The best things to do in Yorkshire

Yorkshire's diverse landscapes, historic landmarks, and vibrant cities in the North of England make it an ideal destination for your next dream holiday.

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Whether you're drawn to the rugged beauty of the Yorkshire Dales, the cultural richness of York, or the bustling energy of Leeds, there's something for everyone, no matter your ideal holiday style.

To plan your best holiday yet, here are some of the best things to do in Yorkshire – from the broad expanse of North Yorkshire and the lively streets of West Yorkshire to the serene beauty of the Yorkshire Dales and beyond.

Discover Malham Cove, a Harry Potter filming location, Richmond Castle, and much more!

Take a look at our top picks for:

  • Things to do in North Yorkshire
  • Things to do in East Yorkshire
  • Things to do in the Yorkshire Dales
  • Things to do in Yorkshire for families
  • Things to do in Yorkshire for Couples

Things to do in North Yorkshire

You'll find several things to do in North Yorkshire. Its diverse landscapes, from the North York Moors to the coastal beauty of Whitby, offer activities for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

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North York Moors National Park

Explore the North York Moors National Park, a 45-minute drive from The Bay Filey holiday park. This beautiful park has stunning moorland, heritage steam railways, picturesque villages like Goathland, and hiking and biking opportunities.

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York city

Check out the medieval city of York—walk the ancient city walls and visit York Minster Cathedral, which is about a 50-minute drive from Woodland Lakes Lodges. Then, wander the quaint Shambles Street and visit museums like the Jorvik Viking Centre.

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Richmond Castle

See the ruins of majestic castles - North Yorkshire is dotted with impressive ruined castles like Richmond Castle, which is a 30–40-minute drive from Woodland Lakes Lodges. Alongside this, you can visit Bolton Castle and Middleham Castle.

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North Yorkshire Moors Railway image

North Yorkshire Moors Railway

Ride on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, a 40-50-minute drive from The Bay Filey holiday park. This preserved steam railway runs through the moors and valleys of North Yorkshire, allowing you to see this beautiful location from a brand-new angle.

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Grassington Yorkshire Dales

See the scenic villages of the Yorkshire Dales with charming villages like Grassington, Kettlewell, and Hawes, perfect for relaxing strolls.

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Whitby

Go to Whitby, a historic seaside town with the remains of a 7th-century Abbey, a harbour, fish and chip shops, and connections to Bram Stoker's Dracula.

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Flamingo Land Theme Park & Zoo

Visit Flamingo Land Theme Park & Zoo - a popular family attraction with rollercoasters, kid's rides, and more – between a 40-50-minute drive away from The Bay Filey.

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Dalby Forest

Go hiking or biking in Dalby Forest, which has mountain bike trails, hiking paths, and incredible mountain views.

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Filey Beach

For another beach option, Filey Beach is a less than 10-minute drive from The Bay Filey holiday park – the perfect family-friendly day out!

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Harrogate and Betty's Tea Room

Experience the spa town of Harrogate, known for its spring water, Victorian architecture, parks, shops, restaurants, and Betty's Tea Room. Take a 40-50-minute drive from the Woodland Lakes Lodges to sample some of the best afternoon teas around to end your day of exploring some of the best things in North Yorkshire.

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Things to do in East Yorkshire

Like the rest of Yorkshire, East Yorkshire, also known as East Riding of Yorkshire, boasts a stunning coastline, historic landmarks, and charming market towns, with plenty of unique attractions for all holidaygoers.

Bordering North and South Yorkshire, you can visit them all during your holiday getaway. Whether planning a weekend or midweek trip, you can fit many places into your holiday itinerary.

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Beverley Minster

Visit the historic city of Beverley. Explore the impressive Beverley Minster, a 50-minute drive from The Bay Filey holiday park. Wander the cobbled streets and enjoy the cafés, shops, and markets in this medieval town.

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Bridlington

Spend a day at the seaside in Bridlington, which is only a 20-minute drive from The Bay Filey. Have some fun at this family-friendly resort town with stunning beaches, amusement arcades, and more.

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RSPB Bempton Cliffs image

RSPB Bempton Cliffs

Spot birds and wildlife at RSPB Bempton Cliffs. These towering white cliffs are perfect for birdwatchers and are home to substantial seabird colonies with gannets, puffins, and more.

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Flamborough boat trip

For an even better view on your holiday, take a boat trip to the lighthouse on Flamborough Head and take in the dramatic scenery—remember to keep an eye out for nesting seabirds.

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Burton Agnes Hall

Visit Burton Agnes Hall, an impressive Elizabethan country house with beautiful grounds, art collections, and gardens to explore—one of the best things to do in East Yorkshire and a 20-minute drive from The Bay Filey holiday park!

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Pocklington Canal

Then, to finish off a great day of exploring East Yorkshire, discover the peaceful waterways of the Pocklington Canal, where you'll be surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife.

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Things to do in the Yorkshire Dales

The Yorkshire Dales are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with rolling hills, limestone formations, and charming stone villages.

With plenty of beautiful sights and Areas of Outstanding Beauty, this is the place to visit if you're after a more peaceful holiday away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

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Malham Cove

This huge, curved limestone rock, Malham Cove, is one of the must-see locations within Yorkshire, as this formation features awe-inspiring cliffs and a beautiful waterfall.

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White Scar Cave

A fascinating underground cave system and the longest show cave in England, with stalactites and unusual rock formations, is ready to explore on a guided tour. See what you discover, making this one of the best things to do in the Yorkshire Dales. Visit Richmond, which has so many things to do for a cultural experience.

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Richmond image

Richmond

Visit Richmond, which has so many things to do for a cultural experience. Visit Richmond Castle, an 11th-century Norman castle with a towering 100-foot-high peak and walls. You'll be able to witness the most scenic views of Yorkshire.

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Ribblehead Viaduct

An impressively long railway viaduct spanning the valley with 24 arches, featured in Harry Potter films. So, if you're a big fan, this is a must-see attraction.

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Aysgarth Falls

Within the Dales, you can also visit the picturesque Aysgarth Falls, where the River Ure cascades over a series of limestone steps – it's truly a spectacle to behold!

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With plenty to do in the Yorkshire Dales, it's the perfect place to go, especially to bond with your partner or for a family getaway—you can even bring your pooch along! It offers a peaceful retreat and a chance to connect with nature.

Things to do in Yorkshire for families

You can choose a weekend trip or longer for your entire family, depending on what you want to get up to. A paradise for families, there are so many attractions and things to do in Yorkshire for families that cater to all ages.

From the young to the older members of your family, Yorkshire can provide a unique experience! You may have different preferences and activities you like to enjoy, but fear not—there are plenty of things to do in Yorkshire for families, and a lot of the time, you can all share the same experiences for the perfect family bonding time!

National Railway Museum in York image

National Railway Museum in York

This massive, free museum is around a 45-minute drive from Woodland Lakes Lodges. It showcases trains through the ages with interactive exhibits and opportunities to ride a train.

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Lightwater Valley Theme Park

Visit over 40 family rides and attractions, including Europe's longest rollercoaster ride, just a 20-30-minute drive from Woodland Lakes Lodges.

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Scarborough Sea Life Sanctuary

Scarborough Sea Life Sanctuary offers sea lion shows and a hands-on marine wildlife exhibit on the seafront. It is only a 30-minute drive from The Bay Filey holiday park, and it offers some of the best things to do in Yorkshire for families.

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Playdale Farm Park

Playdale Farm Park has impressive things to entertain your children, rain or shine. They can play in the indoor play centre and get up close and personal with the cutest farm animals. It's only a 20-minute drive from The Bay Filey holiday park.

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Filey Bird Garden and Animal Park image

Filey Bird Garden and Animal Park

This garden and animal park is excellent for meeting various animals and exploring the natural surroundings. It's a picture-perfect family day out!

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Mills Observatory

Historic observatory with telescopes – a 20-minute drive away.

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Things to do in Yorkshire for Couples

For those seeking a romantic escape, Yorkshire provides a backdrop of scenic beauty and intimate experiences. No matter how long you and your loved one are on holiday, there are many things couples can do in Yorkshire. Whether you're an active couple or prefer more relaxation, this kind of holiday will help you bond further with some unique experiences to be shared!

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Leeds and Liverpool Canal

There are plenty of things for couples to do in Yorkshire, including a romantic cruise along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.

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Yorkshire Balloon Flights

For something new, Yorkshire Balloon Flights offers a hot-air balloon ride over the Yorkshire countryside, offering breathtaking views and a unique perspective of the region.

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Marvel at Brimham Rocks near Harrogate image

Marvel at Brimham Rocks near Harrogate

Explore this incredible collection of weird and wonderful rock formations on a peaceful walk and share some beautiful moments with your loved one. This National Trust location is under a 45-minute drive from Woodland Lakes Lodges.

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Castle Howard image

Castle Howard

For even more romance, stroll through the landscaped gardens at Castle Howard near York. This stately home offers gorgeous architecture and breathtaking lakes, temples, and woodlands.

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Georgian Theatre Royal

Take in a show at the historic Georgian Theatre Royal in Richmond, a 30 to 40-minute drive from Woodland Lakes Lodges. Plan a date to see a play or musical in Britain's oldest working theatre before drinks at a cosy local pub.

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The Bay Filey spa day

Indulge in a couple's spa day at The Bay Filey holiday park, where you can enjoy the sauna and steam room benefits. End your couple's day of adventuring right, ensuring relaxation and rejuvenation, and here are some of the best things for couples to do in Yorkshire.

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Things to do in Yorkshire FAQs

Now that you're set with many things to do in Yorkshire, you may still have some questions about planning your trip to a holiday park even better.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about things to do in Yorkshire:

What is Yorkshire famous for?

Yorkshire is famous for so many things, including:

  • Harry Potter filming location (Malham Cove)
  • Bettys Tea Room
  • Yorkshire Tea
  • The Bronte Family – Jane Eyre
  • Yorkshire puddings
  • The biggest maze in the UK (York Maize Maze)
  • Wensleydale cheese
  • The world's first football club, aka Sheffield FC
  • Emmerdale
  • The largest railway museum in the world
  • Marks & Spencer's

And the list goes on! It is a remarkable place filled with so many famous attractions and foods!

Where is the prettiest place in Yorkshire?

The prettiest place in Yorkshire comes down to personal preference, but there are so many to choose from that you can add to your holiday itinerary to visit.

  • White Scar Cave
  • RSPB Bempton Cliffs
  • Filey Sculpture Trail
  • North Yorkshire Moors Railway
  • Malham Cove
  • Sewerby Hall
  • North York Moors National Park
  • The Cleveland Way

What things can I do in Yorkshire this weekend?

The things that you can do in Yorkshire this weekend vary, especially as there are many seasonal events, so it all depends on when you're planning your holiday. Plus, you can find various guides to plan your holiday based on a specific weekend that works for you!

With so many things to do in Yorkshire this weekend, here are a few general ideas!

  • Visit Whitby
  • Enjoy a spa weekend
  • Spend your weekend walking through the Dales

Where can I go for a day out in Yorkshire?

There are many places to go for a day out in Yorkshire – you can head to different locations or chill at the beach for an entire day.

But here are some places to go for a day out in Yorkshire:

With many other places to add to your holiday park getaway itinerary, why not book your chosen holiday park now so you can enjoy the many things to do in Yorkshire? Enquire today.

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