Artist David work visits Pickering on his Journal-commissioned tour of the region. But how much do you know about this historical town . . ?

David’s painting of Wells Walk, off Bridge Street

Pickering rightly claims for itself the title of “Gateway to the Moors” and, not suprisingly, finds itself inundated with visitors during the summer months.

There is much to see and do here; undoubtedly its biggest attraction is the wonderful North York Moors Railway, which operates on an 18-mile line through some of the area’s most beautiful scenery to the village of Grosmont, near Whitby.

In recent years, the line has also struck an agreement for its steam and diesel-hauled services to run on to the national network as far as Whitby, opening up the line to even more visitors.

Overlooking the railway and the Pickering Beck, in a commanding position on the edge of the Moors, are the ruins of the once vitally-important Pickering Castle, now managed by English Heritage.

Almost all the kings of the Middle Ages visited Pickering at one time or another, many of them in far from happy mood. Bolingbroke spent several days there before going on to depose the ill-fated Richard II; and Richard himself was said to have been held briefly in the castle on his journey to a mysterious end at Pontefract Castle.

A steam train approaching Pickering station on the NYMR. For enthusiasts, the locomotive is ex-LMS Class 5 4-6-0 No 45407

The ruins are in pretty good shape, with much of the walls, keep and original towers intact, and some good views are to be had over the town and surrounding countryside.

Whilst waiting for a train, you could happily spend time at the Beck Isle Museum of Rural Life in Bridge Street, which has a fascinating collection of artefacts, furnishings, costumes and documents, particularly from the Victorian era.

The parish church of St Peter and St Paul is also justifiably famous, particularly for some medieval wall paintings, which had lain hidden under layers of paint until being rediscovered during the 19th century.

As well as having the chance to win a David Work original, readers can now buy exclusive Journal prints of the paintings featured in the magazine. The limited edition prints (frame size approximately 56cm x 46cm) cost £65 each, plus £12 to cover post and packing. You can order direct via our website (www.eastridingjournal.co.uk) or by ringing the artist on (01482) 881625.

Looking down Park Street in Pickering. The railway station, which acts as a terminus for the North York Moors Railway, is on the left of the painting

Pickering Market Place