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Find Your Escape: Summer fun in the heart of Yorkshire

Find Your Escape: Summer fun in the heart of Yorkshire

Make memories that will last a lifetime in beautiful gardens and outdoor playgrounds in the heart of North Yorkshire this summer. With so many beautiful outdoor spaces and historic properties to explore around Harrogate, Selby, Ripon, York and beyond, we’re put...

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Find Your Escape: on the North York Moors

Find Your Escape: on the North York Moors

The great outdoors offers the perfect place for an escape from the everyday. Peace and tranquillity can be found in picturesque gardens in full bloom, whilst reflection and relaxation await amongst the natural beauty of the outdoor spaces within the North York Moors...

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Low Cost Summer Holiday Ideas

Low Cost Summer Holiday Ideas

Trying to keep your clan entertained for six weeks over the summer holidays might sound expensive, but there are plenty of free and low-cost days out to enjoy in North Yorkshire. Check out our ideas below…Find Your Escape Explore beautiful gardens in North Yorkshire...

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Find Your Escape: Outdoors on the Yorkshire Coast

Find Your Escape: Outdoors on the Yorkshire Coast

With the summer holidays fast approaching, it’s time to Find Your Escape in North Yorkshire. Escape to the great outdoors and enjoy some of the wonderful parks, gardens and outdoor spaces. From peaceful and tranquil green spaces to embarking on your next outdoor...

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Find Your Escape: Rural retreats around the Dales

Find Your Escape: Rural retreats around the Dales

Take time out this summer and escape to the breathtaking gardens and outdoor spaces of the Yorkshire Dales and surrounding areas. You’ll be spoiled for choice as you discover an abundance of gardens, hidden gems, and the outdoor playgrounds of the Nidderdale National...

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Find Your Escape: Outdoors on the Yorkshire Coast

With the summer holidays fast approaching, it’s time to Find Your Escape in North Yorkshire. Escape to the great outdoors and enjoy some of the wonderful parks, gardens and outdoor spaces.

From peaceful and tranquil green spaces to embarking on your next outdoor adventure at the seaside, there is something for everyone to enjoy on the Yorkshire Coast.

Family activities at Peasholm Park in Scarborough, North Yorkshire

Naval Celebrations in Scarborough

Explore Peasholm Park in the heart of Scarborough. There is fun for all the family whether you want to take it easy with a stroll around the lake, discover the tranquil oriental-themed island, enjoy a game of mini golf or take to the water on a pedalo.

For almost 100 years, the Naval Warfare at Peasholm Park has been a must do for visitors to Scarborough. Held every Monday, Thursday and Saturday over the summer, this incredible event captivates audiences with model ships on the lake re-enacting famous naval battles, complete with pyrotechnics.

Relaxing Cliff Top Gardens

The South Cliff Gardens in Scarborough offer another splendid outdoor retreat. Overlooking the South Bay, the gardens provide stunning views out to sea. The Italian Gardens and Rose Garden are a highlight, lined with vibrant flowers and plenty of spots to escape the everyday. If you have little ones with you, stop by the play area complete with a sand pit and adventure trail that offer hours of fun.

Whilst exploring the South Cliff Gardens, download the free Love Exploring App and follow different games and trails. Find the fairies spreading pixie dust in the gardens using augmented reality and answer their questions to complete the trail, bringing heaps of fun for the family.

South Cliff Gardens in Scarborough<br />
Filey Brigg, North Yorkshire

Rugged Coastal Formations

Venturing further along the coastline, Filey Brigg offers dramatic views over the North Sea alongside being a haven for wildlife lovers. The Brigg is steeped in history and is also a site of Special Scientific Interest because of its geological importance, and is a great place to fly a kite. Whilst in Filey enjoy a stroll along the promenade, a game of crazy golf and maybe even an ice cream on the 5-mile stretch of beach.

Don’t miss the Filey International Food & Drink Festival taking place this summer at the Evron Centre and Crescent Gardens, with an abundance of delicious food and drink on offer.

Accessible Exploration between Scarborough and Whitby

If you enjoy walking or cycling, The Cinder Track is a perfect way to immerse yourself in North Yorkshire’s beauty. This 21-mile scenic trail follows the old railway line from Scarborough to Whitby. Passing through picturesque villages and open fields, the well-maintained path is suitable for all levels of fitness and provides a peaceful escape.

Exploring the Cinder Track between Scarborough and Whitby - North Yorkshire
Family Seaside activities on the great Yorkshire, North Yorkshire

Coastal Fun

There’s no place like the seaside! Whilst the Yorkshire Coast has an abundance of stunning picturesque parks, gardens and green spaces, we also have miles of golden sands and award-winning beaches. Grab your bucket and spade and head to the beach for hours of fun creating sandcastles, taking a paddle or exploring rockpools. Make a day of it and hire a beach chalet which provides an excellent hub for your day at the beach.

Whether you are looking for a day out at the seaside or hiking in picturesque landscapes, North Yorkshire provides an escape from the everyday for the whole family.

Find Your Escape: Rural retreats around the Dales

Take time out this summer and escape to the breathtaking gardens and outdoor spaces of the Yorkshire Dales and surrounding areas. You’ll be spoiled for choice as you discover an abundance of gardens, hidden gems, and the outdoor playgrounds of the Nidderdale National Landscape and the Yorkshire Dales National Park. To help plan your trip, we’ve gathered some ideas for your escape to nature around the Yorkshire Dales.

Exploring the Yorkshire coast

Picturesque picnics

What better way to spend a sunny day than heading to a picturesque spot and enjoying delicious food in beautiful surroundings? You’ll be hard pushed to find a better picnic spot than the glorious Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Gardens. Marvel at the abbey ruins or settle down in the tranquillity of the picturesque Water Gardens. There is also an on-site café and shop to enjoy, and dogs are welcome so your four-legged friend can enjoy a picnic too.

Wonderous waterfalls

Wensleydale is well known for its rolling hills, ancient drystone walls, and beautiful waterfalls just waiting to be explored. Why not head to the small village of Aysgarth in Upper Wensleydale and enjoy a short walk around the three-step cascade waterfall of Asygarth Falls?

Wonder around Freeholders’ Wood which gives wonderful views, before heading towards the Lower Falls to marvel at the cascading waterfall. After seeing the spectacle for yourself, indulge in a tasty treat in the Visitor Centre café.

Doing your own thing, in North Yorkshire
New Adventures in North Yorkshire

Spectacular sculptures

Home to one of the largest collections of rhododendrons, azaleas and magnolias, enjoy an escape to the beautiful Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park, near Ripon. Stroll through 45 acres of woodlands, gardens, and an arboretum. In addition to beautiful gardens, discover an impressive collection of contemporary sculptures by local and international artists, and new for 2024, discover 60 newly installed sculptures as part of the “Landscape Exhibition”, exploring artistry in nature.

Amazing audio trails

On the border of North Yorkshire and Cumbria sits Ribblehead Viaduct, one of the most impressive structures of the industrial era, providing a breathtaking view as the Settle-Carlisle Railway winds its way through our beautiful hills and valleys. Explore the stunning viaduct as you listen to an audio trail that takes you through the history and construction of this magnificent structure.

New ways to relax at North Yorkshire outdoor Spas
Curious art, in North Yorkshire

Glorious gardens

Escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life in the 200 acres of heritage parkland and gardens on the Swinton Estate. Wander around the walled garden, one of the largest in England and make a stop at the working kitchen garden that serves the restaurant kitchens on the estate.

“Earth your wellness” and walk on the barefoot path in the spa gardens or unwind and relax in the Woodland Wellbeing Space where you can relax in the hammocks in the trees. For the more adventurous visitor, go wild swimming in the pond on the grounds of the Swinton Estate.

With so many places to discover you are sure to find the perfect rural retreat around the Yorkshire Dales. Go to our Find Your Escape page and start planning your visit.

Spring Half Term Fun in North Yorkshire

If you are searching for fun activities to keep the kids entertained this May half term, you’ll find a huge range of days out, places to visit and activities across North Yorkshire.

Whether you want to enjoy the brighter weather outdoors or you’re thinking of visiting one of the great family attractions in the county, we have plenty of ideas to keep the whole family happy. 

Family Fun at Eden Camp, in North Yorkshire

May half term around the North York Moors 

The Wild Wild West is coming to Monk Park Farm! Dust off your boots (or wellies) and head to the ranch for western inspired activities like gold panning, lassoing and the rodeo – plus all the usual friendly farmyard faces including piglets, donkeys and sheep. 

Embark on an unforgettable journey with the whole family on the North York Moors Railway this half-term with short tours of Grosmont station, play dress-up with period costumes, or step into the role of signaller. Feed the family at Malton Food Lovers Festival, taking place over the bank holiday weekend with delicious street food, chef demos and artisan stalls. While you’re in the area, call into Eden Camp Modern History Museum and discover the stories of WWII, explore heritage vehicles, and join in special kids activities.  

May half term in the Yorkshire Dales 

If you’re headed for the Yorkshire Dales this half-term, be sure to visit Skipton Town Hall for free ‘Make and Take’ and Art Club sessions where kids can get creative, plus printmaking and willow weaving at the Dales Countryside Museum. If you fancy discovering the beautiful scenery, join a canoeing expedition from Ripon to Boroughbridge, or test your balance with a paddleboarding session on the Ripon canal from How Stean Gorge instructors. 

Dive into the history of the Dale's this half-term
Half term fun at the Coast, in North Yorkshire

May half term on the Yorkshire Coast 

Discover the Yorkshire Coast with a treasure hunt along the Cleveland Way National Trail using a GPS unit from Ravenscar Visitor Centre, followed by an ice cream at the beach. For something a little more adventurous, head to Mr E Rooms for axe-throwing and take part in one of the fastest growing – and most fun – experiences. Compete within your group or challenge yourself with the chance to win some fantastic prizes. Explore historic sites with Victorian sports day at Scarborough Castle or be inspired by tales of the supernatural at Whitby Abbey. 

May half term in the Harrogate area 

Journey back to Victorian times at Ripon Museum with your young adventurers and make learning fun with dress up activities, craft activities and hands-on kitchen fun – and don’t miss the Prison & Police Museum for some fingerprinting fun. Enter the magical world of Peter Ppan and the Lost Boys at Mother Shipton’s as you explore themed displays, from shipwrecks to pirate hideouts. Fall down the rabbit hole and visit Alice’s Wonderland at Stockeld Park, with an enchanted maze and trail, plus one of the biggest indoor playgrounds in Europe. 

Do time in Ripon this Half Term
Get active in North Yorkshire this half term.

Get active in the great outdoors 

Breathe in that fresh Yorkshire air and get active with North Yorkshire’s Outdoor Learning Service action-packed Adventure Club for 8 – 13 year olds, as well as fun-filled Family Activity Days where the grown-ups can join in, too. With centres in Pateley Bridge and Whitby, challenge yourself with climbing, caving, high ropes, river scrambling, paddleboarding and sailing. 

Get away to North Yorkshire this Spring

Sometimes we just need to get away from it all to rest and recharge. If you want a trip away to look forward to, a short break to North Yorkshire could be exactly what you need. With picturesque towns, small cities, breathtaking countryside, and a variety of activities to keep you busy, North Yorkshire is the perfect place to get away for a last-minute short break.

Exploring the Yorkshire coast

​Recharge by the sea

Getting away to the coast is proven to be good for you. Sea air can help you sleep better and boost your mood, and with nearly 100 miles of beautiful coastline, the Yorkshire Coast is the perfect place to relax and recharge.

Enjoy coastal walks, beautiful beaches, and picturesque coastal villages with independent shops and pubs with hearty pub food. Find your inner child by exploring rock pools and discover local wildlife, go hunting for fossils or simply take a book, find a spot with soothing sea views and get away from it all.

Embrace the outdoors

Breathe in the fresh air and get back to nature. Stay in Skipton and head to picturesque market towns such as Leyburn or Settle and enjoy countless countryside walks and breathtaking views. Perhaps you’d prefer exploring the North York Moors? Head to Pickering and use it as your base to explore wild landscapes and immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquillity of sweeping moorland.

Some of the most attractive market towns in the Yorkshire Dales such as Skipton, Settle and Horton in Ribblesdale are on the Leeds to Carlisle railway line.  Finding your outdoor getaway really is easier than you think!

Doing your own thing, in North Yorkshire
New Adventures in North Yorkshire

Try something new

Sometimes getting away from it all means having adventures, doing something out of the ordinary and trying something new. In North Yorkshire, you’ll find new adventures and experiences in abundance.

Try gorge walking, caving, or abseiling in Nidderdale. How about trying your hand at water sports on the coast, axe throwing near Selby or Alpaca trekking in the Howardian Hills. Whatever adventure you decide to tackle, North Yorkshire is the perfect place to get rid of your stresses and have a carefree holiday.

Have a boutique weekend away

Find a hideaway whilst enjoying a bit of luxury. Enjoy a weekend of pampering with your friends in the historic spa town of Harrogate. Whether staying in a hotel with a spa, your own place with private hot tub or a cosy B&B, take some well-earned rest and enjoy spa treatments in the historic Turkish Baths or head to one of the modern spas with the latest treatments.

After your spa day, indulge in some retail therapy in Harrogate’s boutique shopping scene before ending the day with a cheeky drink or two at the town’s bars and restaurants.

New ways to relax at North Yorkshire outdoor Spas
Curious art, in North Yorkshire

Soak up some culture

With museums, art galleries, stately homes, castles, and abbeys galore, North Yorkshire is the perfect place to soak up some history and culture.

For the ultimate North Yorkshire experience, time your visit around a festival, event, or concert. Head to the coast and enjoy the unique “Fish and Ships” festival in Whitby for a memorable short break by the sea.

​With over 3000 square miles of beautiful scenery and picturesque places to discover, North Yorkshire has something for everyone to enjoy. Visit the other pages on our website to get some ideas and start planning your escape to North Yorkshire to get away from it all.

Discover the Taste of North Yorkshire

The taste of North Yorkshire’s produce is renowned across the country and here you’ll find everything from fresh seafood caught that day to Michelinstarred restaurants serving up innovative menus. Take a look at what’s on the menu for your next foodie trip… 

A family eating outside in North Yorkshire

Exciting Flavours in the Howardian Hills

Helmsley and the Howardian Hills were recently named the ‘Most Exciting Food Destination’ in the inaugural Good Food Guide Awards, celebrating the area’s passion for locally grown and reared food. At the heart of the Howardian Hills you’ll find the pretty village of Hovingham, home to the Michelin star rated Restaurant Mýse, while The Star Inn at nearby Harome is a firm favourite serving modern Yorkshire cuisine. 

Malton, the food capital of Yorkshire

Just down the road, Malton, the food capital of Yorkshire, is bursting with independent coffee shops, bistros and pubs, while the Talbot Food Court is home to artisan bakers, ice cream and delectable macarons. The town hosts monthly food markets showcasing local producers, plus a twice-yearly Food Lovers Festival with local and celebrity chefs topping the bill alongside delicious demos. Each September, the unique Marathon du Malton see runners nibble and sip their way around the 10k treat laden course. 

Surprising gin flavours of North Yorkshire
Buying tasty treats in Harrogate

Treat yourself in Harrogate

A trip to Harrogate wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Bettys for afternoon tea or Fat Rascal – a fruit scone with a cheeky almond and cherry face – well worth the queue out of the door! If you fancy a tipple, you’re spoilt for choice with quality wine and cocktail bars, plus you might be surprised to find the award-winning Yorkshire Heart Vineyard and Brewery just 30 minutes from town which produce fine English wines and craft beers. In Ripon, treat yourself to a meal to remember at the luxurious Grantley Hall which serves up sumptuous menus across multiple restaurants. 

The Taste of the Dales

Take a gastronomic journey through the Dales with the annual Yorkshire Dales Cheese Festival which sees cheesy bites and themed dishes available in local cafes and restaurants, cookery courses and the chance to meet the makers behind some of the area’s top cheeses. 

Wensleydale Creamery in Hawes has a rich history of cheesemaking dating back over 1000 years, while the award-winning Courtyard Dairy in Settle is the perfect lunch spot after you’ve tackled the dales, serving up unusual and exquisite farmhouse cheeses.  

The UK’s biggest Food and Drink Festival takes place each summer in Skipton, with street food, masterclasses and workshops, live cookery demos, and plenty of opportunity to sample and stock up on tasty treats, alongside live music. 

The John Smith's brewery in Tadcaster, North Yorkshire.

Breweries of Tadcaster

At the bottom of the county, Tadcaster has a long history of breweries thanks to its unique geology and water supply, and is home to Samuel Smith’s, Yorkshire’s oldest brewery which dates back to 1758, as well as John Smith’s and the Tower Brewery. Meanwhile, the award-winning Fairfax Distillery produces hand crafted artisan spirits and exquisite chocolates in a former country inn. See the distillation process in the pub, try your hand at a cocktail masterclass or opt for a paint-your-own chocolate experience!

Seaside flavours on the Yorkshire Coast

Head to the likes of the Magpie Café in Whitby to sample its seafood chowder, or a chippy tea at The Fisherman’s Wife, among many others. If you’re craving a sweet treat, Botham’s of Whitby is famed for its lemon buns – sweet dough topped with lemon icing – or call into The Harbour Bar on Scarborough’s seafront for a delicious ice cream sundae.

The coast’s independent spirit is clear to see with a surprising range of family-run breweries and distilleries producing award-winning gins and rums from the likes of Spirt of Yorkshire Distillery and Filey Gin, and craft beer at Whitby Brewery, brewed in the shadow of the iconic abbey.

The Whitby Fish and Ships Festival in May celebrates the town’s maritime heritage with chef demos, a fish craft tent, plenty of market stalls and live music, while the quarterly Filey International Food Festival hosts over 70 vendors, including a prosecco bar!

Enjoying refreshment on the Yorkshire Coast

Visit our Food and Drink pages to discover more delicious ideas for your foodie day trip or holiday to North Yorkshire.

Have a Cracking Easter in North Yorkshire

Are you getting egg-cited about the Easter holidays, dreaming of daffodils and blue skies and planning for some time off? Well, there are plenty of events and activities happening across North Yorkshire to keep all the family entertained. Here are just a few suggestions of how you can spend the school holidays or long weekend.  

Easter in the Harrogate area

If you’re heading to the Harrogate area this Easter there are lots of egg-cellent activities to choose from. From Easter trails by the National trust in the grounds of a stately home or around a landscaped water garden and abbey,  to clues to crack on an Easter Bunny Tipi Trail at Mother Shipton’s Cave in Knaresborough to a larger-than-life egg hunt at RHS Garden Harlow Carr.

Easter on the Yorkshire Coast

Spend your Easter on the Coast and you can unleash your inner adventurer at the North Yorkshire Water Park from zip lining, archery, axe throwing to the aqua park itself there is something for the whole family to enjoy. Take on an eggs-hilarating outdoor Easter Adventure Quest at Scarborough Castle, enjoy a family-friendly Easter event at Whitby Abbey or take on an Easter treasure trail at Filey Bird Garden and Animal Park

Easter Events across more of North Yorkshire

Theakston Old Peculiar Crime Writing Festival

Richmond Castle

Just a short drive over to the Heritage site, Richmond Castle, you and your family can take part in the Easter adventure quest. From Saturday 23 March – Sunday 14 April hunt for clues in the grounds, track down the Easter eggs and get rewarded with a tasty chocolate treat.  

Theakston Old Peculiar Crime Writing Festival

Woldies Lavender Farm

Stay by the coast and head over to Woldies Lavender Farm between Saturday 23 March – Sunday 7 April where it is all about the birds this Easter holiday. Follow the rainbow egg trail and crack the code to open the robin’s secret nest! Every child wins a prize. Tickets available now.  

Theakston Old Peculiar Crime Writing Festival

Thorp Perrow

Head to Thorp Perrow Easter trail from Saturday 16 March – Monday 8 April and take a stroll in the Arboretum, the children can let off steam in the adventure playground, enjoy the wonderful bird of prey displays, or hand feed the wallabies in the Mammal Centre. Take part in the Easter wreath workshop with Faith Douglas and create a beautiful, nature inspired wreath to celebrate the joys of springtime. You can book tickets for the Easter trail and the Easter workshop on their website.

Theakston Old Peculiar Crime Writing Festival

Buckets of Fun at Kiplin Hall

Discover buckets of fun activities hiding in the grounds of Kiplin this spring. From Friday 22 March until Sunday 14 April, Kiplin’s buckets of fun will be placed in the grounds and gardens for you to find. Filled with games and ideas to help you and your family enjoy your time at Kiplin. The contents have been designed to encourage children and adults to talk, play and work together. 

 

Wensleydale Railway

Make your Easter ‘eggstra’ special onboard the Heritage train on the Wensleydale Railway this Easter Sunday! Enjoy a scenic journey through the Yorkshire Dales whilst being served a glass of prosecco and then a selection of sandwiches, sausage rolls, scotch egg wedges, scones & cakes on delicate vintage China with unlimited tea & coffee. Grab your tickets whilst you can! 

Monk Park Farm

At Monk Park Farm, Thirsk, over the Easter weekend (Friday 29 March – Monday 1 April) you and the family can take part in The Great Yorkshire Egg Hunt. They have a jam-packed schedule to keep the little ones entertained from bottle feeding the baby lambs, hand feeding barn animals, cuddling the guinea pigs, chicks & fluffy bunnies and much more! Tickets are available now, get them whilst you can!    

Selby Scavenger Hunt

Over in Selby at Market Cross, between 11am – 2pm on Saturday 30 March, you can meet the Easter bunny and grab a photo with him before he burrows away for another year. Get involved and enjoy free face painting & an Easter Scavenger hunt with prizes to be won! Cray Bakes will be having a pop-up with freshly baked goodies for all to enjoy!

Bolton Abbey

Wind your way through Strid Wood at Bolton Abbey in Skipton while on the lookout for their larger-than-life bunnies that are tucked away among the trees. On arrival, you’ll receive a trail sheet from the Riverside car park kiosk. Find all the giant bunnies, each of which holds a clue to help you to complete the trail sheet. The Easter Trail will run every day from Saturday 23 March – Sunday 14 April. 

These are just a few suggestions of how you and your family can have a wonderful time out and about in North Yorkshire this Easter. Visit our explore pages to find more ideas on what to see and do around the area to make the most of your day trip or holiday.

Yorkshire Dales National Park

The iconic land of dry-stone walls, high hills and picture postcard villages – The Yorkshire Dales is an evocative and romantic location, but dig a little deeper and the Yorkshire Dales is not one single landscape or way of life but a collection of many.
Beautiful views across the Yorkshire Dales, North Yorkshire
  A ‘dale’ is the name given to the steep sided valleys that form this part of North Yorkshire.  Each dale is named, usually after the river that runs along its base and each one is its own character and mood.  From the shape of the hillsides to the character of the villages and the people, even today each of the Yorkshire Dales is unique.  So whether you are on the gentle wide slopes of Wensleydale, or under the towering escarpments of Littondale there is always a sense of place. Across the dales is an undeniable link to the land and the elements, The steep-sided hills throw up dramatic clouds that when the sun bursts through as it so often does, are illuminated to create magical moments that are just for you if you are fortunate enough to witness it.

Discover Nature in the Yorkshire Dales

​The dales are home to an array of wildlife, from the buzzards and falcons that hunt the skies to the hares that race and jump through the fields.  Red squirrels have one of their few sanctuaries in the northwest of the area, providing a rare opportunity to view these characterful and striking mammals in the wild. The Dales are a canvas for exploration, perfect for lovers of the outdoors with a variety of walks, be it alongside a gently meandering river, or tackling one of the ‘three peaks’ for a view like no other.  Some walks are short and simple so you can relax about navigation and just enjoy the day, other provide long remote challenges or stretches of Access Land where you can walk freely all day and barely see another soul.

A quizzical cow in the Yorkshire Dales

Journey through the Yorkshire Dales

Travel the dales by railway, either on one of the heritage lines kept alive by dedicated volunteers or on the famous service between Settle and Carlisle, much loved for the incredible landscape it travels through and the majestic Ribblehead viaduct. Towns such as Settle, Leyburn, and Richmond make great bases for your day out, exploring their historical streets and buildings, shopping in the independent shops and artisan studios or as a starting point for your walk or bike ride.  However you choose to spend your day, you can be assured of delicious local food and produce for your evening meal, whether staying in one of the beautiful holiday cottages or eating out in one of the many restaurants.

The dales have been ever present on our screens, notably with the popular soap Emmerdale which began its life filmed in and around Wharfedale and Littondale and hit film Calendar Girls which was filmed in the same area.  More recent productions include Harry Potter and the popular new production of All Creatures Great and Small.  Experience these locations for yourself and discover why the Yorkshire Dales has a special place in the heart of anyone who visits.

The Yorkshire Dales National Park Website

Walking near Settle, at the Ribblehead viaduct.
Inspiring galleries in North Yorkshire
New art and installations across North Yorkshire
Curious art, in North Yorkshire

Explore the Landscapes of

NORTH YORKSHIRE

Nidderdale National Landscape

The Nidderdale National Landscape is 233 square miles filled with diverse habitats and varied scenery stretching from the high fells of the Yorkshire Dales to the edge of the Vale of York.

Pretty Dales villages in Nidderdale, North Yorkshire
This makes the Nidderdale Landscape one of transition along the River Nidd as the surrounding scenery transforms from hills and rocky gradients to gently rolling farmland.

This provides great variety for walking and exploration. The top of the River Nidd at Scar House Reservoir offers a circular walk around its edge under heather-clad hills with the sound of wading birds chattering all around you. Further down the valley, gentle grassland and woodland walks connect the pretty villages that line the river making for idyllic and relaxing strolls.

Nidderdale: A landscape of water

The Nidderdale landscape has one thing at its heart that you cannot help but notice, its water. Whether that is the rivers, reservoirs, lakes rich with wildlife or the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Studley Royal Water Garden. Water has shaped this landscape, once gouging the valley in the form of glaciers, now flowing, exploring, bursting forth and then disappearing underground.

The Washburn Valley forms the southern part of the landscape and is popular for its four reservoirs, two of which are designated Dark Sky Discovery Sites.

Alongside the reservoirs there are mountain bike trails, popular walks and several areas of habitat particularly popular with bird watchers.

Exploring the beauty of the Nidderdale National Landscape
Curious follies in Nidderdale, North Yorkshire
​​In the north of the National Landscape are the rolling hills of Colsterdale and Mashamshire, packed with historical curiosities and follies including a recreation of a mystical henge, a beautiful woodland and a proud stone tower visible atop the moorland.  Pretty villages are peppered across the landscape between open swathes of heather moorland.

You might not know it now, but the Nidderdale National Landscape was once a hotbed of industry with mining and quarrying works across its hills and valleys, served by numerous railways; incline, narrow gauge and a standard branch line connection to Harrogate.

Once you know where to look you will see the quarry faces, the bridges and station houses, as well as the smelting flues and chimneys, often reclaimed by nature but still standing out above their landscape, now farmed with sheep and cows.

Rich in tradition, journeys through Nidderdale are often paused by cows being taken in for milking, or sheep being moved to new grazing land with nimble sheepdogs rounding up any stragglers.

Nidderdale is a working landscape you won’t be able to help but fall in love with.

The Nidderdale National
Landscape Website

Pretty villages in Nidderdale, North Yorkshire
I spy a sheep on the North York Moors
Mountain Biking with stunning views in North Yorkshire
Gouthwaite Reservoir, in the Nidderdale National Landscape
Spotted by a sheep on the North York Moors

Explore the Landscapes of

NORTH YORKSHIRE

The Yorkshire Coast

North Yorkshire is blessed with close to 100 miles of beautiful coastline.  Rugged, dramatic and ever-changing, the coast has long been a source of fascination, inspiration, relaxation and reflection for both visitors and the communities that call it home.

Seaside family fun, in Filey, North Yorkshire

When you visit North Yorkshire’s coastline you will find each point is different, featuring grand imposing cliffs, far-reaching golden sandy beaches and intriguing rock formations filled with rock pools and sea life.

Seaside activities have the perfect home on the coast whether you want to make sandcastles with young (or not-so-young) ones, go looking for crabs, anemones or periwinkles, or try hunting for fossils.  You can enjoy long walks where your dogs can run and run, or merely sit with your thoughts, contemplate and watch the tide as it slowly ebbs and flows.

Discover the character of the Yorkshire Coast

Natural England has defined much of the North Yorkshire coastline as a Heritage Coast.  This is due to its incredible landscape and natural habitat value.

Along its cliffs and beaches are an eclectic mix of pretty coastal villages and seaside towns, each with a distinctive feel and all worthy of exploration.

Whitby is a fishing port with the sea in its bones, once the third largest shipbuilding town in England and the town where Captain James Cook learnt his trade. Whitby grew from its small origins through trade, whaling and fishing.  The harbour forms the centrepiece of the town as it is today. Looking out over the bay you will see Whitby Abbey, a partially ruined Benedictine Abbey that makes an impressive addition to the skyline.

A child enjoying a traditional donkey ride on the Yorkshire Coast.<br />
Paddle boarding on the Yorkshire Coast

From the lively to the peaceful

Scarborough is Britain’s original seaside resort and has been attracting visitors for almost 400 years and offers all the fun of the seaside to this day. The town has two stunning beaches, seaside amusements, fairground attractions and delicious seafood.  Scarborough is also host to a spectacular castle, Scarborough Spa, a Sea Life Centre allowing you to see below the waves, a miniature railway and an open-air theatre that plays host to some of the biggest names of international live music including Tom Jones, Lewis Capaldi and Kylie Minogue.

Between these towns are the coastal villages, such as Robin Hood’s Bay, Staithes, Runswick Bay and Sandsend with their own tales and stories. These idyllic communities have rich histories steeped in fishing, smuggling and intrigue.

The coast has been the setting for dramatic stories of both fact and fiction, from tales of smuggling and naval conflict to the arrival of Count Dracula in Mary Shelley’s ever-popular gothic horror.

A visit to the coast is guaranteed to create treasured memories for all the family and is the perfect way to discover North Yorkshire.

Discover the Yorkshire Coast

A toddler running to his sandcastle on the beach in North Yorkshire
Scarborough Castle on the Yorkshire Coast
Row boats, ready for the trip on the Yorkshire Coast.
Coastal headland in Filey, on the Yorkshire Coast.
A boat leaving Whitby Harbour on the North Yorkshire Coast

Explore the Landscapes of

NORTH YORKSHIRE

North York Moors National Park

The North York Moors is a place of beauty, tranquillity and adventure waiting to be discovered. Explore 44,000 hectares of sweeping moorland that covers the landscape from the heart of North Yorkshire right up to the coast.
Walking on the North York Moors

Take in breath-taking landscapes and enjoy the freedom to roam across 2250 km of public rights of way. Whether you are a walker, horse-rider or cyclist, discover deep wooded dales, becks and rivers. Connect with nature and find an abundance of wildlife. See weasels, badgers or shrews in the forests, and if you are lucky you may even see an elusive pine marten.

Enjoy a stargazer’s paradise, with some of the best dark skies England can offer. This is a place where the light pollution of towns and cities disappears, and there is nothing but you and the surprisingly bright stars above, surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of the stunning landscape.

Discover the breadth of the North York Moors

Reaching all the way to the North Sea, the national park covers 26 miles of North Yorkshire’s spectacular coastline. Visit its remarkable fishing villages, discover wide sandy beaches to relax on, and meander along cliff-top footpaths with stunning views of some hidden bays.

Continue your walks further inland and roam along a river or take a break and sit beneath ancient trees in the forests. Whatever your fancy, there is so much to experience on a walk. With country strolls to ruined abbeys or a circuit around the famous Kilburn White Horse – you are spoiled for choice.

Steam Locomotive on the North York York Moors Railway
The village of Hutton le Hole in North Yorkshire

Journeys of history

If your interests lie in more recent history, then you can embrace the countryside under the power of steam. The North Yorkshire Moors Railway is a joyous experience for all the family.

Climb on board and experience 24 miles of North Yorkshire’s amazing scenery from the comfort of your carriage, behind one of the ten operational steam locomotives that the railway has preserved.

Allow your worries and stresses to disappear as you uncover the history and culture of the North York Moors. With 700 scheduled monuments stretching back thousands of years in the National Park, you will have plenty of opportunities to reconnect with the past.

No matter how you explore the North York Moors you are certain to fall in love with this incredible North Yorkshire landscape.

Allow your worries and stresses to disappear as you uncover the history and culture of the North York Moors. With 700 scheduled monuments stretching back thousands of years in the National Park, you will have plenty of opportunities to reconnect with the past.

No matter how you explore the North York Moors you are certain to fall in love with this incredible North Yorkshire landscape.

The North York Moors
National Park Website
Mountain Biking in North Yorkshire
Pickering Market in full swing
I spy a sheep on the North York Moors
Skelton Tower, on the North York Moors
Spotted by a sheep on the North York Moors

Explore the Landscapes of

NORTH YORKSHIRE