North Yorkshire Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in North Yorkshire with our comprehensive travel guide.
- Introduction to North Yorkshire
- List of Places to Visit in North Yorkshire
- Hiking/Biking Routes of North Yorkshire
- Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge
- Coast to Coast Walk
- Best Things to Do in North Yorkshire: Activities and Tours
- Go Ape Dalby
- Flamingo Land
- Week-Long Itinerary for North Yorkshire
- Food and Drink Scene of North Yorkshire
- Where to Stay in North Yorkshire: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- The Grand Hotel and Spa York
- The Black Swan Hotel
- What to Buy in North Yorkshire: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Yorkshire Cheese
- Yorkshire Jewelry
- Local Culture and Customs of North Yorkshire
- Best Time to Visit North Yorkshire
- Do’s and Don’ts of North Yorkshire
- Safety and Health
- Getting to North Yorkshire: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in North Yorkshire
- Where to Go Next from North Yorkshire: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Leeds
- Durham
- Conclusion
Introduction to North Yorkshire
North Yorkshire is a county located in Yorkshire, England. It borders the North Sea to the east, Cumbria to the west, and is located within the historic boundaries of the North Riding, the East Riding and the West Riding of Yorkshire. North Yorkshire is known for its beautiful natural scenery, charming villages and towns, and rich history. From hiking and biking in the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors, to exploring historic sites such as Whitby Abbey and York Minster, North Yorkshire has something for everyone.
List of Places to Visit in North Yorkshire
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Whitby Abbey
Whitby Abbey is a 7th-century monastery ruin located in the seaside town of Whitby. It was originally founded by the Northumbrian King Oswy as a double monastery for men and women, and was later rebuilt in the 13th century as a Gothic abbey. The ruins are now open to the public and offer sweeping views of the town and the coast.
York Minster
York Minster is a Gothic cathedral located in the historic city of York. It is one of the largest and most iconic cathedrals in Northern Europe, and is known for its stunning stained glass windows, intricate stone carvings, and impressive architecture. Visitors can take guided tours of the cathedral and climb the central tower for panoramic views of the city.
Jorvik Viking Centre
The Jorvik Viking Centre is a museum located in York that explores the history of the Viking occupation of England. Visitors can take a ride through a reconstructed Viking village and learn about Viking life, art, and culture. The museum also displays artifacts found during excavations in York, including a Viking-age toilet seat!
Natural Attractions of North Yorkshire: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Yorkshire Dales National Park
The Yorkshire Dales National Park covers over 1,700 square kilometers of stunning natural scenery, including rolling hills, open moorland, and picturesque villages. The park is a popular destination for hiking, cycling, and fishing, and is home to several species of rare wildlife, including the red squirrel and the black grouse.
North York Moors National Park
The North York Moors National Park is another popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with over 1,400 square kilometers of heather moorland, ancient woodlands, and dramatic coastline. The park is home to many rare species of flora and fauna, including the curlew, lapwing, and adder.
Brimham Rocks
Brimham Rocks is a collection of bizarre rock formations located near Pateley Bridge in the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. These strange and unusual rocks have been formed by weathering over thousands of years, and offer terrific views of the surrounding countryside.
Hiking/Biking Routes of North Yorkshire
Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge
The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is a 39km hike that takes in the summits of Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough. The challenge is popular with hikers and raises money for various charities. It is possible to complete the challenge in one day, but many hikers take two days to enjoy the stunning scenery and the challenge at a more leisurely pace.
Coast to Coast Walk
The Coast to Coast Walk is a 309km route that starts in St Bees on the west coast of England and ends in Robin Hood’s Bay on the east coast. The route takes in the stunning scenery of the Lake District National Park, the Yorkshire Dales National Park, and the North York Moors National Park, and is a popular challenge for hikers. The entire route takes around two weeks to complete, but shorter sections can be completed for those who don’t have the time or energy to complete the whole thing.
Best Things to Do in North Yorkshire: Activities and Tours
Go Ape Dalby
Go Ape Dalby is an adventure park located in the Dalby Forest near Pickering. Visitors can tackle obstacle courses, zip lines, and treetop adventures, all set among the beautiful trees and natural landscape of the forest.
Flamingo Land
Flamingo Land is a theme park and zoo located near Malton. The park features a wide range of rides and attractions, including roller coasters, log flumes, and water rides. The zoo is home to over 140 species of animals, including flamingos, lions, and tigers.
Week-Long Itinerary for North Yorkshire
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Explore the historic city of York, including York Minster and the Jorvik Viking Centre |
| Day 2 | Visit the coastal town of Whitby and explore the ruins of Whitby Abbey |
| Day 3 | Spend the day hiking or biking in the Yorkshire Dales National Park |
| Day 4 | Take a boat ride along the River Nidd in Knaresborough and explore the town’s historic castle ruins |
| Day 5 | Visit the Brimham Rocks and take a dip in the nearby Coldstones Cut quarry |
| Day 6 | Spend the day at Flamingo Land theme park and zoo |
| Day 7 | Take a leisurely drive through the North York Moors National Park to enjoy the stunning views and picturesque villages |
Food and Drink Scene of North Yorkshire
Must-Try Dishes
Yorkshire Pudding
The Yorkshire Pudding is a traditional dish from Yorkshire that is often served with roast beef and gravy. It is typically made with flour, eggs, and milk, and baked in the oven until it rises and turns golden brown.
Yorkshire Curd Tart
The Yorkshire Curd Tart is a sweet pastry filled with curd cheese, eggs, sugar, and nutmeg. It is a traditional dessert from Yorkshire that has been enjoyed for centuries.
Local Beverages
Yorkshire Tea
Yorkshire Tea is a brand of tea that is produced in Harrogate, North Yorkshire. It is a blend of Assam and African teas that is known for its rich, full-bodied flavor.
Black Sheep Brewery
The Black Sheep Brewery is a family-owned brewery located in Masham, North Yorkshire. They produce a range of ales that are brewed using traditional methods and locally sourced ingredients.
Where to Stay in North Yorkshire: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
The Grand Hotel and Spa York
The Grand Hotel and Spa York is a luxury hotel located in the heart of York. It features spacious rooms, a spa, and an indoor pool, making it an ideal choice for those who want to indulge in some relaxation and luxury.
The Black Swan Hotel
The Black Swan Hotel is a charming, historic hotel located in the village of Oldstead. The hotel features individually designed rooms, a restaurant that has been awarded a Michelin star, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
What to Buy in North Yorkshire: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Yorkshire Cheese
Yorkshire has a rich tradition of cheese making, and there are many local varieties to try. Some popular cheeses include Wensleydale, Swaledale, and Yorkshire Blue.
Yorkshire Jewelry
Yorkshire is home to many talented jewelry designers, and there are many unique and beautiful pieces to be found in local galleries and shops.
Local Culture and Customs of North Yorkshire
North Yorkshire is proud of its heritage and traditional customs, and locals are often happy to share their culture with visitors. One of the most famous traditions in the county is the yearly Whitby Goth Weekend, which attracts thousands of goths, punks, and alternative music fans to the town for a celebration of alternative culture and art.
Best Time to Visit North Yorkshire
North Yorkshire is a great place to visit at any time of year, as there is always plenty to see and do. However, the summer months (June-August) are the most popular, and can be crowded during peak season. The shoulder seasons of spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November) offer milder temperatures and lower prices, while the winter months (December-February) can be snowy but also offer a range of cozy winter activities and festivals.
Do’s and Don’ts of North Yorkshire
Do:
- Do try the local cuisine, including Yorkshire Pudding and Yorkshire curd tart
- Do respect local customs and traditions, including the tradition of afternoon tea
- Do explore the natural beauty of the county, including the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors.
Don’t:
- Don’t litter or damage the natural environment
- Don’t ignore local customs or traditions
- Don’t forget to bring appropriate clothing and footwear for outdoor activities.
Safety and Health
Safety in North Yorkshire
North Yorkshire is generally a safe place to visit, but visitors should take common-sense precautions to ensure their safety. This includes being aware of your surroundings and not leaving valuables unattended.
Health in North Yorkshire
North Yorkshire has a range of medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics. Visitors should ensure they have adequate health insurance and take any necessary precautions, such as ensuring they have any necessary medications with them.
Getting to North Yorkshire: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near North Yorkshire
The nearest airport to North Yorkshire is Leeds Bradford International Airport. Other nearby airports include Newcastle International Airport and Manchester Airport.
Bus Stations Near North Yorkshire
North Yorkshire is well-served by bus networks, with many local and regional routes operating throughout the county. Some of the major bus stations include York Bus Station, Scarborough Bus Station, and Harrogate Bus Station.
Other Options
North Yorkshire is also well-connected by train, with major stations at York and Harrogate. Additionally, there are several major roads that provide easy access to the county, including the A1(M), the A19, and the A64.
How to Get Around in North Yorkshire
The best way to get around North Yorkshire is by car, as it gives you the most flexibility and allows you to explore the countryside at your own pace. However, there are also several public transportation options available, including local and regional buses, trains, and taxis.
Where to Go Next from North Yorkshire: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Leeds
Leeds is a vibrant city located just south of North Yorkshire. It is known for its innovative restaurants, lively music scene, and impressive shopping districts.
Durham
Durham is a historic city located just north of North Yorkshire. It is home to Durham Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is widely considered one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in Europe.
Conclusion
North Yorkshire is a county with a rich history, stunning natural scenery, and a wide range of activities and attractions to suit all interests. Whether you’re looking to explore historic sites, hike in the beautiful countryside, or simply relax and enjoy the local cuisine, North Yorkshire has something for everyone.
