Appleton le Moors combines village history with discoveries to explore: Christ Church brings together 19th-century architecture and intricately designed glass, while Low Cross and High Cross have different historical connections to local routes. South of the village, a public bridleway and footpath lead to far-reaching views; the Spaunton Manor Circuit Cycle Route also passes through the village.
Church, stained glass and village history
Appleton le Moors is considered a classic example of a planned 12th-century village. Christ Church was built much later: J. L. Pearson designed it between 1863 and 1865 for Mrs J Shepherd as a memorial to her husband. The village’s history and the church’s construction therefore represent different historical chapters.
One striking feature of the church is its west-facing, ten-part rose window. Its botanical design includes stained glass depicting Christian virtues such as faith, hope and charity. Those interested in church art can explore not only the building’s date but also its design and symbolism.
The Village Hall also has a former use: it is a Grade II listed former school dating from 1867. The hall can be hired for private events; if you would like to use it, check current availability. Carvings above the door of another house, known as Three Faces, depict a priest, a doctor and a lawyer.
Distinguishing Low Cross and High Cross
The two crosses tell of different places and historical connections. Low Cross is a reused standing stone at the junction of Kirkgate Lane and Hamley Lane in the village. The Scheduled Monument marked a well-used route between important settlements, which was used, among other things, for funeral processions.
High Cross is also a Scheduled Monument, but stands in its original position on Kirkgate Lane. This lane was the old route to the early medieval church in Lastingham. The difference between the two crosses is therefore not just in their names: Low Cross is associated with the reused standing stone and its former function on the route, while High Cross is associated with its original location on the historic link to Lastingham.
Walking routes south of the village and a cycling route
For time outdoors, the public bridleway and footpath south of Appleton le Moors offer a particular highlight: from there, you can enjoy far-reaching views across Dogcroft Hill and the Vale of Pickering. The Spaunton Manor Circuit Cycle Route also passes through the village. This gives you a choice of different ways to explore actively; for the cycling route, it is advisable to check the latest route information before setting off.
Music festival and seasonal APEX date
Appleton le Moors is a base for the North York Moors Chamber Music Festival, which takes place for two weeks every August. If you would like to plan your stay around the festival, check the latest dates and programme, as both may change.
During the growing season, APEX generally takes place on the third Sunday of the month from 10:00 to 11:30. Home-grown and homemade produce, such as jams, cakes and crafts, is available to buy, sell or exchange. Tea, coffee and toasted tea cakes are also available. As the date is seasonal and may change, it is a good idea to check the latest information before visiting.
Discover more destinations: Rillington, Draughton, Lealholm, Danby, Malton, Catterick Bridge, Crathorne, Lothersdale.
For the main travel guide: North Yorkshire.
