Ayton, North Yorkshire

Ayton lies in the North York Moors National Park, roughly 8km southwest of Scarborough along the A170. This main route connects the village to Scarborough and westward toward Thirsk, whilst the A169 through nearby Pickering provides access from York via the A64. The village enjoys a sheltered position beside the River Derwent, with moorland to the north. Ayton Castle, a 14th-century fortified manor, retains its original defensive walls and gatehouse.