Whether you’re looking for a fun family holiday, an adventurous weekend with friends, or a secret romantic getaway, you’ll find everything you need in North Yorkshire. The North Yorkshire Moors provide visitors with an amazing 1400 miles of stunning natural beauty, perfect if you want to get back to nature.
Castles and country houses, antique shops and market stalls, delicious food and an award winning ice cream shop, there’s something for everyone in North Yorkshire.
If you’re planning on visiting sometime soon and you’re stuck for ideas, this little list should give you something to sink your teeth into.
Indoor, outdoor, foodie, retail, take your pick and enjoy!
1. Sea Life Centre & Marine Sanctuary, Scarborough
Photo Credit: wild marine
Young and old alike will love learning about some of the sea’s most interesting creatures. Explore the Jurassic seas, coral reef, and the latest attraction, Turtle Reef. They also run a rescue programme for seals in need, so you’ll also get a chance to find out about their welfare work.
2. Jorvik Viking Centre, York
Photo Credit: Pablo York
This is the town’s most visited attraction and will really bring history to life. The completely reconstructed Viking settlement was unearthed in the 1970’s and you’ll get the chance to experience Viking life in a way that combines a sense of humour with historical accuracy. Great if you want the kids to have a great day out but still learn something new.
3. Betty’s, York
Photo Credit: Chris Phillips
White aproned waitresses, a dazzling teapot collection, and an enormous hot buttered scone known as a Yorkshire Fat Rascal, what more could you want from a tea room? No need to book, just walk through the door and enjoy a good old fashioned afternoon tea.
4. Castle Howard, York
Photo Credit: keithhull
You might think that once you’ve seen one stately home you’ve seen them all. That is, until you see Castle Howard. Used for the 1980s TV series Brideshead Revisited the house dates back to 1699 when the Earl of Carlisle commissioned his friend Sir John Vanbrugh to design it.
5. La Rosa Hotel, Whitby
Photo Credit: Tony Worrall Foto
If you’re looking for the ultimate hotel to escape from the world, then this is the place for you. There are plenty of amazing hotels in North Yorkshire, but none quite like the La Rosa that was formerly visited by author Lewis Carroll. There are no telephones, no televisions, or showers. Although that doesn’t mean you can’t have a wash. The decadent roll top baths are the perfect way to set the scene for a romantic weekend break.
If none of this takes your fancy then there are so many more things on offer when you visit North Yorkshire. Outdoor activities include horse riding, walking, cycling, and surfing.
For those of you that like to sample the local delicacies then La Vecchia Scuola is a great restaurant for elegant authentic Italian food. Try Melton’s for their speciality fish dishes, or head to Bonnet’s, one of the oldest cafes in town, for homemade cakes and light bites. Try it for yourself and you’ll find that North Yorkshire really does have something for everyone!
Rob Rudd is a seasoned traveller and writer. He has 3 young children and so currently enjoys travelling around his home country of England rather than wild adventures abroad.