History & Heritage

The rich history and heritage of North Yorkshire means there are myriad historic buildings and sites to see, whether you’re visiting a museum, stately home, abbey or castle to feel the history of a place.

Grand stately homes are reminders of an opulent time gone by where wealthy landowners and lords once lived and where you can now walk in their footsteps and see the grandeur for yourself.

The many museums in North Yorkshire tell the stories of the people who lived in this area from the time of the Romans and Vikings, through the upheaval of the medieval period to the expansive Industrial Revolution. Find out how people lived during these times and hear stories of wartime, industry and smuggling.

The area’s industrial past is evident by the many industrial heritage sites across the county including iron ore mines on the North York Moors and lead mining in Nidderdale. Living museums where the past comes alive are the best way to learn the history of the area.