tourist attractions yorkshire

The best things to do in Yorkshire, UK

Jul 15, 2022 • 11 min read

Spend any time in Yorkshire's dales and moorlands and you'll see why they call this God's Own County © Andrew Bret Wallis / Getty Images

Yorkshire – or God’s Own County as locals like to call it – has long played the muse for writers, painters and film-location scouts, as well as being an industrial powerhouse that helped shape modern Britain. Dramatic topography, stunning heritage sites, urban regeneration areas and world-renowned walking trails are just some of the things that make this one of Britain’s most appealing destinations today.

Don’t be surprised though if it’s the clink of pint glasses in a country pub or the broad-accented, straight-talking locals that make the biggest impression. Here's our guide to the best things to do in Yorkshire, for a taste of the rich brew that is Northern England.

Take a Bronte country tour

Yorkshire has some of the most evocative landscapes in England. It was out on the wiley, windy moors that Heathcliff and Cathy of Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights roamed. It was the limestone scars of the dales that supposedly gave Tolkien (a professor at the University of Leeds in the 1920s) inspiration for the fortress of Helm’s Deep in The Lord of the Rings . And Lewis Carroll and Bram Stoker found their own fantasies in the myths and legends of the Yorkshire Coast.

In the timewarp town of Haworth, West Yorkshire, make a pilgrimage to the Bronte Parsonage where the three Victorian authors lived, now a house museum crammed with 19th-century literary artifacts. Visit the exquisitely preserved town apothecary where their brother procured his laudanum – today, it's the offbeat store, Cabinet of Curiosities . Afterward, you can strike out over Haworth Moor for the 2.75-mile hike to the Bronte Waterfall.

Hike over moors and dales

Thanks to Yorkshire’s mild summers, it’s never too hot for a bracing country walk. Locals treasure their right to roam and can often be found tramping down the public footpaths that crisscross the rolling valleys, or tracing the lines of drystone walls across the region’s two national parks (the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors ) – often with a dog in tow. 

Historic coaching inns in tiny villages cater to hikers on the long-distance Pennine Way and Coast to Coast trails. But one of the best things to do in the Yorkshire Dales is the 4.5-mile Malham Landscape Trail which takes in Malham Cove , a sheer limestone cliff and nesting spot for peregrine falcons that was used as a setting in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows . 

Ride the rails like a Victorian

Two charming heritage railway lines ricochet between small towns and rural villages across the dales and moors of Yorkshire. Both lines are served by steam locomotives as well as classic diesel engines, with stops at some of the best-preserved 19th-century stations in England. The North Yorkshire Moors Railway is one for Harry Potter fans, as it chugs daily between Whitby and Pickering via Goathland, which was used as a filming location in several of the films.

In West Yorkshire, the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway is a 5-mile track through Bronte country, stopping at Haworth. But it has an equal claim to fame as a movie location – several stations along this line were used to film the original 1970s movie of the Railway Children .  

See layers of history in York

York ’s historic lineage as the Roman city of Eboracum and later the Viking settlement of Jorvik makes it one of Europe’s most interesting cities for history-lovers and archaeology buffs. However, it’s York’s photogenic medieval remains that particularly ensnare visitors. The crooked half-timbered houses along the Shambles are said to have inspired JK Rowling’s depiction of Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter books (you’ll notice a flourishing number of Harry Potter magic and potion shops nearby). There are also several excellent medieval house museums to explore, including the Merchant Adventurers’ Hall and Barley Hall . 

York is a city that’s really worth exploring over several days, and it’s one of the best places to stay in Yorkshire. Make time for York Minster – the largest medieval cathedral in northern Europe – and its excellent Undercroft museum that digs beneath the city. Circumnavigating the immaculately preserved city walls and bars (gates) is another popular activity. And the interactive Jorvik Viking Centre , with its warts-and-all animatronic theme park-style ride, is another must-see – especially for families. 

Get steamy in Harrogate’s thermal springs

Ever since people first noticed the sulfurous waters bubbling up in what is now Harrogate’s Valley Gardens, this Yorkshire town has been known as a spa destination. Developed from the 16th century onward, its thermal springs have attracted a steady stream of luminaries, including Charles Dickens, Queen Victoria and Agatha Christie. Today it’s an especially pretty country town, popular for weekend breaks with locals and just 30 minutes by train from York. 

One of the most compelling reasons to visit is to book a session at Harrogate's Victorian -era Turkish Baths , which are still in perfect working order. The mock-Moorish interior is still as exquisite as the day it opened – book in for a tour followed by a steam bath and scrub. Harrogate is also the home of Bettys tearooms, an icon of Yorkshire that never fails to draw a queue.

Relive favorite Bridgerton moments at Castle Howard

If you’ve seen Bridgerton , Castle Howard might look familiar. It played the part of the Duke of Hastings’ family estate in the first season of the phenomenally popular British period drama, but in real life it’s one of England’s finest examples of baroque and Palladian design. This was the first domestic building in the country to have a domed roof – put there by Nicholas Hawksmoor, one of the architects who worked on St Paul’s Cathedral in London, after which it was modeled. 

There’s a boating lake as well as informative guides and an exhibition in the main house dedicated to  Evelyn Waugh's Brideshead Revisited – Castle Howard was used as a location for both the film and original 1981 TV adaptation. You could spend a day just roaming the rose gardens, temple follies and baroque fountains in the grounds.

Follow Dracula’s trail in Whitby 

The Yorkshire Coast has a string of traditional seaside towns beloved by locals for generous servings of fish and chips, seaside amusements and bracing stretches of seafront. Whitby , though, is the jewel in the crown and much more than just a coastal resort. Its haunting, ruined abbey was founded by Abbess Hild in the 7th century, and in the 18th century, the town was an important shipbuilding center. Captain Cook – famed for his exploratory expeditions to Australia and New Zealand – learned his trade here and his old home has been turned into a fascinating museum . 

Whitby also has a literary cachet as the point where Dracula – the vampire from Bram Stoker’s acclaimed 1897 novel – made landfall in England. Stoker found inspiration for his ghoulish blood-sucker in the haunted lanes and fishing cottages on Whitby. This legacy has spawned a local goth movement, with thousands descending on the seaside town each year – especially over Halloween. Bemused officials at St Mary’s Church encounter so many fans on a fruitless hunt for the vampire’s grave that they’ve had to put up a notice explaining that it doesn’t exist.

Scare yourself witless at the Forbidden Corner

Possibly Yorkshire’s most offbeat attraction, the Forbidden Corner is a labyrinth of tunnels, mock-gothic follies and nightmarish chambers reminiscent of David Bowie’s Labyrinth movie. Covering four acres, it was originally conceived as a private folly, but the results were so good the owners couldn’t keep it to themselves.

Although it’s essentially a family attraction, a word of warning: some kids love it, but some get really spooked by it. There’s no map for the gardens; you just have to dive in and hope you don’t get too rattled when the clanking, wailing and moaning starts! 

Drink deep of Leeds’ hopping craft beer scene

Leeds is Yorkshire’s largest urban hub – a dynamic, good-time Yorkshire city that grew rich during the industrial revolution and is now legendary for its student scene, nightlife and Victorian-era shopping arcades. But beer is the city's lifeblood. Brewing giant Tetley’s was originally based here and the brewery’s old art deco headquarters is now a cool community space, contemporary gallery and bar-restaurant that's well worth visiting. 

Today, Leeds is one of the best places to sample Yorkshire's craft beers, with beer bars and taprooms galore where beer lovers can taste-test unique drops. Try the Northern Monk craft brewery and taproom, wedged into a 19th-century flax mill in Holbeck. There’s also North Brewing Co , which has a giant taproom terrace with DJs and food trucks at Springwell, 10 minutes from Leeds city center. Walk from here along the forested Woodhouse Ridge path and you can continue your beer crawl in the neighborhood taproom of Meanwood Brewery.

Learn more about the abolition of slavery at Hull's Wilberforce House

Since being  fêted as the UK's Capital of Culture in 2017, the city of Hull has got a new spring in its step. The marina area has been reborn as a restaurant and bar enclave, the city's permanently docked heritage ships and maritime museums have been revamped, and there’s Stage@TheDock – a new outdoor performance venue overlooking the water. 

In the 17th and 18th centuries, Hull was one of the UK’s premier whaling ports, but less well known is the fact that this was also the home of William Wilberforce, England’s preeminent abolitionist. Wilberforce was instrumental in the campaign to end slavery across the British Empire and his home is now a must-see museum dedicated to his cause, with poignant displays on the history of slavery in the western world. 

Learn about the industrial revolution in Sheffield

Of all Yorkshire’s cities, it is Sheffield – the "steel city," surrounded by rich metal deposits – that has clung to its industrial revolution roots most fondly. The city's oldest district, Kelham Island , houses an excellent museum on Sheffield's metalworking heritage, and the Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet – preserved within a modern city suburb – is a frozen-in-time example of a workers’ community before the days of the big steel factories.

In between Leeds and Sheffield, it’s also possible to descend 40ft into a grimy mining pit on a subterranean tour with cheery ex-miners at the National Coal Mining Museum in Overton. The museum sits atop a vintage mine abandoned in the 1980s when Britain’s waning coal industry finally gasped its last breath.

Go t’ut pub with the locals

Grab a pie and a pint in a Yorkshire pub and you’ll learn everything you need to know about local culture, because the village boozer is the epicenter of county life. The array of watering holes on offer is vast – you could create a comprehensive Yorkshire tour based on an extended pub crawl, visiting rural real-ale pubs and urban craft beer taprooms . 

The dales and moors are crammed with ancient inns such as Tan Hill Inn , the highest pub in England where the wind howls outside, making you wonder about the werewolf on a poster inside the bar (a nod to the 1981 film An American Werewolf in London , which follows two American backpackers on a doomed hike over the Yorkshire moors).

A number of beautiful old pubs have now been turned into Michelin-starred gastropubs serving brilliant Yorkshire food, most notably the Black Swan at Oldstead , Star Inn at Harome and Pipe & Glass at South Dalton.

Learn about the Yorkshire Dales’ tasty cheese traditions

As every Wallace & Gromit fan knows, the best cheese in the world is Wensleydale. And Wensleydale – a real place in the Yorkshire dales – has been capitalizing on its fame for some time. In the hiking hub of Hawes, the community-backed Wensleydale Creamery has an excellent museum with a dash of Wallace humor and a lot of information about local cheese-making traditions. 

Visitors can see the curds and whey being sifted before tasting dozens of samples, including a cheese infused with Black Sheep Brewery ’s Riggwelter ale. To find out more about how Yorkshire is trying to revive its once-thriving cheese-making cottage industry , it’s also well worth visiting the award-winning Courtyard Dairy cheese shop and maturing rooms on the eastern edge of the moors. 

Tour the Yorkshire Sculpture Triangle

Two of England’s greatest 20th-century sculptors – Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth – had West Yorkshire roots and drew inspiration from the landscapes of this rugged region. Their legacy has spawned numerous art institutions worthy of any visitor’s time, creating what has been dubbed the Yorkshire Sculpture Triangle.

The top dog is the Yorkshire Sculpture Park , which has drawn such internationally acclaimed artists as Ai Weiwei and Andy Goldsworthy. Sculptures are dotted across a vast open-air gallery within the 500-acre Bretton Estate near Wakefield – it feels like pure whimsy, and a stroll through the grounds is utter magic.

But the best place to see Moore and Hepworth’s work is the ultra-modern Hepworth Wakefield gallery nearby. The collection is small but it’s the most concentrated hit of either artist’s work you’ll find anywhere in the world. The third prong of the triangle is Leeds Art Gallery , which has a nationally important collection of British art and sculpture.

Beyond the galleries, look out for street art around hubs such as Leeds train station, Kirkgate Market and the old mill district of Holbeck – partly the result of an inspired commissioning spree by the local council to bring more color to the streets of the city.

This article was first published May 2018 and updated July 2022

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17 Amazing Yorkshire Day Trips (+ Map & Insider Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 27, 2023

Yorkshire county in northern England is a perfect destination that has something to offer for everyone. Beautiful towns, charming villages, and two national parks offer plenty of sightseeing options. There is something to see and do to suit all ages, interests, and abilities.

If you are looking for ideas on what to see and do in Yorkshire , this article will give you plenty of inspiration on where to go and what to do. In this selection, we feature 17 amazing Yorkshire day trip ideas – the very best things to do in Yorkshire. From the most famous tourist destinations to local’s favorites, quirky attractions, and hidden gems of Yorkshire.

Good to know: This article features insider tips and recommendations by Yorkshire-native Sinead from York with Kids . She lives in York and knows the region really well. For our blog, she selected the very best day trips and places to see in Yorkshire and also included practical tips and suggestions to help you plan your visit.

We also included a map featuring all the best places to visit in Yorkshire mentioned in this article. At the bottom of this post, you can also find tips for getting around Yorkshire and the best base for your day trips and excursions in this beautiful part of England. Find out!

Yorkshire is very diverse and there is so much to see and do! The cosmopolitan cities of York, Leeds, Sheffield, and Hull offer world-class museums and lively city centers. You’ll find countless historical attractions in Yorkshire’s market towns and villages.

The hills and valleys of the Yorkshire Dales NP have stunning landscapes of woodlands and waterfalls. Whereas the contrasting, windswept Moors provide fantastic hiking opportunities…

If you don’t have a car and are looking for the best day tours in Yorkshire, here’s an overview of the very best organized day trips that you can do from York:

• The Yorkshire Dales Tour from York
• Moors, Whitby & The Yorkshire Steam Railway Day Trip
• North York Moors & Whitby from York

Further below, you can find the very best day trip destinations in Yorkshire. And here is a map indicating all the main locations mentioned in this article.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Good to know: If you are looking for Yorkshire Dales National Park on this list, you should know that it’s a huge National Park with towns, villages, endless hiking possibilities, etc. So it’s not just one place to go visit. Several places mentioned in this article are inside Yorkshire Dales NP. If you want to see the very best of this area in a nutshell, then you should consider visiting with an organized day tour that covers several locations in one day .

These are the best things to do in Yorkshire as a day trip:

No trip to Yorkshire would be complete without visiting York , one of the nicest cities in the UK . It’s a fascinating city with a rich cultural heritage and a range of attractions dating from the Roman, Viking, Georgian, and Victorian eras. The city center has parks and pedestrianized streets making York a very pleasant city trip destination; it’s also easy to visit with kids. 

There are so many unmissable  things to do in York  that you will want to spend more than one day in the city!

Don’t miss the largest gothic cathedral in northern Europe, York Minster . If you are up for it, climb the 275 steps of the central tower for a fabulous view of the city. Every Saturday, York Minster runs engaging tours of the cathedral.

Walk the city’s medieval stone walls . At two miles long, they are the longest city walls in England. Make sure to check out the quirky old street The Shambles , voted ‘Best Street in Britain’. It’s said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter films. 

If you want to learn about the history of York, visit the Jorvik Viking Centre , the Yorkshire Museum , or the excellent York Castle Museum . 

Walk the windy ramparts of Clifford’s Tower or take a break from the city center with a relaxing cruise down the River Ouse.  

TIP:  Anyone visiting  York with kids , should take the tasty tour at York Chocolate Story . It ends with the opportunity to make your own chocolate lollipop. 

How to visit:   Leave your car at one of the city’s Park & Ride locations to avoid city center driving and parking fees. Alternatively, travel to York by train. York’s central rail station is a short, ten-minute walk to the city center. If you want to see all the highlights in a short time, consider joining this popular walking tour with a local guide . If you want to ‘see it all’ in a day, hop-on hop-off bus might be a good option for getting around York.

2. Bolton Abbey

Bolton Abbey or Bolton Priory is part of a private estate owned by the Duke of Devonshire and an amazing place to visit as a day trip from York. It’s located on the southern edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park and is often included in Yorkshire Dales day tours . This is not the same place as Bolton Castle, mentioned under the Wensleydale day trip above.

There is so much to see and explore at this historic site! The main highlight is the ruins of the Augustinian abbey and church which was founded here in the 12th century. 

The rest of the extensive estate lies across a narrow river accessed by a wooden bridge or over Bolton Abbey’s iconic 6o stepping stones. Kids and adults alike love hopping from stone to stone in order to cross the river. There are also a number of scenic walking trails along the riverbank or through the shaded Strid Wood. Don’t miss Strid Wood’s famous ‘money tree.’

Bolton Abbey is free to visit; you only pay for car parking. You can find more practical information on their website .

TIP: Pack a towel if visiting Bolton Abbey in summer as you won’t be able to resist paddling in the river on a hot Yorkshire day! You can easily spend 4-5 hours exploring the estate. Count even more time if you enjoy a paddle and a picnic.

How to visit:   Bolton Abbey is about 1-hour drive from York and is best visited by car. You can also catch a steam train from nearby Embsay. The train ride takes 20 minutes to reach tiny Bolton Abbey station from where it is a 1,5-mile walk to Bolton Abbey estate. Alternatively, you can also visit with this organized tour from York .

3. Wensleydale

Wensleydale is a valley in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. A day trip here encompasses the best that the Dales has to offer – waterfalls, history, food, and farming. This is the place that most Yorkshire Dales National Park tours visit.

First stop is Bolton Castle . This privately-owned castle is the best-preserved medieval castle in England and offers something for visitors of all ages.

From February to November, visitors can tour rooms in the castle and observe an archery display in the impressive castle courtyard. In the manicured grounds of the castle, you’ll find a maze and delightful herb garden. There is a Bird of Prey and Falconry display daily and visitors can brave the wild boar feeding session.

Two miles away from Bolton Castle is Aysgarth Falls . This attraction is free to enter, but there is a small fee for parking. The falls are actually three separate waterfalls – Upper Force, Middle Force, and Lower Force. These waterfalls tumble over three limestone steps over a scenic, one mile stretch of the River Ure. The falls can be viewed from a woodland path that runs alongside the river. 

Aysgarth Falls is a beautiful location to visit at any time of year. The changing colors of spring and autumn provide perfect photo opportunities. The waterfalls are particularly spectacular after heavy rainfall. 

A 12-minute drive away (unless you get stuck behind a tractor!) is the Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes . This small museum is housed in a lovely Victorian rail station and depicts the changes in life and farming for people living in the Yorkshire Dales. There is a rolling program of activities and exhibitions with the opportunity to try out traditional crafts and farming skills. 

Whilst in Hawes, pop into the Wensleydale creamery to see the famous Yorkshire cheese being made. 

Wensleydale is the favorite cheese of the character Wallace, from Wallace and Gromit movies. You will not be able to leave the creamery without making a purchase. 

TIP: At Aysgarth Falls, visitors can access the water’s edge at Upper Force and at Lower Force. Lower Force is accessed by an uneven path descending from the main path. Both riverbanks are unfenced and the rocks can be slippery when wet. Aysgarth Falls is the best location during this day trip for a picnic. 

How to visit : The start of your day trip, Bolton Castle, is a one-hour drive from York. You should count the whole day for this area.

Whitby is a popular seaside resort on the North Yorkshire coast but one that retains a traditional feel. it’s a working harbor town that is thankfully not overrun with arcades or funfairs. 

You can stroll Whitby’s long, clean, sandy beach, wander the town’s cobbled lanes, or visit the museum dedicated to Whitby’s famous son, the explorer Captain James Cook.  

Strong legs can climb Whitby’s famous 199 stone steps which lead to an iconic clifftop Yorkshire landmark, Whitby Abbey . The 13th century gothic ruins of Whitby Abbey are well worth a visit. You also get a fantastic view of Whitby and the North Yorkshire coastline. 

Whitby is an atmospheric, windswept location. This is why Bram Stoker was inspired to cast Whitby as Dracula’s landing place in his famous vampire novel.

TIP: People drive from all over Yorkshire just to buy fish and chips in Whitby! Don’t leave the town until you have tried a Whitby chippy dinner.

How to visit: Whitby can be reached by public bus or by car from York or Leeds. The regular ‘Coastliner’ service crosses the Yorkshire Moors to reach Whitby and the route was recently voted ‘Britain’s Most Scenic Bus Route’. Whitby is also part of organized day tours that include several other great attractions in this area .

5. Robin Hood’s Bay

Robins Hood’s Bay is an old fishing village whose steep, cobbled lanes are too narrow for cars to access. You can explore the winding lanes lined with tiny, Victorian-era cottages, or visit the free Old Coastguard Station on the seafront. This is a good place to learn about the geology of the area and its seafaring history. 

The village also has a long, sandy beach offering plenty of space to play, relax or explore the rock pools. Robin Hoods Bay is part of Yorkshire’s Jurassic coastline. Fossils such as ammonites, belemnites, and Devils Toenail are regularly found on the beach.

TIP: Extend your trip with a hike to visit the seal colony at nearby Ravenscar. 

Insider tip: Robin Hood’s Bay can be visited on foot from Whitby by hiking along the North Yorkshire Coastal Path, part of the long-distance Cleveland Way National Trail. It’s a scenic, 7-mile walk (one way) with dramatic views of the coastline, sheltered coves, secluded bays, and Whitby’s isolated lighthouse. The challenging, undulating walk is not technically difficult but is high up and unfenced! You can return along the same path or catch a public bus from Robin Hoods Bay back to Whitby.

How to visit: Visitors to Robin Hoods Bay must park in one of the fee-paying car parks on the top of the hill outside the village. It is a steep descent down into the village and your legs will feel the strain on the way back up! Robin Hood’s Bay can also be visited with a tour from York .

6. Ingleton

Ingleton is a charming Dales town lying on the southern edge of the Yorkshire Dales NP. It is well worth spending a long day trip here as there are several excellent attractions within this area. 

One of the most popular attractions in Ingleton is the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail . This 4,5-mile hike over privately owned land offers scenic views of 6 pretty waterfalls. This is a beautiful hiking trail offering a mix of woodland, waterside paths, and wooden bridges. There is a fee to access the trail, but it’s well worth it! Depending on your walking speed, the trail will take between 2 – 3 hours.

A trip to nearby White Scar Cave – the longest showcave in England – will take around 2 hours. Kids will love donning a hard hat to descend the 97 steps into the depths of the cave. Once underground, metal walkways and earthen paths lead you around the cave. You can see an underground waterfall and formations such as the spookily named ‘The Witches Fingers’. 

Most of White Scar Cave is head height, but there are a couple of sections where you have to bend a bit. There is also one very narrow section that will require a squeeze! 

Alternatively, bring your hiking boots and attempt to hike to the top of Yorkshire’s second-highest peak, Ingleborough , at 723 meters high. There are several routes of differing lengths to reach the top of Ingleborough. The most interesting route starts in the village of Clapham. You will pass several cave entrances along the way, including Gaping Gill which contains the largest cave cavern in England. 

When you reach the plateau summit of Ingleborough, you will be rewarded with fantastic views across the Dale. On a clear day, you can see the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct . 

You can descend via the same route or on a circular route on which you will cross over ethereal limestone outcrops similar to those at the top of Malham Cove. Ingleborough is not a technically challenging hike though there are some steep climbs in places. 

TIP: Expect the hike to the top of Ingleborough to take around 4-5 hours round trip. There are no facilities once you leave Clapham, so bring plenty of snacks and water. The weather in the Yorkshire Dales can change quickly so always be prepared for any weather. 

How to visit : From the city of York, Ingleton is a 2-hour drive. There are several day-tour possibilities as well.

7. North Yorkshire Moors Railway

The North York Moors Railway is an old-fashioned steam train running from Pickering, across the Yorkshire Moors, to the pretty village of Goathland. This is a very nice day trip in Yorkshire, popular with locals and tourists alike.

The ‘hop on hop off’ tickets are valid the whole day, so this is a great way to explore the villages and sights of the North Yorkshire Moors. For example, take a break at lovely Levisham and hike over Levisham Moor. Keep an eye for evidence of Bronze Age habitation and burial sites along the way. 

Your final destination is Goathland, featured in the hit tv series’ Heartbeat’. It will be more recognizable to children as the setting for Hogsmeade Rail Station in the Harry Potter movies. 

A direct, non-stop trip from Pickering to Goathland takes approximately 45 minutes. Stopping off at the different stations will require a full day, so arrive early to catch one of the first trains departing Pickering.

TIP: It is also possible to travel to Whitby using the North York Moors Railway. The line operates from April to October with festive trips available on December weekends.

How to visit : Catch the train from Pickering station, a 30-minute drive from York. The railway ticket is also included in the multi-day York explorer pass . There is also a tour that covers Whitby, Moors, and Yorkshire Railway as a day trip from York.

8. Malham Cove

Malham Cove is an unmissable location in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. The imposing stone cove is a natural amphitheater. It’s 230 feet high and was once home to a plunging waterfall higher than Niagara Falls. 

At the base of Malham Cove, a set of uneven stone steps wind to the top of the cove and a fantastic view over the Yorkshire Dales. The edge of the cove is unfenced and the limestone ‘pavement’ at the top is riddled with holes and crevices, so take care where you walk! 

The pavement top of Malham Cove is a must-visit for Harry Potter fans! This is the site where Hermione and Harry camped in the Deathly Hallows movie . 

There are a number of excellent hiking opportunities in this area. One of the best hikes is a long, full day circular hike that encompasses all of the major sights in this area. Starting from Malham Village, a signposted trail leads through woodland to pretty Janet’s Foss Waterfall . From here, it is a further 0,5 mile to dramatic Gordale Scar , a huge gorge with towering rock faces. 

There are a couple of route options to reach the top of the gorge where the path eventually arrives at Malham Tarn , one of only two natural lakes in the Yorkshire Dales. From Malham Tarn, it is a short walk to the top of Malham Cove to where you can descend back to your starting point in Malham village. 

The hike is not technically difficult but is a full day 13-kilometer hike. It will take around 5 hours with stops. There are no facilities on the hiking trails.

TIP: There are two family-friendly pubs and an excellent tea room in Malham Village.

How to visit : You’ll need a car to get here. Park in the permitted parking areas in Malham Village. This is a free to access rural area, but please be respectful to local residents and only park in approved car parks. There are also some guided day tours that visit this area from York, Liverpool, or Manchester.

9. National Railway Museum in York

The National Railway Museum is one of the best  free things to do in York. You will need a full day to see everything at the museum, so this is a great day trip in itself! But since it’s free, you can always take a look even if you don’t have that much time.

The museum is packed with gleaming train engines and carriages of every shape and color. See inside the luxurious Royal Train or rest weary feet in a Shinkansen carriage, the only Bullet Train carriage displayed outside Japan. 

Marvel at the size of a Eurostar nose cone under a cross-section of the Channel Tunnel and view historic trains such as the fastest steam train in the world, the Mallard. 

Families will love the entertaining and educational science shows that run daily. Kids will particularly enjoy seeing Barbie shot out of a cannon!

View the talented restorers at work from an elevated walkway above the museum workshop or wave at trains entering and departing York rail station from the Museum’s popular outdoor balcony. 

TIP: There is an excellent restaurant and cafe on site, but visitors are permitted to bring their own picnic. 

How to visit : The Museum is a 10-minute walk from the center of York or you can catch the museum’s ‘road train’ from outside York Minster. It is located just behind York railway station making it an ideal attraction to visit if arriving in  York by train . There is also a car park on-site (paid). For more practical information, please check the official website of the museum .

10. Castle Howard and Yorkshire Arboretum

Castle Howard is an impressive, privately owned country home located in the rolling Howardian Hills, just outside the city of York.

The historic house is beautifully restored and you can tour the elaborately furnished rooms. The highlights include the decorated dome of the main hall and the ornate chapel. The extensive grounds at Castle Howard provide scenic walks with lovely countryside views. 

In addition, there is a recently renovated outdoor adventure playground in an idyllic woodland/ lakeside setting. Visitors to Castle Howard will recognize it as the setting for the TV series ‘Brideshead Revisited.’

Castle Howard will take most of your day but if you have any time to spare, visit the Yorkshire Arboretum which is directly opposite the entrance drive to Castle Howard. The arboretum covers a huge 120-acre site and contains 6,000 trees from around the world. You can freely wander the tree collection or follow self-guided trails between 1 -2 hours long. 

TIP: Castle Howard is a great place to visit at any time of year but Yorkshire residents like to come here at Christmas time. For many, it has become a family tradition. Every Christmas, the rooms of the house are colorfully and artistically decorated to a new theme. 

How to visit : Castle Howard is only accessible by car. It is a short 20-minute drive from York city center. You can find more information and book your tickets here . Admission is also included in the multi-day York explorer pass .

11. Yorkshire Sculpture Park

The Yorkshire Sculpture Park is an outdoor art gallery in a stunning landscape in Bretton, just south of Leeds and less than an hour from York. It’s a wonderful day trip in Yorkshire, especially for those who are looking to get a bit off the beaten path. It’s also a great value for money as you only pay for parking. 

The 500-acre park is packed with sculptures ranging from unusual, abstract pieces to more traditional metal or wood carvings. Most of the sculptures are engaging, large works of art. Some pieces are over 10 meters tall. Even if you spend here the whole day, you are unlikely to cover all the sculptures within this beautiful park. There is so much to see!

Families can get creative at one of the family-friendly activities on offer in the indoor galleries. 

TIP: Pack waterproofs as the park is completely open to the elements. But don’t let bad weather put you off visiting; the sculpture park can be an atmospheric location on a rainy day. 

How to visit : The Yorkshire Sculpture Park is easiest to reach by car; it’s a 45minute drive from York via the major M1 motorway. Getting here by public transport is also possible. For more practical info, please check their website .

12. Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden

Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden is a beautiful historic property in Ripon, North Yorkshire. It is owned by England’s National Trust and one entry ticket covers both sections of the estate. 

Fountains Abbey contains the largest monastic ruins in England. The extensive 12th-century Benedictine ruins are full of hidden alcoves and secret staircases. The open, angular ruins create fantastic photo opportunities. 

Discover the history of the abbey at the Porters Lodge exhibition or have a go at traditional crafts such as weaving at Swanley Grange near the entrance to the abbey ruins. Don’t miss the Grange’s excellent, medieval-inspired vegetable garden. 

Fountains Abbey is linked by a grass walkway to Studley Royal Water Garden . These stunning gardens were landscaped in the 18th century and contain summerhouses, ornamental lakes, moon ponds, and countless sculptures. There are also several hidden folly’s for children to find and extensive walking trails around the deer park and Studley’s ancient woodland. 

Studley Royal Water Garden is a beautiful, tranquil location. It is not your average garden attraction. This is why it was granted World Heritage status in 1986. Well-worth visiting!

TIP:  Comfortable walking shoes are essential – you can spend all day walking here! If you are visiting with children, don’t miss Fountains Abbey’s large adventure playground. This is one of the best outdoor playgrounds in Yorkshire.

How to visit : The estate is a 45-minute drive from York. You can also visit with an organized small-group day tour from York .

13. Harrogate, Knaresborough, and Harlow Carr

Harrogate town in North Yorkshire was famous in the Victorian era as a wellbeing destination and rejuvenating spa town. The town retains many grand Victorian buildings. 

You can learn about the history of Harrogate at the town’s Royal Pump Room Museum and join one of their daily tours to see the wells. Be warned – the sulfur wells are reputed to be the strongest in Europe! Allow 1 – 2 hours for your visit. 

After the museum, indulge in a traditional Turkish bath in the beautifully restored, 19th-century Turkish Baths . Rejuvenated, take a stroll around pretty Valley Gardens , a landscaped park in the center of Harrogate. From the center of Harrogate, it is a 40-minute signposted walk or a short 10-minute drive to Harlow Carr. 

The nearby Knaresborough Castle and Knaresborough town is also well worth a visit.

RHS Garden Harlow Carr is a beautiful garden that is open to the public year-round. Every season offers a different experience for visitors. Within the 58-acre garden, there is a woodland and wildflower area as well as more traditional areas such as a kitchen garden, alpine garden, and colorful borders.

Harlow Carr offers activities centered around the plants and animals found within the gardens. There is also a huge woodland treehouse on site. To fully explore Harlow Carr, allow 2 – 3 hours for your visit. Many visitors stay here all day. 

TIP: After a full day exploring, treat yourself to an afternoon tea at the iconic Bettys Café Tea Rooms . This 100-year-old tea room can be found in the Harrogate town center. The tea room is famous for its art deco appearance and luxurious, elegant style. Make sure to try one of Betty’s signature cakes, the delicious Fat Rascal!

How to visit:  Harrogate can be accessed by train from York or Leeds in just 20 minutes. Avoid driving into the town center if you can as parking is limited. 

14. Sutton Bank NP, Kilburn White Horse & Rievaulx Abbey

Sutton Bank is a steep hill in North Yorkshire whose escarpment and plateau were formed as a result of the movement of ice age glaciers. This area forms the western edge of the North York Moors National Park . 

Visitors to the Sutton Bank National Park Centre will be rewarded with sweeping views of the Vale of York. You can get hiking maps at the visitors’ center, but most people come to Sutton Bank for its thrilling cycling trails and for the White Horse. Sutton Bank offers cycle trails to suit all ages and abilities and you can hire bikes and spend half a day here.

Don’t miss the Kilburn White Horse . The White Horse ‘sculpture’ is an iconic Yorkshire landmark that can be seen for miles around. Yorkshire people assess the weather based on whether they can see the white horse or not! 

The horse was constructed in 1857 to compete with giant chalk sculptures in the south of England. Unlike its competitors, the Kilburn White Horse was not cut into the chalk, but limestone. This means the horse requires regular ‘whitening’ with chalk chippings to stay white. This is no easy task as the horse measures 314 ft long and 228 ft high! 

You can complete a circular walk to the White Horse returning to Sutton Bank via a pretty woodland trail. Allow 2 hours for this walk. 

If you rather do some more sightseeing in Yorkshire instead of biking or hiking, you may want to check out the nearby Rievaulx Abbey . Here, you can visit the ruins of an impressive 11th-century abbey and a nice museum that captures the lives of monks. There is also a nice cafe on-site cafe serving amazing hot chocolates and scones.

TIP: Sutton Bank is a designated Dark Skies area. After dark, car parking is free for keen stargazers to gather to look at the night sky. Sutton Bank National Park runs year-round stargazing activities. The North York Moors National Park hosts an annual Dark Skies festival every February. 

How to visit : The White Horse can only be reached by car along some of Yorkshire’s windiest roads! Leave the A19 to head towards the small village of Kilburn from where you can pick up the brown road signs to reach the elevated car park under the White Horse. If you drive directly to Sutton Bank Visitor Centre, it can be found just off the A170 between Thirsk and Helmsley. Rievaulx Abbey is just a short ride from Helmsley as well.

The port city of Hull is an underrated visitor attraction in Yorkshire. It’s a great Yorkshire day trip destination for young and old! The city boasts a charming old town section lined with grand Georgian and Victorian-era houses, maritime warehouses, and cobbled streets. The old town is packed with lively restaurants and cafes and is a great place to get lost in! 

Within this old town is Hull’s excellent Museum Quarter . All of the museums here are worth a visit and are in close proximity to each other.

The free Streetlife Museum charts 200 years of transport developments. You can climb aboard trams, buses, and walk a recreated 1940’s street. It is a ‘must visit’ for social history fans as well as vehicle lovers.

Next door is the Hull & East Riding Museum and a little further on, Wilberforce House . Wilberforce House was the home of William Wilberforce, who is credited with bringing an end to slavery in England. Both of these excellent museums are free to enter and well worth your time.

In addition, check out Hull Minster church or head to the bustling Fruit Market at Hull Marina for a fantastic choice of street food. 

TIP: If you have any time left in your day trip to Hull, head to The Deep , a world-class, aquarium on the waterfront. 

How to visit : Hull can easily be accessed by train from York, Sheffield, or Leeds. Hull’s central rail station is just a 15-minute walk to the Museum Quarter. 

16. Newby Hall

Newby Hall is an 18th-century country house with beautiful gardens. It’s a favorite day out for many Yorkshire families, especially those on a multigenerational trip. The privately-owned Newby Hall helpfully offers separate entrance tickets to the stately home and the extensive gardens. So depending on your interests, you can choose which sections of the estate to visit. 

Newby Hall manor was built in the 1690s by Sir Christopher Wren who also built St. Paul’s Cathedral in London. The house is elegantly and elaborately decorated in an 18th-century style. You can visit recreated dining rooms and bedrooms, with highlights including the Billiards Room and the intricate needlework of the Tapestry Room. 

The colorful, landscaped gardens are dotted with winding paths leading to special interest sections such as the Tropical Garden or the White Garden. For reluctant little legs, there is a miniature steam railway that runs a 1.4-kilometer loop around a section of the garden that borders the River Ure.

However, the main attraction for families at Newby Hall is a huge, outdoor adventure playground. Kids will love the aerial slide, climbing frames, sandpit, and rope-operated aerial swing boats. Adults are not left out and are able to use the pedalo boats on the playground’s central lake. 

TIP: If you have any time after your day trip to Newby Hall, check out Ripon Cathedral in the nearby market town of Ripon. This stunning cathedral retains its original 7th-century crypt from the church that was originally built here by St Wilfred. 

The current church that now stands above the crypt was built in the 12th century. It is world-famous for its unusual misericords (supports in the choir stalls) which date from the late 15th century. 

How to visit:  Newby Hall is only accessible by car and is approximately a 40-minute drive from York. For practical information and opening times, please check their website .

17. The Forbidden Corner

The Forbidden Corner near Bedale is a fun, 4-acre park and a very unique Yorkshire attraction. Visitors receive a ‘map’ upon entry which shows you what there is to see inside the park. However, the map does not tell you how to find these attractions.

You have to follow every path and turn every door handle in a quest to discover the park’s secret passageways and underground chambers. It’s one of the best things to do in the  Yorkshire Dales with kids !

You will need to squeeze through narrow walls, crawl through cramped tunnels, and dodge water-spouting statues and follies. In other words, a visit to the Forbidden Corner is about expecting the unexpected! 

The park can be rushed in 2-3 hours but you will need longer if you want to discover all the park’s attractions. Food is not allowed inside The Forbidden Corner but there is a large, shaded picnic area outside the park entrance.

TIP: Spend the rest of your day exploring Tupgill Park in which the Forbidden Corner is situated. 

How to visit: Bedale is a one-hour drive from the city of York and a 1,5 hrs drive from Leeds. After leaving the major A1 (M) road, you will be driving on winding, undulating roads to reach the Forbidden Corner. For more info, please consult their website .

Because this place is so special and quirky, no pictures do it justice. Take a look at the video below if you want to get an idea of what to expect.

How to get to Yorkshire

Yorkshire is a 5-hour drive or just 2 hours by train from London . The region can be reached in 3 hours by train from Edinburgh .

The nearest airport is Leeds Bradford International Airport, located in West Yorkshire. The airport has good bus links to local train stations and to other parts of Yorkshire. 

Alternatively, many visitors arrive by ferry into the East Yorkshire city of Hull. Ferries travel to Hull from Rotterdam in the Netherlands and from Zeebrugge in Belgium.

How to travel around Yorkshire

Yorkshire is England’s biggest county and encompasses a large section of the north of England. It is divided into the smaller counties of North Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, West Yorkshire and East Riding of Yorkshire.

The major cities of each area – Leeds, Sheffield, York, and Hull can be accessed by motorway, major ‘A’ roads, and by frequent, fast rail links. 

There is a good public bus network to explore Yorkshire’s smaller towns and villages. But to fully explore rural Yorkshire, it’s best to hire a car ( see here for car rental ). Self-driving in Yorkshire is easy; roads are well maintained with good signposting. 

However, if you are visiting rural areas such as the Yorkshire Dales or Yorkshire Moors, you should be prepared for narrow, winding roads with high hedges and dry-stone walls blocking visibility in places. Yorkshire is dotted with one-lane roads, blind bends, and summits. So adjust your speed and familiarize yourself with the rules of countryside driving. 

In addition, country roads can add a significant amount of time onto relatively short journeys. For example, from the city of York to Ingleton in the Yorkshire Dales is only 68 miles / 109 km, but due to the nature of the roads, the journey time averages 2 hours each way.  

Where to stay for exploring Yorkshire

The city of York is a perfect base for exploring the rest of Yorkshire. York lies in the middle of the region and has excellent road, rail and bus links around the county.

Traveling by train, you can reach Leeds in 30 minutes and Hull in 50 minutes. By car, it is a 1-hour drive to the edge of the Yorkshire Dales and a 1 ½ hour drive to the North Yorkshire Coast.

TIP: If you don’t want to rent a car, York is the best base for exploring as well. There are many great organized tours from York that allow you to easily see some of the best places in Yorkshire.

Here are some nice hotels in York for all budgets:

• £££££ The Grand, York – a wonderful 5-star hotel with an excellent location.
• ££££ Hilton York and Novotel York Centre are popular choices among the 4-star hotels in York.
• £££ Park Inn by Radisson York City Centre – a great 3-star hotel, one of the best picks in York.
• ££ Ibis York Center is a good lower-budget option in York.

TIP: Using the map below, you can find the best deals for hotels, B&Bs, and short-term rental accommodations in and around York . Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see what’s available for your stay. Check it out!

More inspiration for your trip to England:

• Best Things to Do in Liverpool
• Liverpool Day Trip from London
• Best Things to Do in Manchester
• Manchester in One Day
• Best Places to Visit in Cornwall
• Where to Stay in Cornwall
• Best Things to Do in Blackpool
• Tips for Visiting Blackpool
• Places to Go Near Blackpool
• The Beatles Attractions in Liverpool

London travel guides:

• Tips for Visiting London
• Best Things to Do in London
• 2 Days London Itinerary
• Hidden Gems of London
• Things to Do in Greenwich
• Things to Do in Camden Town
• London with Kids
• Best Views of London
• Best Day Tours from London

Travel inspiration for Scotland:

• Top Things to Do in Edinburgh
• Isle of Skye Itinerary
• Scotland Whisky Tour
• One Day in Edinburgh
• One Day in Glasgow

READ ALSO: Best Traditional British Dishes to Try in the UK

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

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Colleen Bower

Wednesday 18th of January 2023

Thank you so much for this website it has given me plenty of ideas as I was not sure of best place to stay but it looks like York best place to be in and do tours. Again great website thank you

Thursday 19th of January 2023

Glad to hear you found it useful, Colleen. York can be a great base especially if you want to take some tours. But if you are renting a car, you can also plan a mini road trip around the region. It's all about how you prefer to travel. Have a great trip!

Friday 4th of February 2022

Wonderful website! Beautiful photos and helpful info

Thanks, Denise. Happy travels!

Saturday 20th of March 2021

Yorkshire is awesome

With most of our team residing in the United Kingdom when not traveling, we know this country very well. There is so much more to discover in England, Ireland, Wales, and Scotland than just the usual tourist haunts (although they are amazing too, just a little more crowded).

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11 Of The Most Beautiful Places In Yorkshire To Visit

We’ve handpicked some of the most beautiful places in Yorkshire for you to visit. It’s the ultimate bucket list of picturesque spots. Yorkshire is home to some of the finest walks, from waterfalls to historic cities, towns and villages. It has it all. Enjoy our list of some of our favourite places to visit here at The Yorkshireman.

From picturesque villages to stunning natural landscapes, we traversed the length and breadth of God’s Own County, reveling in its splendor. With a growing trend towards local travel, it’s set to be a stellar year for tourism, catering to both visitors and residents alike.

From the rugged beauty of the Yorkshire Dales to the enchanting allure of the Peak District, we’ve left no stone unturned in our quest to unearth the gems of this remarkable county. Whether you’re seeking quaint villages, emerging hotspots, or timeless classics, settle in, brew a cuppa, and immerse yourself in some of the most beautiful spots to visit in Yorkshire

1. Hutton-le-Hole, North York Moors

The  North York Moors  National Park is one of the real wonders of Yorkshire. Its rugged moors, coastline and idyllic villages make it one of the most incredible places to explore.

And, speaking of  villages , Hutton-le-Hole, North York Moors is one of the unique places to explore where moorland sheep roam freely along the wide green.The popular beauty spot is known for its village green that takes centre stage with the picturesque view of the footbridges across the stream that runs through the village. 

2. Robin Hood’s Bay , Yorkshire Coast

The picturesque fishing village holds a dark past of smugglers and gangs walking its streets hundreds of years ago. You can learn about the fascinating secrets the cove holds and more with our list of the best things to do in  Robin Hood’s Bay  including with enjoying the sand beach which offers fantastic opportunities for rock pool exploring and ancient fossils.

You can also wander through its narrow, twisting cobbled streets and alleyways, and visit its old-fashioned traditional pubs where smugglers would frequent and tell tales of their finds along the  Yorkshire Coast .

3. Malham , Yorkshire Dales – Most Beautiful Places Yorkshire

One of Yorkshire’s most famous walking spots Malham has a number of fantastic walks on its doorstep. You can take in some beautiful sights without having to travel far from Malham, such as Janet’s Foss, Gordale Scar the cove and a big old hike away is Malham Tarn. After all those walks you can head back over to Malham and enjoy a pint of ale at one of its pubs.

The cracked limestone creates a unique eerie landscape is an awe-inspiring viewpoint in which you can take in God’s Own Country.

4. Sutton Bank, North York Moors

The North York Moors National Park is one of our favourite parts of Yorkshire and is one of the most beautiful places in Yorkshire. Its varied and rugged landscape makes for some beautiful walks. Especially this time of the year – and we aren’t the only ones who think so as one of Yorkshire’s most famous Yorkshiremen was quite partial to a certain part of it.

Sutton Bank with its famous landmark, the  Kilburn White Horse  was proclaimed by the author of the famous novels  All Creatures Great and Small ,  Alf Wight, more commonly known as his author name James Herriot as ‘the finest view in England.

4. Knaresborough , North Yorkshire

Fancied a trip around Italy this summer? Since that’s potentially out of the question, why not take a trip to Yorkshire’s very own answer to Venice? Wander around the labyrinth of medieval cobbled streets and soak up the history of the charming market town, Knaresborough in the Borough of Harrogate, North Yorkshire. 

Dating back to the 5th century, Knaresborough is one of Yorkshire’s  prettiest market towns  due to its unique placement – overlooking the beautiful River Nidd. The small market town has everything that a visitor could desire and more, with glorious pubs, a quaint town centre and small cafes and independent shops to experience during a visit.

5. Ilkley Moor , West Yorkshire – Most Beautiful Places Yorkshire

One of the most famous parts of Yorkshire, Ilkley Moor found on the outskirts of Leeds is a picturesque piece of moorland that overlooks the market town of Ilkley. It’s perfect for photographs with the cow and calf structure making for a great old picture with the heather bringing the snap to life. There are usually sheep lolling around also.

Standing proudly on Ilkley Moor, the Cow and Calf Rocks are a subject of fascination here in Yorkshire – thanks to its natural formation that many say resembles a cow and a calf.One of the great natural wonders in Yorkshire it is surrounded by stunning heather, a synonymous sight with West Yorkshire, with sheep often roaming the area, too, providing quite the idyllic mood.

Read More: The 14 Most Beautiful Villages In Yorkshire To Visit

6. Aysgarth Falls , Yorkshire Dales

One of the most famous waterfall walks in the Yorkshire Dales, Aysgarth Falls is a trio of small waterfalls found on the River Ure.

You can enjoy an incredible circular walk through Wensleydale taking in the three-flight waterfall. It has lots of pop culture accolades such as featuring in Robin Hood Prince Of Thieves, Williams Wordsworth visits and Turner and Ruskin paintings.

The pretty spot makes for some beautiful photographs – which is why thousands of people flock every single year. 

7. Fountains Abbey , North Yorkshire

One of Yorkshire’s popular tourist attractions  Fountain’s Abbey , is stunning and a great palce to revel in the beauty that both the structure and its surrounding parkland hold. It’s no secret: we absolutely love it, and it seems we’re not the only ones.

The 800 acres of the historical monument were founded in 1132 and were in operation for 400 years until Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries. It then fell into ruins before becoming a popular tourist attraction.

8. York, North Yorkshire

Known for its cobbled streets and beautiful minster,  York  is a city that has a sense of community to it with all of its quaint  pubs and bars  to frequent.

Whether you’re taking a stroll down The Shambles, wandering around the ancient walls, or visiting the popular Shambles Market, you’re not stuck for things to do in the beautiful city of York in North Yorkshire that you can visit more than once.

9. Castle Howard, North Yorkshire

Beauty and Yorkshire are synonymous. The county is one of the most beautiful, if not the most beautiful, places in the world. And, we aren’t even a little bit biased. Honest.

And one of its beautiful pieces of architecture has been named the most beautiful  stately home  in the world. Having been there for their  Christmas event , we’d have to agree. Castle Howard is an absolute delight.

10. North Landing, East Yorkshire

There are no greater views than that of the lesser-known North Landing beach at Flamborough Head, which can be found by just heading further up from Bridlington.As the weather warms up, there’s nothing like a refreshing breeze off the ocean and a paddle with an ice cream cone in hand to relieve the suffocating heat.

North Landing’s lovely beach has an intimate air to it, as though the white chalky cliffs of Flamborough encircle you and make you feel secluded. The natural cove, which is made up of soft sand and stones, is ideal for swimming, cave exploration, and rockpool hunting for marine life.

11. Haworth & Bronte Country, West Yorkshire – Most Beautiful Places Yorkshire

Tucked away in the Pennine Hills of West Yorkshire, you’ll find an idyllic village called Haworth. which is one of the most beautiful places in Yorkshire. And while it may be small, it’s not one to overlook.Surrounded by vast countryside peppered with stunning purple heather (a familiar sight for rural West Yorkshire), the traditional village is a literary mecca – with belletristic history running deep into its veins.

And we’re not talking ‘literary’ in the  Harry Potter -esque sense like York, Scotland and London – we’re talking rich history that dates right back to the 1800s – with Haworth providing an inspirational backdrop to three authors in particular. The Brontë sisters.

Read More: 10 Of The Most Inspirational Views In The Peak District

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Nathan Ellis

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Enjoy Yorkshire

Yorkshire Tourist Attractions

Nestled in the heart of England, Yorkshire is a treasure trove of captivating landscapes, historic sites, and cultural gems that beckon travelers from around the world. From the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales to the bustling city life of Leeds, this county boasts an array of attractions that cater to diverse interests. In this blog post, we will embark on a virtual journey to discover some of the best tourist attractions that make Yorkshire a must-visit destination.

Top 5 Yorkshire Tourist Attractions

• York Minster: A Gothic Marvel

No trip to Yorkshire is complete without a visit to York Minster, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that stands as a symbol of the city’s rich history. This awe-inspiring cathedral dates back to the 7th century and boasts magnificent stained glass windows, intricate stone carvings, and a breathtaking interior. Visitors can climb the Central Tower for panoramic views of York, making this a highlight for both history enthusiasts and architecture lovers.

• The Yorkshire Dales: Nature’s Playground

For those seeking a retreat into nature, the Yorkshire Dales National Park offers an idyllic escape. Verdant valleys, limestone cliffs, and charming villages characterize this stunning landscape. Hikers can explore the famous Three Peaks – Ingleborough, Whernside, and Pen-y-ghent – while cyclists can follow scenic trails, immersing themselves in the tranquility of the countryside.

• Saltaire: Industrial Heritage Unveiled

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Saltaire is a Victorian model village near Bradford that pays homage to Yorkshire’s industrial heritage. Named after Sir Titus Salt, who built the village for his mill workers in the 19th century, Saltaire showcases well-preserved mill buildings, quaint streets, and the fascinating Salts Mill. Today, this area has transformed into a cultural hub with art galleries, shops, and restaurants.

• The Brontë Parsonage Museum: Literary Legacy in Haworth

Literature enthusiasts will find solace in the Brontë Parsonage Museum, located in the picturesque village of Haworth. The former home of the Brontë sisters – Charlotte, Emily, and Anne – has been preserved as a museum, offering a glimpse into the lives and works of these iconic authors. The windswept moors surrounding Haworth inspired the Brontë sisters’ literary classics, making this a pilgrimage site for fans of Wuthering Heights and Jane Eyre.

• Leeds: Urban Vibrancy and Cultural Delights

For those who appreciate the energy of city life, Leeds stands as a dynamic cultural hub. The Royal Armouries Museum showcases an impressive collection of arms and armor, while the Leeds Art Gallery and the Henry Moore Institute celebrate the city’s artistic prowess. The vibrant mix of shopping districts, diverse cuisine, and a thriving nightlife make Leeds a must-visit urban destination within Yorkshire.

Yorkshire, with its diverse tapestry of attractions, offers a travel experience that caters to every taste. Whether you are drawn to the rich history of York Minster, the natural beauty of the Yorkshire Dales, the industrial legacy of Saltaire, the literary charm of Haworth, or the urban vibrancy of Leeds, this county unfolds as a multifaceted gem waiting to be explored. So, pack your bags, embark on a journey through Yorkshire, and immerse yourself in the magic that this captivating region has to offer.

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Yorkshire Travel Guide

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: May 29, 2023

O ur  Yorkshire Travel Guide  includes recommended places to visit and things to do, best day trips, accommodation options, tips and more for England’s largest county. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Yorkshire (or as the locals like to call it “God’s own country”

Plan your visit to Yorkshire

Yorkshire, England’s largest county offers visitors historic cities, beautiful countryside, pretty seaside towns, areas of outstanding natural beauty, rivers, waterfalls, 3 National Parks and countless day trip opportunities.

What you will find in this complete Yorkshire Travel Guide

Map showing the location of Yorkshire

When is the best time of year to visit yorkshire, how many days do you need in yorkshire, what is the best way to explore yorkshire, 🚆 by train from london – york, 🚙 by car, listen to our podcasts about visiting yorkshire.

• St Mary's Guest House

Jorvik House

🎟 tickets, tours & attractions in yorkshire, books set in yorkshire, 💛 enjoy your visit to yorkshire, 📖 yorkshire travel guide – visiting yorkshire faq’s.

With warm summers and cool winters, Yorkshire is a great destination all year round.

During winter snow can fall on higher ground which can make some roads at higher altitudes over the Pennines impassable. Always check the weather before planning any road trips and hikes.

Wrap up warmly (wear layers) with waterproof boots and jackets. Christmas celebrations and markets in many of the cities and historic houses make this a popular time to visit.

Spring days are mild to warm with wet weather to be expected too (it is England after all). In summer the days are warm with the occasional hot day thrown in. Days are long so expect daylight into the late evening.

Enjoy the colours of Autumn during the cooler months of September to November.

• Read more about the best time to visit the UK in my detailed guide.

There are a number of festivals and events held in Yorkshire during the year including

• Yorkshire Dales Food & Drink Festival 21st/22nd/23rd July 202 3
• Tramlines – 3 day music festival in Sheffield 21/22/23 July 202 3
• Whitby Goth Weekend 28/29/30 April 2023 & 27/28/29 Oct 2023

Durham is the perfect weekend break (or UK staycation) destination although you can spend a day in the city and explore the main sights if you prefer.

If you are travelling around the UK by train we recommend including Durham in your train trip itinerary . Durham is only a few hours by train from both London and Edinburgh. Durham train station is located a 10-minute walk from the city centre.

By train – Much of Yorkshire can be travelled by train (particularly to and from the larger cities) Take the Settle to Carlisle line which is one of the UK’s most scenic train lines (and one of our top 10 train lines to take in the UK)

There are also popular heritage railways such as the North Yorkshire Moors Railway or the Wensleydale Railway.

Check out timetables and prices at thetrainline.com

By car – Yorkshire is perfect for a road trip with many scenic driving roads. If you are travelling around by car there are many Park & Ride schemes available which make parking easier. Park & Ride can be found in York, Leeds, Scarborough, Sheffield and Whitby.

What is the best way to travel to Yorkshire from London?

For timetables and tickets, we recommend the trainline. Take the train to Durham for a short break or incorporate it into your UK train travel itinerary.

• Distance from London: 320 km
• Time taken by train: Just under 2 hours
• Leave from: London Euston or London King’s Cross

Tip – If this is your first time catching a train in the UK read our complete guide to UK train travel which includes all the information you need to know to make travelling around the UK by rail a relaxing and stress-free experience.

Yorkshire is served by an excellent road network that provides easy access from the north or south of the country.

⬆️ Follow the A1/A1(M) motorway from the south.

⬇️ From the north take the A1 and A19

Read – UK transportation guide

⭐️ Attractions, things to do and best day trips in Yorkshire

Click the links for more information about the best places to visit in Yorkshire.

YORK TRAVEL GUIDE

TOP 10 PLACES TO VISIT IN YORKSHIRE

BEST YORKSHIRE DAY TRIPS

FOUNTAINS ABBEY & STUDLEY ROYAL WATER PARK

THINGS TO DO IN YORK

• Episode #3 – Discover York
• Episode #16 – Best day trips from York

🏩 Yorkshire Accommodation

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN YORKSHIRE or BEST PLACES TO STAY IN YORK

Accommodation Quick Picks (York)

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Superb location in the city centre. Swimming pool, sauna and gym.

St Mary’s Guest House

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Wifi and free parking B&B with excellent reviews

Boutique Hotel in historic location with spacious rooms and helpful staff 

Find more special stays in my Accommodation Guide for England.

⭐️ CLICK FOR MORE INFO ABOUT OUR TRAVEL ITINERARY PLANNERS

This guide will have provided inspiration plus practical information to help plan your visit to Yorkshire. These posts will also provide practical advice for travelling around the UK:

• UK train travel guide
• Britain by train – top 10 UK rail journeys (+ map & tips)
• 17 Things to do in the Cotswolds
• Oxford Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)
• Whitby Travel Guide

Find more inspiration for your travels in my England Travel Guide which includes information about what to see, where to stay, how to get around, travel tips, recommended reading and more to make the most of your trip.

Top Tourist Attractions in Yorkshire and the Humber

York Minster

York Minster, formally the "Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of Saint Peter in York", is an Anglican cathedral in the city of York,…

The Shambles is an old street in York, England, with overhanging timber-framed buildings, some dating back as far as the fourteenth century.

Clifford's Tower

A silent witness of York's long history, the tower was built by William the Conqueror and it's the last remnant of York Castle.

Whitby Abbey

Whitby Abbey was a 7th-century Christian monastery that later became a Benedictine abbey.

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal

Studley Royal Park including the ruins of Fountains Abbey is a designated World Heritage Site in North Yorkshire, England.

Newgate Market

This daily open market is packed with various goods and everyone can find something interesting here, from food to fashion items.

Museum Gardens

The York Museum Gardens are botanic gardens in the centre of York, England, beside the River Ouse.

Yorkshire Sculpture Park

The Yorkshire Sculpture Park is an open-air gallery in West Bretton, Wakefield in West Yorkshire, England, showing work by British and…

Harewood House & Gardens

Harewood House is a country house in Harewood, West Yorkshire, England.

Kirkstall Abbey (Ruins)

Kirkstall Abbey is a ruined Cistercian monastery in Kirkstall, north-west of Leeds city centre in West Yorkshire, England.

Rievaulx Abbey

Rievaulx Abbey was a Cistercian abbey in Rievaulx, near Helmsley, in the North York Moors National Park, North Yorkshire, England.

Waltham Windmill

Waltham Windmill is a six-sailed windmill located in the village of Waltham, five miles from Grimsby in North East Lincolnshire, England.

White Horse of Kilburn

The Kilburn White Horse, grid reference SE516813, is a hill figure cut into the hillside in the North York Moors National Park near…

Richmond Castle

Richmond Castle in Richmond, North Yorkshire, England, stands in a commanding position above the River Swale, close to the centre of the…

Middleham Castle

Middleham Castle is a ruined castle in Middleham in Wensleydale, in the county of North Yorkshire, England.

Ripley Castle

Ripley Castle is a Grade I listed 14th-century country house in Ripley, North Yorkshire, England, 3 miles north of Harrogate.The house is…

St Robert's Cave

Robert of Knaresborough was a British hermit who lived in a cave by the River Nidd, Knaresborough, North Yorkshire.

Conisbrough Castle

Conisbrough Castle is a medieval fortification in Conisbrough, South Yorkshire, England.

Brodsworth Hall and Gardens

Brodsworth Hall, near Brodsworth, 5 miles north-west of Doncaster in South Yorkshire, is one of the most complete surviving examples of a…

Gordale Scar

Gordale Scar is a limestone ravine 1 mile north-east of Malham, North Yorkshire, England.

Carlton Towers

Carlton Towers in the parish of Carlton, 5 miles south-east of Selby, North Yorkshire, England, is a very large Grade I listed country…

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Places to visit in North Yorkshire

When you visit North Yorkshire, you’ll soon embrace the great outdoors. Bring your walking shoes for uphill climbs across Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors to castles and abbey ruins that frame the landscape, and afterwards, recharge in regal spa town tearooms and market town pubs over jugs of locally brewed Ruby Ale. One of the best things to do in North Yorkshire of all is amble round historic York, with its gothic York Minster cathedral decked out in stained glass. Get lost in cobbled snickelway passages, or take in ancient forts and bridges on a River Ouse cruise.

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24 hours in Whitby

Scratch the surface of the Gothic, historic and dramatic seaside town of Whitby, perched on the Yorkshire Coast.

8 places to switch off in North Yorkshire

Feast your eyes on dramatic coastal scenery, historic abbeys, and hidden villages on your next short break to the Yorkshire coast.

Take afternoon tea at Bettys Café Tea Rooms

Experience vintage English hospitality and choose from hundreds of delicious treats and tea varieties in this iconic Art Deco café.

Location: Harrogate, North Yorkshire

Kiss under the Heart of Yorkshire window at the Minster

According to legend, all loved up couples that kiss under the 'Heart of Yorkshire' window, will stay together forever.

Location: York, North Yorkshire

Go shopping medieval-style along The Shambles

Travel back in time along one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval shopping streets, with cheerful cafés and quirky shops in timber-framed buildings.

March along England's longest medieval city walls

Enjoy a bird's-eye view of the city and stroll along its 13th century defensive walls, passing historic landmarks, gatehouses and gardens.

Get on board at the National Railway Museum

The world's largest railway museum is home to a staggering collection of restored locomotives, including the fastest steam engine of all time.

Rainy Day Activities: Step back in time at York Castle Museum

Travel back in time on a rainy day at this trend-setting museum, which transports visitors back through 300 years of history.

Go ghost hunting in ‘Europe's most haunted city’

York claims to be the world’s first city to run ghost walks – you’ll soon see why, with tales of murder, mayhem and gore at every corner.

Take a cruise along the River Ouse

The city of York owes its existence to the rivers. Escape the city rush and admire the scenery from the comfort of a City Cruises boat.

Explore the city of York by bike

York is voted as one of the most bike-friendly cities in England with a wide range of cycle routes through the city and beyond.

See England's finest view from Sutton Bank

Celebrated author and vet James Herriot gave the view from Sutton Bank the ultimate accolade – “England’s finest”. Find out if he was right…

Location: Sutton Bank, near Thirsk, North Yorkshire

Keeping it in the family at Castle Howard

The Howard family has called Castle Howard home for 300 years but their house is your house as you explore one of Yorkshire’s finest historic estates.

Celebrate Ryedale's heritage at the Folk Museum

Discover this hidden gem deep in the North York Moors National Park and uncover English antiques and curiosities.

Location: Hutton-le-Hole, North Yorkshire

Take on adventures aplenty in Dalby Forest

See some of Yorkshire’s beautiful countryside from a mountain bike, Segway, tree-top trail and by night, at one of the UK’s premier activity centres.

Location: Dalby Forest, North Yorkshire

Dive into an underwater world at SEA LIFE Scarborough

Discover a magical underwater world at one of North Yorkshire's best family attractions.

Location: Scarborough, North Yorkshire

Get your jazz hands out for the Scarborough Jazz Festival

Each September, the annual Scarborough Jazz Festival on Yorkshire’s north coast provides the ideal tonic for music lovers to wash away those summer blues.

Enjoy a magical ride across the English countryside

With your day ticket in hand, hop on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and discover some of the best villages in UK between Pickering and Whitby.

Location: Whitby, North Yorkshire

Savour family fun in sandy Scarborough

If you’re looking for good old-fashioned fun that's easy on the wallet, you might want to consider Scarborough beach, also known as the “St Tropez of the North”.

Be royalty for a day at Scarborough Castle

Take an audio tour around the Castle, enjoy breathtaking views from the headland of the North Yorkshire Coast and have tea in a historic building.

Explore historic Whitby Abbey

Discover how over 2,000 years of history made Whitby Abbey one of England’s most important archaeological sites.

Create your own work of art in a quaint artist’s bolthole

Get the creative juices following and spend the weekend discovering inspiring landscapes just waiting to be captured.

Location: Staithes, North Yorkshire

Delve into the story of Dracula

Probe into the dramatic history of Bram Stoker’s Dracula in the very place where the stories of the bloodthirsty vampire were born.

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Yorkshire Dales & Harrogate

With its patchwork green valleys, craggy cliff faces and farmland laced with limestone walls, it’s little wonder that the Yorkshire Dales National Park is a film star in its own right.

North York Moors

Rights-of-way footpaths cut across heather coated heathland, ridges and North Sea cliff edges in the North York Moors. Follow dinosaur footprints to the Jurassic bays of the Heritage Coast.

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18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Leeds, West Yorkshire

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Bryan Dearsley visited Northern England in the spring of 2022 and explored Yorkshire, including the city of Leeds .

This pleasant university city on the River Aire in West Yorkshire offers great shopping and sightseeing in its historic downtown area, and has a number of interesting museums and art galleries among its attractions. Leeds also has a long-established tradition of industry, especially textiles, and its primary importance is as West Yorkshire's commercial and financial center.

The city is also the cultural hub of the area and boasts numerous fun things to do. Highlights include annual events such as the Leeds Festival in Bramham Park; the Leeds International Concert Season , a year-long celebration of music featuring more than 200 concerts; and the Leeds International Film Festival , England's second-largest festival dedicated to cinema.

The city's many attractive parks and gardens are ideal for relaxing walks. Must-visits include the 700-acre Roundhay Park , one of the country's largest city parks, and Golden Acre Park .

The surrounding Yorkshire Dales and moors are also worth exploring and offer some of the country's best hiking and biking trails. Particularly popular is the Meanwood Valley Trail , site of an annual footrace that draws participants from across Britain, along with famous Ilkley Moor.

To learn more about why Leeds is fast becoming one of the most popular places to visit in England, be sure to read through our list of the top tourist attractions in Leeds, West Yorkshire.

See also: Where to Stay in Leeds

1. Civic Quarter & Leeds Civic Hall

2. the headrow & leeds town hall, 3. briggate, 4. the victoria quarter, 5. the royal armouries museum, leeds, 6. st. john the evangelist's church, 7. leeds corn exchange, 8. harewood house, harewood, 9. leeds industrial museum at armley mills, armley, 10. leeds art gallery, 11. temple newsam house, 12. thackray medical museum, 13. leeds grand theatre & opera house, 14. lotherton hall, aberford, 15. abbey house and museum, kirkstall, 16. the cathedral city of wakefield, 17. the national coal mining museum for england, overton, 18. harrogate: britain's floral resort, where to stay in leeds for sightseeing.

The hub of Leeds' Civic Quarter is the pedestrian area known as City Square . It is famous for its numerous statues, including figures of the Black Prince and inventor James Watt, and is a popular public space for locals and visitors alike to spend time.

A variety of the city's most important cultural attractions are also located within the Civic Quarter. The top places to visit for a dose of culture include the excellent Leeds Art Gallery, the Henry Moore Institute, and the interesting Craft Centre and Design Gallery that features works by local and national artisans (many of them for sale).

Another important city structure is Leeds Civic Hall with its owl-decorated towers, the heraldic emblem of the city. Free tours and exhibits are held frequently.

Finally, be sure to visit Millennium Square, a focal point for theatrical performances and concerts. The square is also the location of Leeds City Museum, with its excellent departments of geology, zoology, ethnology, and archaeology.

The Headrow is a pedestrian-friendly half-mile-long avenue where many of the city's premier shopping, civic, and cultural attractions are found.

Perhaps the most notable building here is Leeds Town Hall, which served as the template for countless civic buildings across Britain and its empire. It was consecrated in 1858 by Queen Victoria. A lovely Corinthian colonnade adorns its front, dominated by a 200-foot-tall clock tower. Its ornate Victoria Hall is used frequently for concerts. Note that the building is currently undergoing a massive refurbishment and is closed to the public until 2024.

Headrow leads into Westgate, Eastgate, and Quarry Hill, which also host important cultural attractions. These include the West Yorkshire Playhouse , the biggest production theater outside London, and the Grade-II-listed Leeds City Varieties , the oldest music hall in the world.

Another theatrical landmark is the Grand Theatre . This "grand" old opera house serves as home to Opera North.

Address: The Headrow, Leeds, West Yorkshire

Official site: www.leedstownhall.co.uk

The pedestrianized Briggate area is famous for its historic shopping arcades , many of them of architectural significance. Those to explore include Grand Arcade, built in 1897 and home to a number of small boutique shops, and Thorntons Arcade , which was completed in 1878 and notable for its clock with four life-size figures.

Also worth visiting is Queens Arcade. Opened in 1889, it's home to a variety of high-end designer and novelty shops. A more modern affair, Trinity Leeds is a vast indoor shopping and entertainment complex where it's easy to spend a few hours exploring.

The Victoria Quarter is another great destination in Leeds city center for shopping enthusiasts. The jewel in the crown here is undoubtedly Queen Victoria Street . Although only arcaded in 1990, it's the largest expanse of stained glass in Europe and worth visiting if only for a stroll.

The neighboring County Arcade in the Victoria Quarter was completed in 1903 and is also fun to explore. Highlights include its magnificent marble floors, intricate stonework, and elegant iron domes.

Address: Queen Victoria St., Leeds, West Yorkshire

Official site: www.victorialeeds.co.uk

Located in the city's dock area, the Royal Armouries Museum is home to Britain's national collection of arms and armor. Boasting more than 8,500 objects on display in six impressive galleries, the museum covers some 3,000 years of armor and weaponry from across the globe.

Highlights include the Tournament Gallery, showcasing the splendor (and brutality) of medieval jousting tournaments, and this is also where you'll find the full-body armor worn by Henry VIII. Also worth seeing is the impressive Oriental Gallery with its many fine examples of arms and armor from Africa and Asia.

There's even a collection of weapons and swords used in the hit movie, The Lord of the Rings . Add live demonstrations and stunning re-enactments to the mix, and this museum is a must-see.

A café and shop are located on the premises.

Address: Armouries Drive, Leeds, West Yorkshire

Official site: www.royalarmouries.org/visit-us/leeds

The finest of Leeds' many lovely churches, and also the city's oldest, is St. John's in New Briggate. Built in 1634, its interior is notable for having two naves, as well as an original Renaissance rood screen, pulpit, and stalls.

Other religious sites worth visiting in Leeds include St. Anne's Cathedral, the Roman Catholic cathedral in Cookridge Street (built 1904), and the Georgian Church of Holy Trinity on the riverbank in Boar Lane (1727).

Also check out the Parish Church of Saint Peter-at-Leeds. Perhaps better known as Leeds Minster, this medieval church was rebuilt in 1841 and is the city's oldest parish church.

Address: 23 New Briggate, Leeds, West Yorkshire

Official site: www.visitchurches.org.uk/visit/church-listing/st-john-leeds.html

One of only three such structures surviving in the UK, the Grade I listed Leeds Corn Exchange is considered one of England's finest Victorian-era buildings. Designed by Cuthbert Brodrick and completed in 1864, the building is now home to an eclectic variety of independent boutique shops, galleries, and cafés.

The Corn Exchange is also a popular venue for everything from markets and fairs to boxing events and concerts.

Location: Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire

Official site: http://leedscornexchange.co.uk/

Harewood House, seat of the Earl of Harewood, is a magnificent Georgian country house that took 30 years to build and was completed in 1771. Just eight miles north of Leeds, this spectacular home has interiors designed by Robert Adam and includes fine wall and ceiling paintings by Angelika Kauffmann and furniture by renowned English furniture maker Thomas Chippendale .

As well as an outstanding collection of porcelain, it has a large number of valuable works by the likes of Reynolds, Gainsborough, and El Greco. Outside, the grounds include a beautiful landscape designed by Capability Brown, with a 32-acre lake, a bird garden, and the remains of a 12th-century castle.

For a truly memorable stay, book into one of the estate's self-catering cottages, all within easy walking distance of the main house.

Address: Sandy Gate, Harewood, Leeds, West Yorkshire

Official site: www.harewood.org

Just two miles west of Leeds city center on Canal Road is the former Armley Mills. Once the world's largest woolen mills, this huge building is now home to the excellent Leeds Industrial Museum.

The museum presents the fascinating history of wool production in Yorkshire from the 18th century onwards, as well as exhibits concerning the manufacturing of textiles and clothing, printing, engineering, and locomotives.

While there, spend a little time exploring the nearby Leeds and Liverpool Canal, which links these two important industrial cities. Stretching 127 miles and even crossing the Pennines, this remarkable feat of engineering encompasses some 91 locks on its main line. The Thwaite Mill , a carefully restored watermill in nearby Stourton , is also worth visiting.

Address: Canal Road, Armley, Leeds, West Yorkshire

Official site: https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/leeds-industrial-museum/

Set in Victoria Square near the old Town Hall, a visit to Leeds Art Gallery is a must for art lovers. Its superb collection of works by British artists include 750 paintings by J.S. Cotman (1782-1842), as well as works by Constable and Gainsborough.

Other highlights include works by Italian and French masters such as Courbet, Renoir, and Signac. The neighboring Henry Moore Institute features sculpture galleries containing works by the artist and his contemporaries Jacob Epstein and Barbara Hepworth.

Official site: https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/leeds-art-gallery/

Temple Newsam House, a magnificent 40-room Tudor-Jacobean mansion, is a must-see when in Leeds. Set in a sprawling 900-acre park on the city's outskirts, it's famous as the birthplace of Lord Darnley, the husband of Mary Queen of Scots.

Interior highlights include a variety of Old Master paintings, as well as furniture by Thomas Chippendale and collections of Leeds creamware and silver. Exterior highlights include the beautifully manicured grounds with their marvelous rose bushes and rhododendrons, as well as one of the largest working rare breeds farms in Europe.

A café serving afternoon tea and other offerings is located on-site.

Address: Temple Newsam Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire

Official site: https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/temple-newsam/

The interesting and recently renovated Thackray Medical Museum is well worth checking out. Located next to St. James's University Hospital, this fascinating museum has a collection of 20,000 medical artifacts, and displays the development of medicine through the ages.

Displays include an authentic reproduction of a slum area of Leeds during Victorian times, including the sights, sounds, and even smells that would have permeated such neighborhoods. Other exhibits deal with areas of healthcare and surgery, as well as childbirth. A café and shop are located on the premises.

Address: 141 Beckett Street, Harehills, Leeds, West Yorkshire

Official site: https://thackraymuseum.co.uk

The most important of three historic venues owned and operated by the city of Leeds, the Grand Theatre was built in 1878 and can host up to 1,500 patrons. Centrally located in the city's Briggate district, this attractive red brick building is a focal point for theatre-goers and music lovers thanks to its eclectic program of shows.

In addition to featuring the latest West End theater productions and musicals, pop groups and musicians make it a stop on their cross-country touring schedules. It's also home to Opera North, one of the country's leading operatic companies, which is renown for featuring world premieres of new operas as well as the classics.

Fun workshops and behind-the-scenes tours are also available.

Address: 46 New Briggate, Leeds, West Yorkshire

Official site: https://leedsheritagetheatres.com

Edwardian era Lotherton Hall was built before WWI for the Gascoigne family, avid collectors of antiquities and art. Particularly good are the Oriental Gallery, which has items dating back to the 19th century, and the Nightingale Gallery displaying the work of local artists.

The house is surrounded by a formal Edwardian garden and a bird garden that's home to over 200 species. There are also a number of superb walking trails on-site, as well as an adventure playground for the kids. A picnic area and café are also available for visitors to use.

Location: Off Collier Lane, Aberford, Leeds, West Yorkshire

Official site: https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/lotherton/

Located about four miles west of Leeds in Aire Valley, Abbey House Museum in Kirkstall is in a magnificent Cistercian house built in 1152. The picturesque remains include a roofless church with a narrow choir and a ruined tower, an almost completely preserved chapterhouse, as well as a refectory, kitchen, and various other buildings.

The gatehouse is now part of the Abbey House Museum with its reproduction houses, shops, and workshops illustrating life in Yorkshire through the centuries. If visiting near Christmas, check the attraction's website for details of special events and programs for the kids.

Address: Abbey Walk, Abbey Rd, Kirkstall, Leeds, West Yorkshire

Official site: https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/abbey-house-museum/

The cathedral city of Wakefield, an easy 30-minute drive south of Leeds, contains an interesting open-air sculpture gallery and is the birthplace of English author George Gissing (1857-1903). The Wakefield Theatre hosts performing arts events, as well as a city museum.

Other notable attractions include the ruins of Sandal Castle, Wakefield Cathedral, the and Wakefield Art Gallery. Also worth visiting is Nostell Priory , built on the site of a medieval priory in the 18th century. The house contains a collection of Chippendale furniture, paintings, and Chinese wallpapers.

Another popular destination that's popular for tourists is the National Coal Mining Museum for England. Located at the former Caphouse Colliery in Overton, just a short drive from Wakefield, this first-rate attraction showcases the often hard life of the miners at one of the country's oldest coal mines, as it dates as far back as the 1770s.

Highlights include guided underground tours and a visitor center with exhibits relating to the colliery's long history. For the kids, be sure to catch the fun ride on one of the "paddy" trains used to haul workers around the vast site.

Address: Caphouse Colliery, New Road, Overton, West Yorshire

Official site: www.ncm.org.uk

Harrogate is a pretty spa town that owes its fame to the medicinal springs discovered here in the 16th century. Today, it's primarily a holiday resort known for its parks and flowers , earning it the title of Britain's Floral Resort.

One of its most popular attractions is RHS Garden Harlow Carr . In addition to its diverse garden types, there's a museum of gardening, a model village, and guided tours of the 68-acre site. Harrogate also enjoys a reputation for great shopping on account of its elegant boutiques and antique shops.

For culture vultures, the year-round Harrogate International Festivals consist of a series of excellent festivals. Considered to be among the best such events in the UK, they feature everything from opera to drama performances, as well as cabaret, street theater, and literary events.

Address: 32 Cheltenham Parade, Harrogate, North Yorkshire

Official site: www.harrogateinternationalfestivals.com

We recommend these centrally located hotels near the top attractions in Leeds:

• The Chambers Park Place : This 4-star hotel features luxury apartments in a turn-of-the-century building, individually decorated suites, a library, and underground parking.
• Dakota Leeds : A great choice of mid-range hotel, the Dakota offers stylish décor, subtle lighting, high-quality linens, and rainfall showers in its rooms and suites.
• Roomzzz Aparthotel Leeds City : Popular for its affordable rates, trendy décor, and mix of studios and apartments with kitchens, this hotel also offers a free grab-and-go breakfast.
• Premier Inn Leeds City Centre (Leeds Arena) : This budget hotel is set in a convenient location and features modern décor and clean rooms.

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Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Places to Visit in West Yorkshire

15 Best Places to Visit in West Yorkshire

If you need the fun and culture of a city, Leeds should be your starting point in West Yorkshire, but the dales and moors in the countryside must not be missed.

Adding layers of interest and excitement to rural West Yorkshire is the roll call of cultural giants associated with these villages and towns, from the Brontë sisters to Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth and J.M.W. Turner.

One look at the wild moors at Keighley and Haworth and you’ll be transported to Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights.

If you’re into industrial history, Yorkshire was the wool capital of the world in the 1800s and lots of those imposing old mills are now listed buildings, converted into museums or local amenities.

This city was reborn in the 1990s, bouncing back from the decline of the textile industry that was its lifeblood to become the second largest financial centre in the UK. The two universities also give Leeds a youthful and alternative edge and it’s now a prosperous and dynamic city bursting with culture, dining, nightlife, shopping and sights.

You have to see the beautiful amenities built for the wealthy citizens in 19th century, like the Leeds Corn Exchange, the City Varieties Music Hall and Grand Theatre, or the exquisite shopping arcades.

The Exchange Quarter has become a stylish destination for nights out and dining, and there are first-class museums like the Royal Armouries and the Thackray Medical Museum.

2. Bradford

One of the big centres for the woollen textile industry, the city of Bradford has kept hold of a great deal of its 18th and 19th century heritage.

It doesn’t get grander than Little Germany, which got its name from the Germany Jewish merchants who constructed ornate warehouses to store and sell woollen goods manufactured in the local mills.

These magnificent buildings have been converted, so Little Germany is still a thriving commercial district, with offices and places to shop.

The Bradford Industrial Museum is in the former Moorside Mills and conserves printing and textile machinery, a lot of which has been kept in working order.

And if you’re partial to Indian and Pakistani food you can’t go wrong in Bradford, which has some of the best curry restaurants in England.

3. Wakefield

In industrial times Wakefield was a textiles and coal city: In the village of Overton just to the southwest is the riveting National Mining Museum, in the buildings of the old Caphouse Colliery.

For something more ancient, the spire of the medieval gothic cathedral is still the tallest structure in Wakefield, soaring to 75 metres.

The cathedral was restored in the 19th century but if you go into the choir you’ll be in the former chancel, which has 15th-century bosses carved into the ceiling.

Come back to modern times with the bold new Hepworth Gallery, named for the 20th-century sculptor Barbara Hepworth, a Wakefield native.

More than 40 of her works are on show, as well as pieces by Henry Moore, who was born in Wakefield’s Castleford district.

The large market town of Halifax has been spinning wool since the 1400s, and of course, this business really took off in the Industrial Revolution.

For a humungous slab of industrial history, Dean Clough was one of the world’s biggest carpet factories when it was built in the mid-1850s.

This Grade II-listed complex is slightly north of Halifax and along its half-mile length are now 150 local businesses, including a radio station.

Shibden Hall is an older delight, with a Tudor timber-framed facade, and a team of volunteers happy to recount stories about former occupants of a manor that goes back to the 1400s.

In the out-buildings are old workshops, preserving a traditional tannery, brewery, stables and basket-weaving shop.

5. Huddersfield

Now a university town, Huddersfield grew quickly in the 1700s when it was taken over by woollen textiles mills.

For a voyage back to industrial times you could book a barge ride through the 3-mile-long Standedge Tunnels on the old Huddersfield Narrow Canal.

The sandstone Castle Hill is just to the south of Huddersfield and was the site of some sort of fortification from the Bronze Age onwards.

In 1899, to celebrate Victoria’s record-breaking silver jubilee, a 30-metre stone tower was placed at the crest.

Make the walk for photo-worthy panoramas of Huddersfield laid out in the Holme and Colne valleys below.

In the 1700s the local spring was ascribed health-giving properties and Ilkley  became a spa town.

Wealthy people would come from far and wide to take “hydropathic” treatments, and one of these was Charles Darwin in 1859, at the very time On the Origin of Species was being published.

There’s still an upmarket atmosphere in Ilkley, underlined by the broad streets and sweet Victorian houses with independent shops, tea rooms and award-winning restaurants.

Now people stay in Ilkley to escape to the Yorkshire Dales, and the 84-mile Dales Way trail starts at the Old Bridge right by the centre of town.

Lastly, the All Saints Church is a blend of Victorian and medieval gothic architecture, but you need to look inside to see the three Saxon crosses, dating to the 8th century.

7. Saltaire

There was no such place as Saltaire until the 1850s when the industrialist Sir Titus Salt established his colossal woollen mill next to the River Aire and added streets of handsome cottages for his workers.

This model village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, “model” meaning a place of reference.

All of the houses in Saltaire are listed buildings, and the most protected is the Unified Reformed Church, with an Italianate Classical design drawn up by Salt himself.

In 1986 Jonathan Silver, the same man who helped to convert Halifax’s Dean Clough, bought Salt’s Mill and started turning it into shops, offices and leisure facilities.

Don’t miss the gallery devoted to David Hockney, a native of Bradford.

8. Keighley

If ever there were a location that crystallises the spirit of the Brontë novels it’s Keighley.

The National Trust property East Riddelsden Hall has actually been  a shooting location for a TV adaptation of Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights.

While the countryside of the Keighley Moors and Airedale has the rugged sandstone hills that may send you into romantic reverie.

Or you could sit back and watch the beautiful Worth Valley roll by on the Keighley and Worth Valley Heritage Railway, which still uses steam and diesel locomotives.

In a moody Victorian manor is the Cliffe Castle Museum, which has all kinds of interesting oddities like Victorian costume, fossils, an Egyptian mummy, a mineral collection and machinery and tools relating to local trades and industry.

9. Pontefract

At one time the market town of Pontefract was said to have had the most pubs per square mile in Britain.

While that can’t be true today there are lots of establishments to call in on for a pint and some warming grub.

The big landmark is Pontefract Castle, which has been an eerie ruin since the 17th-century English Civil War when the royalist forces were besieged several times by the Parliamentarians.

Earlier, King Richard II is claimed to have died in Pontefract Castle, and his supposed death at this place is mentioned in Shakespeare’s Richard III.

10. Haworth

Then immerse yourself even more in the mysterious world of the Brontë sisters at Haworth, where the former Brontë family property has been kept as a museum.

All the three sisters spent the majority of their lives in this very house, and nearly all of the objects in the rooms belonged to them.

Hike along the nature trail over the moors to the Brontë Waterfall, a picturesque walk southwest of the village.

You could also show yourself around the Haworth parish church, where their father Patrick Brontë was the minister until 1861.

11. Hebden Bridge

Simultaneously picturesque and defiantly alternative, Hebden Bridge is populated by artists and new age types.

The market town is described as the lesbian capital of the UK, home to a women-only disco and fabled music venue, the Trades Club.

The likes of Damo Suzuki, Nico and Patti Smith have all played here.

If you’re feeling fit you can make the climb up the steep hill to the village of Heptonstall.

Road traffic is banned in this adorable little settlement so if you do come by car you’ll need to park up outside and enter the cobblestone lanes on foot.

In the secondary graveyard at the St. Thomas the Apostle Church is the burial place of the beloved American poet Sylvia Plath.

12. Holmfirth

An adorable little town folded into the Peak District’s heather moorland, Holmfirth is all sandstone cottages and townhouses.

The fondly-remembered BBC sitcom Last of the Summer Wine was filmed in the countryside and outside buildings around Holmfirth.

Many people find themselves in the town for a gig at the Picturedrome, an old cinema converted into a live music venue where artists like Adam Ant and the Buzzcocks have all played.

While others come for the the access to the majestic, undulating landscapes of the Holme Valley, a rambler’s dream.

Nestling in the Wharfdale valley, Otley’s a pretty town that J.M.W. Turner would often visit to paint and see his patron, Walter Ramsden Fawkes.

Weave your way up through forest, heather and meadows to the summit of the Chevin, a 282-metre escarpment.

On the way up there’s a megalithic boundary of big sandstone slabs lining the path.

At “surprise view” you’re granted exhilarating vistas over Otley and lower Wharfdale, which opens out behind.

The River Wharf is beautiful in Otley and a lot of the north bank is parkland taking in the weir and the solemn old tannery and wool mills by the water.

14. Kirkstall

Your main motivation to drive or get the train from Leeds City Centre to this northwestern suburb is for Kirkstall Abbey, a 12th-century Cistercian monastery that was left to fall into ruin after the 16th-century Dissolution of the Monasteries.

Despite being abandoned for 500 years the ruins are remarkably complete and great fun to explore, as the cloister, chapter house and church nave are all easy to identify.

J.M.W. Turner also painted this scene in the 1797.

15. Wetherby

The meandering River Wharfe in Wetherby is uncommonly picturesque and you can get down to the banks to see their weir and a large gear from a mill that used to stand here.

The subject of most photos is Wetherby Bridge, which was built in the 1200s and was once on the Great North Road, running from London to Edinburgh.

J.M.W. Turner came by in 1816 and painted this very scene.

The local Wetherby Racecourse was known for being the only course in Yorkshire that not only hosted national hunt (jump) meetings, but put on its first flat race 2015.

15 Best Places to Visit in West Yorkshire:

• Huddersfield
• Hebden Bridge