set in the 1960s. The village, portrayed as ‘Aidensfield’ in the series, has retained much of its old-world charm seen on screen, with its quaint shops, vintage petrol pumps, and the Goathland Hotel, famously known as the ‘Aidensfield Arms.’

Another significant attraction in Goathland is the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, a historic steam railway that runs through the heart of the National Park. The Goathland Station, also used as ‘Hogsmeade Station’ in the Harry Potter films, adds a magical touch to the village, drawing fans from around the world. The station, with its vintage charm and steam trains, is a living museum, showcasing the golden era of British railway.

Surrounding the village, the heather-clad moors offer an idyllic setting for walkers and nature enthusiasts. The landscape, with its rolling hills, picturesque valleys, and an abundance of wildlife, provides a serene backdrop for outdoor activities. Mallyan Spout, a stunning 70-foot waterfall located just a short walk from the village, is a hidden gem, offering a tranquil spot for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

In summary, Goathland, with its rich history, cultural significance, and breathtaking natural beauty, is a quintessential English village. It offers a perfect blend of historical charm and scenic splendour, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring the Yorkshire region.

Created: 7  January  2024  Edited: 26  March  2024

Goathland

Local History around Goathland

There are some historic monuments around including:

Cairnfield and field systems on Saltergate Moor, immediately north of Nab FarmFoster Howes bowl barrow (north) on Sneaton High MoorHigh Woof Howe round barrow at Derwent Head RiggCairnfield on Howl Moor 510m south of Wheeldale Lodge, including an unenclosed hut circle settlement, field system and round burial cairnsFoster Howes bowl barrow (south) on Sneaton High MoorYork Cross wayside cross, 700m north east of Foster Howes on Sneaton High MoorHigh Bride StonesGroup of seventeen tumuli to the N of Greenlands Howe, on the east side of Sleights MoorTwo 'Flat Howes' round barrows, Sleights MoorRound cairn on Skivick Crag, 380m south west of Wheeldale LodgeRound barrow at Lady Cross, 730m south west of Dun BogsLady Cross wayside cross, north of the A171 and 20m west of the Barnby turn-offCross dyke on Saltergate Brow, 750m south east of Barr FarmTwo round barrows E of Coopers Quarries'Greenlands Howe' round barrow, Sleights MoorAnn's Cross wayside cross on bowl barrow 800m south east of Foster HowesRoman Fort on Lease RiggCairns on In Moor, Struntry CarrRound barrow adjacent to the Whinstone Ridge on Goathland Moor, 600m SSW of Breckon HoweFoster Howes bowl barrow (central) on Sneaton High MoorAllan Tofts cairnfield, field system, burial cairns and prehistoric rock art, immediately south of Morton CloseEnclosure on In Moor, Struntry Carr'Breckon Howe' round barrow, Sleights MoorRound barrow 660m south west of Glebe FarmBowl barrow 30m north of Lilla CrossHead Road round cairnRound barrow on Goathland Moor, 240m west of Collinson BieldLilla Cross on Lilla Howe, Fylingdales Moor'Pen Howe' tumuliThree round barrows 130m north west of Seavy PondStone alignment 350m east of Newgate FootMalo Cross, 450m south east of Nab FarmTwo Howes: two round barrows on Goathland MoorField system and cairnfield on Lockton High Moor, 1km NNE of Needle PointWidow Howe: two round barrows on Widow Howe RiggSimon Howe: a round cairn on Goathland Moor, two associated round barrows, a standing stone and a stone alignmentLow Woof Howe round barrowRound barrow 860m south west of Dun BogsRound barrow on Goathland Moor, 360m west of Collinson BieldLouven Howe round barrowLow Bride StonesCross ridge dyke known as Gallows Dike and three round barrows 330m south west of Glebe FarmTwo round barrows 1/4 mile (400m) NE of Horse Mire Head FarmExtensive prehistoric and medieval remains on Levisham MoorRound barrow on Stony Rigg, 460m south of Greenlands FarmRobbed Howe bowl barrow, 500m north of Robbed Howe Slacks on Sneaton High Moor.

Goathland map

Goathland UK Map