Yorkshire area guide
Things to do in Yorkshire
The UK's largest county, Yorkshire is packed with attractions and possibilities to discover. With large, historic cities, beautiful rolling countryside and some of the country’s most stunning coastline, Yorkshire is a delightful destination for enjoying a getaway.
Yorkshire is packed with superb hostel accommodation, particularly in its two fantastic national parks. YHA has hostels across the county from Hawes to Haworth, and Beverley to Boggle Hole. These hostels are varied in size, setting and character, so whether you wish to stay next to a Benedictine abbey, in a medieval friary or simply in a purpose-built hostel, we're sure there'll be something for you in Yorkshire.
Traveller tips
YHA Grinton Lodge on Valentines Day
Spending Valentines Day at our most romantic location: YHA Grinton Lodge in the heart of North Yorkshire. As seen on ITV's This Morning and The Independent!
Top Yorkshire attractions
Fountains Abbey
The National Trust are lucky to preside over a number of superb properties and points of interest within the county of Yorkshire, and one of the most notable is Fountains Abbey. The largest monastic...
Malham Cove
The Yorkshire Dales is renowned for its walking terrain, and there aren’t many better reasons as to why than a visit to Malham Cove and Gordale Scar. Formed by a melting glacier at the end of the last...
National Railway Museum
One of York’s premier attractions, the National Railway Museum is the largest of its kind in the UK, with upwards of 100 locomotives lining the tightly packed site close to the city centre. The...
Yorkshire Sculpture Park
One of the county’s most thriving attractions, Yorkshire Sculpture Park is the ideal location for a family day out. The park hosts a plethora of exhibitions from some of the world’s leading sculptors...
Best things to do in Yorkshire
Alternative Technology Centre
See renewable energy systems and explore the One Planet exhibition room, full of quirky facts and information about sustainability. Visit the ATC website
Beverley Art Gallery
The largest collection of works by Fred & Mary Elwell. The gallery also hosts visiting exhibitions and special events.
Bolton Abbey
Situated in an incomparable position overlooking the River Wharfe, the ruins of the 12th-century Priory and the restored Parish church are much loved by visitors. Nature trails lead through Strid...
Captain Cook Memorial Museum
The museum is in a 17th century house on Whitby's harbour where Captain Cook trained as a seaman, leading to his epic voyages of discovery. Visit the Museum website
Castle Howard
Set within 1000 acres of breathtaking landscape, the estate houses the Arboretum Trust - a collection of botanically important trees. Visit the website
Climbing in Kettlewell
For climbers we have one of Yorkshire's 'Big Three' limestone crags, Kilnsey Crag (the other two being Gordale and Malham). This is mostly higher grade sport climbing but there are some very good trad...
Cycling around Boggle Hole
Take a leisurely cycle along the National Cycle Route 1 or the North Sea trail which starts 10 minutes away from the hostel.
Cycling in Beverley
YHA Beverley Friary is on a national by-way. Cycle routes 65 and 66 go right past the hostel door as well as the National Cycle Network 1. The North Sea Cycle Route also passes through Beverley. The...
Cycling in Dalby Forest
The National Park has over 1400 miles of cycle ways for you to discover. Get out and about on your bike and enjoy the landscape. Whether it’s town or countryside you want to explore, you can ride as...
Cycling in Kettlewell
For Cyclists, we are on the Tour de France route and the area is really popular with road cyclists. We have a large secure bike shed and concreted metal hoops in the floor so make sure that you bring...
Cycling in Osmotherley
National Cycle network (Route 65) passes by the Mill which takes in minor roads and traffic-free routes on bridleways past Cod Beck reservoir.
Dales Countryside Museum
The Dales Countryside Museum shows the Yorkshire Dales way of life and explores traditions long gone, including lead mining, knitting, and cheese making.
Dracula Experience
A unique tour through the Dracula story and the connection to Whitby. Using animation, special effects and live actors. Visit the website
East Riddlesden Hall
Rebuilt during the Civil War, the house has a dramatic history and numerous ghosts. Beautiful embroideries and colourful gardens. Visit the National Trust website
Embsay & Bolton Steam Railway
The Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway (E&BASR) is a heritage railway in North Yorkshire. The preserved railway was part of the former Midland Railway route from Skipton to Ilkley which was closed...
Eureka! The Museum for Children
The only interactive museum designed especially for children aged 3-12, opens up a fascinating world of hands on exploration. Visit the Museum website
Go Ape Dalby Forest
Grab some friends for an exhilarating day out swinging through the trees and flying long zip wires at Go Ape Dalby Forest. Dalby Forest is also a very popular location for mountain bikers with forest...
Helmsley Castle
This medieval castle’s impressive ruins stand on a rocky outcrop overlooking the River Rye and still dominate the town.
Jorvik Viking Centre
A ground breaking visitor experience that lets you experience life in Viking-Age York. Don't miss a trip on the time capsule! Visit the website
Keighley and Worth Valley Railway
Take a memorable steam train journey back in time. Travel from delightfully restored stations through evocative scenery. Visit the website
Mountain biking around Boggle Hole
The disused railway line (National cycle route 1 - North Sea trail) offers easy, family friendly and car free cycling, all within 10 minutes of the hostel.
Mountain Biking at YHA Dalby Forest
Mountain Biking in Dalby Forest is a must for biking enthusiasts, with over 40 miles of man made trails at your wheels. If you're a novice rider try one of the easier green trails over mostly surfaced...
Mountain Biking in Mankinholes
There is a whole network of paths and tracks that are suitable for mountain biking. Don't miss the "Mary Townley Loop" of the Pennine Bridleway - fantastic downhill speed and off-road routes to tear...
Mountain biking in Osmotherley
There are numerous trails across the North Yorkshire Moors to test all abilities. Local trails in easy reach of Cote Ghyll Mill are the ‘Square Corner & Fangdale Beck’ (21 mile) and ‘Swainby &...
North York Moors Steam Railway
Step back in time with magnificent steam engines and beautiful rural stations. The railway is lovingly preserved and charmingly authentic.
Railway Carriage Museum
Experience something of the sights and sounds of passenger travel since the early days of the railways. The carriages which make up this collection are much in demand by film companies who want to...
Richmond Castle
Discover this Norman castle’s fascinating past before taking a peaceful stroll round the secluded Cockpit Garden.
Robin Hood's Bay
Robin Hood's Bay is a picturesque old fishing village with delightful streets and old fisher-folk running cafés. The village is rife with tall tales of old smugglers. It is a fantastic place for the...
Rock pooling and fossil hunting
Try rock pooling, fossil hunting and playing on the beach making sandcastles, all a stone's throw from the hostel.
Running in Kettlewell
This is a simply amazing area for fell running. A popular winter route is night running over Great Whernside, only for the experienced, but with a clear night, there is really nowhere better on earth...
Sea Fishing at Boggle Hole
Cast from the window of your room (almost!) and spend the whole day staring wistfully out to sea.
Skidby Mill and Museum of East Riding Rural Life
Yorkshire's last working windmill. Next door is the Museum of East Riding Rural Life, showing the rural history of the area. Visit the website
St Mary's Church
Beautiful gothic architecture, a ceiling of golden stars, a chancel of English kings, and the white rabbit from the Alice in Wonderland.
The Deep
This award-winning visitor attraction is home to over 3,500 fish including spectacular sharks and rays giving a great family day out.
The Judge’s Lodging
Explore the ‘upstairs, downstairs’ life of the Judges, their servants & felonious guests at this stunning house.
The Moors, Brontë Falls and Top Withens
From YHA Haworth, a path leads to the moors which were an inspiration for the Brontë sisters. A signposted walk passes Brontë Bridge and Waterfalls and continues to Top Withens. Now a ruin, this...
Walking and rambling around Boggle Hole
If you're planning on staying at YHA Boggle Hole, why not download a free map and get out exploring? All our self-guided walks start and end at a YHA hostel and are graded so that you can explore the...
Walking and Rambling in Mankinholes
There's a range of walks for all ages and abilities. From a gentle walk along the canal to Hebden Bridge or a serious hike along the Pennine Way. Get back to nature and stride out on foot to explore...
Walking and rambling in York
If you're planning on staying at YHA York,, why not download a free map and get out exploring? All our self-guided walks start and end at a YHA hostel and are graded so that you can explore the area...
Walks with a story in Yorkshire
Explore more of the area with Discovering Britain’s walks, trails and views. From stunning viewpoints to family-friendly strolls, from day long hikes in the countryside to urban trails - there's...
Watersports in Boggle Hole
Step out of your room and into the sea and more importantly, you can then step out of the sea into a lovely hot shower!
Watersports near Kettlewell
The trout farm and shop down at Kilnsey Park Estate makes for a really good day out for any aspiring fisherman. See the Kilnsey Fishing website
Wensleydale Creamery
The perfect destination for fans of cheese - including Wallace & Gromit! See the cheese being made and then try a sample. Visit the website
Wild Swimming at Boggle Hole
Noted as a great place to swim in the Wild Swimming book. The sea at Boggle Hole is exhilarating, and perishing, all at once.
World of James Herriot Museum
An unforgettable experience and chance to see the veterinary practice that was at the heart of the much loved stories. Visit the website
York
Famous for exquisite architecture, a tangle of quaint cobbled streets and the iconic York Minster - there's lots to see and do!
York Boat River Cruises
The largest fleet of modern sightseeing boats outside London. Sit back, relax and enjoy York by day or night down the River Ouse. Visit the website
York City Sightseeing Bus Tour
Sightseeing has never been so much fun! Hop on and off as much as you like, and see all the sights that the city has to offer. One route, but with 20 stops. Visit the Bus Tour website
Must-see Yorkshire towns and cities
York
Set within beautiful medieval city walls, York is well worthy of an independent visit, whether for a jam-packed day out or for a weekend away. The city is perhaps best known for its minster, one of the world's premier cathedrals. History is constantly celebrated around the city, with numerous tourist attractions pertaining to York's long and illustrious past. Go and explore it for yourself – you won't be disappointed.
Whitby
For a coastal town full of charm, dramatic scenery and plenty of tradition, you'll be hard pressed to find anywhere better than Whitby. The jewel of its crown is the vast remains of Whitby Abbey, inspiration for Bram Stoker's Dracula and the setting for numerous films and TV series. A visit isn’t complete without eating local fish and chips!
Harrogate
Set in the heart of the county, the spa town of Harrogate is perhaps Yorkshire's most attractive settlement, owing to its handsome, historic architecture, its quaint cafes and its delightful gardens. Its most famous feature is Betty’s tea room, which draws visitors from far and wide for its enduringly popular afternoon teas.
Scarborough
If a traditional British seaside holiday is on your agenda, then Scarborough should be top of the list (especially for family breaks). When the summer sun shines, Scarborough comes to life with two magnificent beaches and a thriving town centre. The kids will love building sandcastles, and if the Yorkshire weather doesn't quite deliver, then neighbouring amusement arcades and souvenir shops will provide plenty of entertainment.
Transport in Yorkshire
By train
Yorkshire's largest cities are served by various mainline routes. From London, the Virgin East Coast services operate regular fast services to Leeds, Wakefield, York and Doncaster, and there are also consistent trains to Sheffield. Localised services operate between smaller towns and these larger areas, though make sure you plan your route.
By bus
National Express Coaches operate regular direct services from London to the cities of York, Leeds, Sheffield, Doncaster and Hull. There are comprehensive networks of local bus services throughout most areas of the county, giving visitors an easy way to explore the area.
By plane
Yorkshire is fortunate to be served by two large airports in Doncaster Sheffield (DSA) and Leeds Bradford (LBA). For flights from further afield, Manchester (MAN) airport is only a relatively short drive away from the county.
By car
To travel to Yorkshire by car, take the M1 or A1 from the south, the M62 from the west and the A1 from the north east. Many of our hostels have on-site parking available.
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Walking in Yorkshire
Walking and rambling around Boggle Hole
If you're planning on staying at YHA Boggle Hole, why not download a free map and get out exploring? All our self-guided walks start and end at a YHA hostel and are graded so that you can explore the...
Walking and rambling in Grinton
If you're planning on staying at YHA Grinton Lodge, why not download a free map and get out exploring? All our self-guided walks start and end at a YHA hostel and are graded so that you can explore...
Walking and rambling in Helmsley
If you're planning on staying at YHA Helmsley, why not download a free map and get out exploring? All our self-guided walks start and end at a YHA hostel and are graded so that you can explore the...
Walking and rambling in Malham
If you're planning on staying at YHA Malham, why not download a free map and get out exploring? All our self-guided walks start and end at a YHA hostel and are graded so that you can explore the area...
Walking and rambling in Scarborough
If you're planning on staying at YHA Scarborough, why not download a free map and get out exploring? All our self-guided walks start and end at a YHA hostel and are graded so that you can explore the...
Walking and rambling in Whitby
If you're planning on staying at YHA Whitby, why not download a free map and get out exploring? All our self-guided walks start and end at a YHA hostel and are graded so that you can explore the area...
Walking and rambling in York
If you're planning on staying at YHA York,, why not download a free map and get out exploring? All our self-guided walks start and end at a YHA hostel and are graded so that you can explore the area...
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