Great Ayton is a village situated in North Yorkshire on the edge of the North York Moors in England. It is known as the boyhood home of Captain Cook, the British explorer and navigator. Cook's family moved to Airey Holme farm at Great Ayton in 1736 when Cook was 8 years old. He attended the local school for about 4 years, the school now serves as the Captain Cook Schoolroom Museum.

The family home was dismantled brick by brick in 1934 to be shipped to Melbourne Australia. The house was rebuilt in Melbourne's picturesque Fitzroy Gardens to commemorate the voyages of Captain James Cook, discoverer of Australia.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, Great Ayton grew around the industries of weaving, tanning, brewing and tile making.

The statue situated in the vallage centre, on High Green, depicts the young Cook looking towards the sea. The sculpture by Nicholas Dimbleby was unveiled 12th May 1997.

The 12th century All Saints Chuch is where James Cook worshipped with his family from the age of 8 to 15. In the graveyard are the graves of his mother and five of his brothers and sisters..

The scenic village attracts many visitors visiting the Cook trail and relaxing by the river that winds its way through the village. The village is about one mile from the north side to the south side. The Royal Oak Hotel is situated at the north side overlooking High Green and the Buck Inn is situated at the south side, both are popular for meals and refreshments.

Roseberry Topping is one of the highest hills in Yorkshire situated about 2 miles northeast of the village, a popular climb for visitors today and the young Cook in the 1730s. More history at: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Ayton