Nestled within the East Riding of Yorkshire lies a picturesque village, close to some of the county’s most breathtaking scenery.

Bishop Wilton is an enchanting village tucked away in the Yorkshire Wolds, often overshadowed by its better-known rivals – the Yorkshire Dales, moors and Pennines.

Yet in reality, the Wolds boasts up to 79 miles of walking and cycling along its remarkable Yorkshire Wolds Way National Trail.

Despite its modest size, the village has plenty to offer those who relish getting out into nature and backing local communities. It’s certainly a destination you might want to add to your Yorkshire itinerary this time round.

Bird’s eye view

The village is near the Wold, recognised as the highest point within the Wolds, with an height of about 248m.

The peak is called Garrowby Hill and includes a trig point for enthusiastic walkers to snap their photograph after reaching this modest achievement of making it to the summit.

In 1944 the hill acquired additional, tragic, importance when an RAF aircraft came down on the location, claiming the lives of seven aircrew and a passing lorry driver. To honour their memory, a memorial was placed on the hill, which is visited by many on their journeys through the Wolds.

Contributing to its serene atmosphere, the village features a tranquil stream running through its heart and an expansive green, alongside a charming school, church and humble pub. However, it’s the striking hill that propelled the location to prominence, and justifiably so.

The celebrated English artist David Hockney, following his return to Yorkshire from Los Angeles, drew inspiration from this precise location, to such an extent that he preserved the vista eternally within his artwork.

Garrowby Hill, the title of the 1998 work, stands as a large-scale creation that ranks amongst his most celebrated and encapsulates the character of the elevated point in the Yorkshire Wolds magnificently.

For those wishing to tackle the complete Yorkshire Wolds Way trail, it represents no small challenge and would require up to a week to finish. Though based on TripAdvisor feedback, it proves a journey worth undertaking.

One walker said: “Such a lovely part of the world and a brilliant area to enjoy country walks! Plenty on offer and so many friendly people! We love it!”.

Meanwhile, another shared: “There is excellent walking to be had in a very rural area, and often you will have the whole area to yourself. Most of the walks can be undertaken as linear walks, but some were done as circular.”

Food and drink

After working up an appetite and needing a well-earned break following all that walking, the village boasts a traditional pub, The Fleece Inn, which serves as an ideal stopping point for those exploring Yorkshire’s countryside on foot.

The establishment delivers hearty pub fare in a welcoming atmosphere, with visitors calling in during their travels through the stunning Wolds.

One recent customer posted their thoughts on TripAdvisor, writing: “Excellent quality Inn set in this quaint East Riding of Yorkshire village! The service was very helpful and the food was not the usual pub food as the menu was very inventive and lots of local produce used.

“Lovely setting at the bar and the dining room too. If you are passing by near at hand do take a turning to spend some time there and you will be impressed.”

Another wonderful spot to take the weight off your feet is the Bishop Wilton Community Shop and Cafe, which operates as a village centre for purchasing fresh goods and enjoying a decent cup of coffee. What’s more, it has an extraordinarily heartwarming backstory, with community spirit at its very core.

When the shop was threatened with closure, a dedicated group of local residents mobilised support through fundraising and volunteer work to keep it operating. Several years on, following considerable effort, it successfully reopened and has continued to be a cherished establishment within the village of Bishop Wilton ever since.

As per their website, they provide an extensive selection of hot beverages and sweet delicacies that can be savoured both inside and outside, in addition to locally sourced produce available for purchase.

The butcher supplies the meat, whilst local greengrocers provide fruit and vegetables, and Bishop Wilton branded items can be purchased as a memento of your visit to the Yorkshire Wolds.