Kilburn White Horse: Yorkshire’s Majestic Hill Figure
Explore England’s largest and most northerly white horse hill figure, a stunning Victorian landmark carved into the Yorkshire hillside.
The Kilburn White Horse is a striking hill figure carved into the limestone hillside of Roulston Scar near Kilburn, North Yorkshire. Created in 1857, it measures 318 feet long and 220 feet high, making it the largest and most northerly white horse hill figure in England. Maintained by local volunteers and Forestry England, this iconic landmark offers stunning views and a glimpse into Victorian heritage amid the North York Moors National Park.
A brief summary to Kilburn White Horse
- Low Town Bank Rd, Thirsk, Kilburn, YO61 4AN, GB
- +441845522755
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes for the steep and uneven hiking trails around the horse to ensure safety and comfort.
- Visit on weekday mornings for fewer crowds and better photographic opportunities.
- Park at Sutton Bank Visitor Centre for scenic views and glider watching, or use the cheaper horse-level parking for direct access.
- Bring binoculars to enjoy glider activity in the nearby fields, especially on clear, windy days.
- Check weather conditions before visiting, as the steep roads and trails can be challenging in wet or icy weather.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Thirsk town center takes approximately 15-20 minutes via the A170 and Low Town Bank Road. The route includes steep gradients, especially near Sutton Bank with up to 25% incline, so caution is advised. Parking is available near the horse with limited spaces and a small fee. The journey costs around £0 in tolls but fuel costs apply.
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Public Bus
Local bus services run from Thirsk to Kilburn village, taking about 30-40 minutes. From Kilburn, a 20-30 minute walk on uneven terrain leads to the horse. Bus fares range from £3 to £5 one way. Service frequency is limited on weekends and holidays.
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Train and Walk
Take the East Coast Main Line train to Thirsk station, approximately 2 hours from London or York. From Thirsk, a taxi or local bus can be taken to Kilburn village (10-15 minutes), followed by a 20-30 minute hike to the horse. Train fares vary widely but typically start around £20 one way.
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Hiking
For experienced walkers, the Kilburn White Horse is accessible via the Cleveland Way National Trail. Hiking from Sutton Bank Visitor Centre takes about 1 to 1.5 hours over steep and uneven terrain. Suitable footwear and weather preparedness are essential.
Kilburn White Horse location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Kilburn White Horse
A Monument Born of Victorian Inspiration
The Kilburn White Horse was created in November 1857 by local Victorian businessman Thomas Taylor, inspired by the famous chalk hill figures of southern England. Taylor, a native of Kilburn who worked for a London merchant, commissioned the design and enlisted schoolmaster John Hodgson and local volunteers to mark and cut the horse into the steep limestone hillside of Roulston Scar. Measuring 318 feet long and 220 feet high, the figure covers about 1.6 acres, making it England’s largest and most northerly white horse hill figure.Unique Composition and Maintenance Challenges
Unlike southern chalk horses, the Kilburn White Horse is carved into Jurassic limestone covered with a thin layer of chalk chips brought from the nearby Yorkshire Wolds. This gives the figure its brilliant white appearance, although the underlying grey limestone sometimes shows through, lending a distinctive hue. The steep and unstable slope demands ongoing care; originally whitewashed with lime, the horse now receives periodic repainting with white masonry paint to maintain its vividness. Local volunteers historically maintained it, but since 2018 Forestry England has overseen conservation due to health and safety concerns.Historical Trials and Preservation Efforts
The horse has faced many threats over time, including damage from a severe hailstorm in 1896 and near loss during both World Wars. During WWII, it was deliberately covered to prevent it from serving as a navigation landmark for enemy bombers. Restoration campaigns, notably one in 1925 funded by the Yorkshire Evening Post readers, helped preserve the figure. Today, the Kilburn White Horse Association, a registered charity of local residents, continues to support its upkeep alongside Forestry England.Scenic Setting and Visitor Experience
Situated on the southern flank of Sutton Bank, the horse overlooks the North York Moors National Park and is visible from as far as Leeds and Lincolnshire on clear days. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the nearby escarpment and the Cleveland Way trail, which passes close by. The surrounding landscape offers opportunities for hiking and glider watching, with the nearby Sutton Bank Visitor Centre serving as a hub for exploring the area’s natural beauty.Cultural Significance and Modern Recognition
The Kilburn White Horse stands as a symbol of local pride and Victorian heritage, reflecting a unique northern adaptation of England’s chalk hill figure tradition. It has featured in regional media and inspired other hill figures, such as the Litlington White Horse in East Sussex. Its preservation represents a community effort to maintain a remarkable landmark that connects past and present in the Yorkshire countryside.Access and Practical Details for Visitors
The horse is accessible year-round, with a car park located on Low Town Bank Road near the gliding club entrance. The steep terrain requires sturdy footwear for hiking paths leading above and around the figure. Benches at vantage points allow leisurely observation, and the site’s proximity to the A170 and East Coast Main Line railway makes it reachable by various transport modes. Visitors should be mindful of the steep gradients and variable weather conditions typical of the area.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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York Gifts and Souvenirs
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Anglian Tower
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The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
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York Cold War Bunker
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The Bloody Tour of York
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Byland Abbey
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Rievaulx Abbey
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The World Of James Herriot
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Helmsley Castle
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Discover 900 years of history at Helmsley Castle, where medieval fortifications meet Tudor elegance amidst stunning North York Moors scenery.
Helmsley
10.5 km
Historic market town at the edge of North York Moors, blending medieval heritage with stunning landscapes and vibrant local culture.
National Trust - Nunnington Hall
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Explore the timeless charm of Nunnington Hall, a 17th-century Yorkshire manor with historic interiors, exquisite miniature collections, and tranquil organic gardens.
Sutton Park
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Mount Grace Priory, House and Gardens
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Aldborough Roman Site
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Discover the idyllic charm of Hutton-le-Hole, a picturesque village nestled in the North York Moors with rich heritage and stunning countryside.
Medieval Village of East Lilling
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Ripon Cathedral
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National Trust - Beningbrough Hall, Gallery and Gardens
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Castle Howard
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Essential places to dine
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Pignut Restaurant
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The Star Inn
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Crab & Lobster Hotel & Restaurant
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Restaurant Mýse
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Hansom Restaurant and Wine Bar
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Dewars Restaurant And Rooms
26.4 km
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Huckleberrys American Diner
26.6 km
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The Stone Trough Inn
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Where There's Smoke Restaurant
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Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall
29.7 km
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Roots York
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Little Italy
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Ambiente Tapas Goodramgate
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Guy Fawkes Inn
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Duncombe Park Shop
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Karma - Clothing & Gift Boutique
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The Yorkshire Store
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Kemps General Store Ltd
28.7 km
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Old York
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Fairer World
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Snowhome
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Monk Bar Model Shop
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Cleggs
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Village Shop
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The Red House Antique Centre
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York Minster Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Royal Oak
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Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
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The Maltings
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York Tap
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Victor J's
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Vudu Lounge
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Dusk
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Club Salvation
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Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
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Kuda
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Videotheque Disco's
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
