Great Ayton Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Great Ayton Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Great Ayton sits in a fantastic spot for exploring North Yorkshire. The village itself has loads to offer with its connections to Captain Cook - you can visit the Captain Cook Schoolroom Museum (TS9 6NB) which opens Tuesday to Sunday, 10am-4pm in summer months.

Roseberry Topping is the area's most distinctive landmark. This 1,049 foot hill looks a bit like a mini Matterhorn and takes about 45 minutes to climb. The views from the top are worth every step - I've been up there on clear days when you can see all the way to Durham Cathedral.

The North York Moors National Park starts right on Great Ayton's doorstep. We recommend taking a short drive to Helmsley (30 mins) as a starting point for exploring the moors. Whitby is just 45 minutes away too - perfect for a day trip from your hot tub cottage base.

Other top-rated attractions include: - Captain Cook Monument (4.5/5 TripAdvisor) - a 30-minute walk from the village - Stokesley Farmers Market (4.5/5 TripAdvisor) - held on the first Saturday of each month - Gisborough Priory (4/5 TripAdvisor) - impressive ruins just 15 minutes drive away

Pet Friendly

Great Ayton is brilliant for dog owners. Many cottages with hot tubs here welcome dogs, though always check the specific property details as some limit the number or size of dogs.

The walks around Great Ayton are perfect for four-legged friends. The route up to Roseberry Topping is dog-friendly, though keep them on leads around livestock. The River Leven runs through the village with a flat, easy path alongside it - ideal for older dogs or quick morning walks before jumping in the hot tub.

For dog-friendly eating, try The Royal Oak pub (TS9 6NB) which welcomes dogs in the bar area and has water bowls available. They do good pub grub too. The Velveteen Rabbit Luncheon Club (TS9 6NB) is another good spot that allows dogs in their outdoor seating area.

Don't forget to pack towels specifically for your dog - especially important when staying in a cottage with a hot tub, as you'll want to keep the hot tub free from dog hair!

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Great Ayton

1) Captain Cook Schoolroom Museum (TS9 6NB)

This small but fascinating museum is housed in the building where Captain Cook received his education between 1736 and 1740. It's packed with information about Cook's early life and his later voyages. The museum is run by volunteers and costs just £2.50 for adults (2023 prices). I particularly like the recreation of the 18th-century classroom - it makes you grateful for modern school chairs! Open Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-4pm from Easter to October.

2) Roseberry Topping (TS9 6QR)

This distinctive hill (1,049 feet) is visible for miles around and offers spectacular views from the summit. The walk up takes about 45 minutes from the car park and is moderately challenging. The hill got its unusual shape from a landslip in 1912. The car park (National Trust) can get busy at weekends, so I'd recommend an early start. Take a picnic to enjoy at the top before heading back to your cottage for a soak in the hot tub.

3) Captain Cook Monument (TS9 6QS)

This 51-foot obelisk stands on Easby Moor and commemorates Captain Cook. The walk to reach it takes you through beautiful woodland and across moorland. It's about a 3-mile round trip from Great Ayton. The monument was erected in 1827 and can be spotted from miles around. The path can get muddy after rain, so proper footwear is essential. The views across to Roseberry Topping are fantastic.

When is the best time to visit Great Ayton?

Summer (June-August) offers the best weather for enjoying the outdoor attractions and your hot tub. Spring brings beautiful wildflowers to the moors. Autumn sees stunning colours in the woodland areas. Winter can be magical with frosty landscapes and your hot tub will feel even more luxurious when it's cold outside!

Are there any good places to eat in Great Ayton?

Yes! Try The Royal Oak for traditional pub food, Suggitt's Ice Cream Parlour for amazing homemade ice cream, or The Velveteen Rabbit Luncheon Club for excellent brunches and lunches. For a special meal, The Treebridge Hotel is just outside the village and has a good reputation.

Can I get around Great Ayton without a car?

The village itself is small and walkable. There's a train station at Great Ayton with connections to Middlesbrough (20 mins). Buses run to nearby towns but are limited. For exploring the wider area, a car is definitely recommended.

What should I pack for a hot tub cottage break in Great Ayton?

Walking boots for exploring, swimwear for the hot tub and a good camera for the views. Bring layers as North Yorkshire weather can be changeable even in summer. Don't forget binoculars if you're interested in wildlife or stargazing.

Is Great Ayton suitable for families with young children?

Absolutely. The village has play areas, gentle river walks and family-friendly pubs. The Captain Cook Schoolroom Museum has activities for kids and most children love climbing Roseberry Topping (though it might be challenging for very little ones).

How far is Great Ayton from the coast?

Whitby is about 45 minutes drive, Saltburn-by-the-Sea is 30 minutes and Redcar is 25 minutes. All make good day trips from your hot tub cottage base.

1. North York Moors National Park
2. Captain Cook Birthplace Museum
3. National Trust - Roseberry Topping