Fabulous heather season

From its position on the edge of the North York Moors national park, Staithes and Dunsley (www.dunsleyinstaithes.co.uk) are perfectly placed for easy access onto the moors. The heather display is always worth seeing: our moors are the largest expanse of heather moorland in the United Kingdom. This year, it is particularly good, due to lots of warm weather that has created an incredible growing season on all levels. This photo was taken this week from Blakey Ridge, of the view into Farndale. It's a 20 minute drive from Dunsley, and there are some really good walks from here. Options include easy strolls along the disused railway line around the heads of Rosedale and Farndale (with refreshments at the Lions Inn on Blakey Ridge, the highest pub in England), or more strenuous hikes into and across the valleys. My book - North York Moors, Freedom to Roam - outlines several in this area; there is a copy in Dunsley's bookshelf.
 The heather will last well into September this year, so there's still a chance to enjoy the purple glory!