Goathland, Aidenfield, Hogsmeade - however you think of it, this is where it feels like time stands still & sheep still rule the roads.
Goathland’s history stretches back over a thousand years. The name is thought to come from Old Norse, meaning “good land,” reflecting its Viking roots. Much of the land in and around the village is still common land, with 'commoners' enjoying grazing rights dating back hundreds of years. The sheep graze the green and verges. The don't run away because they're 'hefted', and instinctively stick to their own areas, passing that knowledge on to their lambs.
In the Victorian era, Goathland blossomed as a spa village, attracting visitors who came to “take the waters” and enjoy the moorland air. You can still sense that 19th-century charm in the old stone houses.
Some visitors still think of Goathland as Aidensfield, the fictional village from the much-loved TV series Heartbeat, which was filmed here for almost two decades.
Film fans will also recognise Goathland Station — transformed into Hogsmeade Station in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. The station, part of the North York Moors Railway, is beautifully preserved, with vintage steam trains still puffing their way to take you to Pickering and Whitby.
From Goathland a circular woodland walk from the village will take you to Mallyan Spout waterfall.
Goathland isn't just stuck in the past though: it keeps evolving. Volunteers now arrange a lovely monthly farmers' market on the 3rd Saturday of every month. The Homestead is an excellent restaurant where imaginative food is cooked with great care and love, using many ingredients from Cecily and Pete's kitchen garden. They hope to soon run some events and courses there too.
Images: Paul Kent/NYMNPA