Nestled within the stunning landscape of the North York Moors National Park, this quaint village brims with character and boasts surprising connections to the entertainment industry.

Goathland sits amidst the Yorkshire Moors, crafted as a typically British settlement with abundant attractions to discover. Most will instantly recognise it from its starring role in the beloved television series Heartbeat, where it masqueraded as the fictional Aidensfield.

Debuting in 1992, Heartbeat was a British police drama set in this very Yorkshire village during the swinging sixties. The show proved enormously popular with audiences and enjoyed an impressive television run that concluded with its final episode in 2010.

Yet Heartbeat’s conclusion wasn’t Goathland’s farewell to the spotlight, as it secured a prominent position within the Harry Potter film series. As well as this, the picturesque railway station doubled as Hogsmeade Station throughout the magical franchise and boasts a fascinating heritage of its own.

It continues to serve as a treasured landmark along the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) heritage route and draws admirers for its authentic Victorian characteristics from the 1800s, which attract countless visitors eager to witness these features firsthand. The location serves as a paradise for train enthusiasts, with the railway operator providing various locomotive journeys featuring the most spectacular routes across the moorland.

One recent visitor to the station shared on TripAdvisor: “We enjoyed travelling on the steam trains and made some very special memories. We found all the staff (many of which are volunteers) to be very friendly and more than willing to chat and share stories of the railway. We thoroughly enjoyed our time visiting and would recommend.”

Beyond the railway station, this charming village boasts an enviable location, nestled near Whitby whilst embracing the tranquillity of rural surroundings. This makes it an ideal retreat for those eager to discover the great outdoors, particularly the wonders of Dalby Forest.

The park encompasses an impressive 8,500 acres of terrain that provides breathtaking panoramas, countless hiking paths and cycling routes for adventure seekers exploring the region. Within this expanse lies the Dalby Activity Centre, featuring an array of adrenaline-fuelled pursuits and several Go Ape courses designed to challenge thrill-seekers to their limits.

Additional delightful features of this undiscovered village gem include its convenient access to Thomason Foss, a charming waterfall that provides a peaceful stroll and an opportunity for wild swimming during warmer months.Afterwards, when dedicated ramblers seek a venue to pause for a refreshing drink, they frequently find themselves at The Goathland Hotel Bar.

Alternatively, tourists can unwind with a brew at the quintessential village tea rooms, which one recent patron praised as a “great find”. They commented: “Excellent food and service, Would thoroughly recommend to anyone visiting Goathland. Plenty of tables to accommodate all sized parties and allowing well behaved dogs is a bonus.”