The attractive village of Great Ayton lies on the edge of the North York Moors National Park, at the foot of the Cleveland Hills. Great Ayton is famous for being the boyhood home of Captain Cook, and is also mentioned in the Domesday Book. The village consists of a mixture of pretty stone cottages and some new development housing. Great Ayton has two village greens, with a river running alongside, making it a popular picnic spot in the summer months. To the north of the village, the view is dominated by Roseberry Topping, a 330-metre hill. In the village are a good range of shops and inns, which, together with restaurants and cafes, cater well for holidaymakers. There is also the old school, now converted into the Captain Cook Schoolroom Museum. Around the village are several interesting walks, and Great Ayton makes a great base for walkers wishing to explore the stunning countryside. A good base for market towns, the lovely countryside and, just a short drive, the East Coast.
