One of UK's 'prettiest towns' where 'everyone should go once in their life'

Greater Manchester is home to many beautiful spots, but occasionally it's refreshing to explore a bit further afield. Whether it's summer day trips or discovering new places on longer journeys, the possibilities are limitless.

However, some destinations stand out more than others, and the Yorkshire market town of Helmsley is certainly one of the top contenders.

"We stumbled upon this gem during a recent visit to the nearby Yorkshire Spa Retreat. After catching a fleeting glimpse of it en route, we couldn't resist the opportunity to spend a few hours there on a sunny Saturday in July", said Manchester Evening News writer Emma Gill.

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Described as 'a breath of fresh air' by Visit North Yorkshire, Helmsley has previously clinched the Great British High Street Award's best market town category and is reportedly 'a place everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime'.

The town offers numerous picturesque walks and cycling routes that lead you through the North York Moors National Park. It even boasts its own castle, complete with impressive stonework defences, including the striking east tower that still dominates Helmsley's skyline.

"But our main aim was to leisurely browse the many shops and grab a bite to eat. With a plethora of cafes and coffee shops to choose from, we opted for an alfresco table at the charming Number Twelve tearoom, nestled under the castle in the town's Castlegate.

Following a delicious breakfast - a full English, a sausage and hash brown sandwich, and drinks, all for a reasonable £28 - it was time to explore the shops. The town boasts more independent shops than chain stores, adding to its unique charm.

A scenic market square, which hosts a regular market and is a favourite gathering spot for motorcyclists, branches off into several streets adorned with stone buildings and stunning floral arrangements. Hunters of Helmsley, a family-run food and drink business for 30 years, was so eye-catching that passersby, including us, were stopping to snap photos of the shop front.

There are numerous noteworthy shops, ranging from the Traditional Sweet Shop to the quirky The Ginger Bear, a distinctive gift and accessory shop guarded by cute little tin men. With an abundance of bakeries and delicatessens, there's no shortage of spots to grab a sweet or savoury treat.

On our way back to the car, we popped into Auntie Anne's Bakery, renowned for its speciality steak pies and attracting customers from far and wide.

We treated ourselves to a selection of their sweeter offerings, including a handmade custard tart and triple chocolate shortbread. Adding a visit to the castle certainly makes for a full day out here. If you're a fan of brews, local craft brewery Helmsley Brewing Co offers beer tours.

Just a stone's throw away is Beadlam Grange Farm Shop, boasting its own butchery, delicatessen, greengrocery and a two-storey bistro. It also features a dog-friendly seating area and a toddler play zone in its covered fold yard.

Visit North Yorkshire describes 'picturesque Helmsley' as having 'so much going on' that 'if you go once, you are likely to go back time and time again'. I couldn't agree more."

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