west yorkshire best places to visit

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15 Best Places to Visit in West Yorkshire

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Bradford

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

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

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

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

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

3. Wakefield

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Huddersfield

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Saltaire

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

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

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

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

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

8. Keighley

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

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

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

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

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

9. Pontefract

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

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

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

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

10. Haworth

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

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

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

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

11. Hebden Bridge

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Holmfirth

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Kirkstall

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

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

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

15. Wetherby

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

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

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

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

15 Best Places to Visit in West Yorkshire:

• Huddersfield
• Hebden Bridge

Places to visit in West Yorkshire

The charming northern county of West Yorkshire promises vibrant cities, industrial heritage towns and pretty Pennine villages in equal doses. There’s no shortage of things to do in West Yorkshire. Drop into cosmopolitan Leeds for museums and galleries and elegant shopping centres, feel the wind in your hair on Pennine trails and cycle ways, visit Bradford for Victorian industrial heritage and grand city parks, or pack a copy of Wuthering Heights and head to Haworth to explore Brontë-country villages and vales in this inspiring literary county. With so many places to visit in West Yorkshire, you’ll soon be planning your return trip.

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24 hours in Leeds

Victorian warehouses and shiny 21st-century architecture collide to awesome effect in this gritty Yorkshire city.

See the light at the end of the tunnel

Standedge Tunnel, in the heart of the Pennine countryside, is the longest canal tunnel in Britain.

Location: Marsden, Yorkshire

Nine floors of silver-screens

A visit to the National Media Museum is a must if you love photography, film, television, animation, gaming or the internet.

Location: Bradford, West Yorkshire

Life in Victorian Bradford

Founded by Sir Titus Salt in 1853, Saltaire is a UNESCO World Heritage site and remains a living, working 19th century village.

Location: Saltaire, West Yorkshire

Ride the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway

This exciting heritage steam railway runs through the picturesque Yorkshire countryside where the classic movie The Railway Children was filmed.

Location: Keighley, West Yorkshire

Walk in the footsteps of the famous Brontë sisters

Visit the Bronte Parsonage Museum and explore the beautiful home and surroundings that inspired classic Brontë novels.

Location: Haworth, West Yorkshire

Rainy Day Activities: Discover military history at The Royal Armouries

Britain’s national museum of arms and armour is home to a fascinating and unique collection, including the only existing suit of armour built for an elephant.

Location: Leeds, West Yorkshire

Splash your cash in Victoria Leeds

A haven for designer brands, Victoria Leeds is the destination for luxury shopping.

Embrace the pop-up dining trend at Trinity Kitchen

Take your pick from a mix of vibrant restaurants and street food vans all under one roof.

Visit the Yorkshire Sculpture Triangle

Celebrate 200 of the world’s greatest artists at 4 leading arts venues in Yorkshire.

Location: Wakefield, West Yorkshire

Raise a glass of English wine at Holmfirth Vineyard

How about a glass of English wine? That’s award-winning English wine. Come to Holmfirth Vineyard and discover their home-grown delight.

Location: Holmfirth, West Yorkshire

Enjoy a tipple at Pure Cider North

Cider anyone? Head to Deanhouse Farm, nestled in the Holme Valley and enjoy a sup or two of local, artisan cider producer, Rob North’s passion.

Visit England’s highest, longest and deepest canal tunnel

All aboard! Take a seat on the glass topped boat and take a journey into the highest, longest and deepest canal tunnel in the country.

Location: Marsden, West Yorkshire

Calling all food lovers to Holmfirth Food and Drink Festival

A weekend of tasty treats, markets, live music and entertainment in Holmfirth.

November events: Get inspired at the Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival

Listen along to amazing performances at the UK’s largest international festival of new and experimental music.

Location: Huddersfield , West Yorkshire

Take in a weekend of jazz at Marsden Jazz Festival

Hear old school traditional to cutting-edge contemporary jazz at Marsden Jazz Festival.

July events: Holmfirth Art Week

Over 400 artists combine art, music, comedy, theatre and literature for the UK's largest open art exhibition.

Explore an ecological paradise at Marsden Moor

Walk, cycle or climb your way across this rugged wild landscape steeped in history that has inspired people since prehistoric times.

Industry meets art at Salts Mill

Packed to its Victorian rafters with independent traders and the largest collection of David Hockney’s work.

Make yourself at home at Harewood House

This 18th century home is filled with fine art and surrounded by gardens and parkland that is home to many animals including flamingos and penguins.

Location: Harewood, West Yorkshire

Explore the magnificent ruins of Kirkstall Abbey

This atmospheric 12th-century abbey is one of the most complete Cistercian monasteries in Britain, surrounded by tranquil tree-filled parkland.

Location: Leeds, Yorkshire

Unleash your inner explorer at Tropical World

Set off on a journey through the jungle, the desert and below the surface of the water to discover all of the creatures who call them home.

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A grand gothic cathedral, Viking heritage and Roman city walls. York is quite literally steeped in history. This North Yorkshire city can be seen from every angle.

Yorkshire Dales & Harrogate

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

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The 10 most beautiful places in Yorkshire

By Robyn Vinter

As someone who is Yorkshire born and bred, I’ll be the first to admit that I may be biased when I say it is the most beautiful region in the country. But I think the evidence is strongly in my favour. Whether you like rugged coastlines, manicured gardens , blustery moorland or architectural wonders, the four areas that make up Yorkshire have each one in abundance. Finding the most striking places in God’s Own Country is a borderline-impossible task, but there are some parts, both illustrious and not so well known, that stand out from the rest. If you're on the hunt for more, yet lesser-known areas, then look at our guide to the best places to visit Yorkshire .

Knaresborough

Built into a deep gorge, with a viaduct and its own clifftop castle, the North Yorkshire market town of Knaresborough is attractive from any angle – though the best way to see it might be relaxing in a rowing boat on the pretty River Nidd. It is easily possible to spend a day exploring the stairways embedded in the rockface, strolling through the cobbled passageways and shopping in the quaint square, but Knaresborough has a quirky side too. It’s home to Mother Shipton’s Cave, whose Petrifying Well is the oldest attraction in England where objects are slowly turned to stone by water rich in sulphate and carbonate.

The undulating, sheep-flecked landscape of Swaledale is no doubt what most people picture when they think of Yorkshire. Located in one of the most northerly and remote parts of the stunning Yorkshire Dales National Park , it is almost luxurious in its authenticity. There are no large towns, but old villages such as the entertainingly named Gunnerside, Muker and Crackpot are set among the rolling dales, providing enticing tearooms and cosy pubs . The views are so stunning that even the least skilled photographer can come away with professional-looking snapshots of verdant pastures, weathered dry-stone walls and glowing buttercup meadows.

You’d be hard-pressed to find an inch of Yorkshire shoreline that isn’t bewitching, but Whitby will always edge out the competition with its ruined abbey and historic whale-bone arch. The North Yorkshire town is part of the Cleveland Way, a magnificent national trail which takes in a huge portion of the region’s coast, including seductive villages such as Robin Hood’s Bay, Staithes and Saltburn-by-the-Sea, and the North York Moors. Whitby is already in perfect balance, where classic waterside charm meets gaudy arcades, sweet shops and some of the UK’s best fish and chips , but the town is also peppered with unique curiosities including the 199 Steps, the lighthouse and jewellers specialising in Whitby jet, an opaque, black precious gemstone.

Yorkshire Sculpture Park

The juxtaposition of modern art and the landscaped gardens of Bretton Park is what makes this West Yorkshire exhibition space exceptional. Home to some of the finest works by regional sculptors Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth and Damien Hirst, as well as those from international artists, the park offers an open-air feast of magnetic, and often surprising, creations. Elegant buildings on the site include the Underground Gallery, an award-winning piece of sustainable architecture that is almost hidden, recessed into the sloped lawn, and the Weston Visitor Centre, with its impressive glass frontage and wildflower roof, which is a lovely spot for tea and cake.

Ilkley Moor

The wild and rugged natural beauty of Ilkley Moor is legendary, not just as the inspiration for the Yorkshire folk song ‘On Ilkla Moor Baht 'at’, but for the imposing and instantly recognisable Cow and Calf rocks. The views across miles of history-steeped towns and green rolling hills are arresting at any time of year but the place is especially resplendent in late summer when the entire moor is enriched by lush purple heather. Understandably, Ilkley has been a travel destination for centuries, perhaps even millennia – eagle-eyed visitors will spot Neolithic carvings and can visit the White Wells, a Victorian plunge pool .

Wentworth Castle Gardens

Frequently popping up in television period dramas , the Grade I-listed Wentworth Woodhouse is one of the largest houses in Europe and has the longest façade of any British country home . The sprawling Barnsley estate, though perhaps not as well known as its high-profile Yorkshire neighbours Harewood House and Castle Howard, is no less stunning. While the house is captivating, the real beauty lies in Wentworth Castle Gardens, an enchanting mix of outdoor surprises set across 60 acres. This includes the tranquil Victorian flower garden, the ruined Stainborough Castle folly, some of the finest parkland and wildlife-abundant woodland in the area – and even a lake.

Humber Street and The Deep

Hull has seen its reputation lifted in recent years thanks to investments that have revitalised neglected parts of the city. One of those was Humber Street, now a thriving independent-retail hub and an urban-renewal success story. The thoroughfare, at the heart of the famous Fruit Market district, is now adorned with colourful murals . Adjacent to Humber Street is The Deep aquarium, one of the most architecturally striking buildings in the UK . Reminiscent of a shark projecting out of the Humber Estuary, the glass and aluminium structure is a modern classic, even earning a place on a Royal Mail postage stamp.

There’s no greener town in Yorkshire than Beverley. The centre bumps up against acres of pasture known as Beverley Westwood and, in recent years, it has been a Britain in Bloom finalist and Yorkshire in Bloom award winner. But the East Yorkshire town also has particularly attractive architecture, from the stark and dignified former windmill known as the Black Mill to the grandeur of Beverley Minster, where, from the top of its towers, there are mesmerising panoramas across the flat greenery of the East Riding.

Karthika Gupta

Becky Lucas

Mary Lussiana

Connor Sturges

Yorkshire Three Peaks

Each one of these three adjacent mountains has its own individual character. Pen-y-ghent is the lowest, followed by dramatic Ingleborough, with its steep ridges jutting out from the landscape, while smooth Whernside is deceptively the tallest at 2,415ft. On a clear day, the views across the Yorkshire Dales are invigorating and include the 1312ft Ribblehead Viaduct, a masterful feat of Victorian engineering. Less well known is the UK’s highest unbroken waterfall on the south side of Ingleborough, the Gaping Gill. The underground chamber is also the largest in Britain with a natural opening and is big enough to fit a cathedral inside.

Walking around York is like taking several big steps back in time as a layer of history is unpeeled at every turn, from the grand Victorian train station to the Norman castle, the ruined Benedictine abbey to the city walls originally built by the Romans. However, two very different locations draw the biggest crowds. One of those, as you’d expect, is the jaw-dropping Gothic splendour of York Minster, one of the largest cathedrals in northern Europe. The other is the more understated Shambles, a charming almost-caricature of a medieval street with atmospheric overhanging buildings and maze-like alleyways.

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All About Yorkshire

Explore West Yorkshire: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Explore West Yorkshire , a region where history resonates through vibrant cities, quaint towns, and rolling landscapes. Whether you’re drawn to the cultural buzz of Leeds , the literary legacy of Haworth , or the natural beauty of the Pennines , West Yorkshire offers a plethora of experiences. Discover a place where every corner tells a story, from ancient abbeys to modern museums, and find out why this captivating region is a must-visit for travellers seeking the essence of Yorkshire .

Cities in West Yorkshire

The largest city in West Yorkshire , Leeds is a hub of shopping, dining, and entertainment, with a thriving arts scene, numerous museums, and a vibrant nightlife. (Click for our Leeds visitors guide)

Known for its rich industrial past, Bradford boasts impressive architecture, the National Science and Media Museum , and a UNESCO City of Film designation. (Click for our Bradford visitors guide)

Explore Wakefield’s cultural offerings, including the Hepworth Wakefield Gallery , and its beautiful cathedral, set in a city with a strong historical essence. (Click for our Wakefield visitors guide)

Towns in West Yorkshire:

Known for its Five Rise Locks on the Leeds to Liverpool Canal , Bingley is a charming town that offers a mix of outdoor activities and historic sites. (Click for our Bingley visitors guide)

A town with a rich textile heritage, Dewsbury’s market is one of the best in the region, complemented by its historic minster and town hall. (Click for our Dewsbury visitors guide)

Discover Halifax’s industrial heritage, visit the iconic Piece Hall , and enjoy the town’s burgeoning cultural scene. (Click for our Halifax visitors guide)

Hebden Bridge

This vibrant town is known for its artistic community, independent shops, and stunning surrounding landscapes, making it a popular destination for visitors. (Click for our Hebden Bridge visitors guide)

Huddersfield

With its stunning Victorian architecture, Huddersfield offers a blend of history, shopping, and parks, including the beautiful Greenhead Park . (Click for our Huddersfield visitors guide)

Famous for its moorland and the ancient Ilkley Moor stones, Ilkley is a picturesque town that also boasts a renowned spa heritage. (Click for our Ilkley visitors guide)

Close to the Brontë Country , Keighley offers rich industrial heritage and is home to the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway , a heritage steam line. (Click for our Keighley visitors guide)

A picturesque market town, Otley is set on the banks of the River Wharfe and is surrounded by beautiful countryside, offering numerous walking and cycling routes. (Click for our Otley visitors guide)

With Salts Mill and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Saltaire , Shipley is a town that blends cultural history with natural beauty. (Click for our Shipley visitors guide)

A historic market town, Wetherby is known for its racecourse, charming town centre, and scenic riverside walks. (Click for our Wetherby visitors guide)

Popular Places in West Yorkshire:

The charming village of Haworth is synonymous with the Brontë sisters , offering visitors a step back in time with its preserved cobbled streets and Brontë Parsonage Museum . (Click for our Haworth visitors guide)

Nestled in the Holme Valley , Holmfirth is famously associated with the long-running TV series “ Last of the Summer Wine ” and offers a charming visitor experience with its quaint shops and cafes. (Click for our Holmfirth visitors guide)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site , Saltaire is famed for its well-preserved Victorian era Salt’s Mill and model village, offering a unique glimpse into the region’s industrial history. (Click for our Saltaire visitors guide)

Attractions in West Yorkshire:

• Kirkstall Abbey : Explore the ruins of this impressive 12th-century Cistercian monastery in Leeds, set in a beautiful public park (website) .
• Yorkshire Sculpture Park : Located in Wakefield, this open-air gallery showcases works by international artists, set within 500 acres of rolling countryside (website) .
• Royal Armouries Museum : Situated in Leeds, this national museum displays a vast collection of arms and armor from across the world (website) .

Activities in West Yorkshire:

• Walking and Hiking : With access to the Pennines and numerous country parks, West Yorkshire is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Cultural Exploration : Dive into the region’s cultural offerings with theatre visits, art gallery tours, and museum explorations across its cities and towns.
• Historical Discovery : Uncover West Yorkshire’s past through its castles, historic homes, and heritage sites, offering insights into the county’s fascinating history.

West Yorkshire is a region that promises adventure, culture, and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring urban centers, enjoying the great outdoors, or delving into history, this county offers a rich tapestry of experiences, ensuring every visitor leaves with lasting memories and a desire to return.

The best things to do in Yorkshire, UK

Jul 15, 2022 • 11 min read

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

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

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

Take a Bronte country tour

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

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

Hike over moors and dales

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

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

Ride the rails like a Victorian

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

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

See layers of history in York

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

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

Get steamy in Harrogate’s thermal springs

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

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

Relive favorite Bridgerton moments at Castle Howard

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

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

Follow Dracula’s trail in Whitby 

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

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

Scare yourself witless at the Forbidden Corner

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

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

Drink deep of Leeds’ hopping craft beer scene

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

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

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

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

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

Learn about the industrial revolution in Sheffield

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

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

Go t’ut pub with the locals

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

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

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

Learn about the Yorkshire Dales’ tasty cheese traditions

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

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

Tour the Yorkshire Sculpture Triangle

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

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

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

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

This article was first published May 16, 2018 and updated Jul 15, 2022.

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THE 10 BEST West Yorkshire Sights & Landmarks

West yorkshire landmarks.

• Architectural Buildings
• Historic Sites
• Churches & Cathedrals
• Points of Interest & Landmarks
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Leeds City Centre
• Quarry Hill
• Clarence Dock
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. National Coal Mining Museum

2. Bronte Parsonage Museum

Recommended Sightseeing Experiences (32)

3. Salts Mill

4. Shibden Hall

5. Kirkstall Abbey

6. The Piece Hall

7. Temple Newsam

8. Eureka! The National Children's Museum

9. Saltaire Village

10. First Direct Arena

11. Nostell Priory and Parkland

12. Thackray Museum of Medicine

13. Harewood House

14. Hardcastle Crags

15. East Riddlesden Hall, National Trust

16. Lotherton

17. The Picturedrome, Holmfirth

18. Abbey House Museum

19. Leeds Corn Exchange

20. Bingley Five Rise Locks

21. TeamSport Indoor Go Karting Leeds

22. Leeds and Liverpool Canal

23. Cliffe Castle Museum & Park

24. Leeds United Football Club

25. Victoria Leeds

26. Heptonstall

27. Castle Hill

28. Top Withens

29. Haworth Parish Church

30. County Arcade

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The History Hit Miscellany of Facts, Figures and Fascinating Finds

10 of the Best Historic Sites in West Yorkshire

Explore with us the beauty and rich history of west yorkshire..

27 May 2022

West Yorkshire should not be overlooked when exploring the United Kingdom. It houses some truly amazing historic sites, with legacies of the Industrial Revolution dotted across the landscape and some magnificent works of historic architecture surviving to the present day.

The two great cities of the region are Leeds and Bradford, with their stunning town halls proving popular amongst fans of history and architecture alike. Further afield, you’ll find the quirky Shibden Hall, the majestic Harewood House and Pontefract Castle, which is famed as the murder site of King Richard II.

There are more fantastic historic sites in West Yorkshire, but here are 10 of the best.

1. Shibden Hall

Dating back to 1420, Shibden Hall is a historic house near Halifax surrounded by beautiful period gardens and the Shibden Park estate. Its architecture is a mixture of styles reflecting its long and varied history.

Shibden Hall was originally inhabited by William Otes. For the next 2 centuries, the estate was owned by the Savile and Waterhouse families. It was during this time, in the 17th century, that the Tudor half-timbered house was built.

Today, Shibden Hall and the surrounding park are open to visitors and offer a wide variety of activities. The site also houses the West Yorkshire Folk Museum in one of the adjoining barns, which displays a large collection of carriages and items related to craftspeople such as blacksmiths, coopers, saddlers and wheelwrights.

2. Piece Hall

Opened to much fanfare on 1 January 1779, Piece Hall is the only remaining Georgian cloth hall in the world. It was also the grandest of such halls built in that period, a splendid sign of the wealth and pride of the cloth manufacturing industry. The architecture was heavily influenced by Enlightenment ideas , adopting a neo-classical style.

Following extensive renovation works, the hall was reopened in 2017. Visitors can find a large number of cafe’s, restaurants, bars and shops on-site and can also find a multitude of different cultural establishments ranging from art galleries to libraries and youth centres.

3. Kirkstall Abbey

The ruins of Kirk Abbey can be found northwest of Leeds city centre. The church was founded around 1152 during the reign of King Stephen. The Abbey was disestablished during the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII . In 1671 it passed into the hands of the Brudenell family, the Earls of Cardigan. Much of the stone was removed and re-used in other buildings around the area, giving the Abbey its ruined state.

These days the site is open to the public with a visitor centre welcoming everybody who is interested in the history of the Abbey. The grounds are a perfect spot for a family picnic or a relaxing stroll across the gardens.

4. Salts Mill

The Victorian mill was first opened in 1853 as the centrepiece of Sir Titus Salt’s utopian model village of Saltaire. The settlement was created by Salt – a manufacturer, politician and philanthropist – to house the workers who laboured in the mill.

In 2001 the settlement was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The mill ceased its industrial production in 1986 and has since then become a centre of art and culture.

5. Pontefract Castle

The land that now houses the remains of one of the most notorious castles in England was given to Ilbert de Lacy soon after the  Norman Conquest of 1066 AD. One of the most infamous moments in Pontefract Castle’s history came in 1399, when Henry IV, a  Lancastrian , used it to imprison and murder the deposed  King Richard II . During the  English Civil War , it was the last Royalist fortress to surrender. Oliver Cromwell ordered its demolition following Charles I’s execution.

One of the most fascinating aspects for visitors to Pontefract is the so-called ‘Magazine Tour’, which takes people underground to view the castle’s notorious cellars and dungeons, as well as the writing and names scratched onto the walls by the unfortunate prisoners.

6. Harewood House

The grandiose Harewood House was built in the heart of Yorkshire between 1759 and 1771. It originally belonged to Edwin Lascelles, 1st Baron Harewood, a wealthy West Indian plantation and slave-owner. It is considered to be one of the foremost historic homes in the United Kingdom.

The estate has been the site of many TV shows and movies including the television drama Victoria and the 2019 Downton Abbey film. Visitors can explore the estate and also enjoy some tea and cake at the courtyard café.

7. Bradford City Hall

The Bradford City Hall, designed in the Venetian style, was partially built to rival those of the competing towns of Leeds and Halifax. The building was opened on 9 September 1873, before being extended in 1909. Further extensions were added in 1914 including a new entrance and staircase in baroque marble.

The City Hall is noteworthy for having a series of statues of past monarchs on the facade, including Lord Protector Oliver Cromwell.

8. Bramham Park

Constructed between 1698 and 1710, the Baroque mansion was built for Robert Benson, 1st Baron Bingley and has stayed in the ownership of his family ever since. In the 19th century, the building stood empty for 80 years before being restored in 1908.

A restricted area of the grounds is kept as gardens and run as a tourist attraction. Visitors can also tour the house but only in pre-arranged parties.

9. Leeds Town Hall

Built between 1853 and 1858, Leeds Town Hall was opened by Queen Victoria in a lavish ceremony and it is to this day one of the largest town halls in the United Kingdom. The building was also the highest structure in Leeds until 1966.

The town hall was built during a period of rapid industrialisation and growth. Its design has been used as a model for civic buildings across Britain and the British Empire, signalling its historic importance.

10. Sandal Castle

Sandal Castle is a ruined stronghold dating back to the 12th century, which played an important role in the Wars of the Roses . In the early years of the conflict, Richard of York was preparing to make a bid for the throne. In 1460, he arrived at Sandal Castle when he was lured into an ambush by the Lancastrians. The bloody Battle of Wakefield ensued.

Today, the ruins of Sandal Castle may be explored by visitors, where many picnic amongst the archways and towers of the once-magnificent stronghold.

13 Best Places To Visit in Yorkshire (+map and insider tips)

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: January 22, 2024

Yorkshire is the largest county in England, full of beautiful towns and villages, some being the prettiest in the UK, so a trip ‘up North’ as the Brits like to say, makes a fabulous destination for a great holiday.

Yorkshire’s towns are nestled in two of the best national parks in England – North York Moors National Park and Yorkshire Dales National Park. It is in these landmark locations that visitors will find the most picturesque countryside in the UK.

Rolling hills and dales are scattered with babbling streams and brooks, while chocolate-box stone cottages and winding cobbled lanes are common in “God’s Own Country” – the fitting title given to Yorkshire.

If you plan on visiting Yorkshire for the first time, the dramatic east coast is a great place to start and is where visitors will find some of the most charming towns and villages in Yorkshire. You will be spoilt for choice from the cute fishing village of Staithes to the historic town of Whitby – famous for its connections to Bram Stoker and Dracula!

Yorkshire is the most historic county in England, and its deep-rooted past is one of the reasons it is so unique. From medieval castles, churches, abbeys and stately houses, Yorkshire’s historical places of interest offer a glimpse into this stunning part of England.

In this post, I have highlighted 13 of the most beautiful places in Yorkshire. Which one of these quaint villages and towns in Yorkshire will be your favourite?

This travel guide may contain affiliate links – please read my  disclaimer and privacy policy for more information.

Do you need to arrange travel insurance, car hire or accommodation? Please check out my  resources page  to help you plan your trip.

Table of Contents

Map of Yorkshire Towns and Villages

Most Charming Towns in the Yorkshire Dales

Ingleton is a charming small town in Yorkshire lying on the southern edge of the  Yorkshire Dales .  Ingleton’s central location means the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park is a short, 30-minute drive away, plus The Lake District and The Forest of Bowland can easily be visited as a day trip. 

Most visitors use Ingleton as a base for enjoying adventurous outdoor activities in the local rural area such as cycling, climbing, hiking and caving. There are guided tours available in Ingleton for these activities, and also plenty of self-guided activities.

One of Yorkshire’s highest peaks, Ingleborough, lies on Ingleton’s doorstep and is a popular hiking route for visitors . Don a hard hat and explore underground at the nearby Yorkshire showcaves Ingleborough Cave or White Scar Cave , the largest show cave in England. Enjoy a seasonal swim in Ingleton’s delightful open-air heated pool or wander along the banks of the River Doe and River Greta to view Ingleton’s impressive, historic viaduct . Visitors can have a go at climbing at the indoor climbing wall at Inglesport outdoors shop.

The highlight of Ingleton has to be the spectacular Ingleton Waterfalls Trail . This beautiful, privately-owned 7-kilometre trail is a riverside woodland trail that passes seven pretty waterfalls on route. My favourite waterfall, Thornton Falls, is idyllic . The path is not technically challenging but is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs, and sturdy footwear is recommended.

After a long day walking, reward yourself with a sweet treat from the enticing Seasons Bakery or a relaxing drink at the quirky microbar, The Old Post Office.

Photo credit – Map Made Memories

Grassington

Grassington is a lovely idyllic Yorkshire town located in the Craven district and the perfect base for exploring the nearby Yorkshire Dales – Wharfedale and Nidderdale. Grassington is one of the best small villages in the Yorkshire Dales and is the perfect place to park up and head out on a walk. Many circular walking routes start in the area and lead you around the wonderful Yorkshire countryside.

One of the most charming walks from Grassington is the Grassington to Conistone walk , leading up through the village to an old drove road, then returning on the Dales Way path. The walk is stunning, leading through endless fields, rivers, and back over banks overlooking the surrounding countryside.

Discovering the Delights of Grassington

Once you have explored the surrounding countryside, you can return to the village and head to one of the many country pubs in Grassington for lunch or find a place to stay in Grassington for longer.

If pub lunches aren’t your style, you can visit a smaller cafe, tea room or the traditional fish and chip shop . The village is a great place to gather with friends for a weekend of fine food and even better views.

If you struggle to walk up hills, you may find reaching the fish and chip shop a struggle, but you can find more places to eat in the village’s main square.

One of my favourite things about Grassington is the unique shops selling homemade products, from fresh produce to woollen items.

The charming cobblestone streets of Grassington create the stunning foreground to many beautiful pictures and is a perfect place to sit, paint, draw or enjoy the scenery. You may also spot some famous film scenes within the picturesque town from Wuthering Heights and Dolittle.

Grassington is a very authentic Yorkshire town and is a great place for visitors to stop and explore.

Photo credit – Inside Our Suitcase

Need A Place to Stay in Yorkshire? Check Out My Review of Stunning Yorkshire Accommodations to Book for a Road Trip

For a perfectly traditional Yorkshire town with an absolutely stunning surrounding landscape, Malham should be at the top of your bucket list. 

You’ll find Malham tucked away in the south of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, nestled between rolling hills, rich meadows and towering limestone gorges . Though the town is tiny, you’ve got enough amenities for an enjoyable stay, with several campsites, B&Bs, pubs and food options. 

It’s as quintessential as you’ll get for the region, filled with friendly local grazing animals and picture-postcard views.

Outdoor Activities in Malham

For most, a trip to Malham is driven by a passion for getting into the surrounding hills – it’s got some of the  best walking trails in the UK .

Plenty of local trails for beginners, all the way to multi-day epics, can take you through the national park.

And it’s not just hiking. Malham is also home to some of the UK’s most challenging and most famous sport climbing routes.

The towering walls of Malham Cov e bring climbers in from around the world, and it’s a marvel to see. 

Malham Tarn Archeological Walk allows hikers to check out archaeological ruins around the reserve.

If you’re visiting, check out Janet’s Foss , a stunning waterfall and natural pool right in the town.

Another incredible natural wonder is Goredale Scar, an imposing limestone gorge with a powerful waterfall coming down. For the adventurous, you can even scrabble up its face to the valley top!

Photo credit – Veggie Vagabonds

Most Beautiful Towns in North Yorkshire

The beautiful Yorkshire town of Harrogate is home to some of the best attractions in Yorkshire and a firm favourite for visitors to North Yorkshire. The Victorian spa town of Harrogate is a good spot for shoppers with a mix of independent and quirky shops alongside high street chain stores.

Betty’s Cafe Tearooms is a destination in its own right and began its story in Harrogate in 1919. The cafe started by selling Yorkshire’s famous ‘Fat Rascal’ scones before evolving into Harrogate’s must-visit attraction.

As a spa town, Harrogate is best known for its Victorian Turkish Spa Baths , dating back to 1897 and fully restored to their former glory. Spend some time relaxing in the warm baths before indulging in a full body massage – heaven!

Harrogate and its surrounding area are rich in historical sites from medieval castles to stately homes and not forgetting Fountains Abbey , Britain’s best-preserved monastic abbey ruins, only a short drive away.

Of course, no visit is complete without a walk around the Valley Gardens Harrogate . The English Heritage Grade II Listed gardens sit along with 17 acres of woodland, known as The Pinewoods.

With plenty of places to stay in Harrogate , you will be spoilt for choice however my personal favourite is Rudding Park Hotel and Spa for a truly indulgent stay.

Pateley Bridge

Pateley Bridge is a small market town in Nidderdale near Harrogate. It is just outside the Yorkshire Dales National Park and is so pretty you can’t help but like it.

Comprising of one main road lined with several independent shops, the first is the oldest sweet shop in England dating back from the 17th century. Follow the Pateley Bridge Heritage Trail and find some other fascinating locations in the town.

Walk from the car park to the top of the road, and you will come across Cocoa Joe’s the chocolate drinks specialist. I chose the origin of chocolate that I wanted it made from (Venezuela), and it was delicious.

A walk through the Pateley Bridge park and along the river is a relaxing way to spend a while or follow the hour-long Bewerley walking trail to Fishpond Wood.

And before you leave this charming town, grab a bite to eat at The Bridge Inn , located by the bridge and river.

Helmsley is one of the prettiest towns in Yorkshire and the only market town in the North York Moors National Park . Set around the market square are several charming tea rooms, small independent shops and boutique galleries. Take time to amble around and enjoy the views of the 900-year-old ruins of Helmsley Castle towering over the town.

Don’t miss Helmsley Walled Gardens ; these are (in our opinion) the star attraction of the town. Within the gardens, you’ll find yourself immersed in a kaleidoscope of floral colours against the backdrop of the castle ruins. They provide the best views of the castle by far, and if you only book one attraction in Helmsley, it should be the Walled Gardens.

The National Bird of Prey Centre in Helmsley provides another wonderful activity and is a great option if exploring with the family. They have 2-3 flight displays per day with different birds and have an indoor area if the weather is bad.

Nearby, you’ll also find Rievaulx Abbey dating back to 1132. It remains one of the most complete of England’s abbey ruins. There is a popular scenic 7-mile circular walking route from Helmsley Castle to Rievaulx Abbey for keen walkers.

There are plenty of places to stay in Helmsley and it makes the perfect base to explore the beautiful Yorkshire towns and countryside. Helmsley is also the start of the Cleveland Way National Trail , so numerous walks and hikes start from this point.

If you are staying in York, Helmsley should definitely be on your list of  things to do near York  as it is only a 40-minute drive away.

Knaresborough

Located only 4 miles from Harrogate and 17 miles from  York  lies Knaresborough, a historic, charming town with medieval characteristics.

The grand Knaresborough viaduct takes centre stage over the River Nidd and today has become a landmark of Knaresborough. The historic town has become increasingly popular because of the rowing boats with the 1851 viaduct and rocky gorge as a backdrop. 

Some of the best things to do in Knaresborough include visiting Knaresborough Castle, built-in 1100 in the Norman period, learning at the museum, appreciating the Bebra Gardens, and exploring Knaresborough Square.

Also, you can walk along the riverside next to the River Nedd, admire the St John the Baptist Church and explore the independent shops in the town.

One of the most popular activities is to hire a rowing boat and take pictures with the viaduct’s arches. Just remember that this activity is only open from March to October because of the great British weather. Luckily, the Knaresborough Visitor Centre has a knowledgeable staff that can help you plan more activities (if you need them) and help you find suitable accommodation.  

I believe a visit to Knaresborough is unforgettable, especially if you visit the 15th-century Mother Shipton Inn , where you can have delicious local food overlooking the River Nidd.

There is so much character to the pub that you can have a quintessentially British experience, and the staff are always helpful and accommodating.

Knaresborough is magical, and there is no denying that it is one of the most beautiful towns in Yorkshire.

Photo credit – Average Lives

Surrounded by the rolling beauty of the Yorkshire Dales, Richmond is an elegant market town and a must-see for anyone road-tripping in Yorkshire . This gem of a town in the county of North Yorkshire was founded by the Normans in 1071, around the “ riche-mont ” or strong hill, that gives the town its name.

First of the Richmonds!

The Richmond in Yorkshire was the first location in the world given the place name Richmond – many have since followed!

Today, the town is dominated by the huge Norman castle, which stands proudly on the skyline overlooking the River Swale, and celebrates its 950th anniversary this year . Recognised as the best-preserved Norman castle in England, Richmond castle has a rich history through the ages and is a highlight of any visit to the town.

With its fabulous position in Swaledale, Richmond is often called “ the gateway to the Dales ”, and there is much to see and do in the town and local area.

Explore the Georgian and Victorian architecture around the lively cobbled marketplace before taking a wander along the rushing Swale river to see the local waterfalls . If you fancy a longer walk, go east along the river for a mile to reach the pretty ruins of Easby Abbey , which dates from 1152.

Around the town, there are fabulous hiking and rambling routes through the Dales or head out with your camera for moody skies, isolated stone barns that characterise the area and lush green patchwork fields.

Check out The Station, a gorgeous Victorian railway station that has been restored and filled with local art and craft exhibits and heritage, an in-house cinema and even an ice-cream parlour. Try Mocha for the best hot chocolate in town!

Idyllic Towns in West Yorkshire

Haworth is a beautiful village in West Yorkshire with its cobbled main street lined by pretty independent stores is known by visitors for being the home of the Bronte sisters , authors of Wuthering Heights. Its rugged and rough landscape was the inspiration for the novel and is now what makes it a magnet for walkers.

For book lovers, Haworth village is really special as it is where Emily Bronte brought to life Cathy and Heathcliff, the lovers from Wuthering Heights. There are many things to do in Haworth, and number one is to visit the  Bronte Parsonage Museum , a look at the Bronte family’s lives in the early 1900s.

Haworth Railway Station is another great place to visit and was the location for the iconic 1970s film ‘ The Railway Children ‘. Watch the steam trains chugging past on their route through the Yorkshire countryside.  

Stroll through Bronte Country

For walkers, there are plenty of chances to enjoy the landscape.  Top Withens Walk  is a popular Yorkshire walk and takes you out of Haworth along signposted pathways to the moorland that inspired the Brontes to write their epic novels. 

The Railway Children was also filmed in Haworth, and visitors can find a walking route map following locations from the film here.

Bronte Waterfall Walk is another charming walk and does not entail climbing up to Top Withens (I chose this as the easier option!)

There are plenty of charming places to stay in Haworth .

He’s more myself than I am. Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same Emily bronte – Wuthering Heights

Hebden Bridge

Hebden Bridge is one of the liveliest artistic communities in Yorkshire, and for a town with only 4,500 living there year-round, there are plenty of things to do.

It is a beautiful old Yorkshire market town, lovingly referred to as the UK’s “ lesbian capital ” due to being an LGBTQ+ friendly town since the 1970s. Hebden Bridge sits directly between Leeds and Manchester, making it the perfect place for a Northern day trip or weekend getaway.

Visitors to Hebden Bridge can enjoy a stroll in Calder Holmes Park , where on sunny days, they can find a cafe selling Northern Bloc ice cream (a Leeds favourite).

And those looking for a gorgeous view over the town and more places to explore can walk up the hill to Heptonstall, a small charming village which seems like it has not changed in the last 200 years.

Hebden Bridge Arts Scene

Music fans should check out the Trades Club listings , a Hebden Bridge institution offering live music, drinks at reasonable prices (unheard of for a gigs venue), and friendly staff. Check out the Hebden Bridge Picture House . One of the few one-screen Art Deco cinemas left in the UK showing the latest arthouse and independent releases.

Hebden Bridge has an incredible cafe scene. Mooch Cafe Bar, the Lovegrows Tearooms and The Art Cafe all offer great coffee with a relaxed, friendly vibe. Those wanting a cosy sit-down meal can head to Aya Sophia or the Old Gate Bar & Restaurant for more traditional pub fare.

The jewel in Hebden Bridge’s crown, however, is Vocation & Co. Brewery . Vocation’s beers are available nationwide, but it all started right here in Hebden Bridge. Vocation’s well-stocked bar will assure you of a good welcome, just like in the rest of the town.

Hebden Bridge has been voted as the “fourth funkiest town in the world”, the best small market town in the UK, and “the greatest town in Europe”.

Prettiest Towns on the East Coast of Yorkshire

Robin hood’s bay.

One of the most charming villages in Yorkshire is Robin Hood’s Bay on the Yorkshire coast, in the North York Moors National Park. If you are looking for a seaside getaway, this is the perfect place.

With a fascinating history of smuggling —back in its heyday in the 18th century, virtually everyone in the town was involved in the smuggling industry.

With the cutest cottages and cobblestone roads, you can easily spend a day wandering in the narrow, winding streets. The town is divided into an upper part, where the main car park is, and a lower part, with the majority of the shops, pubs, and cute streets are located.

You can also visit the Robin Hood’s Bay Museum or the Old Coastguard Station (run by National Trust).

Stretch your legs on the short walk (approximately 1 mile) to Boggle Hole. If you prefer a longer walk, Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay along the Cleveland Way (approximately 6-7 miles) is one of the best hikes in Yorkshire. The views over the coast are stunning! It’s possible to walk one way and then travel from Robin Hood’s Bay back to Whitby by bus.

Robin Hood’s Bay is also the endpoint for the 182-mile multi-day Coast to Coast walk across the country. Whether you’re hiking to Robin Hood’s Bay or just wanting to relax, enjoy a pint with seaside views at the Bay Hotel in the lower part of the town.

If you are looking for accommodation in Robin Hood’s Bay, please check availability and rates here.

The seaside village of Staithes is a popular place to visit in North Yorkshire and was once one of the largest fishing ports in the North East of England.

Staithes’ charming 18th-century cottages and narrow cobbled streets are reminders of a bygone era in this sleepy village.

Staithes Harbour is as picturesque as any visitor could wish for, with colourful flat-bottomed fishing boats called “ cobles ” bobbing around on the water.

Fishing is still the primary industry in Staithes, so you must visit Cod and Lobster for a freshly caught fish meal. 

For nature lovers, explore the “ Dinosaur Coast ” and try fossil-hunting and pool-dipping.

Several popular coastal trails in Staithes allow walkers to explore the surrounding area with dramatic clifftop views. A popular walking route is Staithes to Port Mulgrave – a circular walk along The Cleveland Way.

The village of Staithes also has a fabulous claim to fame as being where Captain Cook lived and worked and first realised his love of the sea .

Visitors can see a complete replica of the shop he worked in, and the adjoining museum will allow a glimpse into Cook’s life before and during his voyages.

The old village of Staithes has some great places to stay, from charming cottages and B and B’s to the old police station called Peelers Rest!

A round-up of the best towns in Yorkshire wouldn’t be complete without a mention of the famous coastal town of Whitby best known for  Whitby Abbey , the ruins of a Benedictine monastery, which looms over the town below. 

Run by English Heritage, Whitby Abbey was the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula . Take the 199 steps from the Abbey to the sea and follow in Dracula’s footsteps as detailed in the Dracula novel. There are lots of Goth-related paraphernalia in the town thanks to this connection with Dracula. Moreover, Whitby hosts the biggest Goth Weekend in Europe every year.

In addition to Whitby Abbey, the old town was a famous Victorian seaside resort. It was known for producing Jet jewellery (made from black Jet stone) which Queen Victoria made famous for mourning wear.

Whitby Beach is wide and sandy and one of the best beaches in Yorkshire .

In summer, the water attracts holidaymakers even though it won’t match the waters of the Med in temperature! If you want to get on to the water rather than in it, you can take tourist boats to view the beach and harbour from a different perspective. 

Famous Maritime Connections

Before tourism, Whitby had a long maritime tradition. Famous explorer Captain James Cook, famed for discovering New Zealand and Australia , lived in nearby Staithes and learned his trade in Whitby. The whalebone arch on the hill opposite Whitby Abbey also attests to its importance in the whaling trade. Fishing in Whitby is still important to the local economy.

Whitby is also the UK’s number one destination for lovers of the quintessential British seaside meal. Make sure to check out the best fish and chip shops in Whitby on your visit. Also, there are lots of quirky small restaurants and cafes and a couple of well-known fine dining establishments.

With so many things to see and do in Whitby, you may want to stay overnight, and there are plenty of places to stay in Whitby . We stayed in a rental house right in the heart of the old town, which made walking everywhere convenient.

There are parking lots near the old town, but it is best explored on foot as it is a rabbit warren of old narrow streets and some are for pedestrians only. Bigger hotels, like the Dolphin Hotel or Rathwaite Sandsend , are a mile or two outside of Whitby’s historic centre.

I hope this post has shown you the wonders that Yorkshire can offer and will encourage you to visit the county if you haven’t been before.

Of course, there are also some impressive cities in Yorkshire to visit including York – the capital of Yorkshire, Ripon, Leeds, Bradford, Sheffield, Wakefield and Kingston-upon-Hull.

Collectively they are known as the 7 cities of Yorkshire, and you may like to add one of them to your Yorkshire Travel itinerary as a comparison to Yorkshire’s beautiful small towns.

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John and Susan Pazera

Monday 26th of April 2021

What a great resource. Well done!

I couldn’t help it. In the course of scouting out great adventures for West Coast 101 — our new guide to essential destinations in Baja, California, Oregon, Washington and British Columbia — I found myself compiling a personal top 10.

I’ll get to that list shortly. But first, an honorable mention.

Even if you’ve never seen “The Big Lebowski,” you’ve probably heard someone mention the rug that tied Lebowski’s room together . Well, Harris Ranch does that for California.

This I-5 stop for food, gas, lodging and bathrooms (not necessarily in that order) might not make anyone’s bucket list. And I’ll admit that if the wind blows the wrong way, it smells like cattle. But if you’re driving north-south through the San Joaquin Valley, which just about every Californian does sooner or later, you’re going to need to stop somewhere.

Bring this list on your adventures! Order L.A. Times’ new ‘101 Best West Coast Experiences’ zine here.

Harris Ranch faithfully awaits, 184 miles south of San Francisco and 200 miles north of L.A. City Hall, the pride of Coalinga. Over the years, I’ve pumped gas at its Shell station, slept in its comfortable hotel (no resort fee or room tax), conducted interviews in its Horseshoe Lounge, lingered over breakfast in its Ranch Kitchen (excellent) and grabbed a sandwich from its Express BBQ (adequate). I’ve even bought bonsai from Hyo Kim, who peddles delicately coiffed junipers, olive and pine trees ($25-$500) from a stand on the dirt shoulder across the street.

I’m not saying cattle ranches are good for the planet’s future — definitely not. But I’m just realizing that for about 45 years now, Harris Ranch has been the rug tying together my adventures in the vast living room that is our West Coast.

Your rug might be different. After all, these lists are subjective.

Of our 101 best West Coast experiences, these 10 resonate most for me. I’d recommend them to just about any California newbie and I’d grab at a chance to visit them again — some for basic beauty, others for the stories they tell or the memories they tie together.

Travel & Experiences

The 101 best West Coast experiences

Essential things to do, see and eat right now in California, Oregon, Washington, the Baja Peninsula and British Columbia. Ready to explore?

May 16, 2024

10. Rady Shell, San Diego

I have a hard time imagining a more pleasant place to see an outdoor concert. Well, maybe the Red Rocks Amphitheater outside Denver. But on the West Coast? I’ll take this sleek bayside shell in downtown San Diego. And I’ll try not to be resentful that nobody thought of this while I lived down there.

It’s like the Hollywood Bowl but with harbor views. 7 things to know about San Diego’s new music venue

The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park is now in its first summer season. See a show and make a weekend out of it.

June 10, 2022

9. Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn

Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn in Santa Cruz, Calif., Tuesday, April 19, 2022 in Santa Cruz, Calif., Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2023. (Nic Coury/For The Times) Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn in Santa Cruz, Calif., Tuesday, April 19, 2022. (Nic Coury/For The Times) Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn in Santa Cruz, Calif., Tuesday, April 19, 2022. (Nic Coury/For The Times)

What are we going to do about Highway 1? Since that coast road was built on the slopes of Big Sur in the 1930s, we’ve treasured it. But as any acrophobe, geologist or engineer could tell you, those slopes crumble and slide relentlessly. Year after year, Caltrans moves mountains to keep that two-lane road navigable. Then comes another slide. Since January 2023 it’s been impossible to drive from San Simeon to Big Sur via the coastal route. (Caltrans announced partial reopening May 16. Check before you go. ) Whenever I worry about the highway, I think of Deetjen’s, which is basically a roadside time capsule clad in weathered wood. It opened about the time the highway did and won over generations of road-trippers with its rustic rooms and restaurant. Before Helmuth Deetjen died in 1972, he set up a nonprofit organization to keep the place running in old-school fashion. I’ve been stopping there since the 1980s. You have to call to make a reservation. And when you get there, you have to expect paper-thin walls along with the Norwegian woodwork, the crackle of the fireplace and the portrait of Deetjen on the wall. It’s a priceless place. And Nepenthe and the Henry Miller Memorial Library are just down the road. We just can’t take Deetjen’s or that road for granted.

12 secret stops on California’s iconic road to Big Sur

Even you’ve already done the most obvious attractions — Hearst Castle in San Simeon, for instance — why not spend more time exploring roadside nooks and ocean-adjacent crannies along Highway 1?

Oct. 20, 2022

8. Yosemite Valley

Does this need explaining? Probably not. If you’re arriving from the south, you emerge from the long, dark Wawona Tunnel to see El Capitan and Half Dome looming above a green, wet world of its own. Waterfalls roar left and right. The valley stretches for seven miles, framed by granite walls that Ansel Adams had to shoot and Alex Honnold had to climb. The Merced River meanders through. Even if you don’t have $600 to spend a night in the Ahwahnee Hotel, you can pop by for a snack, gaze up at painted rafters that go back to 1927 and warm yourself by one of the big fireplaces.

7. Venice Beach

Venice, CA - April 03: A man throughs a trick at the skate park at Venice Beach on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 in Venice, CA. (Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times) (Jason Armond/Los Angeles Times) Venice, CA - April 03: People enjoy a day at Venice Beach on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 in Venice, CA. (Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times) (Jason Armond/Los Angeles Times) Venice, CA - April 03: A man surfs at Venice Beach on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 in Venice, CA. (Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times) (Jason Armond/Los Angeles Times)

Yeah, I know. There’s plenty to lament in Venice. But when you hit that beach at the right time on the right day, it feels so emblematic of Southern California. On my last visit, the sun was just setting. My wife, Mary Frances, and I checked out the skateboarders, chatted with a few artists who were selling work along the sidewalk and did a double take at the Shul on the Beach (a.k.a. Pacific Jewish Center), an Orthodox synagogue where worshipers were just gathering for a Friday night Shabbat meal.

6. The whales of Baja’s lagoons

It’s one thing to watch migrating gray whales off the Southern California coast, standing at the rail of a big boat, looking for spouts in the distance and perhaps drawing within 100 yards. It’s something else when you’re in a panga on the waters of a southern Baja lagoon — usually Ojo de Liebre (Scammon’s) or San Ignacio. These immense creatures, the cows and and the calves, get so close sometimes, it feels intimate. And maybe a little scary. The adults weigh up to 90,000 pounds.

Joshua Tree with beaches and taquerias? No, just an epic Baja road trip

On a drive down the Baja peninsula’s Highway 1, travel writer Christopher Reynolds finds baby whales, a pond to float in and a new generation of adventurers.

March 15, 2023

5. Ferry Building and waterfront San Francisco

The Ferry Building in San Francisco, Calif., Friday, April 12, 2024. (Nic Coury / For The Times)

A couple looks at the Golden Gate Bridge from Fort Point in San Francisco. (Nic Coury / For The Times)

I’m trying to think of a more successful architectural resurrection than San Francisco’s Ferry Building. And failing. Picture that 1898 waterfront building in the 1920s, when there was no Bay Bridge and no Golden Gate Bridge and up to 50,000 people per day were commuting by ferry. The Ferry Building at the foot of Market Street was the center of the Bay Area’s nervous system. Then the bridges went up, commuters abandoned the ferries, the building was rehabbed into ugly offices and decades passed. Finally, in the aftermath of the 1989 Loma Prieta quake, San Francisco leaders launched a plan to revive the building. It reopened in 2003 as a foodie-oriented restaurant and retail space, a thousand times more interesting to me than the souvenir shops of Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 (although at least you get the sight and sound of sea lions there). Apart from the food, it’s got great views of the Bay Bridge. (And with luck, that bridge’s nightly light show, which went dark last year, will resume in early 2025.) I think of the Ferry Building and the Golden Gate Bridge as the bookends of the waterfront.

4. Hidden Valley, Joshua Tree National Park

I’m not a rock climber or a boulderer. But I’m a sucker for sunrises and sunsets in the desert. And when that golden-hour light hits the jumbled boulders in Hidden Valley, it’s hard to resist.

27 of the coolest shops to bookmark for your next Joshua Tree trip

The high desert may have gone upscale, but don’t worry — it’s still funky.

March 9, 2022

3. Pike Place Market, Seattle

This is always the first place I want to go in Seattle, a spot where people, colors, flavors and scents all come together. I walk past the mirrored bar of the Athenian restaurant, where my buddy Rick and I had beers in 1986, my first time in town. I go down below to make sure the bubble-gum wall is still in place. I mourn at the spot where the newsstand used to be. I kick myself for failing to buy an incredibly cool cigar-box guitar from the Soul Cat Guitar guy when I had the chance. (I thought I’d have another chance at his market stall when I visited in January, but he wasn’t there that day.) I listen to buskers and eat unhealthy snacks. I stick my head in the anarchist collective bookshop ( Left Bank Books ), which has somehow lasted 51 years. And like every other tourist, I linger near the fishmongers so I can see them flinging fish and hollering at each other.

2. Capilano Bridge Suspension Park, Vancouver

On my first visit, a few years ago, it was raining and the park was packed. I wondered if the bridge would be closed. Nope. Open, and prone to slightly jiggle as I stood 230 feet above the Capilano River, surrounded by tall trees and mist. When I returned in February, it was snowing, the park was nearly empty and the bridge was still open. The vibe was part “Twin Peaks,” part “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom.”

1. Badwater in Death Valley

Mike “Mish” Shedlock kayaks the calm waters of Manly Lake at sunrise in Death Valley. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) Park visitors kayak, paddle board and wade knee deep in Lake Manly in Badwater Basin. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) Unique salt structures form in the Badwater Basin at Death Valley National Park where water combines with the natural salt deposits at 282-feet below sea level, as seen in 2014. (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

Badwater is hot and dry enough to kill you pretty quickly, but as long as you have water to drink, a little shade and a way out, you’ll probably live and have a story to tell. On my first visit, a summer day about 30 years ago, Death Valley was even hotter than usual, around 115 degrees. The power had gone out at our Furnace Creek hotel. Rather than crowd into the marginally cooler hotel pool with scores of young children (and their urine, most likely), I headed with my wife and friends for the vast, flat, salty, dry lake floor of Badwater with a Wiffle ball and bat. The game didn’t last long, but there are photos: Except for our 20th century leisurewear, we looked like biblical figures in the process of being turned to pillars of salt. So last year, when rains washed out roads, closed Death Valley National Park for months, refilled the lake bed and transformed the basin into a great big mirror, I was eager to get back there.

‘I’ve never seen anything like this’: Death Valley gleams with water, wildflowers and color

Two months after a storm that dropped a year’s rainfall in a single day, visitors to the national park are encountering a a strange place made stranger — and more majestic.

Oct. 20, 2023

Within days of the park’s reopening, I got to Badwater for sunrise and came back again at sunset. No Wiffle ball. Just the big sky, the mountains reflected in the lake and a handful of fellow travelers in silhouette at water’s edge. To those bold few who managed to kayak in Death Valley for the three winter weeks that it was possible, I envy you. I don’t know if I’ll ever see that lake again — as of May 1, it was just a few inches deep and shrinking fast — but now I have two layers of Badwater memories to carry with me.

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Born and raised in California, Christopher Reynolds has written about travel, the outdoors, arts and culture for the Los Angeles Times since 1990.

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8 Charming Villages And Vibrant Towns To Visit On The Picturesque Yorkshire Coast

The Yorkshire Coast is a popular tourist destination that sees thousands of people flock to enjoy the perfect landscapes and beautiful sandy beaches. And, it’s easy to see why. There is something about it that hits differently about these sea spots. The Yorkshire Coast towns and villages stand against the harsh winds and cloudy skies through the autumn and wire months and fill up with tourists with their ice creams and buckets and spades in the summer months.

It’s the perfect staycation. There is nothing like a British seaside visit . Whether that’s fish & chip s by the sea, a lemon top ice cream or galavanting on the beach with the family.

1. Staithes, North York Moors

There will never be a list that Staithes doesn’t top for us it is perfect. As you head towards it along The Cleveland Way , you’re greeted with this view that has seldom changed over the years. Its cobbled and narrow streets still have the same.

A popular spot with photographers, the North York Moors village with its scattered red roof cottages is near Whitby and is home to a small sandy beach. It is a part of the Dinosaur Coast , which. is a popular spot for fossil hunters.

2. Whitby, North Yorkshire

Home of Dracula, Whitby is probably Yorkshire’s most famous and popular seaside town. Head up the 199 steps and visit Whitby Abbey, before heading for some fish & chips. You’re never short of the  best fish and chips  you’ll ever have in this beautiful coastal town.

There is more to Whitby, located along the Yorkshire Coast, than meets the eye. From Its quirky narrow streets to its busy harbour with its views of Whitby Abbey. There are plenty of pubs and bars and of course, restaurants to enjoy when you visit.

3. Robin Hood’s Bay, North York Moors – Best Yorkshire Coast towns and villages

This old fishing village, which is ranked as one of the  prettiest in the UK , is another beautiful place where you can enjoy a nice walk along the beach before heading over to enjoy the cafes and pubs. Walking around the narrow streets and checking out the idyllic cottages is great fun.

It’s renowned for its fossil hunting along the beach, and it is home to some fantastic cafes, pubs and restaurants once you’ve had a jaunt up and down the hills a few times. Our favourite has to be The Laurel Inn, which is full of ye olde character and serves some classic Yorkshire ales. You half expect a fisherman to stumble in after a day at sea looking for a well-earned pint.

4. Scarborough, North Yorkshire

Yorkshire’s  oldest seaside town  still has that old charm that drew Victorian tourists back in the day. Play on the arcades and walk along with the front taking in the cliff views for a perfect day out. At Christmas time, you can enjoy some of the events they have going on, so it’s grand all year round.

It has some fantastic beaches that help make it one of the best summer locations across the country and also has the fantastic Asian-inspired Peasholme Park, which has plenty of things to do for families. You’ll never go board from a trip to Scarbrough that’s for sure.

Read More: 15 Of The Best Beaches In Yorkshire To Visit This Summer

5. Sandsend, North York Moors

Sandsend is a quaint seaside village between Whitby and Scarborough. It has beautiful views of Whitby Abbey and a beautiful stretch of beach with a stream running through it to the sea. The village has fantastic restaurants, a village shop and a couple of pubs to enjoy a few ales.

We highly recommend the fish tacos from The Fish Cottage with views of the coast in the outdoor seating area. Sandsend is a lot less busy compared to its busier counterparts but has a massive street of beach to enjoy. It’s also part of the Cleveland Way making for some fantastic walks.

6. Runswick Bay, North York Moors Best Yorkshire Coast towns and villages

Further up the coast from Whitby, the former fishing village is hidden in a sheltered cove and offers a beautiful sandy beach. It’s great for the kids as they can hunt through the rock pools and go fossil hunting. If you’re out for a brisk walk, it’s along the Cleveland Way, which offers fantastic views.

The beautiful sandy beach is just a few miles north of Whitby and has a wonderful thatched house on the Yorkshire Coast, which is the only one remaining on the coast. The scenes is very dramatic and takes you back in time.

7. Flamborough, East Yorkshire

One of East Yorkshire’s hidden gems, North Landing a wonderful beach spot, Flamborough Head and Thornwick Bay are just a stone’s throw from the village and are a perfect convex that is brilliant to visit If you enjoy bird watching, head over to Bempton Cliffs, one of the largest and most accessible mainland nesting colony of the gannet; plus puffins, razorbills, guillemots and other seabirds. and see the thousands of birds that nest in the cliffside.

Flamborough is located near to the market town of Driffield, and the popular beach spot Bridlington where you can enjoy cruises on the Yorkshire Belle to get a closer look at some of these amazing birds.

8. Saltburn-by-the-Sea, North York Moors – Best Yorkshire Coast Towns And Villages

Yorkshire’s answer to Brighton, Saltburn-by-the-Sea is a quirky seaside town that’s up and coming. Its pier and water-balanced cliff lift that’s the oldest of its kind is the focal points of the town. And, it’s a lovely spot for fish & chips and arcades down at the bottom.

Its highest street up top is getting more and more independent restaurants bars and craft ales spots perfect for those looking for a weekend away – definitely one of our favourite spots on the coast that’s for sure.

Read More: 7 Yorkshire Coast Hidden Gems For You To Explore This Summer

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Nathan Ellis

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