Reasons to visit Yorkshire

Discover Yorkshire

Mesmerising stretches of moorland, fascinating historic ruins and the only place in the UK where you can see the sun rise and set simultaneously, Yorkshire is full of awe-inspiring places to visit.

With amazing cities to explore, as well as lesser-known places, familiar only to locals, there really is something new around every corner in Yorkshire.

Whitby

A town of real beauty and character, Whitby is steeped in history. Close to Saltwick Bay, it’s the only place in the UK where - in the summer months - you can look out across the waters to see both the sunrise and sunset at the same time. A truly spectacular experience.

Split in two by the River Esk, both old and new sit in perfect harmony. Small boats can be heard as they bob to and from the weather-beaten harbour. Just past the working boats is the remains of an old, concrete tug ship, the Creteblock. At low tide, the skeleton of this World War One vessel can be seen just off the coast. But time’s taking its toll, so be quick to visit before it’s nothing more than a memory.

Whitby’s hidden gem

Towering over the quaint, cobbled streets is Whitby Abbey, Britain's most romantic ruin. Over 2,000 years of history has made it one of England’s major archaeological sites, hosting a king’s burial place, a source of inspiration to authors and a home to saints. If the touching charm of this impressive abbey isn’t enough, you’re in for a serious treat with the surrounding views.

Gateway to the North York Dales

With scores of quiet lanes connecting you to the neighbouring countryside, there’s no better place for those seeking serenity than in the ancient market town of Pickering. To the north, you’ll find thousands of miles of breathtaking moorland, with no shortage of walking, cycling or horseriding to be done.

In late summer, the horizon turns purple as the heather blooms, and the occasional Roe Deer silhouette can be seen grazing in the distance. If you feel like catching the sea breeze, take a scenic steam train journey, 24 miles through the moors from Pickering to Whitby on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.

Staithes

Just north of Whitby, on the upper edge of the North York Moors National Park, lies the age-old fishing village of Staithes. Nestled cosily between surrounding clifftops, this charming coastal hamlet is the perfect base to discover some of Yorkshire’s lesser-known countryside. Explore tiny, winding lanes, or make your way over to the harbour and relax by the water’s edge. And with scores of higgledy-piggledy houses lining its streets, as well as the river running right through the centre of town, it can feel like you’re walking through a model village.

Kettlewell

Another of our truly local favourites is Kettlewell. A pretty, grey stone village, set amongst vast stretches of rolling green slopes, you’ll find it on the south-eastern fringe of the stunning Yorkshire Dales National Park. Offering countless walking routes, plus a couple of cosy pubs to sit in and enjoy a frosty pint of local lager, day tripping around the Dales was never better.

Wensleydale Creamery –  say cheese

If you want to spend a day out exploring some of Yorkshire’s most cherished history and heritage, here’s your place. Take a trip back in time to where Wensleydale began, explore the fascinating museum, learn the facts while watching the master cheesemakers at work and finish off with everyone’s favourite part – the tasting session.

Alpamare – join the queue

A water park may not be the first thing that springs to mind when thinking about Yorkshire. But Alpamare changes all that. With crazy slides, as well as wave and heated pools to splash around in, it’s fast becoming one of Yorkshire’s favourite spots for thrill seekers.

So grab your speedos and get ready for the biggest, fastest, waviest water park in the UK.

Forbidden Corner – enter, if you dare

One for the kids, explore this award-winning labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, follies and temples. Pass through mystical routes, follow hidden trails and discover your inner adventurer. And with surprises around every corner, it’s an attraction built to challenge the hearts of the brave.

Last but not least on your list

And don’t forget about Yorkshire’s most popular tourist destinations. Enjoy an educational trip round the fascinating underground mining museum in Overton. Take the day out to explore the region’s many heritage sites, including Haworth Parsonage, home to the famous Bronte family, or roll through miles of glorious countryside on an original Victorian steam train.

A trip to Yorkshire wouldn’t be complete without visiting its most famous city. With evidence of its historic past still very much in tact, York offers a fascinating walk through the ages. Explore narrow Tudor streets, visit the castle or check out the imposing York Walls that once fortified this great city. And with lots of opportunities for shopping too, a day out to York will be a busy one.

Great eats, everywhere.

A county well known for some of its staple foods, we’d be surprised if you’d never had or heard of a Yorkshire Pudding. But that’s just a single drop in the ocean of many treats you’ll find here. And there are plenty of restaurants serving the very best regional food.

Whatever your fancy, from fresh seafood cafes to welcoming medieval inns, our local knowledge can help you sniff out the tastiest Yorkshire yummies around.

Star Inn

Foodies should flock to this Michelin Star gastropub in Harome. Wonky walls and crooked, low-hanging, weathered beams give it a Tolkienesque feel. While tasty, traditional treats - made from regional and seasonal ingredients - give this restaurant its recognised edge.

Magpie Café

Searching for seafood? Look no further. Known throughout Yorkshire, and even beyond its borders, this fine fish restaurant serves up freshly-caught-fish dishes, using prime, specially-selected, local ingredients.

Truly local Yorkshire

Yorkshire has an adventure for everyone. Whether it’s trekking through dramatic landscapes or uncovering age-old ruins, left untouched for centuries, our truly local knowledge guarantees you a true experience of the north.