Find England's Finest View In Yorkshire At Sutton Bank

Yorkshire is famous for a lot of things, isn't it? From massive Yorkshire Puddings and the rolling Dales to being the home of Brontë Country, it’s a county that’s not short on amazing sights. But what if someone told you it's also home to what’s been called ‘England’s Finest View’? It’s a bold claim, but once you see it, you’ll probably agree. This isn't just any old hill; it's a spot so spectacular that the famous author and vet James Herriot declared the incredible panorama from the Sutton Bank escarpment in the North York Moors National Park to be the finest view in all of England. One look over the dramatic cliff-edge, and it’s easy to see why jaws tend to hit the floor. This breathtaking view is a must-see, offering a vista that stretches for miles and captures the heart of the Yorkshire landscape.

What makes this view so special?

So, what’s all the fuss about? The place in question is Sutton Bank, and its famous cliff is better known as Roulston Scar. It's not just a hill; it's a massive limestone escarpment. Basically, think of a long, steep cliff made from a type of rock that’s been around for millions of years. Standing at the top, you get this absolutely stunning panorama that seems to go on forever. The view from the cliff-edge looks out over the Vale of Mowbray and the Vale of York, and on a good day, you can see all the way to the Yorkshire Dales.

It’s one of those places that makes you feel tiny in the best possible way. The landscape you see has been carved out by ancient glaciers, leaving behind a truly unique and breathtaking view. The sheer scale of it is something else. This view from Sutton is more than just a pretty picture; it’s a snapshot of England at its most wild and beautiful. The natural beauty of the North York Moors unfolds before your eyes, making it clear why this spot has earned such a grand reputation.

More than just a pretty picture

But there's more to this place than just an amazing view. If you’re a bit of a history buff, you’re in for a treat. At the top of Roulston Scar sits a massive hillfort, built way back in the Iron Age around 400 BC. Imagine people standing on that very spot thousands of years ago, looking out over the same landscape. It's pretty mind-boggling.

And that’s not all. This area is thought to be where the Battle of Old Byland took place in 1322. It was a major punch-up between the English and the Scots, with the Scots coming out on top. So, as you’re taking in the peaceful scenery, just remember that this very ground was once the site of a historic and fierce battle. The Hambleton Hills have seen it all, from ancient forts to medieval warfare, adding a layer of rich history to the already impressive panorama.

A village with a very long name

Just a stone's throw from the famous Sutton Bank viewpoint is a village that feels like it’s been frozen in time. Welcome to Sutton-under-Whitestonecliffe. And yes, that name is a bit of a mouthful. In fact, it holds the record for being England's longest hyphenated place name, with a whopping 29 characters! It’s the kind of fact you’d pull out at a pub quiz.

The village of Sutton itself is completely charming. It has no fewer than 11 Grade II listed buildings, which means they are officially recognised as being of special historical interest. These aren't just grand manors; they include everyday places that tell the story of the village. What can you find there?

• Sutton Hall: An 18th-century hall that was home to the Smyth family until 1766.

• A former post office and Methodist church: Classic village staples that hint at a bygone era.

• A traditional village store: Still serving the local community.

Walking through Sutton-under-Whitestonecliffe really does feel like stepping back in time. It’s the perfect, quiet counterpoint to the wild, expansive view from the limestone escarpment just up the road. This historic village is an essential part of the experience.

Adventures for everyone

A trip to Sutton Bank isn’t just about standing still and looking at the view, though you could happily do that for hours. The Sutton Bank National Park Centre is packed with things to do for the whole family. There are fantastic interactive exhibitions that bring the history and nature of the area to life, making it great for kids and adults alike. If you’re feeling active, there are loads of walking trails for all abilities, so you can go for a gentle stroll or a proper hike.

For those who prefer two wheels, there’s some brilliant biking here too, with trails that take you through the stunning scenery of the North York Moors. And for the little ones, the natural adventure play areas are perfect for letting off some steam. If you look up, you might even see gliders soaring silently overhead. The Yorkshire Gliding Club has been based here since the 1930s, taking advantage of the winds that sweep up the cliff face. It’s safe to say the Sutton Bank cliff-edge is as thrilling a place as you could hope for.

Fancy a swim with some... friends?

Near Roulston Scar and the village of Sutton-under-Whitestonecliffe lies another natural wonder: Gormire Lake. This isn’t just any lake; it’s a stunning natural lake that was formed over 20,000 years ago as glaciers retreated. It’s actually the fourth largest natural lake in all of Yorkshire, and it’s a bit of a local legend. What makes Gormire Lake so unusual is that it has no obvious water flowing in or out of it, making the water incredibly still.

This calmness has made it a popular spot for wild swimmers looking for a peaceful dip. It sounds idyllic, right? A tranquil swim in a glacial lake surrounded by Yorkshire’s beauty. Well, there’s a small catch. According to those who swim there, the lake is absolutely teeming with leeches. So, if you’re brave enough to take a plunge, just be prepared for some slithery company! It certainly adds a bit of an edge to your swim.

A view for day and night

The incredible sights at Sutton Bank don’t disappear when the sun goes down. In fact, this is one of only three designated Dark Sky Discovery Sites in the North York Moors. What does that mean? It means it’s a place with very little light pollution, making it one of the best spots in the country for stargazing. On a clear night, the view upwards is just as breathtaking as the daytime panorama. You can see thousands of stars, constellations, and even the Milky Way. It proves that the beauty of this special part of England is a 24-hour affair, offering an unforgettable experience whether you visit on 19 January 2026 or any other day.