The Best Western Forest and Vale Hotel is in Pickering, a market town on the southern edge of the North York Moors and the starting point for many visitors to the steam railway. The name marks it as a Best Western hotel, which usually means a dependable, mid-range stay with standard facilities, though the exact room types, dining and extras should be checked when you book. Pickering is a very practical base. The North York Moors Railway runs from the town through the moors to Grosmont and on towards Whitby, the castle and the town centre are easy to reach on foot from most central addresses, and roads lead north to Hutton-le-Hole, Goathland and the coast, and south to Malton and York. The town has a good run of cafes, pubs and independent shops, so an evening out does not need a car. For travellers who want comfort without a large budget, this kind of hotel is a good middle path between a country house and a simple guest house. It suits families, couples and groups of walkers who want a reliable bed, a meal on site or nearby, and an easy start in the morning. Check the current facilities and policies on your dates, including parking and breakfast arrangements.
Location and getting around
Pickering is compact, and the railway station, the town centre and the castle can be reached on foot from much of the town, though you should check the exact distance from the hotel when you book. A car helps for Hutton-le-Hole, Rosedale and the moorland roads, but the steam railway and local buses offer car-free options for the main sights.
Rooms
Expect a mix of standard doubles, twins and family arrangements, with room types and layouts varying from one part of the building to another. Check the bed configuration, whether breakfast is included and what the cancellation terms are before you confirm.
Who it suits
Families, couples on a budget, rail enthusiasts and walkers who want a central, practical base. It is a good choice for a first visit to the Moors because everything radiates from Pickering. It is less suited to travellers who want a secluded country-house retreat.
Good to know
Steam railway timetables vary through the year, so check the operating days before you plan a trip, and book popular dining times on weekends. Moorland weather can change quickly, so bring layers, and in winter check road conditions on the higher routes.
Making the most of your stay
Ride the steam railway through the moors in the morning, walk around Pickering Castle or the town in the afternoon, and take a day for Hutton-le-Hole and the Ryedale Folk Museum area. A second day can take in the coast at Whitby or Scarborough by car, and a third can follow the moorland roads to Rosedale and Danby.
Booking tip
School holidays and railway event weekends are busy, so book early, and compare rates with and without breakfast.
Why stay here
- ✓Central Pickering location (check when you book)
- ✓Gateway to the North York Moors Railway
- ✓Restaurant or bar (check when you book)
- ✓Wi-Fi (check when you book)
- ✓Parking (check when you book)
- ✓Family rooms (check when you book)
- ✓Walking and cycling nearby
- ✓Base for the Moors and coast
Good questions
Where is the hotel?+
It is in Pickering, a market town on the southern edge of the North York Moors.
Is it handy for the steam railway?+
Pickering is the southern terminus of the North York Moors Railway, so the town is a convenient base. Check the distance to the station when you book.
Do I need a car?+
Not for the town and the railway, but a car helps for villages and moorland roads.
