family day trips yorkshire

Bairstow on “amazing” Scarborough and Yorkshire’s promotion push

Jonny Bairstow has created some “amazing memories” down the years at Scarborough – and he has just added another one to the list having helped Yorkshire boost their promotion bid with victory over Division Two leaders Sussex.

England star Bairstow returned to county colours last week for the first time this season, scoring a first-innings 57 in the four-wicket victory. He also took four catches behind the stumps in the second innings.

Bairstow, 34, last played at Scarborough in 2015, a venue which was his late father David’s favourite.

“Dad’s ashes are here, and I think that says it all as to what Scarborough means,” said Jonny, when reflecting on his latest trip to North Marine Road.

“It’s obviously an amazing ground for me. I’ve got a lot of family history that’s here. Some amazing memories. It’s a special place in my heart and a special place in a lot of the players’ hearts. We love coming to Scarborough.

“There’s been a lot of good times spent up here at Scarborough.  

Picture by Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com. Jonny Bairstow celebrates his half-century against Sussex.

“For me to play here and be part of a winning side again in what has been a good season, it’s huge. Hopefully we can finish it off with promotion.”

Confidence is certainly high within the Yorkshire camp that promotion can be achieved. No wonder, they’ve won three matches on the bounce, two by an innings and the other against pacesetters Sussex.  

“The bowling effort from the guys – to restrict Sussex to going at under three an over throughout the game at Scarborough is, we know, one hell of an effort,” continued Bairstow.  

“It’s a quick outfield and good pitch. Toiling with the wind, which was there and a constant throughout the three-and-a-bit-days.  

“But I think just a general cohesiveness from the team was something that shone.

“I asked for people to stand up at the start of the week because it’s such a special place. People remember the games here at Scarborough.

Picture by Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com. Sussex’s Ollie Robinson appeals for the wicket of Jonny Bairstow last week.

“For Coady to get the five-for in that second innings was a huge effort from him.”

Bairstow certainly likes what he sees from his Yorkshire team-mates and is more than happy to lend a helping hand to the development of the county’s talented crop of youngsters.  

He said: “Over the last couple of years, there’s been a lot of young lads play, and we’re now starting to see them come through and have a bit more experience.

“We saw Will Luxton getting his maiden fifty (against Sussex), and I’ve got no doubts he will go on and get a hundred very soon because the temperament he’s got and the way he went about it was great.

“You look at which the way people are coming together and uniting – you look at people like George Hill and Matt Revis, who bowled exceptionally well, I’ve mentioned Will Luxton, and there’s Finlay Bean at the top of the order.

“Throughout the last couple of seasons, he’s done really well.

Picture by Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com. Jonny Bairstow signs an autograph for a young fan at North Marine Road.

“For me, it’s just being around and enjoying my cricket.  

“I’ll have a bit of craic with the lads, and if there’s any questions they want to ask, then the experience is there and you’re able to share that knowledge.”

And the 100-Test star added of Middlesex this week: “The mindset will be exactly the same. We regroup and go again.  

“Nothing changes (from Sussex). We knew it was going to be a huge game, and we turned up. Now it’s about backing up those performances.

“We go to Headingley, and it will be a slightly different challenge with the Kookaburra ball.  

“We’ve got to find a way to win.”

Picture by Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com. Jonny Bairstow is backing Will Luxton to post his maiden first-class century sooner rather than later. 

Related news

Preview: yorkshire v middlesex, vitality county championship, our discipline has been top drawer - tattersall, gibson gushing on yorkshire performance, related news.

As the old adage goes, ‘There’s no I in Team’. But Ben Coad has revealed how coach Ottis Gibson has urged himself and the rest of Yorkshire’s bowling group to take a very different view.

Jonny Tattersall believes Yorkshire’s increased discipline has been a key reason for their recent upturn in fortunes in the Vitality County Championship.

Yorkshire coach Ottis Gibson reflected on Yorkshire’s fabulous four-wicket win over Division Two leaders Sussex at Scarborough and beamed: “We’re delighted.”

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Yorkshire Wonders

Travel and Lifestyle Blog about Yorkshire and Beyond

55+ Family Days Out in Yorkshire with the Kids!

Family days out in Yorkshire – I am lucky to live in a fantastic place where there are so many fabulous family days out in Yorkshire to enjoy with the kids!  

Have a look at the list of the days of with kids below that I have compiled of things to do in Yorkshire.

I’ve added in the links to all the places we have reviewed too if you want to know more in detail, see photos or get advice to make the most of your day. 

The Wizard Walk of York

Book tickets for The Wizard Walk of York.

The Magic Hatter is bringing his award-winning entertainment to the streets, with his Wizard Walk of York.

“Magic, mystery, comedy and excitement plus a dash of York’s history…the ingredients for a truly unforgettable experience for all the family!”

Public tours are running on selected evenings, starting from the bottom of The Shambles opposite The Golden Fleece. Pre-booking required.  Private tours are available for birthdays, school groups, brownies, cubs and more. A wonderfully whimsical tour that wizard fans will go Potty for!

Wizard Wand Kits are also available, subject to availability. A handcrafted wand and instructions for seven tricks that young witches and wizards can learn at home. Plus a FREE printable certificate!  

** Note from Nikki: If you have younger kids with you, there is no better tour for you.  We have seen The Magic Hatter many, many times when the kids were little and wholeheartedly recommend him. ** 

North Yorkshire Water Park

Long causeway rd, wykeham, lakes yo13 9qu.

You will find North Yorkshire Water Park near Scarborough.  As well as lots of fantastic water activities, (such as the aqua park, paddle boarding, wakeboarding, kayaking and more!) North Yorkshire Water Park have recently introduced more land activities.  I think they already had a (simply huge) zipline over their lake as well as puzzle rooms, but they have now added axe throwing, archery, a low ropes course and bushcraft to their catalogue of adventures!

Have a look at our review of North Yorkshire Water Park here.

Lightwater Valley, Ripon

Head out on an adventure to Lightwater Valley and discover a world of rides and attractions at one of the best attractions for kids in North Yorkshire.

Enjoy an exciting expedition through the NEW Go Safari area! Step aboard the Savannah Express on a journey through the African wilderness. Leap for joy on Kangaroo Jump before flying high on Elephant Flight and the Monkey Drop rides. Then head over for a flight aboard the Hot Air Balloon ride.

We love Treetop Trails, formerly Treetops Nets. This much-loved attraction takes adventurers on a net walk through the tree canopy high above the park, and will now be included as part of the park’s admission price.

As well as new rides, come and enjoy Lightwater Valley’s young family favourites, including Little Dipper, Carousel, Skyrider, the Lady Bird rollercoaster, Splash Falls and many more.

Take a peaceful glide around the lake aboard a Swan Boat, and see the park from a whole other angle on the Lightwater Valley Express train.

Get behind the wheel and practice your steering on the Vintage Car ride, fly through the sky on Pirate Swinger, and make your own adventures in the indoor and outdoor play areas.

There’s so much to choose from, it’s hard to know which ride to run to first!

Have a look at our review of the new attractions at Lightwater Valley.

Hull Rd, Woodmansey, Beverley HU17 0RS

Let Loose is an adventure park in Beverley in East Yorkshire.  They have so much going on for active kids.  High and Low Ropes (for younger ones), Zips, Roller Skating, Climbing, Archery, Go Carts, Leap of Faith & a Super Slide.

“Our High Ropes Adventure is a challenge for our older participants and for all the family to face their fears and build their courage, (10 years plus). With 18 obstacles to conquer at a 12-meter height, you will be challenging your inner-self physically and mentally whilst having the most fun.

After conquering the high ropes, you will be faced with a 150-meter zip wire with beautiful views across Woodmansey and East Yorkshire. Our zip wire means you and your family or friends can simultaneously zip down the line together on any of our three zip lines.

Once you have conquered the High Ropes and the Zip wire you will be feeling refreshed and full of adrenaline, but your adventure continues with the Big Leap & Super Slide where you will leap and free-fall for a moment onto an airbag and slide down our drop slide and free-fall momentarily onto another airbag.”

Ten Pin Bowling

We have two ten pin bowling alleys in York.  Ten Pin has been in place for many years whilst Hollywood Bowl opened more recently.  As well as bowling both have a cafe and arcade.  

See our review of Hollywood Bowl here on our dedicated York site.

Puttstars Mini Golf

Puttstars Mini Golf opened recently and the first time York has had a mini-golf of this size.  It’s very modern with great technological scoring and cool holes to play.  There are three 9 hole courses, an arcade and cafe bar.  It’s upstairs from Hollywood Bowl, on the Vanguard shopping area which also has lots of restaurants, a cinema and shops.

See our review of Puttstars here on our dedicated York site.

Great Ryedale Maze

The Great Ryedale Maze promises a field full of fun for adults, teenagers and children, with two mazes, an action-packed Vintage Funfair, Football Darts and a Big Top with live entertainment for families.  There will also be a range of hot and cold food and drinks to cater for all tastes, served from the Cabin Café.

The larger of the two mazes, the specially designed Yorkshire Dragon Maze, comprises nine acres of maize plants – that’s 55,000 seeds – and over two miles of paths to challenge the navigation skills, as well as a series of clues to test the powers of deduction.  For younger adventurers there’s the two-acre Mini-Maze, the design of which is still a secret but will feature some colourful characters as well as an environmental message.

The Vintage Funfair brings even more fun this year, for all ages – there’s an exhilarating motorbike ride aboard the 1936 Speedway, a race around the Brooklands Dodgems from 1937, a bird’s eye spin on the 1930s Chair-o-Plane, and for the adventurous, a newly restored 1950s Twister.  Children can climb aboard the oldest ride Hush Hush the Train dating from 1933, while Muffin the Mule and Swing Boats will bring further fun.

See all the details of The Great Ryedale Maze here.

Rock Up in Hull

We recently had my son’s birthday party at Rock Up in Hull.  They have 26 climbing walls that are 8m high!  The kids don’t need any experience and are on a safety harness.  There are things for the younger ones to do there too, like soft play so they don’t miss out on the fun.  

Have a look at our review of Rock Up Hull here.

Castle Howard, York

Castle Howard is a fab place to visit at any time of year and a brilliant place to go in Yorkshire with kids.  They have seasonal activities all year round.  We have written an overall review of Castle Howard with kids, and have also reviewed their fabulous adventure playground Skelf Island.  

Have a look at our review of Castle Howard with kids and our new review and video of Skelf Island.

Kayaking In Yorkshire

With an extensive network of canals with rivers offering flat waters and white-water, Yorkshire is an ideal place for kayaking. But don’t forget to bring your inflatable kayak for 2 person , as it is portable and easy to paddle on the water.  Allerthorpe Lakeland Park is a great place for “watersports fun for all ages and abilities with paddle boarding, pedalos, kayaks, canoes, open water swimming sessions and inflatable AquaPark. Play areas for the little ones. Well behaved dogs are welcome. No personal crafts are allowed.”

Wolds Way Lavender

Scampston, North Yorkshire

Wolds Way Lavender have really been developing their family friendly offering and have a great maze, land train and lawn games.  It’s a great family day out.  

Read our full review of Wolds Way Lavender here.

Treasurer’s House, York

Treasurer’s House is a National Trust property in the centre of York, right next to York Minster.  The house itself is a quirky eclectic mix of styles and the gardens are a beautiful oasis is the middle of busy York.  Usual National Trust fees apply to the house, but the gardens are free to enter.

Have a look at our review of Treasurer’s House here.

Go Ape Dalby Forest

If you are looking for adventure, check out Go Ape’s site for their exhilarating Tree Top Adventure or the Segway Trek.  Once they have finished there, there is an adventure playground at Dalby and a cafe, or you can take your own picnics or barbecues.

Have a look at our review of Go Ape at Dalby Forest here.

Northwood Trail Fairy Sanctuary – Enchanted Woodland Walk

This is a brand new attraction about 15 minutes East of York.  Set in a hundred acres of woodland, the Northwood Trail is an enchanted walk around fairy houses with surprises around every corner.  There is maze around halfway around and a play area and den building site at the end of the walk.

Have a look at our review of the Northwood Trail here.

The Deep Aquarium, Hull

The Deep in Hull is a fabulous, modern and slick aquarium.  There are loads of interactive exhibits for the kids, not to mention they have Gentoo penguins!  It’s reasonably priced and somewhere you can return to as many times as you like the same year for free. 

Have a look at our full review of The Deep here.

Sledging at Snozone at Xscape in Castleford

As well as skiing and snowboarding Snozone near Castleford so family fun sledging sessions.  It’s brilliant, 45 minutes of snowy fun running up the slope and sliding back down! 

 Our full Snozone review  is here – including tips on how to make the best of your visit.

Xscape Castleford, West Yorkshire

There is loads to do at Xscape Castleford from the cinema, to crazy golf, Snozone, laser quest and soft-play.  If you are looking for things to do with kids West Yorkshire – have a look at our review of Xscape Castleford. 

We recently visited and reviewed Volcano Falls Adventure Golf.

The Camp Hill Estate, near Bedale, North Yorkshire

The Camp Hill Estate has a fabulous looking adventure playground and high ropes course.  You can also book a quad bike session, foot golf or a segway woodland tour. 

We visited recently and reviewed   woodland segway tour here.

Temple Newsam Leeds

Temple Newsam is a beautiful place to take the kids in Leeds.  There’s a stately home, cafe and farm and acres to explore. 

See my full review of Temple Newsam and photos here.

Inflata Nation, Beverley

The new inflatable theme park in Beverley, East Yorkshire.   It’s a huge indoor space filled with inflatable climbing frames, bouncing areas and slides.  There is even a separate space for the real little ones too.

Have a look at my review and video  of Inflata Nation here.

Alpamare Waterpark Scarborough

Alpamare is a large waterpark in Scarborough.  There are two heated (hot!) outdoor swimming pools, a kids splash area, wave pool and four huge waterslides.  Great for the summer or winter as the outside pools are heated to 35 degrees (not too far off hot tub temperatures!).  There is a cafe on site too.  

See our full review of Alpamare here.

Go Strawberry Picking!

Ok, this one is at quite a specific time of year, but there are other things to pick at other times of the year too.  My children love strawberry picking and can happily cost me a fortune with their huge baskets (so watch that!). 

There are lots of places around Yorkshire for Strawberry picking , and I have made a list for you!

A Day on the Beach in Yorkshire

If you are looking for things to do in Yorkshire with kids we are spoilt for choice!  Yorkshire has many stunning and varied beaches.  From Whitby, to Scarborough and Bridlington.  Free days out in Yorkshire, family beaches. 

We have reviewed both Fraisthorpe Beach in the Summer and the Winter and Rock-pooling at Filey Brigg. 

Hollywood Bowl Leeds

Ten Pin Bowling is always fun and particularly good if the weather is not great!  Hollywood Bowl in Leeds has great, modern lanes, an arcade, bar and restaurant.

Have a look at our review of the Hollywood Bowl in Leeds.

Kilnsey Park Estate

The Kilnsey Park Estate has a nature walk, animals and family fun fishing .  Set in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales near the overhanging Kilnsey Crag.

See our full review of Kilnsey Park Estate here.

Jorvik Viking Centre

Jorvik Viking Centre is a must see place to visit in the centre of York.  Travel back in time to see what York was like as a Viking settlement. 

Have a look at our full review here.

York Dungeon, York

If you are looking for a fun, scary and entertaining time, consider York Dungeon.  Right in the centre of York, it’s perfect for older kids and teens (and adults of course!). 

Have a look at my review of York Dungeon here .

William’s Den, North Cave, East Yorkshire

William’s Den includes a 475sqm play barn and extensive outdoor play – including a 50metre zip wire, den making area and ‘mountains and molehills’ space for kids to run, jump and roll around freely.  It’s fab and completely worth a visit. 

Have a look at my William’s Den review  and video here.

York Maze, North Yorkshire

York Maze is brilliant and a fantastic day out, we love it there and go every year.  With a huge maize maze, bouncy pillows, giant slides and brilliant shows, it really is one of the best family days out Yorkshire.

They are only open during the Summer and at Halloween – we have reviewed both and made a video.

Burnby Hall Gardens, Pocklington

Lovely peaceful gardens set around a large lake with water lillies and carp that you can feed.  They have a children’s playground, cafe and run children’s activity days throughout the summer.

Have a look at our review of Burnby Hall Gardens here.

The Forbidden Corner, near Leyburn, North Yorkshire

The Forbidden Corner has to be one of my favourite places in the world, for it’s wonderful quirkiness!  It combines mazes and puzzles into something really unique.  It’s mostly an outdoor attraction, so really it’s better in good weather.  Make sure you book ahead of time.

See our review of The Forbidden Corner here.

North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR), North Yorkshire

North Yorkshire Moors Railway is a wonderful heritage railway.  Used in the Harry Potter films and the Heartbeat series, NYMR is a fab day out.  Check out their seasonale events too around Halloween and Christmas.

See our review of NYMR here.

York Castle Museum, North Yorkshire

York Castle Museum is a fab day out with the kids and so much more than your average museum.  

We have reviewed York Castle Museum here .

Family Days out Yorkshire

Free days out in yorkshire, family friendly parks.

We love a day in a park- just pack a picnic and have a lovely relaxed and free day out.  One of the many free days out with kids Yorkshire.

We have reviewed the park at Dunnington, near York and Jubilee Park in Fangfoss , near York.  Or see this review of Homestead Park in York.

Energi Trampoline Park, York, North Yorkshire

If you are looking for things to do with kids in Yorkshire, then this is a brilliant place for them to bounce and let off steam to their hearts content!  Great for kids’ parties too.

See our review of Energi Trampoline Park, York here.

Things to do in Yorkshire

Flamingo land theme park, malton.

Flamingo Land – another brilliant family friendly theme park on our list of things to do in Yorkshire.

Have a look at our review of Flamingo Land  with Younger Kids and our review of Flamingo Land at Halloween .

Places to visit in Yorkshire

York’s chocolate story, york.

This is a lovely visit to do if you are in York for the day. Learn all about the history of chocolate in York and make your own chocolate bars. Lots of chocolate tasting throughout the tour to keep the kids amused.

Have a look at our review of York’s Chocolate Story.

Beningbrough Hall, York

Beningbrough Hall is a fab stately home just outside of York, and on our list of places to visit in Yorkshire.  It’s a lovely relaxed day out.  They’ve recently rebuilt their adventure playground and it has something for kids of all ages.  They also run events over the kids holidays.

Have a look at our review to see what else there is to do with the kids at Beningbrough Hall.

Sledmere House, Sledmere, East Yorkshire

Sledmere House is not too far from where we live, so we are regular visitors.  The Gardens and Grounds, Café and Farm Shop will be open for you to have a wander and pick up some tasty treats.  They have a great adventure playground and petting zoo.

Have a look at our review of Sledmere House

Piglets Adventure Farm Park, York

Piglets Adventure Farm Park is a fabulous place to visit just outside York.  There is a large outdoor play area, bouncing pillows, crazy golf, pedal g-karts and a giant sand pit.  They also have an indoor play barn with drop slides and rope swings.  Check what they are doing for Halloween and Christmas too.

Have a look at our review of  May-Hem at Piglets.

Burton Agnes Hall, Burton Agnes, East Yorkshire

Burton Agnes Hall is a hidden gem.  A large Stately home, woodland walk, maze, garden games, cafe and farm shop.  

Have a look at our review of Burton Agnes Hall.

   Family Activities Yorkshire

Stockeld park, wetherby.

Stockeld Park is one of my favourite family days out in Yorkshire. There will be a roller or ice rink as well as the Enchanted Forest and the Maze. The Indoor play area will also be in place to let the kids play while you have a cuppa.

Have a look at our reviews of Stockeld Park in Summer and Stockeld Park’s Christmas Adventure.

Jorvik Dig, York

Looking for something a bit different? DIG is a hands-on archaeological adventure giving kids the chance to become trainee ‘diggers’ and discover the most exciting artefacts from 2000 years of York’s history!

Have a look at our review of Jorvik Dig.

Things to do in Yorkshire – Harewood House

Harewood sits in the heart of Yorkshire and is one of the Treasure Houses of England. The House was built in the 18th century and has art collections to rival the finest in Britain.  For families there is an amazing adventure playground for slightly older children and penguins to watch being fed!  

Kirklees Light Railway, Clayton West, Huddersfield

Open every weekend & daily during school holidays.

Spend a day out with Yorkshire’s Great Little Steam Trains! With a fleet of unique steam and diesel locomotives, adventure playgrounds, picnic areas, a miniature railway, cafe, tea room and the glorious scenery of the South Pennine Foothills, it really is a fun day for all the family. Special Events take place throughout the year – see www.kirkleeslightrailway.com for more info.

The World of James Herriot, Thirsk

I’m including this one as it’s somewhere I have always wanted to visit but never quite managed. Lots of Herriot related memorabilia, as well as the restored 1940’s house, and a ‘farrier’s workshop’.  I am secretly hoping Miss H will become a vet one day!

Cannon Hall Farm

From their website: ‘Cannon Hall Farm is officially the best family day out in Yorkshire after being named Best Large Visitor Attraction in the White Rose Awards.  There’s a reason why we’ve won multiple awards – and why we have been called the perfect family day out.  Come and visit our family owned farmed in the rolling Pennine foothills and spend the day admiring the scenery, the animals and letting the kids run off some steam in our amazing play areas.’.  Have a look at this great review of Cannon Hall Farm.

National Railway Museum , York

Another one of our brilliant free family days out.  From steam rides to storytelling, we’ve got lots of hands-on fun for the whole family.

FREE Entry!

Beetle Bank Farm, York

Looking for things to do in Yorkshire with toddlers?  Let off steam in the fields, go wild in the adventure playground, have fun in the sand pit or ride on the tractors and play with the inflatables. We predict two things: you won’t be bored and you’ll sleep well tonight! 

Mother Shipton’s Cave , Knaresborough, North Yorkshire

I love the look of Mother Shipton’s Cave, with it’s famous prophetess and petrifying well. 

Monk Park Farm , Thirsk, North Yorkshire

A varied collection of both Outdoor and Indoor Feeding Areas where you can see such as lambs, sheep, goats, calves, cattle, pigs, ponies, donkeys, horses, llamas, alpacas, wallabies, albino wallabies, deer, ducks, geese, hens, peacocks, rabbits and guinea pigs – and playgrounds to boot!

Big Cow, Little Sheep , Bedale

Another fab looking farm park that we are hoping to visit soon.

Harlow Carr, Harrogate

We love the maze and treehouse at RHS Harlow Carr. 

Eureka!  Children’s Museum, Halifax, West Yorkshire

Eureka is the National Children’s Museumand has special events on all year round.  Another one of our great days out in Yorkshire,

Creepy Crawlies, York

Creepy Crawlies is a huge softplay and outdoor adventure playground in York.  

See our review of Creepy Crawlies here.

Brimham Rocks in Nidderdale

With 400 acres of moorland and rocks to explore, there are plenty of activities for families and adventurers of all ages to keep themselves occupied. See this great review of a family day out at Brimham Rocks .

Aysgarth Falls at Leyburn

Aysgarth Falls is perfectly situated to visit the superb waterfalls on the River Ure, the National Park Centre can also point you in the direction of other lovely walks in the area taking in the surrounding woods or heading up to the lovely villages of Carperby or Aysgarth. Next to the Centre is the Coppice Café which serves a great selection of drinks and meals largely made with locally-sourced ingredients.

Family days out in Yorkshire

Also look at my other round ups for different times of the year, Things to do in Yorkshire with the kids at February half term , Easter , May half term , Summer Holidays , October half term and at Christmas . 

Rain stopping play?  Have a look at my list of ideas for places to go on a rainy day in Yorkshire .

Also, do have a look at my Things to do with Kids in Manchester and in Guildford posts.

This post was featured by Twinkl in their UK Days Out Blog

Recommended Articles

Cafe cargo review – great food on the leeds liverpool canal.

The Forbidden Corner Reviews – Imagination, Maze and Magic

The Polar Express Train Ride in Wensleydale Review

I’m sure this was a great resource for frazzled parents over the summer holidays. What a fantastic round up!

So many great days out to be had. Some I’d forgotten about, some I’d forgotten existed and others we visit often. One of our favourites is The Deep. Mostly because you pay once and then can return as much as you like in one year for free. We visited York this year too and had a lovely weekend away. I do love Yorkshire….especially the coast.

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

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: June 21, 2024

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 Travel Expert . 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 are 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 these day tours that also 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. There is also a tour that covers Whitby, Moors, and Yorkshire Railway on 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 .

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.

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 day 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
• 1 Day in London
• 2 Days London Itinerary
• Hidden Gems of London
• Things to Do in Greenwich
• Things to Do in Camden Town
• London with Kids
• London with Teenagers
• Free Things to Do in London
• 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

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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

15 of the best family days out in Yorkshire

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Soak up the sun and some holiday fun with one of these best family days out in Yorkshire.

With its beautiful landscapes and unspoiled countryside, Yorkshire is the perfect place to enjoy a number of family days out in the North East .

The region is packed with plenty of fun things to do with kids , with an afternoon in the area most likely leading you to a farm, a popular kids zoo or even a historic coal mine...

The best family days out in Yorkshire:

1. yorkshire wildlife park.

Children will love getting up close to a whole host of exotic animals in this fabulous park near Doncaster. As they walk around the park, they’ll meet lions, polar bears, tigers, giraffes, meerkats, zebras and more, with the chance to learn a thing or two at one of the many talks that take place throughout the day. Whilst this is one of the best family days out in Yorkshire, it's worth knowing that you can extend your trip and stretch out the fun with their on-site camping facilities. Perfect for a little weekend away!

The park is open until 7:30pm daily and is only welcoming visitors who have pre-booked their tickets ahead of time - which can be done via their website online.

Find out more about Yorkshire Wildlife Park and book your tickets for summer 2021 here

2. Cannon Hall Farm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n8fSgT_Xwx0

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This award-winning farm near Barnsley will thrill kids and adults alike. As well as adorable farm animals, there’s a reptile house and play areas. Watch milking demonstrations, sheep and ferret races and don’t miss out on a tractor ride. The farm was recently featured on the Channel 5 series, This Week on the Farm - and they have some great social media accounts, so you can keep up to date with your favourite animals.

Cannon Hall asks that guest kindly pre-book their tickets online, so that they can monitor visitor numbers during covid.

Find out more about Cannon Hall Farm and book your tickets for summer 2021 here

3. Harewood House

Set in stunning gardens near Leeds, children will love the Harewood House Farm Experience where they can meet pot-bellied pigs, pygmy goats and friendly alpacas. The amazing Bird Garden has adorable Humboldt penguins, colourful parrots, flamingos, and one of the world’s largest owl species. Plus be sure to check out the new Woodland Wonderland trail with it's amazing new pop up play space.

All visits to Harewood House must be pre-booked, with a family ticket (2 adults and 2 kids) setting you back £40. It's also worth checking their events calendar before heading out, with theatre productions, foodie festivals and the open-air cinema three summer specials to take advantage of.

Find out more about Harewood House and book your tickets for summer 2021 here

4. York Bird of Prey Centre

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jx9clppCYWY

Located 12 miles north of York, the centre is home to over 80 birds, including kookaburras and eagles. It holds two flying displays every day. Plus, there are also Hawk Walks and Owl Experiences, where staff encourage and help visitors to handle and even fly these beautiful creatures.

Tickets to this bird centre can be bought on the door, but we recommend booking in advance if you're thinking of doing one of their fabulous feathered experiences. One Tripadvisor favourite is the half day falconry experience where you can get up close and personal (and even hold) owls, falcons and hawks.

Find out more about the York Bird of Prey Centre and book your tickets for summer 2021 here

4. Newby Hall

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OJdl2uLkaK0

An adventure playground? Check. A functioning steam railway on site? Check. AND a stunning house and gardens to explore? Check! Newby Hall is one of the best family days out in Yorkshire, with plenty of activities to fill an afternoon. Fans of the Antiques Roadshow will also recognise this attraction as a regular venue of the beloved BBC show. So don't be surprised if you see some filming taking place during your visit.

You can choose between two ticket options - Gardens only or a combined House and Gardens ticket. And pre-booking is essential, so make sure you order online to avoid disappointment on the day.

Find out more about Newby Hall and book your tickets for summer 2021 here

6. Flamingo Land

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You get two for the price of one at Flamingo Land as it’s both a theme park and a zoo! You can take on Mumbo Jumbo’s 112° vertical drop, have a splashing time on the Lost River Ride and even Meet a Creature as the Chief Education Officer brings out a host of creepy crawlies, snakes and frogs for kids to see up close. They even have their own private, self-contained Holiday Village in case you want to make a holiday of it. One of their luxury lodges is bound to tickle your fancy!

The bumper attraction is following strict covid protocols during covid and visits must be pre-booked online. Have the NHS track and trace app to hand when venturing in as they'll ask you to scan your details upon arrival.

Find out more about Flamingo Land and book your tickets for summer 2021 here

7. Another World Adventure Centre

Your little adventurers can get involved in a whole host of activities at Another World Adventure Centre in Ogden, Halifax. One of the best adrenaline pumping family days out in Yorkshire. Hidden within its own forest, Another World offers you an adventure vortex and with so many different activities on offer here, you simply cannot run out of things to do.There’s everything from archery and paintballing to den building, grass sledging and bumper balls.

In light of covid restrictions, the centre is now operating six activity packages which range in price from £32 to £105 per family. They must be pre-booked via the phone or through their website contact form.

Find out more about Another World Adventure and make a booking enquiry here

8. Lightwater Valley

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-nLcfE2Luck

Thrill-seekers will love this funpacked family adventure park, with more than 30 rides and attractions. The Wild River Rapids is heaps of fun and there’s an express train ride around the park, plus mini sand diggers and an adventure playground. Little ones will also love the new Safari experience packed with all their favourite animals - new for the 2021 re-opening.

Visitors will be pleased to know that all rides and indoor facilities are operating as normal at Lightwater Valley. You must make sure you pre-book your tickets ahead of entry, with the park montioring visitor numbers during covid.

Find out more about Lightwater Valley and book your tickets for summer 2021 here

9. Go Ape, Dalby Forest

Treetop adventure is what this is all about so you’ll need a head for heights as you navigate tricky crossings, wobbly bridges and shriek-inducing zip wires. Not only does Go Ape give you that sense of adventure, it also gives you great views of the Great Yorkshire Forest and the Vale of Pickering. For those who’d rather stick to the forest floor, forest segways are available to hire too.

The Go Ape website states that pre-booking is currently essential. So be sure to book your treetop challenge, adventure or forest segway way in advance.

Find out more about Go Ape Dalby and book your tickets for summer 2021 here

10. National Coal Mining Museum, Wakefield

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EeiDtURfQcE

The National Coal Mining Museum in Yorkshire is a must-visit whilst in the area - providing plenty of rich, fascinating insight into the region's history. Visitors are invited to take a trip down one of the last remaining mines and hear stories of the industry's heyday through a number of  interactive and engaging exhibitions. And thankfully, the centre has both indoor and outdoor elements, so they'll still be lots of things to do if the rain begins to pour.

Museum visitors must book their tickets and subsequent time-slots online. Time slots are spaced at 10 minute intervals to operate safe social-distancing. Whilst masks must be worn when entering indoor exhibitions in light of government guidelines.

Find out more about the National Coal Mining Museum and book your tickets for summer 2021 here

11. Jorvik Dig

Tucked away beneath the streets of York, Jorvik Dig is a great experience for budding archaeologists. It has four replica indoor excavation pits where kids can grab a trowel and dig for themselves – discovering a host of Roman, Viking, Medieval and Victorian treasures which are based on real artefacts. Your experience will also include a talk from an archaeologist and there's an outdoor play area that's perfect for the little ones too.

Tickets to Jorvik Dig must be pre-booked online via their website. And note that gloves and masks will be provided and used during the DIG experience to ensure optimum visitor safety.

Find out more about Jorvik Dig and book your tickets for summer 2021 here

12. The Forbidden Corner

Tucked away in the Yorkshire Dales is The Forbidden Corner - undoubtedly one of the best family days out in Yorkshire.

This magical and mysterious place will delight all the family thanks to it's unique labyrinth of tunnels, chambers (make sure you’re wearing your waterproofs), follies and surprises created within a four acre garden in the heart of Tupgill Park. Discover the temple of the underworld, strange statues and a magical tower with decisions to make around every corner. Watch out for the shocks and tricks along the way as this is a day out with a difference. Pre-booking is essential.

Entry to the Forbidden Corner is by advanced booking only and visitors are asked to wear face masks when exploring indoor areas of the attraction. Adult entry costs £13.50 and child tickets are £11.50, but if you book a trip during Monday to Friday you can get 4 tickets for the price of 3.

Find out more about The Forbidden Corner  and book  tickets for summer 2021 here

13. Mother Shipton’s Cave

This spooky visitor attraction near Knaresborough has been open since… drum roll... 1630! With a mysterious cave where the famous prophetess was born, a wishing well, pixie village, woodland walks and an adventure park, it’s bound to create a little spike of adrenaline! And the setting alongside the River Nidd, next to the Petrifying Well, England’s oldest visitor attraction, is beautiful. Dogs are welcome in all areas of the Mother Shipton’s park, apart from the adventure playground, so you can bring your four-legged friend too.

Visitors are currently asked to book tickets online ahead of their trip. If you are arriving car you must pre-book a ticket that includes the car parking fee, which will save you valuable time (and a lot of hassle!) on the day itself.

Find out more about Mother Shipton's and book  tickets for summer 2021 here

14. Billy Bob’s Ice Cream Parlour

https://www.facebook.com/491847317566292/posts/4008749082542747/

A trip to this 1950s-style ice cream parlour and diner near Bolton Abbey and Skipton is a must! Looking like the set of Grease , this gem of a parlous is one of the snazziest family days out in Yorkshire, with its ice selection truly unbeatable. And while the adults indulge in a Black Cherry Chocolate Bomb Sundae, the kids can run wild in the outdoor play areas.

Tables at Billy Bob's must be pre-booked. In accordance with the current rule of six government guidelines, tables can only be booked for up to six people at present.

Find out more about Billy Bob's Ice Cream Parlour and book your diner reservation here

15. Yummy Yorkshire

https://www.instagram.com/p/CPYLIg3Kl2v/

This ice cream at this popular restaurant and ice cream parlour has zero food miles. Why? Because the milk literally comes from the farm next door! Based in Denby Dale, Yummy Yorkshire’s speciality is unusual flavours like liquorice or beetroot, though traditionalists are catered for, too, with vanilla, strawberry and chocolate firmly on the menu! It's definitely worth the trip.

The restaurant and ice cream parlour re-opened it's doors on 16th May and continue to be open everyday with no need to pre-book ahead.

Find out more about Yummy Yorkshire and plan your visit here

An expert has revealed how Pippa's important decision has impacted not only her sister Kate Middleton but also her young nieces and nephews

By Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse Published 27 August 24

Experts have warned that a toxic parent-teen relationship can hinder a child's 'successful transition into adulthood'

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19 Best Things to do in Yorkshire (Day Trips & Tours)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 10, 2023

Are you looking for some Yorkshire day trip ideas ? In this article, we have compiled the best things to do in Yorkshire including tours and day trips from York. Discover what to do and see in Yorkshire and start planning your itinerary.

Yorkshire or ‘God’s Own Country” as the locals call it is one of England’s most beautiful destinations. Its historic cities, cobblestoned market towns, stunning coastline, national parks filled with woodland and waterfalls, ruined abbeys, moorlands and literary connections make it the ideal place to explore.

In this article, we have chosen the very best things to do in Yorkshire. Our 19 Yorkshire day trip suggestions are based on our own trips to Yorkshire over the years. To help you plan further we have included practical information about how to get to each destination via car or public transport plus tips to make the most of your visit.

Yorkshire is the largest county of England and was historically divided into 4 parts – North Yorkshire, East Yorkshire (called the East Riding), West Yorkshire and South Yorkshire. North Yorkshire is the largest of these and incorporates both the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the North York Moors National Park.

The largest cities in Yorkshire include Leeds, Sheffield, Bradford, Hull, Harrogate and the historic and very beautiful English city of York.

Market towns such as Malton, Hebden Bridge, Pickering and Helmsley with their cobblestone streets, historic buildings, independent shops, and many eateries are popular destinations for shoppers and foodies.

There are 3 National Parks in Yorkshire – the North York Moors National Park , Yorkshire Dales National Park and (located in South Yorkshire) the Dark Peak area of the Peak District National Park (the remainder and the southern area or White Peak is located in Derbyshire) (Find out more about visiting the Peak District here )

⭐️ If you are short on time and want to see as many of the most popular sights in Yorkshire as possible we recommend taking a tour such as this Yorkshire Dales Tour from York which includes visits to some of the most beautiful towns, villages and attractions in the county including Wensleydale and the twelfth-century Jervaulx Abbey.

Castle Howard & Yorkshire Arboretum

Fountains abbey and studley royal water park, north yorkshire moors railway, malham cove, bolton abbey/priory, wensleydale valley, rievaulx abbey, robin hoods bay, scarborough, yorkshire sculpture park, brimham rocks, hebden bridge, more yorkshire and northern england travel inspiration, 19 best yorkshire day trips – best things to do in yorkshire for all the family.

Located almost halfway between two awesome UK capitals – London and Edinburgh – the City of York (often shortened to simply York) is the county capital of North Yorkshire.

Previously called Eboracum, York has a history that dates back to the Roman era. It’s one of the most-visited cities in the UK and has a wide range of amazing things to see and do.

History lovers will be delighted in York! You can learn more about the city during the Roman, Viking, and medieval times. York Castle Museum is a fantastic starting point for understanding the city’s long past, and you can also peer into the cell where the notorious highwayman Dick Turpin lived out his last few days. Yorkshire Museum offers even more interesting historic facts.

Take a walk around the old medieval walls which stand on the foundations of earlier Roman fortifications. For more Roman insights, don’t miss visiting Eboracum Legion Bathhouse – the ancient bathing house is one of the oldest places in the City of York.

Travel 1,000 years back in time as you stroll along reconstructed Viking streets at the award-winning JORVIK Viking Centre.

The glorious York Minster is the biggest Gothic church in northern Europe. It boasts ornate interiors and exteriors, which include stunning stained glass and intricate carvings. Climb the tower for great city views and descend into the Undercroft to learn more about a Roman fort that once stood on the same spot.

Other medieval gems in York include the exquisite Merchant Adventurers’ Hall, the Treasurer’s House, and the now-ruined St. Mary’s Abbey. Explore the narrow medieval lanes and alleys (known as snickleways) that wind through the city centre. 

The National Railway Museum is often a hit with curious children. It’s the world’s biggest railway museum and is home to many engines, carriages, and other railroad memorabilia. York Maze is another family-friendly attraction, while York Dungeon offers a thrilling experience for older visitors. 

Take a walking tour of York to dig beneath the city’s surface, admire the views from the top of Clifford’s Tower, and relax on a boat ride along the River Ouse.

A hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour is perfect for hitting York’s highlights if time is limited.   

Good to know – save money if you are visiting multiple attractions in York with the York City Pass. Click here to find out how to save money with the York City Pass.

Plan your visit to York

🚗 If you are visiting York by car we recommend parking in one of the city’s Park & Ride car parks and catching the bus. Read more about York’s Park & Ride scheme.

🚊 York is on the mainline running between London and Edinburgh. The journey time from London is 2 hours. York is the perfect stop off if you are travelling the UK by train – read our 14 days best of Britain by rail itinerary .

Money-saving tip – If you are planning to spend a few days in York (it makes the perfect base from which to explore Yorkshire) we recommend purchasing a York City Pass which may save you money if you plan to visit some of the attractions mentioned above.

Read more – York Travel Guide

Listen to our Podcast about visiting York

Castle Howard and Yorkshire Arboretum are neighbouring attractions in the southern part of the North York Moors National Park. They lie 15 miles (24 kilometres) away from the City of York. Close to the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it takes around just one minute to drive between the two attractions.

The handsome Castle Howard is a Grade 1 listed building. A private residence, it has been owned by the Howard family for more than three centuries. The present building dates back to the early 18 th century, and it stands on the site of an older castle.

The house is surrounded by a large estate that covers more than 8,000 acres (3,000+ Hectares) and comprises gardens, woodlands, farmlands, and parklands.

Admire the stately home from the outside before stepping through the grand doors to feast your eyes on lavish interiors. The displays and exhibits take you through the castle’s rich history and tell stories about society through the ages. Fine statues, fountains, a mausoleum, a temple, and a chapel dot the grounds, and you can spot diverse flora and fauna across the expansive estate.

You might recognise the dome-topped Castle Howard from your TV screens. It featured in Brideshead Revisited as the fictional Brideshead and also featured in Bridgerton, the Buccaneers, Barry Lyndon, Garfield: A Tail of Two Kitties, and an Arctic Monkeys music video, among others.

The beautiful Yorkshire Arboretum is spread across 120 acres (48 hectares). A top destination for people of all ages, there are trees and plants from across the globe, lush parklands, and shimmering lakes and ponds. No member of the family needs to miss out on the fun, as dogs are welcome too.

The Minibeast Discovery Trail is an ideal way for younger visitors to learn more about nature, and your little ones are sure to love letting off steam in the kids’ adventure playground.

Plan your visit to Castle Howard & the Yorkshire Arboretum

🚗 Castle Howard is just 15 miles North East of York and is easily accessible by car from the A64 which connects Leeds, York and the Yorkshire Coast.

🚌 A direct bus service,  CastleLine  runs from York to Castle Howard.

🚊 Malton is the nearest train station to Castle Howard and York is the closest major train station. Both stations have buses running directly to Castle Howard and taxis are also available from both stations:

• Station Taxis Malton – Telephone: 01653 696969
• Station Taxis York – Telephone: 01904 623332

Check the official Castle Howard website for up-to-date opening times and costs. Pre-booking online is essential.

Located in North Yorkshire just outside Ripon, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is managed by the National Trust . Created in the 18 th century, today it is one of the most spectacular Georgian-era water gardens in the UK.

Covering 800 acres (323 hectares), Studley Royal Water Park was designed around the ruins of Fountains Abbey. The magnificent abbey has been featured in movies, TV shows, and literature.   

The Cistercian Fountains Abbey was founded in the 1100s by 13 monks who were expelled from a nearby Benedictine monastery. It grew to become one of England’s richest monasteries, flourishing for many years until King Henry VIII ordered the dissolution of the monasteries in 1539.

Today, the atmospheric site offers some of the best-preserved and biggest Cistercian ruins in the UK. Don’t miss the incredible abbey views from the point called Surprise View.

The water gardens are also home to Fountains Hall, a Jacobean mansion that was built in the early 1600s using stones from the ruined abbey. You can also see the Victorian-period St. Mary’s Church, complete with stunning interiors and marvellous stained glass, the Roman-style folly of the Temple of Piety, and many statues, monuments, and garden buildings.

The stunning water gardens were the brainchild of John Aislabie, a former Chancellor of the Exchequer. He dreamed of turning his Yorkshire estate into a rare place of beauty and worked hard to turn his dreams into reality. Aislabie took much inspiration from French formal gardens. His son, William, later continued to develop the sublime gardens.

Today, the gardens have changed very little from their original conception, and you can still enjoy the picturesque lakes, meandering waterways, and cascades.

Younger visitors are bound to love exploring the ancient woodlands and meeting the deer (along with other wildlife) in the enchanting deer park. 

Plan your visit to Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal

🚗 Located 12 miles north of Harrogate follow the brown signs from the A1.

Open every day in summer. Carparks close at 6.30 pm with the last admission at 4.30 pm.

Entrance to Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal is free for members of National Trust and English Heritage .

Read more – Visiting Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Park (Guide & tips)

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway is an award-winning heritage railway that runs for 24 miles (39 kilometres) through the scenic North York Moors National Park. The route operates between Pickering and Grosmont, with several stations in between. On certain days, the train continues onto Whitby.

Open since 1836, it is one of the most popular heritage railways in the UK and is thought to be among the world’s busiest steam heritage railways. Occasionally, diesel engines are used along the line too. In times gone by, horse-drawn carriages toiled along the route.

Before boarding, take time to look around the nostalgic Pickering Station. With a charming 1930s theme, it replicates the original station. Call into the quaint tearoom for refreshments and to soak up the olde-worlde ambience. With even more time to spare, you can also pay a visit to the nearby Pickering Castle, Newbridge Park, and Beck Isle Museum of Rural Life.  

It’s well worth hopping off the train at stations along the way. Request to stop at Newton Dale Halt if you want to go walking in the nature-filled Cropton Forest, and jump off at Levisham Station for more great walks along trails lined with fragrant wildflowers.

Goathland Station is one of the more popular stations along the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. You may recognise the pretty station from the former TV show Heartbeat and, more recently, from the first Harry Potter movie. The station remains largely unchanged since it was built in the mid-1860s. 

Grosmont Station also has plenty of sentimental vibes, restored to how it would have been in the early 1950s. Take pleasant walks in the nearby woods, especially lovely in the springtime when the ground is awash with colourful bluebells.     

Plan your visit to the North Yorkshire Moors Railway

If you plan to visit the railway from York and are pushed for time we recommend this “Steam Trains, Whitby, and the North York Moors Full-Day Tour” which departs from York and includes the journey from Goathland to Pickering on the heritage steam railway plus 2 hours to explore the seaside town of Whitby.

This is a great way to see some of Yorkshire’s attractions in one day and a treat for train lovers of all ages.

Malham Cove can be found in the southern part of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, overlooking the village of Malham. A unique natural treasure, it’s a gigantic limestone cliff formation that curves to create an amphitheatre-like appearance. The cliff face is some 80 metres (260 feet) high.

At the bottom of the cliff wall, the terrain is rocky and grassy with trees and a small stream. The white of the towering rock is a beautiful contrast with the surrounding greenery. At the top there’s an area where the limestone has eroded in an unusual pattern – this is quite rare in the UK.

Look out for interesting wildlife as you explore the area. There are small creatures and various bird species, including owls and falcons. There are excellent walking trails throughout the area, and you can enjoy sweeping views from the clifftop pavements.

The beautiful cove attracts avid Harry Potter fans, keen to see where the famous young wizard camped in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. While you cannot follow in his footsteps and camp here too (camping is not allowed), there are campsites close by if you fancy a night under canvas.

You’ll find several other natural sites nearby (including some that also have Harry Potter associations). While in the area, visit Gordale Scar, Malham Tarn, and the waterfall.   

Plan your visit to Malham Cove

Malham Cove is best visited by car or tour. If you have your own car (or have hired a car ) you will find lots of parking (for a charge at Malham Cove)

Tours from Chester and Manchester include a visit to Malham Cove in their itineraries.

These are both full-day sightseeing trips of Yorkshire which include other sights including picturesque towns like Hawes and Haworth, the home of the Bronte sisters and the Ribblehead Viaduct.

⭐️ Click here for more information about the day trip to Yorkshire from Chester.

⭐️ Click here for more information about the day trip to Yorkshire from Manchester.

Bolton Abbey and Priory are located on the southern edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. They are in Wharfedale, just outside Skipton. The large site combines history, nature, and fun activities for people of all ages to enjoy. It’s an equally ideal family destination as it is for couples, friends, and solo explorers.

At the heart of the sprawling estate, you can explore the evocative ruins of a historic Augustinian Priory and visit the Priory Church. The priory dates back to the 12 th century. It was in operation and a place of residence for monks until the dissolution of the monasteries in the late 1530s. The church remains an active place of worship.

Elsewhere in the estate, the Bardon Tower is an impressive ruin that makes for a pretty picture. It was once used as a hunting lodge and was a wealthy home in the late 1400s.  

The river offers heaps of fun. See the handsome aqueduct, complete with grand turrets, that spans the flowing water, take romantic strolls alongside the river, and spot aquatic wildlife.

Often popular with younger visitors, you can follow in the steps of people from yesteryear and try to cross the gentle river using the ancient stepping stones. There are 60 stones that were once used by workers from the Priory. The water isn’t deep, though you may get wet! There’s a nearby bridge if you don’t fancy your chances with the stepping stones.

Have fun in the outdoors as you explore the ancient woodlands of Strid Wood. Several trails lead through the woods and you’re sure to spot an array of flora and fauna.

Head to the heart of the wood to see the Strid an unusual natural water feature. The narrowing of the river causes the water to rage through at high pressure. Be sure to stand well clear of the edges. 

Wander across brooding moors to enjoy places like Simon’s Seat, the Valley of Desolation, and Barden Fell. Pause by the delightful waterfall, close to the start of the valley, to soak up the serene ambience.   

Plan your visit to Bolton Abbey & Priory

🚗 Bolton Abbey is located off the A59 between Skipton and Harrogate. Park at Bolton Abbey car park which is nearest the Priory Church and stepping stones or Riverside car park close to Strid Wood.

🚊 Travel by train to Skipton or Ilkley then catch a taxi to Bolton Abbey.

Good to know – There is no fee to walk around the Abbey and surrounding area. However, if you arrive by car there is a fee for the car park. Tickets for the car parks cost £10 (advance purchase) or £12.50 on the day.

Tour from York – This “ Haworth and Yorkshire Dales Day Trip “ departs from York and includes visits to Bolton Abbey plus Haworth the home to the Bronte Parsonage Museum.

The picturesque Wensleydale Valley sits at the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. It lies to the east of the Pennines. It’s one of the few valleys in the area not to have been named after its river – Wensleydale Valley is formed by the River Ure – and instead is named after the nearby village of Wensley.

Stretching for 25 miles (40 kilometres), the glorious valley is famed for its natural splendour. There are many activities to enjoy throughout the valley along with a number of charming villages to visit.

A hotspot for walkers, the diverse terrain includes mountains and moors. The valley is also home to cultural and historic sites.    

⭐️ Many of the day tours to the Yorkshire Dales incorporate Wensleydale into their itineraries including this Yorkshire Dales Tour from York or this Full-Day Yorkshire Sightseeing Adventure from Liverpool . If you do not wish to drive (and hire a car) a tour is the best way to experience the best of Yorkshire.

Hawes Wensleydale Creamery

Hawes is a charming town with a long history as a market town. Visitors can still browse the weekly market, held each Tuesday.

Sitting some 259 metres (850 feet) above sea level, it’s one of the highest towns in England. See Gayle Mill, an old water-powered mill from the 18 th century and the local St Margaret’s Church.

Visit the small Dales Countryside Museum to learn more about rural life in the dales.

A major highlight of a trip to Hawes is visiting Wensleydale Creamery. A major local employer, this is where the delicious Wensleydale cheese is made. The area’s cheese-making heritage spans back as far as 1,000 years! Originally, cheese was made in the dale by French monks who had settled here. 

Today, expert cheesemakers use traditional techniques and milk from local farms to follow trusted recipes to produce world-famous cheese. They also show innovation and creativity to produce new recipes too.   

Learn about cheese-making methods, watch processes in action, and sample cheese made on site. You can also buy as much cheese as you like to enjoy later at home – maybe you’ll even love it as much as cartoon characters Wallace and Gromit! 

Aysgarth Falls

Located close to Leyburn in North Yorkshire, and within the Yorkshire Dales National Park, Aysgarth Falls is a series of waterfalls along the River Ure.

Along the one-mile (1.6-kilometre) stretch, you can marvel at the three distinct falls, known as Upper, Middle, and Lower Force. Although charming at all times, the falls are particularly beautiful following periods of heavy rain and so at their fullest.

Limestone steps along the river create the falls and there are several places from where you can view the natural beauty, both from alongside the gushing river and from in the woodland.

The raw natural appeal has inspired poets and artists throughout time, and the falls have featured in several TV and film productions.

Call into the Visitor Centre to learn more about the area’s history, nature, and geology before starting your explorations.

Keep your eyes peeled for diverse nature as you follow woodland and riverside trails. In the autumn you may even be lucky enough to see salmon jumping up the cascades! Deer, squirrels, small rodents, and several bird species are among the creatures that call the area home.   

Nearby, pay a visit to St. Andrew’s Church to marvel at its enormous churchyard and painted wood from the medieval era.

Round off your visit with refreshments in the café, located next to the visitor centre. Dishes are made using locally sourced produce and they taste great!

For even more waterfall magic, check out Hardraw Force Waterfall in nearby Hawes.    

Bolton Castle

Situated near Leyburn and close to the eastern edges of the splendid Yorkshire Dales National Park, Wensleydale’s Bolton Castle is among the finest and best-preserved medieval castles across the UK.

The stunning castle was built in the late 1300s by a former Lord Chancellor of England, Sir Richard le Scrope. Sir Richard served King Richard III. The castle is still owned by one of his descendants.

Once one of the most lavish homes across the land, the castle has seen plenty of action over its history. It was even attacked during the Civil War by Oliver Cromwell’s forces.

Today, take a journey back in time to the castle’s heyday to see what life was like in the past. You can peer into rooms that have stood the test of time, including the Great Chamber, nursery, armoury, and kitchens.

You’re sure to especially love going down into the eerie old dungeons and seeing the former bedroom of Mary Queen of Scots.

There’s lots of fun to be found outside the mighty castle too. Stroll through the well-appointed gardens to discover amazing views and a wide variety of colourful blooms.

The maze often proves popular with children, while the charming rose gardens, herb gardens, and vineyards offer different botanical experiences.

Jervaulx Abbey

To the east of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, Jervaulx Abbey lies 14 miles (22.5 kilometres) outside of Ripon. Today a Grade I listed building that is mostly ruins, it was once one of Yorkshire’s fine Cistercian abbeys.

Founded in the mid-1100s by French monks, the abbey was where Wensleydale cheese was first made. The monks used sheep’s milk to produce the delicious cheese. The abbey also gained wealth by breeding horses. After the dissolution of the monasteries, the abbey fell into disrepair and decline.

Visit the impressive ruins and you can explore remains of the church, watermill, and walkways that were once covered (cloisters). As you stroll through the peaceful ruins, imagine how grand the site would have been during its heyday.

See how nature has reclaimed the land, with wildflowers, shrubs, and other plants growing freely in nooks and crannies, adding a certain charm to the stone remains.

Pause for a while in the delightful tearooms to ponder your visit and enjoy refreshments. You could also visit St. Gregory’s Church in Bedale, where you can see a window from the abbey, and Aysgarth’s St. Andrew’s Church, which makes use of part of the old pulpit from the abbey. 

The Forbidden Corner 

The Forbidden Corner not only has a curious name – it is also marketed as “The Strangest Place in the World”! It will capture the attention and pique the curiosity of old and young alike, and there are tons of cool photo opportunities.

Located in the Yorkshire Dales, the Forbidden Corner can be found within Tupgill Park. The garden covers four acres (1.6 hectares) and contains surprises, challenges, tricks, and wonders around every corner.

Initially created as a private garden, it was later opened to the public to enjoy. You can easily spend a whole day discovering the many secrets of the award-winning Forbidden Corner.

The garden boasts cool follies like the entrance tower and the Facetower which you enter by passing through a gigantic caping mouth! There are grottoes and chambers, statues and sculptures, tunnels and caverns, fountains, and more.

Enter the labyrinth, complete with a revolving floor, and try to beat the maze. Stare up at the six-metre-tall (20-foot-tall) oak man, and gaze upon the large dog’s head created from conifers.

See a large glass pyramid, explore the Temple of the Underworld, find brass plaques throughout the site, and enjoy plenty of giggles, shivers, squeals, and belly laughs. 

Within the North York Moors National Park, Rievaulx Abbey is yet another of Yorkshire’s fine old Cistercian abbeys. What sets Rievaulx Abbey apart, however, is the fact that it was the first Cistercian abbey in North England. Founded in 1132, it is managed by English Heritage in the present times.

In its prime, Rievaulx Abbey was one of the finest monasteries in England. The then-remote location allowed the monks to live a peaceful life of strict prayer away from the world outside, while also following a self-sustainable lifestyle.

Monks raised sheep to sell wool, mined iron and lead, and made cast iron. It was once home to more than 600 devotees. The abbey fell when the monasteries were dissolved in the 1530s.

Now, the ruins are a popular tourist attraction with other awesome sights close to hand. Park the car in Helmsley and have a look at the medieval Helmsley Castle before walking to the abbey.

Stroll along the walkway at the top of the valley to enjoy views of the abbey and to admire two Grecian-style buildings.

You can also make a stop at the nearby Kilburn White Horse, a gigantic horse shape displayed in the verdant hillside that dates back to 1857.      

Plan your visit to Rievaulx Abbey

Rievaulx Abbey belongs to English Heritage which means free entry for members. UK residents can find information about joining English Heritage here.

If you are visiting the UK from Overseas an overseas visitor pass may be a cost-effective option if you are visiting a few English Heritage sites. Click here for more information about the overseas visitor’s pass .

The looped Ingleton Waterfalls Trail is situated on the western edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The terrific location is close to the Forest of Bowland, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and the Arnside and Silverdale AONB.

The well-marked and well-maintained trail runs for five miles (eight kilometres), starting and ending in the village of Ingleton. It’s a fairly easy trail to follow, but sturdy shoes are recommended!

The trail follows two rivers – the River Twiss and the River Doe – passing through nature-rich woodland to offer exceptional viewing of the waterfalls along the waterways.

There are several scenic cascades along the route, including Pecca Falls, Pecca Twin Falls, Thornton Force, Holly Bush Spout, Beezley’s Falls, and Rival Falls. Bridges take you across the rivers and you’ll pass farms and natural features.

Look out for the unusual tree in Swilla Glenn – it’s a wishing tree with coins embedded in the bark. The trail offers incredible views of the surrounding scenery.

Want even more of a challenge? Climb to the top of Ingleborough, the second-highest peak in the Yorkshire Dales. You can start the walk from Ingleton or Ribblehead. If you go to Ribblehead, don’t miss seeing the striking viaduct.

While in the area, White Scar Cave is also well worth a visit. The longest show cave in the UK, it’s filled with interesting rock formations. The cave walk takes around an hour and 20 minutes to complete.

Plan your visit to Ingleton

🚗 Ingleton is situated just off the A65 Skipton to Kendal road. Parking is available in the village.

🚊 Travel on the Settle to Carlisle line (one of our top 10 scenic UK train routes ) and disembark at Ribblehead Station (this is an option if you are staying in Ingleton just ensure to ask your accommodation provider if they can meet you at the station!)

Alternatively, travel on the Leeds to Morecambe and Lancaster line and alight at Bentham where a taxi or bus can take you the final 5 miles to Ingleton.

Read more – A guide to walking the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail

North Yorkshire’s Harrogate is an attractive spa town that has been popular since Victorian times. It’s famous for its floral flair, with numerous floral arrangements throughout the town. Indeed, Harrogate has won awards for its flowery displays and flower shows.

Pay a visit to the lovely Valley Gardens for a beautiful botanical fix. The gardens and surrounding woodland cover some 17 acres (6.9 hectares) and are home to many mineral springs. You’ll find more than 35 springs in the area called Bogs Field alone.

There are many species of flora within different styles of gardens, all enchanting and photo-worthy. There are diverse activities and attractions to appeal to kids too such as an outdoor play area, paddling pool, crazy golf, and boating pool.

Challenge your friends and family to a game of tennis or a round of pitch and putt. 

RHS Harlow Carr Gardens is another beautiful place to enjoy the sights and scents of flowers. Unwind in the blissful Harrogate Spa Water and pop into the acclaimed Betty’s Tea Room for a drink and bite to eat. The beloved café is even popular with the Queen!

In nearby Knaresborough, Mother Shipton’s Cave is a cool family-friendly attraction. The cave, which is nestled in verdant woodland, is steeped in legends and lore, said to have been home to a local witch who could predict the future.

Learn more about the infamous Mother Shipton and visit the nearby Petrifying Well, which is said to turn objects into stone! There’s a museum where you can see petrified objects, including a few quirky items like an old-fashioned telephone and one of Queen Marty’s shoes.

The wider park area has a kids’ adventure playground, places to eat and drink, lovely woodland walks, and a wishing well.   

Plan your visit to Harrogate

🚗 Harrogate is located 45 minutes drive from York and Leeds.

There are 3 multi-storey car parks in Harrogate plus free on-street parking via a disc parking scheme.

If you are unfamiliar with disc parking this information from the Visit Harrogate website explains it perfectly:

“Disc parking works through displaying your arrival time on a parking disk when you park and just making sure you have departed within the allotted time. The times for disc parking are between 30 minutes and 4 hours and will be displayed on signs on the street. Parking discs are available from tourist information centres, council offices and a number of participating shops.” For more information about disc parking in Harrogate click here.

🚊 Harrogate is located 30 minutes from train from both York and Leeds. Click here for timetables and prices with the trainline .

A scenic town on Yorkshire’s north coast, Whitby has lots to enjoy on a fun-filled day trip. Fairly small, it’s easy to explore Whitby on foot.

The renowned explorer, Captain James Cook, was born in Whitby, and the town also has associations with Count Dracula! In Bram Stoker’s famous novel, Dracula is said to have first landed in England in Whitby. Further, Whitby Abbey is believed to have inspired the novelist.

Managed by English Heritage , Whitby Castle is a splendid Gothic ruin. The abbey was founded in the first century AD and has been left to the elements since the dissolution of the monasteries. The extensive ruins provide terrific views of the surroundings.

The Visitor Centre provides lots of fascinating information about the ruins. You can also visit St. Mary’s Church, close to the 199 steps that lead up to the abbey. 

The town has several interesting museums to appeal to diverse interests, including the Captain Cook Museum, where you can learn all about the brave explorer, Whitby Lifeboat Museum, and the Pannet Art Gallery and Whitby Museum.

Spend a day at the seaside, see the historic lighthouses that lie along the shore, build a sandcastle, and sink your teeth into traditional fish and chips.

Read – Best things to do in Whitby

Plan your visit to Whitby

🚗 The main road into Whitby is the A171 which you will join from whatever direction you come. Pay attention as you drive along the route which includes scenic open moorland along the way.

🚊 Travelling by train to Whitby on Northern Rail is not the most straightforward with a change of trains required at Middlesborough or Darlington. The good news is that the station is located in the middle of town!

Book a ride on the North Yorkshire Moore railway and enjoy the spectacular national park scenery on the way to Whitby.

⭐️ Several tours include a visit to Whitby including this small-group guided day trip to Whitby and the North York Moors departing York which also includes time to explore the scenic North York Moors National Park, with stops at the Kilburn White Horse, Helmsley, Goathland, and Lealholm along the way.

Alternatively, this North York Moors and Whitby Tour from York includes the best of North Yorkshire’s villages, market towns and moorlands on a full-day tour to Whitby, Helmsley, North Yorkshire Moors National Park and more.

Located along the North Yorkshire coast between Whitby and Scarborough, Robin Hood’s Bay is within the North York Moors National Park. The quaint fishing village is on the Heritage Coast (sometimes known as Yorkshire’s Jurassic Coast or Dinosaur Coast), with rocky landscapes that date back to the Jurassic period.

It’s common to find fossils along the cliffs and sands, and you may even stumble across a dinosaur footprint or a piece of bone from an ancient reptile.

The sandy beaches are perfect for days soaking up the sun and paddling in the sea. Kids will love peering into rock pools and enjoying an ice cream.

Take long coastal walks or cycle along dedicated bike paths. There are also paths suitable for horse riding. Look out for local wildlife – the coast is home to a myriad of sea birds, and it’s possible to spot seals, dolphins, porpoises, and whales in the waters. It’s easy to understand how the scenic vistas have long inspired artists, writers, and musicians.

The village is crisscrossed with enchanting narrow cobblestone streets, once used by fishermen, sailors, and smugglers. Nowadays, however, visitors can enjoy the many small shops, cafes, pubs, and eateries that line the atmospheric streets.

Uncover the area’s past at the interesting Robin Hood’s Bay Museum, and visit the cute St. Stephen’s Church.     

Plan your visit to Robin Hoods Bay

🚗 Park in the car park opposite the Victoria Hotel and walk down into the village. Car park charges apply – £6 for 24 hours.

If you are feeling energetic it is possible to walk the 7 miles from Whitby to Robin Hoods Bay along a popular section of the Cleveland Way walking route. Plan 3 hours for the walk. If you prefer not to walk back it is possible to catch a bus to Whitby from Thorpe Lane.

One of the oldest seaside resorts in the UK, Scarborough offers old-fashioned summer-holiday vibes along the North Yorkshire coast. The Victorian spa resort is the third-biggest town in Yorkshire. It attracts many visitors every year many of whom return time and time to enjoy the town’s charms.

Open-top buses connect the town’s highlights making it easy to get from place to place and experience many places in a single day. However, it’s easy to walk between attractions in the two main groups of the town centre and along the seafront.

Laze on the sandy beach and swim in the refreshing sea. If you want fun in the water without the sand in your clothes, check out Alpamare Water Park. It has pools where you can swim and splash around, slides, a wave pool, a relaxing spa, and more.

History lovers will enjoy exploring the 3,000-year-old ruins of Scarborough Castle, and the elevated site offers sublime coastal vistas. Literary fans can pay their respects at the grave of Anne Bronte.

For thrill-seekers, there’s Oliver’s Mount, the only natural racing track in the UK. While you won’t be zipping around the roads in an F1-style, you can enjoy leisurely drives and walks to soak up the scenery.

Spend a few hours at the Rotunda Museum, one of the first purpose-built museums in the world and home to a fascinating geology collection. Relax in the Italian Gardens, admire street art, take kids on the mini railway, stroll around the harbour, see the interesting works in Scarborough Art Gallery, and watch a show at the Stephen Joseph Theatre.        

Plan your visit to Scarborough

🚗 There may be lots of Pay and Display car parks in Scarborough but we recommend that you avoid these and park at Seamer train station and catch the train in (cost of parking £2.50 a day).

The journey by train takes 8 minutes and you will avoid the hassle of trying to find a car parking space. Alternatively, there are 2 Park and Ride sites one on the A165 Filey Road at Osgodby and the other on the A64 Seamer Road.

🚊 Travel to Scarborough from York by train in 50 minutes.

Combine thought-provoking and beautiful art with raw nature and outdoor adventures at the top-class Yorkshire Sculpture Park. Located in the countryside almost halfway between the cities of Leeds and Sheffield, it’s a terrific day trip destination for the whole family.

The landscapes sprawl across 500 acres (200 hectares) of the 18 th -century Bretton Hall Estate, and there are several indoor areas, perfect for days when the weather’s being a bit moody.

There are more than 100 interesting sculptures and installations to find in the open displays. With temporary features in addition to permanent pieces, there’s always something new and fresh to admire.

Global artists featured (or who have been featured) at Yorkshire Sculpture Park include Damien Hirst, Rachel Kneebone, Joana Vasconcelos, Anne Morris, Joan Miro, Barbara Hepworth, and Hardeep Sahota. Works cover varying themes, including the environment, women’s rights, social issues, race, culture, fashion, and science.

There are several places to eat and drink throughout the park, as well as picnic areas where you can enjoy your own al fresco lunch. Pick up cool souvenirs and gifts in the art-themed shop before you leave.    

Plan your visit to the Yorkshire Sculpture Park

🚗 The park is located in South Yorkshire 7 miles outside of Wakefield and 20 miles south of Leeds. From the M1 exit at junction 38 and take the A637 towards Huddersfield following the brown heritage signs for the Yorkshire Sculpture Park.

🚊 Travelling by train from London’s King’s Cross to Wakefield station takes around 2 hours. Take a taxi for the remaining 7 miles to the park.

Located just north of Bradford in West Yorkshire’s historic market town of Shipley, Saltaire is a fabulous model village.

Travel back in time to the Victorian epoch as you explore the glorious UNESCO World Heritage Site. Allow half a day minimum to truly enjoy the stunning village.

Named in honour of Sir Titus Salt, a wealthy textile mill owner who commissioned the lovely village, Saltaire is a living village; people still live and work here. The gorgeous Italianate village was initially built as a place to house mill workers.

The benevolent Sir Salt was keen to improve the conditions of workers, both in regard to their working lives and living quarters and also to reduce environmental impacts and pollution. His humanitarian and environmental efforts led to him being given the status of baronet in 1869 by Queen Victoria.

Walk along streets named after Sir Salt’s family members, including William Henry Street, Amelia Street, Edward Street, George Street, Albert Terrace, Fanny Street, and Victoria Road.

See the Grade II listed buildings that include the mills, Victoria Hall, 1868 hospital, elaborate Dining Room, homes, stable, school, and U-shaped almshouses. The Grade I listed Congregational Church, from the 1850s, is ornate both inside and out. It is still an active place of worship. Other points of interest include the boathouse, railway station, and park.

Nearby, you can discover the unusual rock formations at the National Trust site of Brimham Rocks. Cattle graze close to the rocks, and you can see rare species of heather, many birds, and plenty of flowers.

Plan your visit to Saltaire

🚗 Saltaire is located 4 miles north of Bradford. Parking for free in the car park of Salts Mill (there are charges in other areas so be sure to park at the Mill)

🚊 Saltaire has its own train station which is located across the road from Salt’s Mill. Change at Leeds or Bradford for Saltaire. Journey time is 15 minutes.

Read more – Guide to the Victorian model village of Saltaire

Brimham Rocks have been popular with visitors for centuries. The curious rock formations were believed to be created by druids and attracted much attention during the Victorian era.

Created through millions of years of erosion the rocks that dot the landscape have names as strange as their shapes and include the Smartie Tube, the Idol, the Sphinx, the Watchdog and the Druid’s Writing Desk.

There is a charge for the car park for non-National Trust members but entry to the site is free for all.

Plan your visit to Brimham Rocks

🚗 Parking costs £6 for 4 hours or £9 for the day but is free for National Trust members.

Refreshments are available from 2 kiosks plus there is a visitor centre and toilets near the stones.

Situated in West Yorkshire’s Upper Calder Valley, Hebden Bridge is a charming market town. It’s within easy reach of the cities of Halifax and Rochdale.

It is especially known for its tolerant and progressive attitude and LGBT-friendly nature. It has also long been a magnet for New Age followers, spiritual seekers, environmentalists, and creatives.

Hardcastle Crags is a major site of interest. Managed by the National Trust, the deep gorge and burbling river are surrounded by mossy woodland with hills in the distance. The weir is a pretty place for a picnic, and there are excellent walking trails.

Nearby, the 200-year-old water-powered Gibson Mill contains exhibitions and displays about the mill and surrounding nature.

There are plenty more walking opportunities along the Pennine Way and Calderdale Way which lie a short distance from Hebden Bridge.

Take a walk through the town centre to see historic buildings and structures, such as the Grade II listed building of Hebden Bridge Town Hall, the 18 th -century Stubbing Wharf Inn (which has literary associations too), and the 16 th -century bridge.  

The nearby village of Heptonstall is home to the quaint St. Thomas the Apostle Church, where you can visit the grave of poet Sylvia Plath and see the ruins of a church from the 13 th century. The small Heptonstall Museum is a top place to learn more about local history.

Take boat rides along the river, shop at the small market Thursday to Sunday), and enjoy a night out at the famous Trades Club.

Plan your visit to Hebden Bridge

🚗 If you travel by car to Hebden Bridge you will find a number of Pay and Display car parks in the town. Parking is generally not a problem though there may be less availability on market days.

🚊 Travel on Northern Train services from Leeds and York to Hebden Bridge. For timetables and prices check on the trainline .

The Yorkshire village of Haworth is located in the Pennines, part of the Bradford metropolitan area and close to Keighly and Colne (in neighbouring Lancashire). It’s famous for having been the home of the esteemed Bronte Sisters , and many literary fans come to pay homage to the great writers. 

The charming village manages to retain a rather olde-worlde air making it easy to imagine what life would have been like in the age of Emily, Anne, and Charlotte.

See where the Bronte Sisters wrote most of their works at Haworth Parsonage, now the Parsonage Museum. Visit St. Michael and All Angels Church where their father served as the parson.

Stroll along the cobbled Main Street, and venture just outside of the village and onto the moors to see places thought to have inspired fictional settings in Wuthering Heights.

Ponden Hall is believed to have been the inspiration for Thrushcross Grange, while the remote ruin of Top Withens is said to have inspired the farmstead in the famous novel.

The kid-friendly Keighley and Worth Valley Railway makes a stop at Haworth station. The traditional steam railway is a great way to relax and watch as the countryside scenes unfold through the window.    

Plan your visit to Haworth

Haworth is a popular destination for tours including this Haworth and Yorkshire Dales Day Trip from York with visits to the Bronte Parsonage Museum and Bolton Abbey.

🚊 The nearest principal station for Haworth is Leeds. In the summer there is a daily steam train which runs between Keighley and Haworth (Keighley is the nearest local train station to Haworth) Otherwise catch the Bronte bus (B3) from Keighley to Haworth or a local taxi.

Sitting on the banks of the River Ure, Newby Hall is a grand stately home in North Yorkshire. Built between the late 1600s and early 1700s, it’s a terrific place for fans of history and heritage. 

The mansion is one of the UK’s best examples of an Adamesque house with striking neoclassical designs. Originally built by Sir Christopher Wren, the house underwent many changes by Robert Adam.

Step inside to marvel at the gorgeous Georgian rooms, complete with period furnishings and décor. The Grand Entrance Hall is sure to impress! The library, dining room, tapestry room, billiards room, and statue gallery are just a few of the other indoor sections to discover.

You can also visit the serene and attractive Christ the Consoler Church, which dates back to the 1870s and features colourful stained glass and intricate carvings.

Coo over the cute collections in the Bear House, home to many teddy bears, and feel pangs of nostalgia when you view the collection of dolls, dollhouses, and miniature items in the Dollshouse Exhibition.

Take time to wander through the beautiful award-winning gardens too. There are many enchanting sections to enjoy including the fragrant Rose Garden, the tranquil Water Garden, the formal Sylvia’s Garden, the wild East Rock Garden, the nature-filled Woodland Garden, and the pretty Tropical Garden.

Kids can let off steam in the Adventure Playground, and the miniature train will please people of all ages.

Plan your visit to Newby Hall

Several ticket types are available for Newby Hall including tickets for the gardens only, tickets for the house and gardens and season tickets. Click here for the official Newby Hall website .

Newby Hall and Gardens are located a few miles from the A1(M) near Ripon in North Yorkshire. Travel time from York by car is around 40 minutes and around 30 minutes from Harrogate.

Yorkshire is the largest county in England and one of 9 regions into which the country is divided.

Our detailed guides are linked below:

• Yorkshire Travel Guide
• Things to do in York
• 10 places to visit in Yorkshire

North West & North East England

• Durham Travel Guide
• Chester Travel Guide
• Lake District Travel Guide
• Northumberland Travel Guide
• Liverpool Travel Guide
• 12 pretty towns and villages in England (+ map & travel tips)
• Best UK Staycations (Top Destinations for 2021 & beyond)
• 12 beautiful English cities

100+ Fabulous Family Friendly Yorkshire Walks

Not much beats a walk with kids for a (usually) free family day out .  Everyone gets fresh air, a bit of space, and time to unwind.  In our Yorkshire Walks for Families roundup, you will find seasonal walks, dog-friendly walks, and even walks with lovely family-friendly cafes! 

North Yorkshire Walks

Skipton castle woods walk, north yorkshire.

Address – The Bailey, Skipton BD23 1AW

Parking – Pay and display parking is available in the town of Skipton off Skipton High Street or behind Town Hall. You can enter Skipton Castle Woods from three different entrances,  more details here .

There are some steps on all paths at Skipton Castle.

Skipton Castle Woodland is 36 acres with a nice 3k circular walk with clear maps at the entrance to the woods. Not only does this make it a great walk with kids, but dogs on leashes are also allowed as well. There are great views of Skipton Castle for part of the walk as well.

Bolton Abbey Strid Wood Walk, North Yorkshire

Address – For the Strid Wood Walk it’s best to park at the Riverside car park next to the river Wharfe and close to the Cavendish Pavilion. Postcode BD23 6AN

Parking – £15 per car

The Strid Wood Walk is pram and wheelchair friendly.

Bolton Abbey gets three mentions on this list as the two easiest walks there are so very different, and one is for older children. Its diversity makes it one of our favourite places for family walks in Yorkshire. The walk through Strid Wood is pram and wheelchair friendly and follows a quieter path along the river Wharfe. There is a 4.7 mile circular walk , but we often just walk along the river and turn around when we’re ready. Cavendish Pavilion has toilets, a gift shop and a cafe.

Bolton Abbey Welly Walk, North Yorkshire

Address – For the Welly Walk it’s best to park at the Bolton Abbey car park (BD23 6EX)

The Welly Walk is not pram or wheelchair friendly.

We love to get muddy, climb, crawl, swing, and hop our way through the ‘deep dark woods’ on the  Bolton Abbey Welly Walk .  It’s a great way to sneak in a ‘child-friendly walk’ without the kids even noticing that they’re walking! It’s a two-mile round trip to the Cavendish Pavilion and back to where we normally stop for ice cream!

Bolton Abbey Simon’s Seat Walk, North Yorkshire

Address – Postcode BD23 6AN

Parking – £15 per car if pre-booked

This walk is as suggested by Helen Coppin from Muddy Boots Walking Holidays .

Stretch the legs (for a walk with older kids and those looking for more of a challenge) – Simon’s Seat – 8.25 miles

Bag a summit, visit a stunning waterfall, trek through the ‘Valley of Desolation and stop for some of the best brownies around – the circular walk to ‘Simon’s Seat’ is one of our top recommendations for families looking for a bit of a challenge and plenty of variety.

It starts at the River Wharf and heads up through the evocatively named ‘Valley of Desolation’, visiting Posforth Gill Falls before crossing the moor to ‘Simon’s Seat’, the summit of Barden Fell. Drop down through woodland to reach the ‘Brownie Barn’, where the ever-popular ‘LOVE Brownies’ are made, and you can warm up with an indulgent hot chocolate before following the River Wharf through Strid Wood, past the dramatic rapids at the Strid, back to the start. While the moor can be wet underfoot, most of these paths are on the Bolton Abbey Estate so they are very well looked after, making it a great option for the winter months. A short extension at the end along the river takes you to the stunning ruins of Bolton Priory, which is well worth adding on, and can be at its most beautiful on a frosty day.

Heber’s Ghyll Dinosaur Walk, Ilkley, North Yorkshire

Address: Hebers Ghyll Drive, Ilkley, LS29 9QH

Parking: On street at the foot of Heber’s Ghyll

Read our Heber’s Gill Waterfall Walk & Dinosaur Hunt blog post

Heber’s Ghyll waterfall is surrounded by woodland. There are tonnes of bridges to trip-trap over (keep away from those trolls underneath…. Just saying….) and if that’s not enough, there are 10 dinosaurs attached to the trees following the path all the way up to the top of the waterfall! 

Harlow Carr Garden Walk, Harrogate, North Yorkshire

Address – Crag Ln, Harrogate HG3 1QB

Parking – Entry Adult – £13.50, Child – £6.75

Some walking trails are pram and wheelchair friendly.

RHS Garden Harlow Carr  is located just outside of Harrogate.  Covering over 68 acres of land and beautiful gardens, with lots of interesting features for a walk with kids. The treehouse and play area are amazing. There is even a Betty’s Café on-site if you fancy a special treat.

Ripley Castle Grounds Walk, Harrogate, North Yorkshire

Address – Ripley, Harrogate HG3 3AY

Parking – Admission £17 for entrance for up to 5 people & parking for one car.

If you want a child-friendly walk rich with local history, The Walled Gardens on the grounds of Ripley Castle are beautiful to visit year-round. You can walk through the deer park among ancient oak trees and local wildlife. There is also a small children’s play area on site.

Fewston Reservoir Walk, Otley, North Yorkshire

Address – Fewston, Otley LS21 2NP

Parking – Free parking at Swinsty Moor car park (LS21 2NP)

This walk is pram and wheelchair friendly.

Rachel Girtchen, of Muddy Boots Mummy, says, “I love a good reservoir walk with kids, and the 6.5km route around Fewston is one of my favourites. You get some great views of the reservoir itself and the gorgeous surrounding countryside. If you want to extend this, you could add this onto a walk around the neighbouring Swinsty Reservoir which is about 10km in total.”

Himalayan Garden & Sculpture Park, North Yorkshire

Address – Hutts Lane, Ripon HG4 3DA

Parking – Free parking but entry is £33 for a family of four.

This walk is not pram and wheelchair friendly.

If you’re looking for a truly unique family walk in Yorkshire, The Himalayan Garden & Sculpture Park has gardens inspired by the Himalayas and contains over 80 sculptures. Dogs are permitted on leads, and there is food & drink onsite as well as a play area.

The Head of Wharfedale, North Yorkshire

Parking: Buckden National Park Car Park BD23 5JA

This Yorkshire family walk is as suggested by Helen Coppin from Muddy Boots Walking Holidays .

“This 5 or 7-mile circuit (depending on your – and your kids’ – stamina), is a triangular route, starting in Buckden and climbing to the tiny hamlet of Cray, before following the ridge around the ‘head of the valley’ to pretty Hubberholme and returning along the River Wharf.

It’s a real Dales classic with plenty to keep even the most reluctant of mini-walkers entertained – lots of stiles to climb, stepping stones to cross, bridges to play pooh-sticks on, limestone outcrops to clamber over and, possibly best of all, three great pubs to refuel in along the way! Much of the land is owned by the National Trust so the paths are well-maintained, making it great for winter walking. The views down Wharfedale and into Langstrothdale are stunning, and if you add a touch of frost or a layer of mist sitting in the valley below you, it’s true magic!”

Fountains Abbey Family Walk Through History, North Yorkshire

Address – Fountains, Ripon HG4 3DY

Parking – £47.50 per family for non-members, free for members.

Fountains Abbey says, ” Although much of the estate is accessible to all, Fountains Hall is accessible only via steps. The abbey ruins can be difficult to reach in wet conditions, and several of the follies in the water garden are inaccessible due to steep slopes and steps. There is level access to Fountains Mill and a lift to the upper level. Access to St Mary’s Church and areas of the Abbey ruins are by ramps.”

Fountains Abbey is simply stunning. The Abbey itself is one of the largest and best-preserved ruined Cistercian monasteries in England and the kids love a wander around. In addition, a walk through the immaculate Studley Royal Water Garden is in itself enough reason to visit. There is a cafe, gift shop, and fantastic adventure play area on-site as well.

Scar House Reservoir Circular Walk, Near Pateley Bridge

Address –  Scar House Reservoir is located 10 miles north of Pateley Bridge – Harrogate HG3 5SW

Parking – Free parking

The walk is wheelchair and pram friendly.

Scar House Reservoir is a nice place for a walk with the kids, with a three-mile circular route around the reservoir.  It has free parking, dramatic views, and walking options to suit different styles and ages.  The path we took could easily be done with very young walkers, prams, and wheelchairs, while the longer route offers a perfect challenge for slightly older children.

Studfold Adventure Trail Adventure Walk with Kids, near Pateley Bridge

Address – Studfold Farm, Harrogate HG3 5SG

Parking – Free parking – Family ticket £22.00

The trail is over grass and gravel so suitable for off-road prams .

The Studfold Adventure Trail is a magical child-friendly walk that is open during the Spring and Summer season. It is a few hours around, and on the way, kids will see fairy villages, go-karts, den buildings, and ride-on tractors. There is also a play area, cafe, and picnic area.

Hackfall Woods Folly Walk, Near Ripon

Address – HG4 4DY

Parking – There are  four entrances to Hackfall Woods and free parking at the Woodland Trust car park (Post code HG4 3BS)

The paths are not pram or wheelchair friendly.

A walk at  Hackfall Woods  near Ripon in North Yorkshire is full of surprises, with lush ancient woodland, waterfalls, and follies. The paths at Hackfall are not buggy or wheelchair friendly, but they are well-kept and easy to follow.  There are over 120 acres to explore so families can choose from short scenic walks to all-day adventures. There are no facilities on the walk.

Brimham Rocks Family Walk, North of Harrogate

Address – Harrogate, HG3 4DW

Parking – Free for National Trust members,  £6 for 4 hours and £9 for all-day parking for non-members

A visit to Brimham Rocks is a one-of-a-kind experience.  Comprised of balancing rock formations on Brimham Moor in North Yorkshire, Brimham Rocks is owned and operated by the National Trust.  Before you go, make sure you check out this  downloadable guided walk  to help you to identify formations like the Druid’s Profile and the Rabbit.  There are also plenty of Geocaches are hidden around the rocks, and moorland, you can find more about  Brimham geocaches here .

Hardraw Force Short Waterfall Walk, Hardraw

Address – Bellow Hill, Hardraw, Hawes DL8 3LZ

Parking – Free parking but entry is £4 per adult and under 5’s free. A family of 2+2 ticket is £10.

The paths are pram and wheelchair friendly.

Hardraw Force  is England`s largest single-drop waterfall with an impressive 100-foot drop. You access the waterfall from a cafe.  The walk is short but a very easy one to do. You will need to make sure that you have the correct change as the turnstile only accepts 2’s £1’s and 50p’s.   The grounds of Hardraw Force are in pristine condition with wide level paths suitable for both prams and wheelchairs.  ‘Well controlled’ dogs are welcome as well. 

Aysgarth Falls Family Walk, Near Leyburn

Address – Aysgarth Falls National Park Centre, Aysgarth Falls, Leyburn, North Yorkshire, DL8 3TH

Parking –  Car parking for 80 cars at the Aysgarth Falls National Park Centre

The top main waterfall is the largest open space and is the easiest area to access with a walking path suitable for prams and pushchairs.

Cora Harrison of Inside Our Suitcase says, “Aysgarth Falls is located in the Yorkshire Dales, 7 miles west from the popular village of Leyburn. This large waterfall is created by the River Ure and is comprised of three areas. The top main waterfall is the largest open space and is the easiest area to access with a walking path suitable for prams and pushchairs, the water here can be paddled in and the large field is perfect for picnics. The middle waterfall and lower falls are more dangerous and while they can still be accessed with prams and pushchairs the terrain is more rugged and there’s less open space for children to roam.”

Druids Temple Walk, Ripon

Address – Ripon, HG4 4JZ

Parking –  Free onsite parking

Not pushchair/pram friendly.

For a truly quirky day out, take a  walk to a Druid’s Temple  in the Yorkshire Dales.  Built-in the late 1700s, the temple is dubbed as ‘one of Yorkshire’s quirkiest follies’. It is just a short walk from the lovely  Swinton Bivouac , a glamping site with a family-friendly cafe, The Loft.  There is a small play area outside The Loft as well.

Family Walks in Malham | North Yorkshire

Parking –  YDNPA car park (BD23 4DA)

Malham is a great place for family walks with a fantastic variety of spectacular sights including Janet’s Foss, Gordale Scar, and Malham Cove. Try  this 8km circular from Little Miss Yorkshire to catch them all in one day, or break the walk up into smaller sections if you have little legs along.

Force Gill Waterfall Walk | Whernside, Yorkshire Dales 

Family-friendly Kettlewell to Starbotton Yorkshire Dales Walk 

Gorgeous Cauldron Falls Waterfall Walk

Stunning Hoffman Kiln and Stainforth Force Walk

Greenhow Lead Mining Trail and the Coldstones Cut 

Plan Your Linton Falls Waterfall Walk near Grassington, North Yorkshire

Family Guide to Thorp Perrow Arboretum  

The Legends of Janet’s Foss | Yorkshire Dales Waterfall Walk

The Legends of Troller’s Gill | Yorkshire Dales Walk with Kids

Thruscross Reservoir Walk | Nidderdale

Buckden Beck Waterfalls Walk in Upper Wharfedale

Family walks around york, castle howard, near york.

Address – Castle Howard, York YO60 7DA

Parking – Family admission £34.50 for garden-only admission

Explore 1,000 acres of parkland with meandering woodland paths, lakeside terraces, temples, fountains, and the Walled Garden: beautiful at any time of year. Skelf Island Adventure Playground is a great place for kids to run off steam.

Walk the City Walls of York

Address – York YO1 7LJ

Parking – Paid parking around York

Not pram or wheelchair friendly.

“ York Bar Walls  almost completely circle the city of York and are a great – and free – activity to do with older kids.  There are lots of steps and some of the walls have dropped from the edge so it isn’t a suitable walk for buggies or toddlers.  From the walls you can get a unique look at the city from the side that most do not see,” says Nikki Turner-Chaplin of  bestlodgeswithhottubs.co.uk.

Helmsley And Rievaulx Abbey Circular Walk, North Yorkshire

Address – Cleveland Way, Helmsley, York YO62 5AZ

Parking – Pay & display car park in Helmsley

This family walk is not pram and wheelchair friendly

The walk at Helmsley and Rievaulx Abbey comes from Emma Lewis of Hip2Trek. The six-mile circular walk follows the Cleveland Way footpath through woodland, meadows, and even skirts around Helmsley Castle Walls. ” It’s so pretty and parts of the walk look like it’s come from a storybook,” Emma says.

‘Utterly delightful’ Zog Activity Trail at Dalby Forest

Moorlands Nature Reserve | Woodland Walk Near York

7 Free Woodland Walks In The Selby District | Yorkshire

Family walks on the yorkshire coast, hayburn wyke coastal walk, near scarborough.

Address – Cloughton, Scarborough YO13 0AU

Parking – Free parking nearby.

Not pram and wheelchair friendly.

Emma Lewis from Hip2Trek says “ Hayburn Wyke  is situated just north of Scarborough. The rocky cove with its big boulders and pebbles is made even more interesting by the waterfall that flows right onto the beach. We did a 5-mile walk from Cloughton, walking along the Cleveland Way national trail path, along the coast. It’s a beautiful walk along the cliffs before a steep descent to the pebbles and waterfall at Hayburn Wyke. My kids managed the walk aged 6 and 9, and although I was worried about the cliff sections it was a well-maintained path. There is a flatter alternative route along the old Whitby to Scarborough railway line but watch out for cyclists. Not suitable for prams due to the steepness getting to the beach.”

Falling Foss Family Walk, Near Whitby

Address – Midge Hall, Whitby YO22 5JD

Parking – Free parking for Falling Foss customers.

The short walk from the car park to the tea garden is steep but could be done with a sturdy pram or wheelchair.

Just a 10-minute drive from Whitby,  Falling Foss Waterfall, and Tea Garden is a beautiful place to spend the afternoon. There is a free parking lot at the top of a hill about a 10-minute walk away from the tea garden and waterfall. The forest woodland surrounding the tea garden is full of little surprises like trees with faces, a troll under the bridge, and a stream that would be perfect for paddling in warmer weather. The walk to the tea garden is a bit steep but would be suitable for a sturdy pram and little legs.

Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay Circular Walk

Address – Marina Front Car Park, Langborne Road, Whitby YO22 4AG

Parking – Paid parking in Whitby.

This long walk is best for older children and is not pram or wheelchair.

Every time we visit Whitby I think to myself how much I would like to walk the coastal paths! (Never more so than when I’m stuck inside an arcade with the kids!) This year will be the year that I do the 13-mile circular from  Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay !

Boggle Hole to Robin Hood’s Bay Walk, Yorkshire Coast

Address – Station Rd, Robin Hood’s Bay YO22 4RE

Parking – Pay & display car park

The walk is not pram or wheelchair friendly.

You can’t forget the beauty of the coast when you’re looking for great family walks in Yorkshire. The walk from Robin Hood’s Bay to Boggle Hole is about a mile and can be done either over the cliff tops or along the coast if the tide is out. (Always be sure to check tide times before your walk.) It’s about a mile to Boggle Hole, where you can stop at the YHA for a drink or a bite to eat.

Roseberry Topping Circular Family Walk, North Yorkshire

Address – Guisborough, Newton under Roseberry, Middlesbrough TS9 6QS

Parking – Pay & Display car park – TS9 6QR

Samantha Rickelton of North East Family Fun highly recommends Climbing Roseberry Topping with Kids  for families with children 5+. She says, “It feels like a challenge yet is suitable for most levels of fitness. There is a flat section about halfway up which is perfect for a breather! I would allow around 2 hours to get up and down again & highly recommend popping into the King’s Head Inn at the bottom for a celebratory pint (they also have an outdoor toy area for younger children). The climb can get a little hairy towards the top so don’t look down until you are right at the top. The views are more than worth it!”

Where to go for the best fossil hunting near Whitby

10 family & dog friendly Yorkshire beaches

Family walks in west yorkshire, otley chevin surprise view walk, leeds.

Address – LS21 3DG

Parking – Free car park just across from The Royalty (post code LS21 3DG).

There Otley Chevin surprise view walk is not wheelchair or pram friendly.

There are many trail possibilities for an Otley Chevin walk but our favourite is The Surprise View which is a three-mile circular walk. The Surprise view has, as you might guess, amazing views. All of the paths we followed were well worn, although some were rocky in bits so I wouldn’t fancy trying them with a buggy. There were benches for picnics and some interesting carvings to see as well. We got a hot drink at The Cheerful Chilli at the end of the walk.

Golden Acre Park and Paul’s Pond Walk, North Leeds

Address – Otley Road Bramhope, Leeds LS16 8BQ

Parking – Free car parks off Otley Road and Arthington Road.

The walk is pram and wheelchair friendly.

Rachel Girtchen, of Muddy Boots Mummy, says, “Golden Acre is a firm favourite for Leeds families visiting the great duck pond and cafe. But for many, much of the park remains undiscovered, and there are some much quieter paths where you can enjoy some incredible nature in gorgeous surroundings (and our daughter’s favourite part, a ford!). A walk we enjoy around the Park and to Paul’s Pond is just 5.5km and is all buggy friendly. Parking is free and there are some great picnic spots.”

Temple Newsam Family Walk, Leeds

Address – Temple Newsam Rd, Leeds LS15 0AE

Some walks are pram and wheelchair friendly.

Temple Newsam is a fantastic day out for family walks in Yorkshire. The grounds of  Temple Newsam  have nature trails, lakeside gardens, extensive paths, and Walled Gardens and are great for a short or long family walk.

My children two love a trip to see the rare breeds animals at Home Farm (entrance fee applies), walk the grounds and finally run off any energy left in the adventure playgrounds. 

Lotherton Hall Walk, Leeds

Address – Collier Lane, Aberford, LS25 3EB Leeds

Parking – One time family admission to Lotherton Hall is £21.50 if  purchased online .  However, an annual pass for a family is only £56.00 and can be using during events

Facilities – Cafe and public toilets

The some of the walks are pram and wheelchair friendly.

Lotherton Hall has two great playgrounds as well as a walking trail. My two love the under 8’s adventure playground which has climbing frames, a zip wire, swings, and roundabouts. Admittedly the over 8’s play area is a little less exciting but it does offer a chance for a few larger zip wires.

Lotherton Hall is set amongst 8 acres of formal gardens. You can also find woodlands, an orchard, and deer park for longer walking adventures. During school holidays Lotherton Hall often hosts  themed walking trails for families  as well as extra events.

St Aidens Nature Reserve Walk, Leeds

Address – RSPB St Aidan’s Nature Park, Astley Ln, Leeds LS26 8AL

Parking – Free for RSPB members, Non-members: £4 per car

Rachel Girtchen says, “This RSPB nature reserve has lots of paths to explore with a buggy. To mix it up a bit, you could combine it with a walk along the canal and Lemonroyd Marina, that you can reach from Woodlesford. The route is 5.5km and includes a visit to the family-friendly Rivers Meet Café in Methley.”

Roundhay Park Children’s Adventure Trails Walks, Leeds

Address – Mansion Ln, Roundhay, Leeds LS8 2HH

Parking – Free

Entrances to the park and all paths are wheelchair accessible. Accessible toilets are available in Tropical World Explorers Cafe, the Visitor Centre, and the Education Rooms. There is also an accessible toilet at Lakeside Cafe.

Rounhday Park in Leeds has over 700 acres parkland to explore with lakes, woodlands, gardens and wildlife as well as cafes, playgrounds and even a castle. There is also plenty of free parking and disabled parking bays on Mansion Lane and outside Tropical World. There are three different  Children’s Adventure Trails set up by the Friends of Roundhay Park. They vary in length and age ability, so you can pick the one that suits you! They are all over an hour in length and free to download (although donations are appreciated).

Yeadon Tarn Family Walk, Leeds

Address – Leeds LS19 7AA

Path around the lake is wheelchair/pram accessible.

Aside from being a good place to watch airplanes take off, having a lake, playground, and BMX bike track, Yeadon Tarn also is a fantastic short family walk. “There is an easy and flat circular walk, just under a mile long, around the pretty lake. Park at Tarnfield Park public car park using postcode LS19 7AA. There are two other car parks: to the southwest of the park off Cemetery Road and at the North West of the park off Cemetery Road,” says Lizzie Murphy of A Curious Journey. Read more of her 21 best family walks under two miles in Yorkshire.

Middleton Woods Family Walk, Leeds

Address – Town Street, Middleton, LS10 3SH

Middleton Woods is another great location for family walks in Yorkshire with over 470 acres and has a cafe, bowling greens, a playground, and a fishing lake.

Oakwell Hall Family Walk, Birstall

Address – Nutter Lane, Birstall, WF17 9LG

Some paths pram/wheelchair accessible.

Oakwell Hall is the perfect place for a family walk,  pond dipping , or a play in the playground.  You can also find a cafe, visitors centre, and ice cream vans on site.  There is an entry fee if you wish to tour Oakwell Hall, a furnished as a family home built in the 1690s.  However, there are 100 acres of country park to explore as well as the walled gardens of the home which have no entry fee and plenty of free parking.

Beaumont Park Walk with Kids, Huddersfield

Address – 74 Beaumont Park Rd, Huddersfield HD4 7AY

Parking – Lots of free roadside parking

Pram/Wheelchair accessible on some paths.

Beaumont Park is the perfect place to go for an atmospheric walk with its unique Victorian features, pathways, and grottos. There are a few walking trails, new sculptures, and two play areas.  You can also visit the nearby Dixon’s Milk Ices for a treat!  

Scammonden Dam Pram Friendly Walk| Huddersfield

Address – Huddersfield HD3 3FR

Pram/Wheelchair accessible.

“Scammonden is like a quick trip to the Lakes. It has amazing views, lots of places to skim stones, streams to paddle in, and a few sculptures to climb on. The path is suitable for prams and gives you a good workout. Older kids can enjoy climbing up the hills or the gigantic steps under the tunnel. There’s an ice cream van in the carpark and it’s just 10 minutes off the M62 junction 24,” says Maisy Carr, Yorkshire mum and photographer of Jupiter Moon Photography .

Room on the Broom Trail, Wakefield

Address – Anglers Country Park, Haw Park Lane, Wintersett, Wakefield WF4 2EB

Parking – Parking for up to two hours at £1, up to four hours at £2 and over four hours at £3

Pram/Wheelchair accessible but can be muddy in parts.

The Room on the Broom adventure trail is a two-mile circular route around a lake with activities and carvings based on Julia Donaldson’s book,  Room on the Broom  The trail is flat but it can be muddy or puddly (okay, not a word, but it should be). There is also an adventure play area, cafe, and public toilets.

Newmiller Dam Gnome Roam, Wakefield

Address – Wakefield WF2 6QQ

Parking – Pay and Display Machine. Maximum stay: 10  hours . Up to 1 hour – 60p. Up to 2  hours  – £1. Up to 4  hours  – £1.30. Over 4  hours  – £1.70

There are steps at the start of the Gnome Roam but the path along the dam is pram and wheelchair accessible .

The Newmiller Dam Gnome Roam is a 1.8-mile circular walk through woodlands with delightful gnome carvings and ‘Gnome Roam Trail’.

Pugney’s Country Park, Wakefield

Address – Asdale Road, Wakefield WF2 7EQ

Pugneys Country Park has lots of room for a walk and you can even download the free Love Exploring app to discover dinosaurs and find fairies!  The 250-acre park is a nature reserve that includes a lake and a water sports centre as well as a light railway (currently closed) Pirate-themed playground and cafe.

Yorkshire Sculpture Park Art Walk, Wakefield

Yorkshire Sculpture Park  near Wakefield is a fantastic open-air sculpture park perfect for family walks amid arts and sculptures. There is both a cafe and a restaurant on site. There are over 500 acres to explore so you have a huge variety of walks to choose from.

Nostell Priory, Wakefield

Address – Doncaster Road, Nostell, Wragby, Wakefield WF4 1QE

Parking – Parking: £5 per car for non-members, free for members.

Some paths are pram and wheelchair accessible.

Nostell Priory is a National Trust property and a great place to take a family walk or bike ride. There is quite a lot of ground to cover so you can have as long or as short of walk as you like. There is a great adventure play area (free to National Trust members, additional charge for non-members), book shop, cafe, and home to visit.

RSPB Fairburn Ings, Wakefield

Address:  RSPB Fairburn Ings, Wakefield WF10 2BH

Parking:   Free but parking charge for non-members of £4 per car

Most paths are wheelchair and pram friendly.

RSPB Fairburn Ings is a great day out for kids. There is a den building area, a visors centre with treats, and a small nature play area. The walking options range from a short 0.3-mile discovery trail to a 4-mile walk.  The visitor’s centre provides a very clear map and pond dipping kits for rent.

Shibden Hall, Halifax

Address – Godley Lane, Halifax, HX3 6XG

Parking – £1.50 for two hours

Most paths are pram and wheelchair accessible.

At Shiben Hall park you can feed the ducks, walk the grounds, or ride a bike on the paved paths There is also a play area, toilets and a nice cafe is providing drinks, ice cream, and takeaway service.

Ogden Reservoir, Halifax

Address – Ogden Lane, Halifax HX2 8XZ

Parking – Free car park

 There are over 2 km of wheelchair and accessible paths around the reservoir.

Ogden Reservoir  is home to the Ogden Water Local Nature Reserve and receives over 300,000 visitors every year. We had a lovely time on a  visit with our kids  there last spring. Ogden Reservoir has a visitor centre serving drinks and snacks (currently closed), as well as picnic tables for enjoying your treats from home.

Beverley Morely says, “Ogden reservoir lovely walk, plus dogs are welcome in the  Causeway Foot Pub  which serves food.” 

Saltaire Canal Walk, Saltaire

Address – Victoria Road, Saltaire

Parking – Some free on-road parking and paid car parks

 The walk along the canal is pram and wheelchair accessible.

The  walk at Saltaire  is a buggy-friendly, mostly flat canal footpath for the short walk, and a woodland path for the extended walk.  If you’re looking for an even bigger walk, you can continue to  5 Rise Locks in Bingley , with another great café and views of the locks.  Don’t forget to bring food for the ducks and geese (no bread please but they love peas!). You can end the walk with a play in Robert’s Park. 

Goit Stock Waterfall Walk, near Bingley

Address – BD16 1BG

Parking – Free roadside parking just beyond The Malt Shovel Pub although it can be limited at busy times.

Not pram/wheelchair accessible.

Goit Stock Waterfalls  are located just outside the village of Cullingworth near Bingley. There are no toilets or cafes on the walk, but if you want a short waterfall walk it’s a great little morning out! It is not pram-friendly and a bit uneven underfoot but short enough for confident walkers.

St Ives Family Walk, Bingley

Address – St Ives Park is located at St Ives Estate just a mile away from Bingley town centre.  (If you’re using a SatNav set the postcode for BD16 1AT

Parking – Small parking fee

Some of the walks pram wheelchair accessible.

We have had a few visits to  St Ive’s Park in Bingley  and what a fantastic day out it is!   The adventure playground is great for a range of ages, and there are some interesting walks, lots of geocaching to be done, ducks to feed and a nice little cafe for coffee and a treat.  It’s easily one of our favourite family parks in Yorkshire.

Cow & Calf Rocks, Ilkley

Address – Ilkley Moor, Ilkley, LS29 9RF

The Cow and Calf Rocks just outside of the beautiful town of Ilkley are two large rock formations. the large one is the ‘cow’ and the smaller the ‘calf’. The story goes that the rocks were split when Rombald the giant stamped on the rock while fleeing an enemy. The rocks are fun to climb and there are great views of the valley below. You can spot Victorian graffiti carved into the rocks as well. For a longer day out you follow one of the many trails that start from the area.

12 Apostles, Burley Moor 

This walk was shared with us by Samantha Brown of Days Out with the Reluctant Explorers.

Oh, we love Burley Moor! It’s the lesser known next door neighbour to the famous Ilkley Moor, but its just as good! (If not better…..controversial, I know!!) 

Why? Well, there are little waterfalls to splash in, plenty of grouse to spot, three dams (a great spot for frogspawn in Spring/ Summer), climbing rocks, spectacular views across to the Yorkshire Dales, as well as towards the skyscrapers of Leeds, and it has the Twelve Apostles rocks. 

What on earth are the Twelve Apostles? I hear you say…. well they are stone circles, thousands of years old, dating back to Neolithic times. I think that’s pretty cool and it’s somewhere to really inspire the imagination too! 

So much to offer, and so much quieter than its celebrity neighbour, there is some on-street parking available at Burley Woodhead crossroads, but it’s also accessible from Burley in Wharfedale train station. The walk to the Twelve Apostles and back from Burley Woodhead is around 6.5km. 

Extra directions if you need them…. 

(Access to the Moor is gained at the triangular crossroads at Burley Woodhead, on Moor Road. It’s a clearly signposted path. Head onwards and upwards past Lower Lanshaw Dam to the weathered rocks (great for climbing!). The track is obvious and heads right through the heather from there. Eventually, you’ll reach the 12 Apostles Rocks. We normally turn back here and return back via the Higher Lanshaw dam on the other side of Coldstone Beck. Here you can cross the Beck and then head back to where you started! )

Ilkley Tarn, White Wells and Millennium Maze From Darwin Gardens

This is another walk that comes recommended by Samantha Brown of  Days Out With the Reluctant Explorers . “Tucked away above the Town Centre of Ilkley is Ilkley Tarn, which is overlooked by the historic White Wells Spa. We love a trip to feed the ducks here!

The route around the water is a fabulous pushchair friendly walk. It is less than 2km, there are stunning views towards the moors, and across the town, plus ducks, who are particularly partial to being fed! Free parking is at Darwin Gardens, and the town centre is only a short (pushchair friendly) walk away too.”

Bronte Waterfall Walk, Haworth

Address:  Haworth, BD22 8DU

Parking:  Pay & display

Not wheelchair or pram friendly.

Families can make their way through the village to the  Bronte Waterfall Walk which is just under 3 miles long on public footpaths.  Be advised parking can be very busy on the weekends.

Hardcastle Crags Family Walk, Hebden Bridge

Address – Hollin Hall, Midgehole Rd, Hebden Bridge HX7 7AP

Parking – Free for National Trust Members, £5 for non-members

The road to Gibson Mill is steep in places but pram and wheelchair accessible.

Hardcastle Craggs  is a National Trust property near Hebden Bridge with family-friendly walks and a great little cafe at Gibson Mill.  It’s also a lovely place to have a picnic. While you relax near the river kids can have a paddle and make their way across the stepping stones.  

One walk down to the mill from the car park is along an access road, so it can be used by a pram if you don’t mind some uphill pushing.

The second route to Gibson Mill is along the river and is not pram friendly, but you can find a second set of stepping stones along the way.

Family Walks in South Yorkshire

Wentworth castle gardens, barnsley.

Address – Park Dr, Barnsley S75

Parking – Free for National Trust Members, £12.50 entry for families

Pram and wheelchair accessible although steep in parts. Mobility scooters are available for hire .

Wentworth Castle Gardens make for a day out with a ‘castle’ folly to visit, beautiful gardens, lots of walks, and a cafe. The kids love a walk through the deer park. The adventure play area is still currently closed.

Rivelin Valley Nature Trail Family Walk, Sheffield

Address – Malin Bridge Rivelin Valley, Sheffield S6 5FG

Parking – Free roadside parking at S6 5FG and second car park at Rails Rd, Sheffield S6 6GF)

Pram and wheelchair accessible near S6 5FG .

Rivelin Valley Nature Trail  is a fantastic family walk as well as a perfect place to paddle. There are many sets of stepping stones along the way, waterfalls, and quiet spots that a great for a picnic and getting your feet wet.

Sheffield Botanical Gardens, Sheffield

Address – Clarkehouse Rd, Broomhall, Sheffield S10 2LN

Parking – Limited on roads off Clarkehouse Road and near to the Thompson Road entrance.

This walk comes from Kate Painter who runs The Hound and Toddler . “Being Sheffield born and bred, the  Botanical Gardens  is one of my favourite places. Seek sanctuary amid a busy city and follow the sweeping lawns and paths to find the hidden bear pit. Enter if you dare!

The Botanical gardens are Ideal for a Sunday morning stroll when you can feed the squirrels and muse at the history of the park itself.”

Glen Howe Park Walk with Kids, Sheffield

Address: 14 Dixon Dr, Wharncliffe Side, Sheffield S35 0DG

Parking: Free

Glen Howe Park in Sheffield has woodland, a playing field, playground and is the start of a great Yorkshire family walk.

Damflask Reservoir Family Walk, Sheffield

Address:  The Sands, S6 6LA 

 “It’s a lovely great short circular walk through woodland, following the river and ponds at any time of the year. There is a beautiful waterfall and stepping stones. We saw people fishing as well. (There are) three accessible paddling pools with ramped access, aqua wheelchairs, and water jets and sprinklers but this specific area is currently closed,” says Hamza Kahn.

Endcliffe Park to Forge Dam, Sheffield

Address: Rustlings Rd, Sheffield S11 7AB

Parking: Free road side parking.

Andrea Hawes-Johnson recommends the Endcliffe Park to Forge Dam walk. “Endcliffe Park is very close to the Botanical Gardens, it’s got a cafe, playground, toilets (separate disabled one, but no Changing Places facility) big open spaces and duck ponds! Forge Dam is a couple of miles walk up the valley via a path that’s ok for pushchairs and bikes/scooters . There’s a smaller playground there plus a cafe and toilets. And a good tree for climbing. Both places could be a destination in themselves if you didn’t want to walk between the two, and there’s lots of potential for paddling in the stream,” she says.

Looking for more family walks in Yorkshire? Here are more ideas for you!

10 Yorkshire Family Walks with Fantastic Cafes

If like me, your idea of a fantastic family walk also includes a nice piece of cake and coffee, our family walks in Yorkshire with fantastic cafes is for you!  It’s one of our most popular posts so clearly I’m not the only one who likes a little reward at the end of my walk! 

10 Fabulous FREE Walking Trails for Kids in Yorkshire

There is nothing like a good walking trail to get the kids outside! It’s even better when it’s free!  We’ve found 10 fantastic walking trails that won’t cost you a penny.

20 Kid & Dog Friendly Walks In & Around Yorkshire

If a walk isn’t a walk without the family dog, our child and dog-friendly walks round-up will be sure to help you choose an outdoor adventure!   From  reservoir walks to parks with plenty of room to roam, there’s something for everyone in this list of d og and family walks in Yorkshire.

20+ Family Friendly Bluebell Walks in Yorkshire

If you’re looking for a family-friendly walk while the bluebells are in bloom our family-friendly bluebells walks in Yorkshire post will give you plenty of inspiration!

10 Kid & Dog Friendly Autumn Walks in Yorkshire

There are some amazing leaf displays to be seen in the Autumn months.  Here are 10 places to take an autumnal family walk in Yorkshire that are both kid and dog-friendly. 

10 Kid & Dog Friendly Winter Walks in Yorkshire

Where better to find a bit of holiday magic than in the great outdoors?  Winter walks can be a great way to keep the family from feeling housebound and offer some pretty spectacular sights at the same time!

ll look like great fun without a pram as well. 

9 beautiful yorkshire waterfall walks.

If you’re looking for a truly breathtaking walk, these family-friendly waterfall walks will be sure to offer spectacular views.

Walks with Blackberry Picking

Why not combine a family walk in Yorkshire with a fantastic autumn treat? Find the best places to go blackberry picking in Yorkshire !

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We’ve found 5 beautiful family-friendly stepping stone walks perfect for a walk with kids in Yorkshire. 

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If you’re looking for a walk where you can reward the kids at the end with a play, these walks with amazing adventure play areas won’t disappoint!

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Make walks fun with the littlest members of your family with these 20 pram-friendly walks with play areas !

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Work with Yorkshire Tots to Teens

Author: Erin at Yorkshiretots

I'm an American mum of a Yorkshire lad and lass who love adventures! Owner & founder of Yorkshire Tots to Teens where we bring families all the best events, days out & family fun in Yorkshire!

Really can’t wait for the lockdown to end so I can travel a bit further than my own town. So many lovely places to visit in the UK.

I love that there are walks suitable for all ages and abilities, plus the added bonus of cafes and play areas! This guide will definitely inspire our next family outing. Thank you for sharing these fabulous ideas—can’t wait to explore!

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19 amazing day trips from york you need to go on [2024].

Have you booked a trip to York but want to venture further afield from the walled city?

Do you live in York and fancy exploring more of what Yorkshire (and further afield!) has to offer?

Well, no matter whether you’re a local or a tourist, you’re in luck because there are so many amazing day trips from York to choose from.

We’ve compiled nineteen of the best day trips from York to suit all types of people.

So whether you’re a beach bum, history nerd or a keen hiker, sit back, relax, and get ready to explore.

1. Knaresborough

How far away is it? 17 miles

How long does it take to get there? 35 minutes by car or 29 minutes by train

If you’re in York, a day trip to Knaresborough should be high up on your agenda, particularly if the sun is shining!

This pretty little town has a wealth of activities to keep you entertained all day!

I’d recommend a punt down the river in your own rowing boat, which you can hire out for £7.

Row peacefully down the beautiful river Nidd, passing underneath Knaresborough’s immense viaduct.

Afterwards, you can walk through Knaresborough’s medieval streets, on which you’ll find loads of quaint shops, including  The Farm Dairy which sells delicious fresh produce.

Knaresborough is also full of charity shops if that’s your thing!

If you’re feeling peckish, there are loads of lunch options around, such as the Half Moon Free House for a pub lunch, or Scarlett’s Vintage Tea Rooms for an afternoon tea.

In the afternoon, round up your trip by visiting Mother Shipton’s Cave and the Petrifying Well, England’s Oldest Tourist Attraction.

Finally, head to Knaresborough Castle and Museum to learn more about the history of the beautiful town.

How far away is it? 46.9 miles

How long does it take to get there? 1 hour 15 minutes by car

Whitby is famous for its crumbling abbey which towers over the sea and inspired Bram Stoker’s famous novel ‘Dracula’.

The gothic ruins will not disappoint, and the impressive site is fascinating to explore, along with its adjoining English Heritage Museum.

If you take the 199 steps up to the Abbey , you’ll also be able to look around St Mary’s Church and sit on a bench that looks out across the beautiful sea.

Back in the main town, I’d recommend grabbing some classic fish and chips and eating it on the seafront.

I mean, it’s got to be done, right?

Shovel down your chips before walking down Whitby Pier and marvelling at the dramatic Abbey atop the hill.

The Captain James Cook monument on West Cliff is worth a visit, as is the Captain Cook Memorial Museum if you’re into your nautical history!

Whitby also has many quirky shops lining its cobbled streets, including Hildoceras and Furbelow & Co .

To eat, I’d recommend The Fisherman’s Wife , The Star Inn The Harbour , and Abbey Wharf . You definitely won’t go hungry in Whitby!

3. Robin Hood’s Bay

How far away is it? 50.2 miles

How long does it take to get there? 1 hour 20 minutes by car

Robin Hood’s Bay is a small fishing village on the Yorkshire coast, home to plenty of wildlife, beautiful coastal views and cute little shops.

If you’re visiting Whitby, I’d recommend taking the twenty-minute drive to Robin Hood’s Bay to complete your day out.

Here you can experience the breath-taking scenery over Fylingdales Moor.

You might even be lucky enough to spot sea birds and even seal colonies!

I’d recommend The Old Drapery and Jessica Hogarth shop if you fancy a spot of retail therapy, and the Falling Foss Tea Garden is perfect for afternoon tea in the sunshine.

Robin Hood’s Bay also has a museum and a ghost walk which are both equally entertaining.

And Old St Stephen’s Church is a beautiful site to add to your itinerary too!

After exploring the village, round off your day trip with a visit to Flamborough Cliffs and Spurn Point, two of Yorkshire’s wildlife trust reserves, to try and spot more wildlife.

4. Castle Howard

How far away is it? 15.1 miles

How long does it take to get there? 30 minutes by car

Castle Howard , a huge and impressive country house situated around thirty minutes from York, was described by The Telegraph in 2018 as ‘one of the top 10 buildings you must visit in your lifetime’ – and I’d agree.

The beautiful gardens, intricate architecture and flawless interior make for a memorable visit.

There’s plenty to explore so I’d recommend a guided tour around the house as the best way to explore the history of Castle Howard.

Once you’ve seen the house, there’s a beautiful circular walk around the estate, with stunning views of the house, gardens and surrounding countryside.

You can stop for a bite to each at one of Castle Howard’s many cafés, including The Coffee Shop, The Boathouse Café, The Fitzroy Café and The Courtyard Café.

And don’t forget to pop into the Castle Howard Farm Shop for a memento from your visit.

If you’re taking kids, I’d also recommend the Skelf Island Adventure Playground. Tucked away in the gardens of the estate, it’s great fun for adventurous little ones!

5. Yorkshire Wildlife Park

How far away is it? 49 miles

How long does it take to get there? 1 hour by car

This is definitely one of the more unforgettable day trips from York that you can go on.

A trip to Yorkshire Wildlife Park , situated near Doncaster, will allow you to get up close with over 450 animals of seventy different species, including endangered lions, tigers, leopards, giraffes, rhinos and red pandas.

You might be happy to hear that Yorkshire Wildlife Park is not a zoo.

Instead, it’s a conservation centre that invests money from ticket sales into breeding these endangered species, slowly introducing them to their natural habitats and eventually releasing them back into the wild where they belong.

Perfect for kids and adults, the 150 acres of land makes a great day out, as you walk through each different land and witness the beauty of all the animals.

Lands include Into Africa, Lion Country, Project Polar and Experience Ethiopia.

You can even enter the enclosures of more tame animals to get a closer look at them.

Grab some lunch at one of the many eateries in the park, including the Masai Coffee House and the Safari Café.

Just make sure to pre-book your trip to avoid disappointment!

6. Piglets Adventure Farm

How far away is it? 6.4 miles

How long does it take to get there? 15 minutes by car

Piglets Adventure Farm is one of the cutest day trips from York and is great for all ages – trust me, I’m 21 and I had a ball!

With farmyard animals such as piglets, ponies, goats and chickens, there’s loads to explore at the farm.

And you can even get involved, by petting and feeding the animals, stroking bunnies and guinea pigs, brushing the Kune Kune pigs and milking the cows.

Perhaps the cutest of them all, Piglets Adventure Farm is also home to two alpacas called Juno and Bandi!

Tickets are around £10 on a weekend and must be booked online.

The Piglets Coffee House is perfect for a coffee or lunch, and the Ice Cream Parlour provides delicious ice creams to enjoy while you’re walking around the farm.

How far away is it? 46.4 miles

How long does it take to get there? 1 hour and 20 minutes by car

Haworth, a small village in Yorkshire where the Bronte sisters lived, is one of the best day trips from York for those interested in the writers, or for anyone looking for some family fun!

You can’t visit Haworth without a trip to the Bronte Parsonage Museum , where the sisters wrote some of their most famous books.

Full of furniture, clothing, manuscripts and diary entries that provide an insight into the lives of the sisters, and those who lived in 19 th century Haworth, the museum is fascinating.

East Riddlesden Hall is also worth a visit if you’re into your history and heritage.

The 17th-century manor house has beautiful gardens full of flowers, and intricate tapestries to explore.

Haworth is also home to some quirky events throughout the year, such as Scroggling the Holly Weekend, Pipes, Bows and Bells Weekend, and the Bronte Village Gathering.

Keep your eyes peeled as you might be lucky to find yourself experiencing a Haworth tradition.

There are plenty of eateries in Haworth, from pubs to tea rooms, and I’d recommend Haworth Old Hall and The Hawthorn !

If you fancy some shopping, I’d recommend the old fashioned sweet shop at the top of Main Street, or Hawksby’s for some quirky items.

Finally, round off your trip with a ride on a Keighley & Worth Valley Railway steam train, which featured in the Railway Children.

8. North York Moors National Park

How far away is it? 25 miles

How long does it take to get there? 40 minutes by car

Take a drive to the Moors National Park Centre to enjoy a day out at one of Yorkshire’s main attractions, and one of the best walks in Yorkshire .

Hundreds of miles of beautiful moorland make for loads of brilliant hiking and cycle routes for all the family to enjoy.

The Centre is a historic building that can be found on the River Esk, near Danby.

Here you can relax by the river before or after your trip on the moors!

From the Centre, you have gorgeous views of moorland, woodland, farmland, historic buildings and miles of hedges and drystone walls, that you’ll quickly be keen to explore.

Entry to the centre is free, and you can use their toilets, gallery, outdoor adventure playground, indoor soft-play area, climbing wall and Park Life Café from 10 am to 5 pm.

This is a fantastic opportunity to spend the day outdoors, experiencing all the nature and wildlife the moors have to offer.

9. North Yorkshire Moors Railway

How far away is it? 40.3 miles

How long does it take to get there? 1 hour and 5 minutes by car

If you’re into trains or want to learn more about Yorkshire’s vibrant history, North Yorkshire Moors Railway might just be one of the best day trips from York for you.

Preserved by volunteers since 1967, you can hop on and off the railway at your leisure with the Freedom Ticket between Pickering and Whitby.

The stations have tea rooms and gift shops, toilets and onboard facilities, and boarding the train provides stunning views of Yorkshire scenery, as well as an opportunity to experience trains that were used in the 19 th -century.

You can also book experiences to enhance your day trip, such as the Pullman Dining Train, digital photography workshops, tours of the trains and stations, and the Steam or Diesel Experiences.

These provide an insight into the golden age of steam on a heritage steam locomotive footplate or allow you to experience the workhorses of Britain’s railways, as you take a footplate ride in the cab of a heritage Diesel locomotive.

Peak tickets are around £40 for an adult and £20 for a child, but get cheaper in off-peak seasons.

10. Harewood House

How far away is it? 20.8 miles

Built in the 18th-century, Harewood House is a breath-taking estate, situated in the heart of Yorkshire.

Renowned for its art collections, rare Bird Garden, Farm Experience and 100 acres of beautiful land, it makes for one of the most exciting day trips from York.

The interior of the house is awe-inspiring, with a beautiful music room and galleries to explore.

You can even see an old kitchen which provides an insight into the running of a country house.

The house also contains a plethora of paintings, furniture and ceramics for those intrigued by masters of the Italian Renaissance.

You can also expect to see family portraits and modern art collected by the current Earl and Countess.

The famous Thomas Chippendale furnished the property in 1767, and his pieces are still in great condition to view.

The gardens and landscape are award-winning and are worth a visit too.

Here you can enjoy plenty of wildlife, family fun at the Adventure Playground, and The Capability, a boat that tours the lake on weekends and bank holidays.

11. Scarborough

How far away is it? 41.4 miles

How long does it take to get there? 1 hour and 10 minutes by car or 50 minutes by train

Like Whitby, Scarborough is another of Yorkshire’s brilliant coastal towns and one of the best cities to visit in England .

If you fancy a day trip filled with ice cream, beach strolls and beautiful views from the towering cliffs, take the one hour journey to Scarborough.

The arcades are great for some family fun, and walking up to Scarborough Castle requires some effort but is worth it for the spectacular views at the top.

Alongside two beaches to explore, I recommend a visit to The Rotunda if you want to learn more about the natural history and fossils that have been found throughout the Yorkshire coast.

How long does it take to get there? 45 minutes by car or 23 minutes by train

Located only a 25-minute train journey from York, Leeds is a great city if you fancy exploring somewhere bigger and busier for the day.

With hundreds of shops, bars and restaurants, from well-known chains to small businesses, Leeds has something for every occasion.

I’d recommend Trinity Leeds for shopping, and Cuckoo for drinks!

(You get a free pizza with every drink so it’s pretty much a no-brainer really!)

Some of the best attractions in Leeds include the Royal Armouries Museum at Clarence Dock, Roundhay Park if you’re looking for a nice walk, Temple Newsam for some beautiful topiary, and the RSPB St Aidan’s Nature Reserve to spot some wildlife!

Read on to discover the best date ideas in Leeds , vegan restaurants in Leeds , bottomless brunch in Leeds , and rooftop bars in Leeds .

How far away is it? 70.5 miles

How long does it take to get there? 1 hour and 30 minutes by car or 40 minutes by train

If you’re looking for a smaller town to visit, then Durham should be top of your list of day trips from York.

With its historic university, beautiful river and quaint streets filled with shops and cute cafés, Durham makes a delightful day trip.

No trip to Durham is complete without a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site located at Durham Cathedral and its adjacent castle.

Here you might even be lucky enough to spot a filming location for Harry Potter!

I’d also recommend visiting the Durham Dales, the Vale of Durham, and The Living Museum of the North for an exploration of England’s largest open-air museum.

14. Lake District

How far away is it? 85 miles

How long does it take to get there? 2 hours by car

For the more adventurous types, one of the best day trips from York is to the Lake District .

The Lakes encompass so many different types of adventure.

From swimming in beautiful lakes, such as Wastwater, to trekking up the Lake District’s highest mountain Scafell Pike, there’s something for everyone.

In fact, there’s so much to do that you’ll quickly be inspired to make many more return visits.

Any excuse to explore more of this stunning National Park, right?

On Lake Windermere, you can hire a boat, such as motorboats, rowing boats or even paddleboards if you’re feeling more adventurous.

Or you could try your hand at archery, laser clay or mini-golf!

However, if you fancy more of a relaxing trip, you can take a boat cruise across the lake.

Instead of rushing about, you can enjoy refreshments on board and soak up the beautiful scenery.

Grizedale Forest is also worth a visit, with ten walking trails and nine cycle trails to choose from.

15. Peak District

How far away is it? 51.2 miles

How long does it take to get there? 1 hour and 5 minutes by car or 1 hour and 30 minutes by train

The Peak District , encompassing towns such as Buxton and Bakewell, is home to some of the UK’s most beautiful countryside.

A ninety-minute train from York to Sheffield will take you into the heart of the Peak District.

Here you can undertake some amazing walks across the rolling hills of the Peak District.

I’d recommend visiting Bakewell (for some Bakewell tarts, of course), and the small village of Baslow which has some great pubs for a Sunday roast.

You could also visit Chatsworth House , where films such as Pride and Prejudice were filmed.

A trip to Pooles Cavern promises dramatic views of Buxton’s caves, and the Heights of Abraham are a must-see, as you take cable cars to the sixty-acre Heights of Abraham estate.

And of course, you can’t leave the area without embarking on one of the best walks in the Peak District .

16. Sheffield

How far away is it? 58.3 miles

How long does it take to get there? 1 hour and 15 minutes by car or 1 hour and 10 minutes by train

If you make the trip to Sheffield , but fancy a city day rather than venturing into the Peak District’s countryside, then I’d recommend a day of shopping at Meadowhall , Sheffield’s huge shopping centre with hundreds of shops to choose from.

The city itself is home to the Crucible , the Antiques Quarter, Kelham Island , and a bustling city centre, so there’s plenty to explore on this day trip!

Sheffield Botanical Gardens are a beautiful sight, as is the Winter Garden which promises a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.

I also love a visit to the Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife and Falconry Centre , which both kids and adults will love.

17. Manchester

How far away is it? 71.1 miles

How long does it take to get there? 1 hour and 30 minutes by car or 1 hour and 20 minutes by train

Manchester , another vibrant Northern city, is one of the best day trips from York.

There are endless things to do there that you can visit again and again without getting bored!

From unique bars and clubs to the Royal Exchange Theatre to hundreds of museums and art galleries, there’s plenty to keep you occupied all day.

I’d recommend the National Football Museum and the Central Library for two dramatic buildings, and the Science and Industry Museum for those interested in the Industrial Revolution.

Read on discover the best free things to do in Manchester and some fun indoor activities in Manchester .

18. Bolton Abbey

How far away is it? 37.4 miles

How long does it take to get there? 1 hour and 10 minutes by car

Bolton Abbey is a fantastic family day out, consisting of woodland and riverside walks, afternoon tea, and exploring the historic Priory Church and Ruins.

Walking around the estate provides a day of entertainment in itself.

With sixty stepping stones to cross the river, the Valley of Desolation (a dramatic waterfall), and forests full of bluebells, there’s definitely no chance for you to get bored.

I’d recommend walking to Strid Wood, with stunning views of the river Strid.

Use the interactive map to explore the site, which also has a beach where kids can play and paddle in the river!

There are trail maps, such as the ‘I Spy’ card to entertain children as they walk around, spotting wildlife and enjoying the natural environment.

Top tip: keep an eye out for the events that Bolton Abbey put on at different times of the year.

From Easter Egg Hunts to Welly Walks to Pumpkin Trails, there’s plenty to keep the little ones entertained.

19. Harrogate

How far away is it? 21.5 miles

How long does it take to get there? 40 minutes by car or 30 minutes by train

Last on our list of the best day trips from York is the Victorian spa town of Harrogate , and the nearby medieval city of Ripon, renowned as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Grab some lunch at one of Harrogate’s famous eateries, such as The Tannin Level with its beautiful outside area, or The Fat Badger , a top two AA rosette restaurant situated within an exquisite Georgian manor house.

After lunch, why not squeeze in as many sites as possible, such as the RHS Garden Harlow Carr if gardening is your thing, or the Mercer Art Gallery if you’re into art and design?

Containing over 2000 works of art, the latter is well worth a visit.

No trip to Harrogate is complete without a visit to the Victorian Royal Baths, a beautiful grade II listed building that contains the renowned Turkish Baths and Spa .

With stunning interiors and even the opportunity to experience a relaxing treatment, it’s the perfect way to unwind and decompress.

Finally, why not end your day with a spot of shopping at some of Yorkshire’s most famous boutiques, such as The Japanese Shop , Inger & Rae , and the Spirit of Harrogate ?

And that marks the end of our list of the best day trips from York.

I hope you find some inspiration for your ideal day trip from this list.

Whether it’s a walk down the beach, a peruse around a stately home, or a visit to some local wildlife, you’re guaranteed a great time.

Wherever you end up going, I hope you enjoy your day trip!

13 BEST Day Trips From York, England

From exploring the yorkshire dales to a day out at castle howard, these are the best day trips from york perfect for the whole family..

York is one of our favourite cities in Great Britain, and it’s perfect for a weekend away.

Whether it’s shopping along the Shambles, learning about York’s history (which usually involves eating a lot of chocolate), or discovering medieval pubs to cosy up in, it’s one of those cities that you’ll instantly fall in love with.

However, if you’re looking at staying in the city for more than a couple of days, then here are some of the best day trips from York. This is perfect if you want to see some more of Yorkshire (and you should because it’s beautiful).

Yorkshire is known as “God’s Own Country”, so no trip here would be complete without hiking the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Another must is the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, an old fashioned steam engine. This is one activity that’s perfect for the whole family. I’m not going to lie to you, the dad’s always seem to love it more than the kids!

I really can’t recommend York and the surrounding countryside enough though. Hopefully these York day trips will help you plan your trip here. Right, let’s get into it!

Plus, if you’re looking at treating yourself, here are the best Michelin starred restaurants in Yorkshire and the best luxury and boutique hotels in Yorkshire .

13 Amazing Day Trips from York

Located on the Yorkshire Coast, Whitby is such an amazing place to visit in Yorkshire. Check out the Pavilion where you can watch the latest films in the cinema, rock out at a gig, or grab a portion of tasty fish and chips.

Of course you’re going to want to visit the beach at Whitby. Hop on the Whitby Coastal Cruise where you can sail out into the bay and explore the Yorkshire Coastline. If you prefer to keep your feet on land, you can enjoy the open-top bus tour instead.

Fans of Dracula are going to want to try the audio-guided GeoStories where you can follow in the footsteps of Bram Stoker. Stoker was famously wrote the novel in Whitby, so if you’re a fan of the book there’s an extra special connection here.

Yorkshire Dales National Park

Known for its picturesque scenery, Yorkshire Dales National Park is the perfect choice for those who love the great outdoors. Whether you choose to go walking or to visit historical towns and castle ruins, there’s something for everyone.

The Dales are full of natural attractions, like Malham Cove and Aysgarth Falls. Will you be brave enough to tackle the Three Peaks? Take in the landscapes as you take on one peak, or conquer all three.

If you’re more into sightseeing, there’s so many quaint towns to visit. I love checking out the independent shops in Kirkby Stephen, a small market town. The Parish Church has one of two Loki stones in Europe, which depict the Norse God. 

Kilburn White Horse

Located in the hills of the North Yorkshire Moors National Park is Britain’s largest white horse. Kilburn White Horse is one of the most famous landmarks and a fun day trip from York. 

At a massive 318 feet long and 220 feet high, you can’t miss it! Why not take a walk down the scenic footpath to see the majestic horse up close? Did you know, the best view is from Bagby Road? Take a seat on one of the benches or capture the perfect picture to share on Instagram!

Castle Howard

Castle Howard and gardens is a unique day trip from York. The well preserved house and exquisite gardens are a must-see. 

Whilst touring around the house, there are so many unique exhibits and tours to choose from. You can learn about the hidden lives of the women at Castle Howard, hidden objects, or the impact of the war. I would personally recommend visiting the chapel, with its stunning pre-Raphaelite architecture. 

Castle Howard is a popular filming location. Can you spot where scenes from Bridgerton and Victoria were filmed? It was even used in the Arctic Monkeys ‘Four Out Of Five’ video!

North Yorkshire Moors Railway

For a fantastic day out, head to the North Yorkshire Moors Railway . This is an old fashioned steam train that runs from Whitby along the Yorkshire coast to Pickering.

Once a popular route, this heritage rail line was brought back to life and reopened showing what the journey would’ve once been like. Each station is a classic station from the early-mid 1900’s. The life of the railway has gone full circle, and it’s now one of the busiest steam trains again in the world!

On the train you can have afternoon tea, have a delicious decadent dinner, meet Santa during the holiday season, or our favourite, solve a murder mystery. This really is one of the best day trips from York that’s for sure!

Visit Leeds , the unofficial capital of Yorkshire, for a fantastic day out. Whether you’re a couple enjoying a date, a family looking for fun or you want to shop ‘till you drop, there’s plenty for everyone in this city.

Head to Tropical World or Meanwood Valley Urban Farm for an animal-packed day with the kids, or check out one of Leeds’ many museums for a quieter day. We love visiting the ancient Egyptian mummies at Leeds City Museum!

Don’t forget to check out the independent food scene – after all, Leeds is known as the foodie capital of the North.

Home of the Bronte sisters, Haworth is a must-visit. With a rich literary history and surrounded by the Moors, there’s so much to do in this picturesque village.

Of course you must visit the Bronte Parsonage Museum and experience how the famous sisters lived as they wrote novels which would stand the test of time. Perhaps you’d prefer to explore Haworth village and park on a short one mile walk through the cobbled streets?

Treat yourself to a delicious afternoon tea at Cobbles and Clay or head to Mrs Beighton’s Sweet Shop to choose from over 500 different varieties of sweets!

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, the charming village of Saltaire has a rich industrial past. Now it’s home to many museums, including the infamous Salts Mill. 

Why not hop aboard the Saltaire Trio Boat to see the charming village in all its glory as you sail down the canal? Be sure to look out for Victoria Hall and Roberts Park. Art fans can check out the David Hockney collection at Salts Mill.

For a unique experience visit Interlude Cafe, a 1920s style tea room that specialises in a classic cream tea. Do you put jam or cream first?

The Forbidden Corner

The Forbidden Corner is one of York’s most unique attractions. Located in Tupgill Park, the labyrinth of tunnels and chambers make for a brilliant family day out.

Run through the underground dwellings and explore the stone pathways to see what surprises pop out. There are many things to see, from the Green Man and castle towers. The newest addition is the stained glass windows which have come from Carlton Church.

Don’t forget to take your picnic and enjoy the gardens and outdoors areas. I’ll be munching on fresh donuts from The Potting Shed – yum!

Durham 

From museums and parks, to shopping and museums, there’s so much to do in Durham. This city is full of activities for family fun, a romantic date, or a solo adventure.

For some family fun, check out Beamish, the living museum of the north. Here you can travel back in time in this immersive experience. It’s brilliant fun!

Durham is the perfect place for shopaholics. From farmers markets and antiques, to independent boutiques and shopping centres, you’ll find exactly what you need. Pick out a new cushion with your partner or take yourself on a shopping spree. 

Knaresborough 

With stunning architecture surrounded by cliffs, Knaresborough is top of my list of places to visit in Yorkshire. I just love the feel of the marketplace surrounded by mediaeval streets.

Check out the mediaeval remains of Knaresborough Castle before checking out the independent shops in the traditional marketplace. I love visiting Yorkshire Mixture, where you can choose from 100 jars of traditional sweets. 

If you love the great outdoors you’re going to want to visit Mother Shipton’s Cave and the Petrifying Well. The landmark is England’s oldest visitor attraction and has been open since 1630! Check out the mile-long walk along the River Nidd.

Bolton Abbey

There’s so much to see and do at Bolton Abbey making it’s place to visit. From the Priory Church and Ruins and Barden Tower, to the Valley of Desolation and The Money Tree, you’ll be entertained for hours. 

Check out the stunning 12th century ruins of the Augustinian Priory before venturing through the riverside landscapes that surround it.

Why not admire the aqueduct or jump across the 60 stepping stones across the river, which were once a crossing point for workers. 

Harrogate 

Rounding off our list of York day trips is Harrogate , which is a fantastic year-round destination. Discover the Victorian spa town and all it has to offer.

The Turkish Baths are perfect for a romantic getaway. Offering modern treatments with the Victorian Turkish baths decor, this is the ideal location for a relaxing couples activity. Why not finish your evening with a show at one of Harrogate’s many theatres?

Our green-fingered readers are going to love the variety of gardens in Harrogate. Check out the Himalayan Gardens and Sculpture Park where you can discover over 80 sculptures and botanical masterpieces! 

There are so many fantastic day trips from York to choose from! Which one of these are at the top of your list? If you have any questions at all you can let us know in the comments below!

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16 Best Day Trips from York, UK: Local Favourites & Hidden Gems

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LOOKING FOR THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT FROM YORK?

Ancient York is one of England’s hottest tourist destinations, with a heritage dating back to the Vikings and Roman times and abundant historical sites to enjoy, including York Minster, the National Railway Museum, the medieval city walls and the Jorvik Viking Centre.

After you’ve explored the city, taking day trips from York is the perfect way to explore more of Yorkshire, including the scenic Yorkshire Dales and the spectacular Yorkshire Coast , the ancient buildings, and the thrilling history of England’s biggest county.

No time to read the whole post? No worries! This North York Moors and Whitby Tour combines the most beautiful Yorkshire countryside with a visit to spooky Whitby Abbey on the North Yorkshire coast.

This guide shares 16 of the best days out from York in nearby towns, cities, and picturesque villages to get a taste of what a great place Yorkshire is to explore. You’ll discover some of the most popular days out from York, some hidden gems, and some of the best day trips from York by train.

16 Best Day Trips From York

There is so much to see and do in Yorkshire that it can be hard to choose what’s best, especially if you have limited time.

After years of living in North Yorkshire and exploring Northern England, I’ve picked the best locations for days out from York.

The only problem is the number of amazing places to visit near York! You’ll want to come back again and again to explore more of Yorkshire’s quaint villages, coastal towns and beautiful scenery!

Let’s get started with the absolute best days out from York!

1. Castle Howard

Home to the Howard family, Castle Howard is a grand 17th-century country house with extensive gardens, just half an hour from York city centre.

You might recognise this magnificent 145-room stately home as the filming location for the iconic 1981 British TV series Brideshead Revisited or the 2008 movie of the same Evelyn Waugh novel. You may also have spotted this grand historic building in the Netflix drama Bridgerton.

One of the top 10 buildings you must visit in your lifetime The Telegraph, 2018

A real treat for history lovers, Castle Howard is one of the most opulent buildings in Yorkshire and the most beautiful stately homes in England. it includes the 145-acre Yorkshire Arboretum, with its collection of more than six thousand rare trees.

The York Multi-Day Explorer Pass includes entry to Castle Howard’s house and gardens – it’s one of the most popular days out from York.

2. The North York Moors National Park

For pure escapism, one of the best day trips from York is a visit to the magnificent North York Moors National Park . Millions of visitors flock to the north of England each year to enjoy the wide-open spaces of Yorkshire’s beautiful national parks.

Quaint little towns and villages abound in the North York Moors National Park, with traditional stone dwellings and ancient dry-stone walls that hug the heather-clad hills and valleys as far as the eye can see. Helmsley village, with the National Centre for Birds of Prey , is an exciting option for a day trip from York and the town of Malton is a foodie paradise.

Pro Tip: Walking is the best way to experience the Yorkshire countryside. Stop along the way to admire the views and enjoy hearty refreshments at the local pubs. Some of the most popular walks include the coastal Ravenscar Loop (1.5 miles), the famous Coast to Coast Walk (198 miles) from Cumbria to Robin Hood’s Bay, and the short, scenic walk from R obin Hood’s Bay to Boggle Hole (3 miles). 

Best-selling day trips from York to the North York Moors:

• North York Moors and Whitby Tour
• Moors, Whitby and The Yorkshire Steam Railway
• Day Trip to Whitby and The North York Moors

3. North Yorkshire Moors Railway

Dating back to 1836, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway runs from the pretty coastal town of Whitby through much of the beautiful countryside of North Yorkshire.

The line closed in the mid-20th century amid sweeping changes to the railway network; however, it reopened in 1973 as a heritage rail line , running restored steam trains. Today, more passengers use the North Yorkshire Moors Railway than any other heritage railway in Britain. It’s one of the busiest steam engine train lines in the world .

Pro Tip: The train journey from the old station at Pickering to Whitby is the perfect day out from York for fans of steam trains and Harry Potter. The steam train ride even passes through  Hogsmeade Station !

Best Organised Tour: Moors, Whitby and the Yorkshire Steam Railway Tour from York

4. Harewood House

A short, scenic drive from York (around 75 minutes by public transport) will get you to the glorious Harewood House . Once the family home of the “ Yorkshire Princess “, every aspect of Harewood is stunning, and you can easily spend a whole day here. 

The house is a treasure trove of antiquities and art, but the real gem is ‘below stairs’ in the kitchens. If you’re a Downton Abbey fan, you’ll adore Harewood, one of the movie’s locations!  

The gardens are a real highlight, with so much to entice visitors. A short journey across the lake by chain-link ferry brings you to the vast kitchen gardens that burst with the freshest seasonal produce for the table.

Pro Tip: Watch out for the Instagramable bridge and the stepping stones in the Himalayan Garden and Harewood Castle – a real hidden gem.

5. Bolton Abbey

The Bolton Abbey estate comprises thirty thousand acres of lush green hills and 80 miles of well-marked footpaths in the heart of the glorious Yorkshire Dales. Bolton Abbey is one of the loveliest day trips from York.

Just a 60-minute drive from York, there’s something here for all visitors, including 60 stepping stones across the river , an aqueduct, the fabulous Valley of Desolation and Simon’s Seat, and the quirky Barden Tower . 

Most famous, though, is the 12th-century Priory Church and ruined Augustinian Priory in the heart of Bolton Abbey Estate. In 1539, King Henry VIII stripped the Priory of assets during the dissolution of the monasteries. Luckily, the abbey’s nave was saved as a place for local people to worship, which they still do today.

The village has the same old-world charm as the abbey, with award-winning restaurants, tea rooms and pubs offering substantial home-cooked dishes to recharge your batteries after a good walk. 

Recommended tour: Haworth and the Yorkshire Dales, including Bolton Abbey .

6. Bolton Castle

Not to be confused with Bolton Abbey, Bolton Castle in Wensleydale is one of Britain’s best-preserved medieval castles and one of the best day trips from York for royal history lovers.

Mary Queen of Scots , the cousin of Queen Elizabeth the First, was the castle’s most famous resident. Elizabeth imprisoned her here for six months from July 1568 before being moved to Tutbury, where she remained a prisoner until she was executed 18 years later.

You can visit the apartments in the South-West Tower where Mary lived with her retinue of 30 servants. You’ll also find lovely gardens at Bolton Castle, including a maze, herb garden, wildflower meadow, rose garden, and vineyard; plus, regular falconry displays are enjoyable.

Recommended Tour: Bolton Castle is about a 75-minute drive from York; however, this comprehensive Yorkshire Dales Day Trip from York provides a more leisurely way to visit and a way to see more of the Yorkshire countryside in one day. Don’t think about going by public transport – the trip is ghastly!

7. Harrogate

The elegant spa town of Harrogate exudes the class and style of a bygone era. Just 45 minutes from York on a direct train ride that takes you over the spectacular Knaresborough Viaduct , Harrogate is a top contender as one of the best day trips from York.

Regularly voted ‘ Best Place to Live in the UK ‘, Harrogate is a charming town with interesting shops, heaps of Regency history, and some of the best restaurants and coffee shops in North Yorkshire.

How to get to Harrogate

Parking in Harrogate is expensive! Take the train directly to the centre of Harrogate from York station. The journey time is approx. 40 minutes through the beautiful Yorkshire countryside, and Harrogate is easy to walk around.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to visit the utterly fabulous Royal Baths , the Royal Horticultural Society Gardens at Harlow Carr , and the iconic Betty’s Tearoom for the most luxurious afternoon tea experience. 

Tucked away deep in the Yorkshire Dales National Park , Haworth was once home to the Bronte sisters. Almost everything in this quaint little village has a ‘Bronte’ twist, but it’s utterly charming. 

Visit Haworth to see the Bronte Parsonage Museum and to learn more about the lives and writing of Charlotte, Emily, and Anne Bronte, famous for Wuthering Heights , Jane Eyre , and The Tenant of Wildfell Hall, respectively. Afterwards, linger to enjoy the village’s tearooms, incredible views, and independent shops.

Pro Tip : Parking in Haworth can be tricky. Head for Oxenhope instead (SatNav BD22 9LB) and ride on the steam heritage railway to Haworth instead. 

Recommended organised coach trip to Haworth from York: Haworth and Yorkshire Dales Day Trip from York

9. Knaresborough

Best known for its soaring Victorian viaduct, which spans the scenic River Nidd, pretty Knaresborough is a lovely town to visit. It’s perfect for a stroll along the riverside, taking a rowing boat out (or stopping for afternoon tea).

Then climb up to the ruins of Knaresborough Castle or visit Old Mother Shipton’s Cave (reputed to be Britain’s oldest tourist attraction). Time your visit for mid-June, and you might get to see the Great Knaresborough Bed Race !

Pro Tip : The best view of the viaduct is from the paths around the castle, but come prepared, as it’s quite a steep climb up from the riverside. Sturdy shoes are essential!

How to get to Knaresborough

Knaresborough is easy to reach on day trips from York Central Station, as it’s on a direct train line, and the journey is only 30 minutes .

10. Kilburn White Horse

Kilburn is a small village near the town of Thirsk (famed as the home of the fictional vet, James Herriot).

Kilburn’s claim to fame is the huge 150-year-old white horse carved into the hillside near the village, inspired by the famous ancient white horses in the UK’s South Downs, including the Uffington White Horse .

Today, the figure measures 318 feet long by 220 feet high, covering about 1.6 acres of the hillside, making it England’s biggest and most northerly hill figure.

Pro Tip: While there’s a car park beneath the white horse, the best place to see the white horse is from Bagby Lane, just outside Thirsk. 

12 – Whitby

Perched high above the town on a windswept and desolate headland, you’ll find Whitby Abbey , the dramatically ruined 11th-century Benedictine monastery that inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula .

Then there’s the ancient parish Church of St Mary to visit if you can climb the 199 steps to see it. Whitby is also famed as the 17th-century home of explorer Captain James Cook, with the Captain Cook Memorial Museum a great spot to visit.

Pro Tip: Whitby is THE place to have traditional British fish and chips (fries). Head for the Magpie Cafe at 1 Pier Road for fish straight from the fishing boats in the harbour, fried in the crispiest batter. It’s not posh, but it is delicious, and the view is to die for.

The seaside town of Whitby isn’t easy to reach by public transport from York and, as it is a tourist hotspot, parking can be challenging. Here are some of the best day trips from York to Whitby by coach:

• Steam Train, Whitby and the North York Moors
• Day Trip to Whitby and the North York Moors

Related Post: Must-Try Yorkshire Food (17 Best Things To Eat and Drink, Including Fish and Chips)

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Yorkshire boasts two of the United Kingdom’s 32 UNESCO World Heritage Sites , both of which are within easy reach of York.  

13. Saltaire

Just one hour by road or train from York, Saltaire is on the outskirts of Bradford in West Yorkshire.

Saltaire Village is named after the Victorian philanthropist Sir Titus Salt, who built a textile mill known as Salts Mill on the River Aire during the Industrial Revolution .

He also built all the houses, bathhouses, hospitals, almshouses, and churches that make up the ‘model’ village of Saltaire that now has protected UNESCO World Heritage status. 

When you arrive in Saltaire on your day trip from York, it’s like stepping back to the Victorian era, but it’s not all about history. Salts Mill houses an art gallery with works from local artists, including David Hockney . 

How to get to Saltaire

Take the train from York Station to Saltaire (via Leeds).

Alternatively, book a hire car. It’s easy to find parking, and visiting Saltaire is one of the loveliest Yorkshire Dales day tours from York. I use and recommend Rentalcars.com  as they search all car rental companies to get you the best deal.

14. Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Gardens

Founded in 1132, Fountains Abbey is England’s largest and best-preserved monastery. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best places to visit near York, UK.

The waters of the River Skell wind past the abbey ruins into Studley Royal Water Gardens, where moon-shaped ponds, mirrored lakes, formal hedges and laurel banks provide the perfect framing for the ancient abbey ruins.

As well as the ruined abbey and the water gardens, make time to see Fountains Hall , Fountains Mill , and St Mary’s Church in the medieval deer park. You can easily spend a full day exploring here and still yearn to return for more.

How to get there: The trip by public transport is grim (there’s no direct train, so it’s buses all the way, with connections to negotiate). Only a complete masochist would attempt it! The better option is to drive. If you need to rent a car, I highly recommend RentalCars.com for the best deals!

Best Cities for Day Trips from York

The great city of Leeds is warm, welcoming, and vibrant, with plenty of galleries, museums, and exhibitions in the city centre to tempt culture vultures, including the Royal Armouries Museum , the Thakray Medical Museum , and the Leeds City Museum .

If you love to shop, there’s a half-mile of pedestrianised shopping, plus  Harvey Nicholls  and  John   Lewis  stores within the  Victoria Gate  shopping and leisure area.

Top Tip: Whatever you do, don’t miss the covered Victorian shopping arcades – packed with designer boutiques and independent boutique shops in the beautiful old Corn Exchange!

For something more traditional, check out  Kirkgate Market , the largest covered market in Europe, with excellent pubs and restaurants nearby.  Fazenda  is spectacular (but only if you enjoy meat!).

Only 20 miles away from York, the friendly city of Leeds is a great choice for day trips from York. 

How to get to Leeds

Hop on a direct train from York, and you’ll be in Leeds in just 30 minutes.

Captivating Durham is an hour and a half drive north of York and conveniently on the train line from York to Edinburgh. Condé Nast’s Traveller Magazine readers voted Durham the ‘Best City in the UK ‘.

One of Britain’s most picturesque cities, thanks to its many beautiful buildings, riverside setting and UNESCO World Heritage sites – Durham Castle and the vaulted, Romanesque Durham Cathedral . You’ll also find ancient university colleges, botanical gardens, and an Oriental Museum exhibiting Asian, Egyptian, and Middle Eastern artefacts.

Take time to stroll the winding cobbled streets, explore the fascinating, unique shops and luxuriate in independent tearooms, coffee shops, and cafes.

Don’t miss the chance to go on a ghost walk while you’re in York! I’ve shared all the best ghost walks in York here so you can pick which one is best for you 🙂

More Ideas For Day Trips by Train from York

Some of the best places near York to explore if you have more time include Yorkshire’s great cities.

• Wakefield  – for Wakefield Cathedral, the Hepworth Gallery, Yorkshire Sculpture Park and the excellent National Coal Mining Museum.
• Sheffield   – for the best shopping in the North, the Millennium Gallery, the Winter Garden, Botanical Gardens and Kelham Island Museum.  The beautiful city of Sheffield is also on the doorstep of the stunning Peak District – an area of outstanding natural beauty.

You may also see the Lake District, Manchester (and its marvellous Northern Quarter), and even London or Edinburgh suggested as great day trips from York; however, I beg to differ. All of these are fantastic locations with top attractions, but I don’t believe the travel time vs. time in location makes them a good option for an easy day trip from York.

How to Visit York

York is easy to visit by road and rail. If you’re driving to York from London or Edinburgh, take the A59 or the A64 from the A1M (motorway) and use York’s convenient  park-and-ride  services.

York railway station is just 30 minutes from Leeds , where direct trains to London and other national locations are available.

Leeds Bradford is the closest airport to York, and Manchester offers the nearest international airport.

Where to Stay in York

York is popular all year round, so there are plenty of quality places to stay.

Top Picks: [Where to stay in York]

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The Grand Spa Hotel ✔️ Fantastic location ✔️ Luxury Spa ✔️ Fabulous Restaurant

JUDGES LODGINGS ✔️ Overlooks York Minster ✔️ Moments from Bettys Tearoom ✔️ Fabulous breakfast included

FAQs: The Best Day Trips from York

Is york a good day trip from london.

Yes! York is the perfect day trip from London , with a journey time of just over 2 hours each way by train – and a great train service.

Is one day enough for York?

While you won’t see everything in York in one day, you can see a lot, as the city is compact and it’s easy to see many top tourist attractions.

What is close to York?

Within an hour of York, you can visit the vibrant city of Leeds, or the beautiful towns of Harrogate and Knaresborough, or venture into the North York Moors.

Final Thoughts About The Best Day Trips from York

York is a captivating city filled with history and culture and is a perfect base for exploring the surrounding areas. From the stunning beauty of the Yorkshire Dales to the charming villages of North Yorkshire Moors, plenty of day trip options offer something for everyone.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a change of scenery, these day trips provide an opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes and attractions this region offers.

So next time you find yourself in York, be sure to venture beyond its walls and embark on one of these unforgettable day trips – you won’t be disappointed!

Ready to head to Yorkshire? Check out these other Yorkshire travel resources!

• Is York Worth Visiting? 21 Best Things To Do & Reasons To Visit
• The Best Way to Get To York From London For A Day Trip
• Discover The Best Yorkshire Food
• 21 Most Beautiful Towns In Yorkshire
• The Best Time To Visit York: A Local’s Guide

Liked what you read? Share it on Pinterest!

Travel Resources These are my favourite, tried and true travel planning resources

• Booking flights: I always check out routes and flight options on Skyscanner and Google Flights before I book to secure the lowest fares.
• Accommodations: I love affordable luxury hotels and rentals in great locations. Booking.com and VRBO are my favourites for great deals.
• Car Rentals: I love Rentalcars.com because they consistently provide the best customer service and great deals.
• Tours + Experiences: I love exploring new places through tours! Especially food tours! I always book through Viator or Get Your Guide .
• Tech : I keep my internet browsing safe, secure, and fast with NordVPN

Coralie Thornton, the owner and author of Grey Globetrotters, has been a traveller for more than four decades. Her passion for adventure has led her through over 40 countries, seeking cultural experiences, delicious foods, and hidden gems. Today, she helps others experience the UK, Europe, Egypt and China, with meticulously crafted travel itineraries and affordable luxury travel guides.

• BOOK DIRECT and enjoy FREE ENTRY to the World of James Herriot Museum
• Hotel Pick Up and Drop Off - just 6 people per group!

The Yorkshire Dales of All Creatures Great & Small

Spend the day discovering "James Herriot country" on this exclusive, intimate and unforgettable small-group tour.

Tour Highlights

• Clock Duration: 8.5 hours

Highlights of the tour include:

• World of James Herriot Museum (ticket included)
• Ripon Cathedral
• Grassington – “Darrowby” in All Creatures Great & Small
• Opportunity to have lunch at the “Drover’s Arms” (not included)
• The Alderson’s Farm – Yockenthwaite
• Wensleydale Creamery
• Aysgarth Falls
• Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off (included)

(including booking fee)

York day trip to yorkshire dales.

This fantastic  day trip from York has a real ‘private tour’ feel as you are picked up from your hotel in York. With a maximum of 6 people per group, you’ll enjoy a uniquely personal experience.  The size of the vehicle chosen for this tour allows us to take you right into the heart of the Yorkshire Dales on the tiny rural lanes and hidden backroads. We take you where the 16-seater minibuses and bigger coaches simply can’t go. You’ll spend the day in the company of a Yorkshire guide, allowing you to ask questions along the way and to make extra photo stops on demand at truly unforgettable locations in the incredible Yorkshire Dales.

Full itinerary:

On this exclusive small-group tour from York, you explore some of Yorkshire’s most iconic scenery as you travel on the rural lanes in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. You’ll see sights that have been featured in ‘All Creatures Great & Small’, including Darrowby, and you’ll have chance to enjoy lunch (payable locally) at “The Drover’s Arms”. You’ll also spend time at the fabulous “World of James Herriot Museum” in Thirsk (entrance included).

With a maximum of six passengers per group, this tour takes you away from the main roads and busy tourist trails to discover the timeless scenery of the Yorkshire Dales. Your driver-guide, a native Yorkshireman with a real connection to the region, takes you on the rural roads and country lanes that can’t be accessed by big tour groups.

Your day begins with collection from your accommodation in York city centre*, before heading out of York and into the North Yorkshire countryside. The first stop of the itinerary is in the town of Thirsk, where you’ll visit the World of James Herriot Museum (entrance ticket included). Located in the very building where James Herriot lived and worked, the museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of veterinary science in James Herriot’s time, as well as a wonderful look at the creation of the two different adaptations of ‘ All Creatures Great & Small ‘.

After approximately 75-90 minutes in Thirsk, we travel towards the scenery of the amazing Yorkshire Dales National Park. Our route takes us through the small city of Ripon, where we’ll enjoy a brief stop at Ripon Cathedral. We continue the journey into Nidderdale, a region designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, passing through the town of Pateley Bridge before we reach Wharfedale and the charming town of Grassington. The small market town of Grassington is famous as the filming location for “Darrowby” in the latest series of ‘ All Creatures Great & Small’ . Walking through the front door of the “Drover’s Arms” (the Devonshire Arms in real life), you’ll have chance to enjoy lunch (pre-ordered earlier in the day to save time). After lunch, you’ll have time in Grassington to wander through the town and take photos in front of “Skeldale House”, before our tour continues into the picturesque scenery of Wharfedale.

There are countless incredible photo opportunities on this drive as your guide shows off some of England’s finest countryside, rolling hills, babbling streams and valley views. We’ll stop at the beautiful 12th century Church of St Michael & All Angels in Hubberholme (where James & Helen are married) and pause for photos overlooking Yockenthwaite (the Alderson’s farm), before climbing into the mountainous scenery between Wharfedale and Wensleydale.

We drop into Wensleydale make a brief stop at the Wensleydale Creamery, where you’ll have chance to sample some of the famous local cheese, before making a final brief stop at Aysgarth Falls, where you’ll have chance to see the thundering stepped limestone waterfall.

Finally, we head out of the Yorkshire Dales and make our way back to York, concluding a fantastic day out in Yorkshire with drop off at your accommodation in the city.

*Hotel Pick-Up Service includes hotels in York City Centre only – (for guidance, we include all hotels within, or close to, the City Walls – if in doubt, please ask). If your hotel is outside the city centre, we can arrange to meet at York railway station or outside York Minster. 

• Chevron down How it works:

The tour begins with collection from your accommodation in York. Pick-ups usually start at 8:40am-8:45am. Leaving York, it is not long before we are surrounded by the countryside and farmland of Yorkshire as we head north towards Thirsk.

We reach the market town of Thirsk for an included visit to the wonderful “World of James Herriot Museum”. The museum is located in the very building where the creator of James Herriot, real life vet Alf White, lived and worked.

After approximately 90 minutes to explore the museum, we jump back on board the touring vehicle and head out towards the Yorkshire Dales.

Our route to the Dales takes us through the small city of Ripon, where we pause for 15 minutes to see Ripon cathedral and its original church crypt (built in AD 672).

The next step of the journey takes us through Nidderdale (an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) and then on and into the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Our first stop is Grassington, the town featured as “Darrowby” in the latest series of All Creatures Great & Small”.

Our time in Grassington begins with an included lunch at the Devonshire Arms – the pub that, from the outside at least, featured as ‘The Drover’s Arms’ in All Creatures Great & Small. After lunch and tea or coffee, you’ll have a few minutes to explore Grassington and see the building used as ‘Skeldale House’.

We then head out across the scenery of Wharfedale and Wensleydale as we begin our driving tour of the Yorkshire Dales. We make regular photos stops along the way as we explore the landscape made famous by James Herriot in All Creatures Great & Small. We’ll stop at the Church of St Michael & All Angels in Hubberholme and again overlooking Yockenthwaite (familiar as the Alderson’s Farm). We make a brief stop at the Wensleydale Creamery in Hawes, where you’ll have chance to sample Yorkshire’s famous cheese, and make a final stop at Aysgarth Falls where you’ll have chance to photograph the dramatic stepped waterfall.

We then return to York, arriving back in the city centre at approximately  5:30pm . The tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel in the city.

• Chevron down What’s included:
• Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off in York
• Entry ticket for the World of James Herriot Museum
• Driving tour of the Yorkshire Dales with limitless photo opportunities and stops at sights including Hubberholme, Yockenthwaite, the Wensleydale Creamery and  Aysgarth Falls
• The services of a local guide throughout the day
• Chevron down Not included:
• Meals & Drinks

Got a question?

View our Frequently Asked Questions.

Related Tours

• Most Popular!
• Hotel Pick Up & Drop Off - 7 People Per Group - Steam Train Ticket Included
• Tags Day Trip
• Clock 8.5 hours

Steam Trains, Whitby & the Moors

Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-Off is INCLUDED* on this tour of the Yorkshire countryside which includes an unforgettable steam train ride, the Yorkshire coast at Whitby and the amazing North York Moors. Steam train tickets are included and you’ll enjoy a truly small-group experience – with ONLY 7 PEOPLE PER GROUP .