10 Reasons to Visit North Yorkshire This Year
North Yorkshire is one of the most beautiful and historic counties in England. From sweeping moors to quaint villages, there are so many reasons to visit this county in 2023, but here are 10 of the best.
1. Explore the Yorkshire Dales
The Yorkshire Dales National Park offers some of the most quintessential English countryside you’ll find. With its rolling hills, stone walls, and babbling rivers, it’s perfect for scenic walks, bike rides, and more. Don’t miss highlights like Malham Cove, Ribblehead Viaduct, and Hardraw Force waterfall.
2. Discover Rich History in York
The historic city of York boasts over 2,000 years of history just waiting to be uncovered. Wander the snickelways, walk the medieval city walls, and explore York Minster, the largest gothic cathedral in Northern Europe. Learn about Viking and Victorian history at the Jorvik Viking Centre and the National Railway Museum.
3. Ride on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Jump aboard this heritage railway line and enjoy a nostalgic ride through 18 miles of stunning scenery. Travelling between Pickering and Whitby, the steam trains pass through the rugged North York Moors National Park. It’s a fantastic way to admire the purple heather moors and tranquil valleys.
4. Visit the Seaside Towns
North Yorkshire has some classic British seaside destinations like Scarborough, Whitby, and Filey. Enjoy promenade strolls, fresh seafood, amusement arcades, and beautiful beaches with iconic colourful beach huts. Climb the 199 steps to Whitby Abbey for gorgeous sea views too.
5. Go Castle Hopping
With over 400 castles, North Yorkshire is a dream for history buffs. Marvel at the magnificence of Castle Howard with its baroque architecture and breathtaking grounds. The majestic ruins of Richmond Castle and medieval Helmsley Castle are equally impressive.
6. Sample Real Ale Trail
Beer lovers are spoilt for choice in North Yorkshire. Follow one of the region’s real ale trails to visit independent breweries and sample locally produced beers. Look out for favourites like Black Sheep Ale, Theakstons Old Peculier, and Yorkshire’s distinctive brown bitter beers.
7. Experience the North York Moors
The wild and wonderful North York Moors feel a world away yet are easily accessible in North Yorkshire. Here you’ll find purple heather moorlands, cosy villages, spooky pine forests, and landmarks like the iconic Sutton Bank viewing point with panoramic views.
8. Go Fishing
With rivers like the Swale, Ure, and Ouse running through the county, plus an abundance of lakes and reservoirs, North Yorkshire is an angler’s paradise. Fly fish for trout and salmon, or course fish for perch, chub, and barbel. Picturesque villages like West Tanfield and Bolton-on-Swale are perfect for spending a relaxing day’s fishing.
9. Try Some Michelin-Starred Fine Dining
Foodies are also well catered for in North Yorkshire. Tommy Banks’ The Black Swan in Oldstead holds two Michelin stars and there are four other one star restaurants including The Angel at Hetton and Grantley Hall, Ripon.
10. Potter Around Market Towns
Quaint market towns are one of North Yorkshire’s best assets. Places like Selby, Richmond, Thirsk, Hawes, and Hutton-le-Hole transport you back in time with cobbled streets, cafes, independent shops, farmers markets, and a calendar of lively events. Stay in a 5 bed lodge cabin near Selby and explore this bustling little market town at your leisure.
With stunning scenery, heritage sites, great food and drink, and outdoor activities, North Yorkshire has something to offer everyone. Its diversity means you’ll never be short of reasons to explore England’s largest county this year.