The Moors National Park Centre, formally known as Danby Lodge, is the flagship visitor center for the North York Moors National Park, offering a free and comprehensive introduction to the protected landscape from its idyllic location on the River Esk near the village of Danby. Housed within a former shooting lodge, the Centre features engaging, interactive exhibits detailing the area's unique wildlife, natural environment, and rich industrial heritage, specifically the "Land of Iron" story.
Beyond the indoor displays and the frequently-changing exhibitions in the Inspired by... gallery, the sprawling grounds encourage exploration with pushchair-friendly woodland and riverside trails, a mud kitchen, wildlife hides, and the large, accessible Danby Den adventure playground, making it a perfect starting point for families venturing onto the heather-clad moors.