Discover Malton | A Visitor's Introduction to Malton

Why is Malton Worth a Visit?

Malton’s unique character comes from its blend of history, food, and community spirit. With roots stretching back to Roman times, the town’s ancient streets are lined with independent shops, traditional pubs, and local food producers. 

Malton’s growing reputation as a food destination has put it firmly on the map, but it’s not just for foodies. Its proximity to the North York Moors National Park and historic landmarks like Castle Howard make it an excellent base for exploring the wider region. Malton’s lively market, food festivals, and food tours give the town an energy that appeals to all types of visitors.

Malton Highlights: Things To See and Do in Malton

1. Malton Monthly Food Market
Held on the second Saturday of every month, the Malton Monthly Food Market is one of the town’s biggest attractions. The market is a feast for the senses, featuring over 30 stalls showcasing the best local produce, from freshly baked bread, handmade cheeses, and charcuterie to craft beers and chocolates. It’s a fantastic opportunity to taste the flavours of Yorkshire and chat with local farmers and producers. The market is a must-visit for any food lover.

2. Malton Food Lovers Festival
One of the most famous events in Malton is the annual Malton Food Lovers Festival, held every May. This weekend-long celebration of food and drink draws visitors from across the UK. The festival features celebrity chefs, cooking demonstrations, live music, and street food vendors offering delicious dishes from around the world. There’s also a strong focus on local Yorkshire produce, with many of the region’s top food artisans showcasing their goods. It’s a lively, fun-filled event that really captures the essence of Malton’s food culture.

3. Talbot Yard Food Court
Located in a beautifully restored stable yard, Talbot Yard Food Court is home to several independent food producers. From gelato made on-site at Groovy Moo to the award-winning Florian Poirot Patisserie, you’ll find some of the town’s best gourmet treats here. Each artisan has their own shop, where you can sample everything from craft beer to hand-rolled chocolates. It’s a great place to pick up local delicacies or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll while sampling the town’s famous flavours.

4. Malton Museum
For those interested in history, the Malton Museum offers a fascinating look at the town’s Roman roots and its development through the centuries. The museum’s exhibitions cover Malton’s archaeological heritage, with Roman artefacts and interactive displays. Housed in the historic Subscription Rooms, the museum also explores the town’s Georgian period and how it became the bustling market town it is today.

5. The Milton Rooms
The Milton Rooms is a cultural hub in Malton, offering a range of events, from theatre performances and live music to art exhibitions and workshops. The venue has a rich history, dating back to the early 19th century, and its beautifully restored Georgian architecture adds to its charm. If you’re lucky enough to visit when there’s a show or concert, it’s a great way to experience Malton’s lively arts scene.

6. Castle Howard
Just a 15-minute drive from Malton, Castle Howard is one of the most magnificent stately homes in England. This grand Baroque mansion has featured in numerous films and TV shows, including "Brideshead Revisited" and "Bridgerton". The estate’s sprawling gardens, lakes, and woodland walks make it an ideal day out for those who love history and nature. You can tour the opulent interiors, explore the 1,000-acre parkland, and enjoy seasonal events, including Christmas markets and outdoor theatre.

7. Yorkshire Wolds and North York Moors
Malton’s location makes it a perfect base for exploring the Yorkshire Wolds and North York Moors National Park. Whether you enjoy walking, cycling, or simply taking in scenic views, these areas offer rolling hills, dramatic landscapes, and picturesque villages. Kirkham Abbey, the Howardian Hills, and Dalby Forest are all within a short drive from Malton, providing plenty of outdoor activities.

8. Scampston Hall and Walled Garden
A short drive east of Malton, Scampston Hall is a beautifully preserved Regency country house. Its main attraction is the award-winning Scampston Walled Garden, designed by leading landscape gardener Piet Oudolf. The garden’s modern, naturalistic design is a striking contrast to the traditional setting, offering a peaceful place to explore, with meandering paths, colourful flower borders, and tranquil water features. The hall itself is open for tours at certain times of the year.

9. Food Tours and Cookery Classes
To really immerse yourself in Malton’s food culture, book a Malton Food Tour, which takes you behind the scenes of the town’s artisan producers. You’ll get to taste everything from local gin to freshly baked bread, while learning about the history and techniques behind each craft. For those who want to develop their own culinary skills, The Cook's Place in Malton offers a range of cookery classes, from bread making to mastering Yorkshire puddings.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting to Malton
Malton is easily accessible by road and rail, making it a convenient destination for day trips or longer stays.

- By train: Malton has a well-connected train station with regular services between York (about 25 minutes) and Scarborough (about 30 minutes). From York, there are fast connections to London, Leeds, and Manchester.
  
- By car: If you’re driving, Malton is just off the A64, which links it to York, Scarborough, and the surrounding areas. Parking is available in various locations around the town, including a large car park near the Milton Rooms.

- By bus: Malton is also well-served by buses, with services to nearby towns and attractions, including Pickering, Helmsley, and Castle Howard.

Best Time to Visit
Malton is a year-round destination, but it truly comes alive in spring and summer when the town hosts its famous food festivals and markets. The Malton Food Lovers Festival in May is a highlight, offering a fantastic mix of street food, chef demonstrations, and local produce.

Autumn is another great time to visit, with Malton Harvest Food Festival in September showcasing seasonal produce. Winter brings a cosy charm to the town, with Christmas markets and festive events at Castle Howard.

If you prefer a quieter visit, weekdays outside of peak season (May-September) are a good time to enjoy the town’s attractions at a more leisurely pace.

Where to Eat and Drink
As Yorkshire’s Food Capital, Malton offers a diverse range of dining options, from traditional pubs to award-winning restaurants.

- The Talbot is a beautifully restored coaching inn with a focus on seasonal Yorkshire produce. Its restaurant offers refined dishes using ingredients from local farmers and artisans.
- The New Malton is a popular gastropub, known for its hearty meals and friendly atmosphere. Their menu showcases classic British dishes, often using ingredients sourced from nearby producers.
- Groovy Moo at Talbot Yard is the place to go for artisan gelato, made with local milk and cream. It’s a favourite with both locals and visitors, perfect for a sweet treat after a day of exploring.
- No.46 Café Bar is a stylish café that serves excellent coffee, cakes, and light lunches, making it an ideal spot for a casual meal or afternoon break.

Where to Stay
Malton has a range of accommodation options, whether you’re looking for a cosy B&B or a luxurious country escape. Check out our recommended accommodation links at the top of this page.

Nearby Attractions
Malton is an excellent base for exploring North Yorkshire’s many attractions:

- Pickering: A market town just 10 miles from Malton, famous for the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and Pickering Castle.
- Helmsley: About 20 miles away, this charming town offers historic landmarks like Helmsley Castle and Rievaulx Abbey, as well as fantastic walking routes.
- Flamingo Land: For families, Flamingo Land theme park and zoo is just a short drive away, offering roller coasters, animal exhibits, and family-friendly entertainment.