A Winter Trip to Malton – Food, Festivities and Charm

Looking for a Christmas shopping destination with a festive atmosphere and plenty of foodie treats? Malton, North Yorkshire’s little gem, has got it all. Known as Yorkshire’s food capital, Malton is local, historic and has loads of cosy places to stop for a winter break.

Malton: The foodie’s paradise

Malton being the food capital of Yorkshire isn’t just a nickname, it’s a way of life! The town is full of artisan shops, food markets and even food tours. Malton Monthly Food Market, held on the second Saturday of every month, is the place to go for local goodies. Whether you’re after freshly baked treats or looking for Christmas presents with a gourmet twist, this market won’t let you down. And the town hosts the Malton Food Lovers Festival every year, which attracts foodies from all over the UK to celebrate all things food.

Find more of Yorkshire’s food culture here at Eating out in Yorkshire​.

Festive fun at cosy cottage and cooking classes

Malton has everything, including Cosy Cottage—a wellbeing shop that’s not just for beauty fans. They make their own skincare products on site, but it also has spa treatments, wellbeing workshops and product demos, so you can slow down in the holiday rush.

If you want to learn to cook, try The Cook’s Place or treat yourself to a macaron making class with Florian Poirot, a French patissier whose sweet treats are a local legend. And don’t miss Malton Brewery where you’ll find the Yorkshire Pudding Beer (yes, it exists!) and even a gin school at Rare Bird.

Castle Howard: A dose of history and festive fun

Just outside Malton Castle Howard stands proudly with over 300 years of history. With grand architecture and beautiful gardens it’s like stepping into a storybook. In autumn the gardens are a riot of colour and in December the castle is lit up with lights, Christmas trees and themed events for the season. They even have pumpkin picking and themed Christmas parties to get everyone in the mood.

Take a stroll around Castle Howard or find out more about Yorkshire’s heritage with guided tours in the area. See A look at Yorkshire heritage for more on Yorkshire’s historic sites.

Rural Yorkshire: Landscapes and Legends

Malton sits on the edge of the Howardian Hills and isn’t far from the North York Moors, both are picture perfect. Outdoor types can easily get out and about here with rolling hills and open spaces. For history buffs a visit to Wharram Percy, a deserted medieval village, lets you step back in time as you wander around its haunted ruins.

Add this beautiful destination to your Christmas plans and learn more about the North York Moors and other scenic places in Yorkshire​.