The Best North Yorkshire Attractions & Activities

York Minster is one of Europe’s finest Gothic cathedrals, famed for its medieval stained glass, towering nave and intricate stonework. A spiritual and architectural landmark, it dominates the historic city of York with awe-inspiring presence.

Castle Howard in North Yorkshire is a baroque stately home set in vast parkland with lakes, temples and formal gardens. Its opulent interiors, dramatic dome and art collections make it one of England’s most magnificent historic houses to explore.

The National Railway Museum in York houses iconic locomotives, royal carriages and railway treasures. It tells the story of rail travel through stunning displays and interactive exhibits, making it the world’s largest railway museum. Free entry.

The Shambles in York is a narrow, winding medieval street with overhanging timber-framed buildings. Once home to butchers’ shops, it’s now filled with cafés, boutiques, and charm, often cited as one of Britain’s most picturesque streets.

former home of The Priors of Nostell and Mayor of York - rediscovered behind modern facade in 1980s - restored to original 15th century splendour - magnificent Great Hall

displaying exhibitions of contemporary and historic art in the spacious Saloon Galleries. The gardens are experiencing a renaissance with new planting schemes, enhancing the herbaceous borders

14 acres of gardens - herbaceous borders - rose garden - rockery - cottage garden

built in 1888 with a new award winning Bolton Abbey station which is a reconstruction of the original and vintage steam locomotives

a fine Georgian town house, exuding a welcoming feeling, with a richly decorated interior with many objects d'art and a special children's tour

the home of the Terry family (chocolates). Make your own chocolate box to take home and wander in the beautifully restored Arts & Crafts garden

a welcoming house on the River Rye including a collection of high quality, miniature rooms and touring art exhibitions throughout the year

dedicated to the local, coastal geology which has yielded many of Britains most important dinosaur fossils, with original Victorian exhibits and modern hands on galleries

a fine regency hall surrounded by parkland designed by Capability Brown and will modern gardens designed by the renowned Dutch plantsman Piet Oudolf.. Alive with clever contrasts and colour throughout the seasons

founded in the twelfth century, these magnificent ruins echo with centuries old stories. Wonderful walking with ancient tree avenues and a playful water garden

grand and tranquil historic house with an impressive ionic temple, a woodland play area and outdoor games for children. Picnics welcome

lived in by the same family since the fourteenth century with armour and portraits of the family down the centuries and extensive gardens and parklands. Picnics permitted

the 17th apprentice home of James Cook, famous sea captain, with Cook's own maps and letters and wonderful model of his ship 'Endeavour'

overlooking the market town of Helmsley for over one thousand years with an audio tour and tactile model showing how the castle once looked

The JORVIK Viking Centre in York brings the city’s Norse past to life with immersive rides, reconstructed streets, and real Viking artefacts. Built on the site of major archaeological finds, it offers a vivid journey into 10th-century York.

offering an interesting view of life in the 18th century, with fine collection of furniture and an award winning garden - an oasis of calm -

Dominating the skyline and looking as if it were an atmospheric film set, rather than a monastic establishment, this inspired Bram Stoker, the author of Dracula.

York Castle Museum offers a journey through time with recreated Victorian streets, World War exhibits, and everyday life displays. Set beside Clifford’s Tower, it vividly brings history to life with immersive settings and fascinating collections.

comprehensive local history museum, with good coverage of Roman York, as well as the Viking and Medieval eras, plus dinosaur fossils for the kids

with over 80 miles of riverside, woodland and moorland paths, medieval buildings, picnic areas, tearooms and restaurants, gift shops and fabulous scenery there is something for everyone

occupying a commanding position atop the headland with breathtaking views, the timeline graphic panels and interactive displays bring 800 years of history to life

York City Walls encircle the historic centre, offering a scenic walk with views of medieval gateways, towers, and York Minster. The longest intact city walls in England, they provide a unique way to explore the city’s rich past and striking skyline.

Clifford’s Tower in York is the keep of a medieval castle, perched on a mound with panoramic city views. Once a royal stronghold, it holds a dramatic history and today offers a striking landmark in the heart of the city.

hands-on archeological adventure, giving kids the chance to become trainee "diggers" discovering exciting historic artefacts

hidden away in the city centre, this little church remains largely unchanged over hundreds of years, with box pews and stained glass

The Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes tells the story of the Yorkshire Dales. Set in a former railway station, it features exhibits on farming, crafts, lead mining and rural life, alongside trails and events celebrating the landscape.

Grassington National Park Centre is the visitor gateway to the Yorkshire Dales. It offers interactive displays, walking guides, local information and exhibitions, helping visitors explore the landscapes, wildlife and heritage of the Dales.

The Wensleydale Creamery in Hawes is home of the famous Yorkshire Wensleydale cheese. Visitors can watch cheesemaking, explore interactive galleries, sample award-winning varieties and enjoy local produce in the shop and restaurants.

a peaceful 10 acre retreat in the centre of the city, with an extensive botanical collection and a variety of wild birds, surrounded by the ruins of St Marys Abbey