Things to Do in Yorkshire – The Top Attractions & Activities

There is no shortage of things to do in Yorkshire, the largest county in the UK. From the scenic coastlines and quaint rolling hills of the countryside to the hustle and bustle of its city centres, there’s something to please everyone.

Yorkshire is best known for its warm and humble hospitality, along with the vast dales and moors just waiting to be explored, this county is truly the treasure of the North.

Things to do in East Yorkshire | Things to do in North Yorkshire | Things to do in South Yorkshire | Things to do in West Yorkshire

Things to do in East Yorkshire

The Deep – Hull

Coined as the world’s only ‘submarium’, The Deep houses thousands of species of fish and sea creatures, making it a landmark in UK marine research and conservation.

This is an ideal destination for a family day out to let the kids explore the vast tanks, feed some penguins, or gaze in wonder at the daily dive shows. They are constantly producing new and creative exhibitions, so be sure to head to their website to see what’s on next.

Where? Tower St, Hull HU1 4DP

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Things to do in Yorkshire: New Flamborough lighthouse

Iconic Flamborough Lighthouse has been sitting on the headland since 1806, acting as a way point for vessels travelling within the North Sea. You can tour this historical part of the coast from April to October, or you can take a walk along the beach and soak up the stunning views

East Yorkshire’s stretch of the coast is unspoilt and brimming with natural beauty. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re this side of Yorkshire!

Where? Lighthouse Rd, Bridlington YO15 1AR

Burton Agnes Hall and Gardens – Driffield

Stunning Elizabethan manor house, Burton Agnes Hall and Gardens, is a landmark within East Yorkshire. Boasting stunning gardens and a calendar full of events, it’s an excellent place to have on your list of things to do in Yorkshire.

Built in the early 1600s, it has not been tarnished by modernisations, giving it a timeless quality. Throughout the year, it offers an excellent outing for the whole family, featuring playgrounds, shops, and cafes – there’s plenty to enjoy!

Where? Rudston Rd, Burton Agnes, Driffield YO25 4NB

Things to do in North Yorkshire

North York Moors National Park

Boasting an extensive 550 square miles of beautiful Yorkshire coastline and countryside, the North York Moors is rich in history and archaeology. The rocky shores of the North Sea meet the vibrant Yorkshire landscape that accommodates the perfect terrain for walking the National Park’s cliff trails or admiring the ancient woodlands.

If you’re not up for the walking, the North York Moors is home to a variety of vibrant market towns, including Helmsley, Malton and Whitby, presenting you with an extensive range of Yorkshire-grown produce and charming one-off boutiques.

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden – Ripon

Just south-west of Ripon is Fountains Abbey, a World Heritage site – a beautiful atmosphere of ancient ruins to explore. Step back into history and admire the water gardens and medieval deer park.

You can enjoy a day spent on one of their many woodland walking trails or natural play areas for the kids. Also, dog-friendly, this site is perfect for anyone looking to spend the day exploring wildlife and serene landscapes.

Where? Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Estate Office Abbey, Ripon HG4 3DY 

Castle Howard – York

One of the oldest private residences and gardens in the UK, Castle Howard is open to tour and view all year round, including a visit to the restaurant or two cafes on the grounds. The house includes an 18th-century chapel on its right wing, displaying unique and exquisite pre-Raphaelite style decorations which are sure to impress.

The house’s garden spreads over an impressive 1,000 acres and is perfect for a day out spent walking and admiring the architectural brilliance of the Howard Family home. One of our team’s favourite things to do in Yorkshire.

Where? Castle Howard, York YO60 7DA

Things to do in Yorkshire: Visit Whitby

A beautiful town in North Yorkshire, a day out in Whitby is sure to impress with its winding cobbled streets and seaside scenery. Regularly featured as a top UK holiday destination, this enchanting town is filled with marvellous restaurants and rich in history.

From ancient historical sites such as Whitby Abbey to the picture-postcard villages of Robin Hood’s Bay and Staithes, Whitby is ideal for a couple’s getaway or family trip to the quaint Yorkshire seaside.

The Shambles – York

A unique set of medieval shopping streets, some dating back as far as the 14th Century, The Shambles is ideal for getting lost in York’s traditional English boutiques and ancient buildings.

With its enchanting cobbled streets and narrow walkways, The Shambles has been named one of the most picturesque streets in Britain, while also providing a notable shopping experience – from antique vases to traditional sweet shops.

Where? York, YO1 7LZ

York Minster

Since the 7th Century, the ancient York Minster has been at the centre of worship for Christianity across the North of England. Explore this structure’s rich history through its detailed and handcrafted architectural design to its breath-taking stained-glass panelling, which envelops the cathedral.

A visit here is sure to transport you back in time, giving you access to over 2000 years’ worth of Roman history and the care it takes to maintain such an important landmark in Yorkshire architecture.

Where? Deangate, York YO1 7HH

Things to do in Yorkshire: Harrogate’s Turkish Baths

Need to unwind after a hectic week at work? The Turkish Baths in Harrogate are a journey of relaxation and tranquillity – the heat and steam of the Health Spa are sure to help you experience ultimate euphoria.

If you really want to treat yourself, they offer an extensive menu of luxury spa treatments and beauty packages fit for a king or queen! One of the hidden gems of things to do in Yorkshire, these baths will leave you feeling truly rejuvenated, whether it’s a spa day spent with friends or a solo trip to de-stress.

Where? Parliament St, Harrogate HG1 2WH

Knaresborough

A market and boating town near Harrogate, Knaresborough is filled with ancient cobbled streets and breath-taking countryside views, including the ruins of Knaresborough castle – an enchanting medieval castle overlooking the River Nidd.

This town is extremely popular among families in the summer for boating and perusing around the cafes and tearooms along the riverside, traversing by rowing down the river and even bringing your own picnic.

Malton – named ‘Yorkshire’s Foodie Capital’

Consider yourself a foodie? The small town of Malton has been crowned as Yorkshire’s foodie capital, with a range of patisseries, brasseries, gastro pubs, and charming cafes to fill any foodies heart (and belly).

Malton also holds monthly food markets and a huge annual food lovers festival every May, filled with live music, celeb chefs and the finest local produce. Malton should be at the top of your list of things to do in Yorkshire.

Things to do in Yorkshire: Black Sheep Brewery Tour – Masham

A mecca for brewed ales, beers, and bitters, Black Sheep Brewery is an ideal spot for any ale lover wanting to delve into the process of beer making from start to finish.

Started in 1992, Black Sheep is an impressive family-run brewery and cask house located in the picturesque town of Masham. Even better, the brewery tour ends with a trip to the bar to taste their full range of delicious beers; so, make sure you’re staying local!

Where? Wellgarth, Masham HG4 4EN

Yorkshire Dales

One of the first places that come to mind when thinking about things to do in Yorkshire and it’s obvious to see why. These vast dales spread far beyond Skipton and Harrogate and cover 841 miles of stunning landscape, primarily focusing on the preservation of the region’s culture and heritage.

The dales are ideal for exploring the striking Malham Cove or Aysgarth Falls, but with it being such an extensive region, you’ll never be short of things to do. So much so that if a day wasn’t enough, there are plenty of attractive cottages and boutique hotels to welcome you for a weekend away.

Where? Yorkshire Dales National Park, Bainbridge, Leyburn DL8 3EL

Things to do in South Yorkshire

Wentworth Woodhouse – Rotherham

Europe’s largest privately owned house, Wentworth Woodhouse is set in 50 acres of rolling hills and countryside. Boasting panoramic views of its grounds and plenty of places to dine in style. Whether you fancy a tour around the house or afternoon tea in the long gallery, this is an amazing thing to do in Yorkshire.

There are even rumours of ghosts occupying the house, so keep your wits about you!

Where? Wentworth, Rotherham S62 7TQ

@yorkshirefoodguide ON THE HUNT FOR THE BEST AUTUMN AFTERNOON TEAS IN YORKSHIRE 🍰🫖🍂 We visited one of the grandest stately homes in the country, Wentworth Woodhouse, to try their autumn afternoon tea. Wentworth Woodhouse has been a filming location for many films and TV shows, including the Oscar-winning movies Darkest Hour and Downton Abbey 🎥 The afternoon tea is inspired by the region’s rich culinary heritage, the menu features hearty, seasonal treats made with locally-sourced ingredients and is served in the beautiful Long Gallery overlooking the stunning grounds 🌳 HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE: 🧀Yorkshire Mature Cheddar & Pickle on Brown Bloomer 🌱Free Range Egg & Cress on Sourdough Bread 🥩Roast Beef & Horseradish Yorkshire Pudding 🍓Homemade Scones 🍰Yorkshire Parkin 😋Rhubarb and Custard Crumble Save this post for your next Yorkshire day out! ✨ #YorkshireFoodGuide #WentworthWoodhouse #AfternoonTea #Yorkshire #Foodie ♬ Aesthetic Coffee – Febri Handika

Yorkshire Wildlife Park – Doncaster

Nothing quite beats a half-term trip to the Yorkshire Wildlife Park. Just outside of Doncaster is the UK’s number one walk-through wildlife attraction, and also the home to the UK’s largest collection of polar bears.

At the Yorkshire Wildlife Park, conservation is at the heart of everything they do, making it a great spot for a family day out. Little ones can explore and learn while having a blast in a safe environment – it’s the perfect place to let them run wild and enjoy some nature!

Where? Hurst Ln, Doncaster DN9 3QY

Things to do in Yorkshire: Sheffield Botanical Gardens

Dating back to 1836, Sheffield’s botanical gardens are a stunning green oasis amidst the steel city. Throughout the year, they are host to many events, whether it’s dazzling fireworks displays and light shows or gardening workshops.

If you are visiting South Yorkshire, this beautiful spot is certainly one to tick off your list of things to do.

Where? Clarkehouse Rd, Broomhall, Sheffield S10 2LN

Peak District

With limestone valleys and vast moorland, the Peak District is a stunning location for all kinds of outdoor adventures. Home to many beautiful stately homes, such as Chatsworth House, and spa towns like Matlock, there is everything from shopping to dining.

No one will be going hungry with all the amazing foodie spots around, including our favourite Assembly at the Schoolrooms. Grab some picnic goodies, your waterproof gear, and get ready for an adventure in South Yorkshire’s beautiful nature hotspot!

@yorkshirefoodguide Looking for the best brunch in the Peak District? 🍳🥑🥞 Tuck into a hearty Full English or indulge in a fluffy pancake stack, all while soaking up the beautiful surroundings. The perfect pit stop before a crisp autumn walk! 🍂 📍Assembly & Schoolrooms #YorkshireFoodGuide #AssemblyandSchoolrooms #PeakDistrict #Foodie #SouthYorkshire #ThingsToDoInThePeakDistrict ♬ Coffee and Quietude – Shima-san

Kelham Island – Sheffield

Dubbed ‘the UK’s best neighbourhood’ by the Academy of Urbanism, Kelham Island in Sheffield is a metropolis for fresh and innovative cuisine with the likes of restaurants such as Jöro and the Cutlery Works, the North’s largest independent food hall.

Once an important manufacturing centre, Kelham Island has transformed into a post-industrial neighbourhood built around the steel frameworks of old factories and workshops. But inside these structures, you’ll find exciting and new boutiques, arcades, bars, and restaurants, while Kelham’s Island Museum remains as a reminder of the city’s industrial past.

Things to Do in West Yorkshire

Yorkshire Sculpture Park – Wakefield

Yorkshire’s oldest open-air sculpture gallery features the works of legendary artists such as Henry Moore and Damien Hirst.

Striking, man-made sculptures are juxtaposed within the 500-acre, 18th-century Bretton Hall estate. It’s dog-friendly and has a lovely restaurant and café if you fancy a sit-down and a cup of tea to admire the tranquil scenery.

Where? West Bretton, Wakefield WF4 4LG 

Things to do in Yorkshire: Shopping in Leeds

Leeds city centre is well known for its shopping experience, offering a wide variety of options – from your essential high street shops in Trinity to the exquisite boutiques of the Corn Exchange to the luxury brands offered to you in Victoria Gate. Your wallet may not be pleased, but you definitely will be!

The Corn Exchange specifically has an extensive range of one-off shops where you can spoil yourself on antique jewellery or clothing from cutting-edge designers. It’s safe to say that shopping in Leeds is one of the most popular things to do in Yorkshire for these exact reasons!

Where? 27 Albion St, Leeds LS1 5AT, Call Ln, Leeds LS1 7BR, Victoria Gate, Harewood St, Leeds LS2 7JA

The Hepworth – Wakefield

An award-winning art gallery exhibiting some of the most modern and contemporary art pieces of this generation – all in the heart of Yorkshire! The Hepworth opened in 2011, and the building itself is a sight to see, resembling a series of smooth dystopian-like trapezoidal structures which seem to blend seamlessly into the water surrounding it.

This museum is a must-visit for any art lover if you fancy seeing one of a kind unique pieces from artists all over the globe – for free!

Where? Gallery Walk, Wakefield WF1 5AW 

Things to do in Yorkshire: The Piece Hall – Halifax

One of the oldest listed buildings in the region, this historic 18th Century cloth hall is open to visit and since it’s £19 million conservation and transformation programme in 2017, the open-air courtyard has been refurbished and filled with a variety of exciting restaurants, shops, and bars.

It’s the cultural haven of Halifax and holds a variety of exhibitions and events throughout the year, from exciting live music events to family-friendly winter wonderland workshops. Insider tip, Elder restaurant within The Piece Hall is Good Food Guide recommended and one of our team’s favourites.

Where? Blackledge, Halifax HX1 1RE

Hungry for something fancy? Check out our guide to Michelin restaurants in Yorkshire.