Ryedale is ‘bouncing back’ as visitor numbers show encouraging rise

Leading attractions including Castle Howard and Flamingo Land have seen big influxes of tourists anxious to take advantage of the sunny summer weather.

Tourist towns Helmsley, Pickering and Malton have also reported full car parks as shoppers return, taking on board the District Council’s plea shop locally.

Keane Duncan, Ryedale’s council leader, said: “Ryedale is seeing early signs of a bounce back.

“It’s been tough for many businesses and our residents but after the significant and unprecedented challenges posed by covid, visitor numbers are on the up once again.

“Our attractions, moors and market towns sell themselves but our tourism, leisure and retail businesses have gone the extra mile to welcome back local’s and tourists alike in a safe way.”

Coun Duncan added: “As a council we’re doing all we can too, to help protect jobs and promote spending.

“We’ve sent out millions of pounds in grants provided by the Government, and given a wealth of advice and support to get businesses back up and running.

“Our message is very simple – visit Ryedale to see what we have to offer.”

Helmsley has been particularly busy with shops, restaurants, cafes and hotels packed with tourists to the award winning market town, said one trader.

One of Yorkshire’s biggist attractions, the Pickering-based North Yorkshire Moors Railway, is launching a new service starting on August 17, from Pickering to Whitby which will run until the end of the month.

A spokesman said: “Bookings have been very good, especially since the start of the school holidays.”

Welcome to Yorkshire, the region’s leading tourism marketing agency, has launched a Yorkshire Gift Card free of charge to its members.

A spokesman said “It is designed to lock in additional money for businesses taking part and encourage local spend.”