This idyllic village offers a peaceful escape from bustling crowds while still being conveniently accessible for travellers.
A stunning village tucked away in East Yorkshire is the hidden treasure you need to discover for the ultimate weekend retreat.
Often overlooked in favour of the more renowned Yorkshire regions like North York Moors and the Dales, this peaceful village brims with charm within its modest confines – making it a prime choice for your next UK staycation.
Nestled between Pocklington and Driffield, this idyllic village offers a serene escape from bustling crowds while still being conveniently accessible for travellers.
Huggate village in East Yorkshire is often touted as the highest village on the Yorkshire Wolds, sitting approximately 558 feet above sea level. However, the nearby village of Fridaythorpe also frequently stakes this claim.
Situated 13 miles north-west of Beverley and nine miles west of Driffield, this petite village boasts another unique distinction: it’s home to one of England’s deepest wells, plunging 116 yards deep. It was reportedly the primary water source for the village’s inhabitants before modern systems were introduced, reports Yorkshire Live.
Another must-see attraction in this captivating village is St Mary’s Church. This 12th-century church, a Grade I Listed building – a rarity for a High Wold church – features a towering, commanding spire that can be seen from miles around.
The graveyard offers breathtaking panoramas across the Wolds, whilst the heritage-listed village War Memorial stands proudly on the southern flank at the church entrance. This memorial serves as a tribute to Huggate’s thriving community and their spirited nature, having been built following a fundraising drive by local villagers.
Both Huggate and St Mary’s Church have featured as subjects in two artworks by celebrated painter David Hockney.
Yet arguably the most celebrated aspect of Huggate village is its circular route, which draws walkers and ramblers from throughout the nation annually. In fact, this East Yorkshire walking path previously secured a spot in The Times’ top 20 “best walks” nationwide.
Whilst the Huggate Circular might not claim the title of the Yorkshire Wolds’ most frequented trail, it has cultivated a devoted following through the years, thanks largely to its tranquil appeal and spectacular vistas. This uncomplicated four-mile loop proves ideal for novices and seasoned walkers alike who relish magnificent scenery in peaceful surroundings.
During this tranquil ramble, visitors can also savour the striking panoramas of Holme Dale and Horse Dale, whilst marvelling at the splendour of the Yorkshire Wolds’ limestone peaks. These picture-perfect undulating hills and valleys maintain their verdant appearance year-round, even during winter months, making this an excellent walking route for every season.
Those embarking on The Huggate circular hike will undoubtedly encounter several of the renowned poetry benches that embellish the Wolds Way. However, be mindful of the mud and rain during winter, and dress appropriately before setting out.
Just 3.7 miles from Huggate lies another hidden treasure: Waves and Time. This understated earthwork by artist Chris Drury takes the form of a colossal spiral, located at the intersection of three popular Wolds dry valleys – Bradeham Dale, Thixendale, and Worm Dale.
Enhanced by the stunning backdrop of panoramic blue skies, Waves and Time was crafted by digging a curving trough to a depth of roughly 400mm, followed by the formation of a curving mound approximately 500mm high using the soil excavated from the troughs.