Hill-walking and relaxing in coastal towns are popular activities around these parts, but what really shines in northern Yorkshire is the local food scene.
Beautiful countryside walks, picturesque market towns and breathtaking coastal views, this corner of England has so much to offer. With such a variety of things to do, this area is a great place to spend a long weekend, but you could just as easily spend a week exploring York, Whitby and the North York Moors.
The historic city of York
Begin or end your trip (or maybe both!) amid the medieval beauty of York, from which the historic county takes its name. Bakeries, bars and breweries dominate, so bring empty bellies!
Start your journey by visiting the medieval hall House of the Trembling Madness, complete with 800-year-old ship beams. Feast in the upstairs pub, or grab some bottles or cans in the shop below if time is tight.
While in the city, don’t miss York Minster. Although really it’s impossible to miss this epic structure that towers over the rest of the city. One of the world’s most famous cathedrals, York Minster is a must-see regardless of your religious beliefs.
There’s a ton to do from climbing the central tower to taking a ‘secret’ tour of the less-visited parts of the cathedral. The newest attraction, the Undercroft, is an immersive and interactive journey through two millennia of York’s history, featuring artefacts that have never before been on public display.
Elsewhere in the city, The National Railway Museum displays a collection of over 100 locomotives and hundreds of other items of rolling stock from Great Britain’s proud rail history. It is the largest museum of its type in Britain.
To reach the museum, simply head for the main railway station. From here, the museum is a short walk along the road or via a staircase from the rear of the platforms. During most school holidays and the summer season, a “roadtrain” runs from the city centre to the museum, which serves as an added attraction to the visit.
A foodie day in Malton
Locally known as the region’s food capital, Malton is around a half-hour drive from York. The market town set in wooded hills mixes in fresh food shops including butchers and bakers, traditional sweet shops and independent cafes among its Georgian architecture. If the weather is kind, enjoy your lunch outside by the River Derwent.
For an ethical evening, head to the Brass Castle Brewery where you can enjoy eco-friendly ales alongside vegan food. For pub grub in friendly, relaxed atmosphere, The New Malton is the place to go, or choose La Pizzeria for delicious wood-fired pizza with Italian wines and desserts.
Close by, the cherry-blossom framed gardens (in spring at least!) of Scampston Hall are a popular destination. The walled gardens are immaculate and the centrepiece Scampston Hall is one of the finest regency country houses in the area. The family throws open its doors for guided tours in the summer.
North York Moors
The rural area of northern Yorkshire is dominated by a vast expanse of heathland that is protected as the North York Moors National Park. Cycling, mountain biking and horse riding are popular activities, but most people come here for its walking opportunities.
The park’s paths total 1,400 miles in length, and include the Cleveland Way, which circles the moors and has a coastal section, and the Lyke Wake Walk, which leads directly across the heart of the moors. Visit or stay in Helmsley, a picturesque market town on the banks of the River Rye, and the Rosedale Abbey village.
Coastal towns
Scarborough is the largest holiday resort on the north Yorkshire coast, rising steeply from the harbour on to limestone cliffs. The cliffs are well-known for the 11th-century ruins of Scarborough Castle, and they also divide the seafront into two distinct areas. For more peace and quiet, head to the North Bay where you’ll find the pleasant oriental-themed Peasholm Park.
Whitby is well-known for its presence in Bram Stoker’s Dracula, and the town’s tourism industry is still driven by the famous tale. On the West Cliff is a statue of Captain James Cook, who served his apprenticeship in the town. It is also a great location for those planning to explore North York Moors National Park.
The Whitby Goth Weekend is an alternative music festival held in the town since 1994. Alongside the music there is also the Bizarre Bazaar Alternative Market with over 100 stalls. The Bram Stoker Film Festival is also held in the town.
How to get here
Getting to the area by rail is the quickest and cheapest option by public transport, especially if you book in advance. Virgin East Coast, Grand Central, Cross-Country, Northern and TransPennine trains all serve the area, with York being the principal station. Once you’re in York, coach travel is a good value option to reach both Whitby and Scarborough, and also Malton and Scampston Hall.
By car, most long-distance travellers will head to York via the A64 from Leeds. If driving from the south, both the M1 and A1 are worth considering.
Have you ever visited north-east Yorkshire? What are your favourite places?