The theme for this year's National Trust Heritage Open Days is 'Architecture' and this year's route for the YHCT Ride & Stride Day included three of the architect Temple Moore's churches: St Mary Magdalene, East Moors; St Mary the Virgin, Rievaulx; and All Saints', Helmsley.

All monies raised on the sponsored Ride & Stride Day will be shared between YHCT and towards the upkeep of the churches on the SAPT route.

The Ride & Stride Day route began at St Mary Magdalene, East Moors; followed the St Aelred's Pilgrim Trail (SAPT) to Roppa Wood then proceeded to Newgate Bank Car Park (viewpoint and refreshments).  From there to Tylas Farm (packed lunch stop) - courtesy of Jane and Ivan Holmes - and on to Rievaulx to visit St Mary the Virgin church.  Up to the National Trust's Rievaulx Terrace and onwards to Duncombe Park - courtesy of Jake Duncombe - via Griff Farm.  Magnificent views of Helmsley Castle on the approach to the town itself and the final destination of All Saints' Church where a short service was held, with the accompaniment of the Bilsdale Silver Band, followed by tea and refreshments. 

This event was designed to coincide with the National Trust Heritage Open Days 2025; and the Yorkshire Historic Churches Trust (YHCT) Day Ride & Stride event.  Sponsorship in support of this event can be made on the YHCT’s Peoples Fundraising site: (https://www.peoplesfundraising.com/donation/saint-aelreds-pilgrim-trail-fundraiser.

Guidebooks (£3) and passports (£1) for the Pilgrim Trail are available in all the churches.

For more information about the Saint Aelred's Pilgrim Trail and the Petal Walks (short circular walks) from each of the churches along the Pilgrim Trail.: https://www.saintaelredspilgrimtrail.com/