Hole of Horcum, North Yorkshire

dennis smith / Hole of Horcum / CC BY-SA 2.0

As a traveller who enjoys exploring the nooks and crannies of rural England, I recently came across a fascinating feature that caught my attention. Located in the heart of the North York Moors National Park, just a short drive from the picturesque town of Pickering, lies the Hole of Horcum.

The Hole of Horcum is a large, natural amphitheatre-like depression that stretches over half a mile wide and 400 feet deep. From the top of the surrounding hills, the Hole of Horcum looks like a giant, gaping hole in the earth's surface, hence its name. The Hole of Horcum is so vast that it is visible from miles away, and it has become a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts alike.

The geological formation of the Hole of Horcum is the result of glacial erosion over thousands of years. The surrounding hills are composed of hard sandstone and shale, which have been worn down by the force of ice and water. The valley that now makes up the Hole of Horcum was formed as a result of the melting of glaciers during the last ice age, which caused water to carve out the soft rock and create this spectacular natural feature.

Apart from its natural beauty, the Hole of Horcum also has a rich history. The area was once a strategic location for the Romans, who built a fort at nearby Cawthorn Camp to guard the important road from Malton to Whitby. Later, during the Middle Ages, the area was used for grazing sheep and cattle, and it was also a popular spot for highwaymen to ambush travellers passing through the valley.

Today, the Hole of Horcum is a popular destination for hikers and walkers, who can explore the surrounding hills and moors on foot. There are several footpaths that lead from the top of the valley down to the bottom, offering spectacular views of the landscape along the way. One of the most popular routes is the Levisham Moor walk, which takes you through open moorland and offers breath-taking views of the Hole of Horcum from above.

Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life, the Hole of Horcum is a must-visit destination. So why not pack your hiking boots and head out to the North York Moors National Park to discover it for yourself?