Goathland – a pretty little North Yorkshire village that takes you back in time.
Situated on the eastern edge of the stunning North York Moors National Park, Goathland is a perfect spot for picnics, walks, steam train rides and day trippers.
The Short History of Goathland
For many years, Goathland remained tucked away – its beauty a secret to all but its local residents.
Despite having a recorded history dating back the centuries almost to the Norman Conquest, it isn’t even mentioned in the Domesday Book.
Known historically as ‘Godelandia,’ King Henry I gifted the area to Osmund the Priest and the hermitage’s brethren in memory of his mother Queen Matilda who died in 1083.
This is recorded in the 1109 charter held at nearby Whitby Abbey.
Goathland’s name is said to have derived from ‘Good Land’ or perhaps ‘Goda’s Land,’ with Goda being an Old English first name. And ‘good land’ it certainly is!
Goathland Plough Stots
The Goathland Plough Stots are a group of Long Sword Dancers who are based in the village.
This traditional dance died out by the start of the 1900s but was revived again in 1922.
The Goathland Plough Stots is now recognized as being one of the oldest dances in England as it dates back more than a thousand years.
The dance dates back to the Viking invasions and it is this that the Goathland Plough Stots act out and dance.
The dance originated from Plough Monday, which is normally the first Monday following epiphany. The dancers usually wear blue or pink tunics.
The Plough Stots’ art was dying out by the end of the 20th Century and so in the 2010s, they invited women to train in the art.
This resulted in them being expelled from the Morris Ring. Every Plough Monday sees the Goathland Plough Stots perform in the village.
Goathland Walks
Goathland is surrounded by the stunning scenery of the North York Moors National Park.
So, it’s no surprise that many people come here to go for a walk.
Rail Trail
One of the popular walks in Goathland is the Rail Trail.
This sign-posted walk is three and a half miles long down the old railway line to Grosmont (or the reverse!).
From either end, you can then choose to walk back the way you came or hop on the train at the station on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.
Mallyan Spout Waterfall
Another popular walking spot is to the Mallyan Spout, a 70ft waterfall that can be reached by a footpath near the Mallyan Spout Hotel.
You can see the route in the booklet ‘Walks around Goathland,’ which is available in local shops.
This popular spot is the reason so many Victorians flocked to the village at the turn of the 20th century.
The visitors were enchanted by its tumbling falls and Goathland was put firmly on the map as a ‘spa’ village. The waterfall is the highest waterfall in Yorkshire!
You can see the Mallyan Spout on a circular loop walk from Goathland, taking in Beck Hole en route too.
It’s a 3-mile circuit from Goathland, descending into the woodland valley and to the West Beck before following the old railway line to Whitby on the return journey.
What to Expect? It takes around an hour and a half, depending on your mobility, and is suitable for children too.
Centenary Trail
The Centenary Trail follows the old railway line where a local resident planted 12 oak trees in 1922.
The trees were symbolic and were planted in memory of the 12 village men who had lost their lives fighting in the Great War.
Kate Smailes lost her eldest son, George, in World War I and it was she who planted the trees in commemoration.
Over 100 years later, 12 oak saplings were planted, and the new trail was created.
This two-mile circular route allows village residents to learn the story of those who didn’t return and made the ultimate sacrifice.
This walk is a popular choice for Remembrance Sunday.
As well as the remaining original oaks and 12 new ones, there are now 12 statues of the ‘Tommy’ soldier each dedicated to one of the men, and an information board.
North Yorkshire Moors Railway
It wouldn’t be a piece about Goathland without mentioning the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.
The volunteer-run railway conservationists started their work in 1972 with just one volunteer.
These Days – There are over 550 volunteers keeping it running. Now a charity, the group employs some permanent and seasonal staff to operate its many train services.
The line runs between Grosmont and Whitby, with stations also at Newtondale Halt, Levisham and Pickering.
Goathland’s station is a must-see and is somewhat famous (as you’ll see!).
The station is a few minutes’ walk up from the village and has its own shop and tearoom, which is situated in a converted goods shed and set in 1922 style.
The tearoom serves a range of hot and cold drinks, snacks and savories, sweet treats, cakes and ice creams. It’s dog- and walker-friendly too.
In December – The NYMR offers Santa Specials where the big man gets on board a festive steam train and gives presents to the children on board.
Goathland On Screen
When I hinted at Goathland being famous, I wasn’t kidding!
Goathland is such a picturesque, old-fashioned station that it has featured in many period and historical TV shows and films.
Heartbeat
Set in the 1960s in the UK, Heartbeat was filmed for 18 years from 1991 to 2009 in the village (the sixties sure lasted a long time here!).
With 372 episodes, parts of Goathland appeared in each one.
Goathland was an ideal location for such a setting as there was very little in the village that indicates the era given that it was already traditional in feel.
The Goathland Hotel was also featured in the series and was called the Aidensfield Arms.
However, after the first four series, an exact replica of the bar was built in a studio because the show had become so successful.
Harry Potter
Goathland Station was also used as the on-set location of Hogsmeade Station in the first of the Harry Potter movies.
Whilst you’re unlikely to see the Hogwarts Express chug up, you may catch a ride on another steam engine.
Each Year – The station is flooded with Potterheads who want to catch a glimpse of the real Hogsmeade.
Final Thoughts on Why You Should Step Back in Time at Goathland
Goathland is quaint. It’s idyllic. It’s just so adorable.
It’s absolutely worth an hour or two of your time, especially if you’re a Harry Potter fan or love all things olde worlde.
Go for a walk and see the Mallyan falls followed by a cup of Yorkshire Tea with a piece of ginger cake from the tearoom. You’ll certainly not regret it.
