Guisborough is a historic market town in Redcar and Cleveland, situated at the northern edge of the North York Moors. The town developed around Guisborough Priory, founded in the twelfth century, and later became an important market and agricultural centre. Its location beneath the Cleveland Hills has also connected it closely with the industrial and mining history of northeast Yorkshire. Today Guisborough retains a traditional market-town atmosphere and is one of the principal gateways to the North York Moors.
Guisborough: Historical sights and information
Facts about Guisborough
- Latitude:
- 54.536480
- Longitude:
- -1.051011
- GPS Coordinates:
- 54°32' N, 01°03' W
The historical and tourist importance of the town
The ruins of Guisborough Priory are the town's most important historic landmark, with its impressive surviving Gothic arch providing a striking reminder of the medieval monastery. Guisborough Forest and the Cleveland Hills offer extensive opportunities for walking, cycling and wildlife watching, with Roseberry Topping being one of the region's best-known viewpoints nearby. The Cleveland Way passes through the surrounding landscape and connects the town with dramatic moorland and coastal scenery. Saltburn-by-the-Sea, Redcar, Whitby and the North Sea coast are all within easy reach.
Food and when to visit
Guisborough has cafés, restaurants, traditional pubs, bakeries and independent shops, with Yorkshire produce and traditional British food widely available. Its market and town centre give the area a lively local atmosphere. Late spring through early autumn is particularly suitable for exploring the Cleveland Hills and North York Moors, while autumn brings attractive colours to the surrounding woodland. Guisborough is an excellent base for combining moorland walks with visits to the Yorkshire coast.