Things to do in Yorkshire

Known as ‘God’s Own Country’, the vast county of Yorkshire provides a haven for memorable outings, outdoor adventures and believe it or not, sun-soaked beach days! 

The largest county in England combines two dramatic national parks with a golden coastline, undulating walking trails, historic villages and bustling cities. So, whether you’re chasing breathtaking vistas, rich local histories, family attractions or dog-friendly adventures, there are plenty of fantastic things to do in Yorkshire. 

Below are some of our favourite attractions and activities across Yorkshire to whet your appetite for adventure. To enhance your northern getaway, why not book a Yorkshire holiday cottage to return to at the end of each busy day away? Click the link below to start browsing our collection or read our Yorkshire Travel Guide for more holiday inspiration. 

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• Attractions in Yorkshire
• Beaches in Yorkshire
• Walking trails across Yorkshire
• Dog-friendly things to do in Yorkshire
• Map of things to do in Yorkshire

Attractions in Yorkshire

Yorkshire is blessed with a wealth of attractions that celebrate its rich history. Whether you’re looking for romantic things to do in Yorkshire, days out with the kids, or even with the dog, our suggestions below offer the perfect starting point for exploring the county.

York Minster, York

The cobbled streets of York are a magnet for all those who love history, unique shops and traditional pubs. Overlooking this network of medieval lanes and ancient city walls is York Minster, one of the largest and most magnificent Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe. 

This must-visit attraction offers one of the best things to do in Yorkshire with kids who enjoy their history lessons, or even couples who share a passion for spirituality and age-old architecture. Book your tickets in advance and enjoy exploring the Nave and Quire; climb the Central Tower, marvel at the stained glass and discover 2,000 years of history in the interactive Undercroft Museum.

Whitby Abbey, Whitby

Yorkshire is famous for its historic sites, charming towns and dramatic coastline; all of which combine in a visit to Whitby Abbey. Nestled at the summit of the famous 199 Steps, the Gothic ruins of Whitby Abbey date back to the 13th century and hide stories of saints, poets, bombings and even Dracula – it’s no surprise it’s one of the best things to do in Yorkshire! 

Beyond the abbey’s architecture and historic significance, the English Heritage-owned site overlooks the town of Whitby and the moody North Sea, setting the perfect scene for a coastal picnic – looking for romantic things to do in Yorkshire? You’ve found your answer.

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, Ripon

Perched on the fringes of the Yorkshire Dales and spread across a vast deer park, the National Trust’s Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden combine medieval monastic ruins with a Georgian water garden, resulting in one of the most impressive landmarks in all of England. 

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is perfect for all ages and groups, especially for those looking for dog-friendly things to do in Yorkshire. Spend the day absorbing the abbey’s historic significance and the water garden’s canals, cascades, statues and temples. Beyond the headline acts, explore the 800-acre deer park, amble into St Mary’s Church, or find a quiet spot for a picnic with a view.

Beaches in Yorkshire

One of the best things to do in Yorkshire is uncovering the region’s wealth of beaches. While the county is better known for its national parks, countryside and cities, its golden coastline and splendid seaside towns should not be overlooked.

Filey Beach, Filey

Spanning 5 miles from Filey Brigg to Bempton Cliffs, the golden sands of Filey Beach divide the popular seaside resort and the dramatic North Sea. Perfect for bucket-and-spade days with family, friends, as a couple, or with the dogs, visiting Filey Beach is one of the best things to do in Yorkshire for all those who love soft sand and safe waters. 

Spend the day sitting under the sun, playing games on the shoreline and splashing in the water under the watchful eyes of RNLI lifeguards. Beyond the sand, explore rock pools, rent a beach hut for the day, or try your hand at a new water sport.

Saltburn Beach, Saltburn-by-the-Sea

On the hunt for romantic things to do in Yorkshire? How about a peaceful stroll along the glistening shoreline of Saltburn Beach? Here, colourful beach huts, a traditional pier, a cliff railway and soft sand combine to keep the town’s Victorian heritage alive, offering visitors all they need for a memorable day by the sea. 

This is also a great spot for all those looking for dog-friendly things to do in Yorkshire, thanks to the pup-welcoming sections of the beach and the scenic Cleveland Way footpath that passes through and leads to destinations like Skinningrove, Staithes and Runswick Bay. Behind the beach, the town of Saltburn-by-the-Sea beckons with its family attractions and seaside pubs, restaurants and shops.

Cayton Bay, Scarborough

For less crowds and more nature and crashing waves, the rugged shoreline and verdant surroundings of Cayton Bay offer a remote and windswept day on a Yorkshire beach. Perched between Scarborough and Filey, this 2-mile-long stretch will charm you with its scenery and opportunities for water sports. 

Dog-friendly all year round and surrounded by tree-lined cliffs, this is a great spot for surfing thanks to the consistent waves that are perfect for both beginners and experienced boarders. For a tranquil day, join the Cleveland Way trail for a breathtaking hike, explore the rock pools, fish off the rocky outcrops or plan a memorable picnic together.

Walking trails across Yorkshire

Whether you prefer striding out along sun-soaked coast paths, across dramatic national parks or through historic towns and villages, Yorkshire is a paradise for keen walkers. We’ve featured three of our favourite destinations to explore on foot together.

Yorkshire Dales National Park

The Yorkshire Dales National Park is a walker’s haven thanks to its diverse landscape of rolling valleys, dramatic limestone features, heather-clad moorlands and meandering rivers. Peppered with cascading waterfalls and glowing villages, the region is perfect for newbie walkers, outdoor-loving dogs and experienced hikers alike. 

Popular trails include Ingleborough Hill (one of the famous Yorkshire Three Peaks), the long-distance Pennine Way, and Hardraw Force – a short and easy route to one of England’s highest waterfalls. For destinations with plenty of local charm and welcoming pubs and restaurants; head to Hawes, Reeth, Settle, Grassington or Dent.

North York Moors National Park

Colourful coastlines combine with enchanting woodlands and sweeping moorlands across the North York Moors National Park, resulting in yet another haven for hiking in Yorkshire. Whether you’re looking for things to do in Yorkshire with kids, with the dogs or as a pair of veteran walkers, the wealth of landscapes and trails on the North York Moors means there’s a route for everyone. 

Well-trodden footpaths include the 7-mile Roseberry Topping and Captain Cook’s Monument walk in the northern reaches of the national park, the Farndale Daffodil walk which is delightful in springtime, and the Rievaulx Abbey and Helmsley circular, another 7-miler that blends history with scenic views. Popular destinations include Helmsley, Goathland, Whitby and Robin Hood’s Bay.

Cleveland Way National Trail

Spanning 109 miles, the Cleveland Way National Trail is one of the most diverse and scenic footpaths in England. Half of its course follows the undulating eastern coast of Yorkshire, while the remainder wraps around the North York Moors, providing a wide range of landscapes to uncover together. 

Drop into popular seaside destinations such as Filey, Scarborough, Robin Hood’s Bay and Whitby. Pause for ice cream and locally brewed beer, and as you cut into the North York Moors, uncover destinations such as Helmsley, Sutton Bank, Osmotherley and historic Great Ayton. Wherever you choose to join the trail, you’ll find a route to suit all levels of experience.

Dog-friendly things to do in Yorkshire

If you’re sniffing out dog-friendly things to do in Yorkshire, the choice is almost overwhelming – sweeping national parks, pup-welcoming beaches and attractions, and seemingly endless countryside await. Below are three of our favourite dog-friendly attractions.

Yorkshire Sculpture Park, Wakefield

Set deep in the rolling countryside of West Yorkshire, the Yorkshire Sculpture Park is a 500-acre, open-air gallery exhibiting over 100 sculptures and artistic installations that include works by Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth and Damien Hirst. 

Beyond the artsy appeal, the site boasts stunning surroundings of rolling hills, lakes and gardens, while family-friendly activities include interactive areas for kids, workshops and other special events. Most importantly, dogs are made to feel very welcome! While they must be kept on the lead, dogs are invited to sniff out the park and discover the woodlands until they can explore no more. Some on-site cafes are dog-friendly, and you’ll also find dog water stations along the way.

North Yorkshire Moors Railway, Pickering

If you’re determined to explore the glorious North Yorkshire Moors with your dog but don’t have the time or energy to hike for a day, then the North Yorkshire Moors Railway offers the perfect solution! 

One of the UK’s most popular heritage railways, the NYMR follows a 24-mile route from the market town of Pickering to coastal Whitby. Along its course, absorb the region’s spectacular scenery, which differs through the seasons. For dog-friendly things to do in Yorkshire, this is one of your best options. Fido is welcome onboard almost all services for just £3. Dogs must be kept on leads, but otherwise, they’re free to enjoy the passing scenery with their favourite humans.

Map of things to do in Yorkshire

Find all our favourite things to do in Yorkshire on the handy map below.

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Book a holiday cottage in Yorkshire

If all this talk of dramatic national parks, historic coastlines and family and dog-friendly attractions has opened your eyes to the opportunities for adventure across Yorkshire, then why not extend your northern getaway by booking a stay in one of our Yorkshire holiday cottages? 

Find spacious homes for families and groups of friends, cosy boltholes for couples and solo travellers, and dog-friendly abodes that mean no member of the pack gets left behind. Click the link below to start exploring our collection.