Journal

4 Fabulous Days Out In North Yorkshire

Are you planning to join the 8 million visitors that head to North Yorkshire each year? Then this is the blog for you. The county’s stunning moorland and dramatic coastline combine to offer a vast selection of day trips and attractions.

Days Out in North Yorkshire

Whether it’s a family day at the beach, exploring nature or taking a ride on a steam train, North Yorkshire truly has something to suit all tastes. With so much variety, it can be tough to choose which outing should be next on your list.

To help you decide, we’ve picked four of our favourite days out in North Yorkshire for you to enjoy…

1. Go walking in the North York Moors

The first of our fabulous days out in North Yorkshire is one that has something for everyone. Pack some sandwiches and lace up your boots for a day hiking in the North Yorkshire Moors National Park.

A colourful flower meadow at the front of Roseberry Topping

From rural moorland to coastal paths, the North York Moors covers over 550 square miles of natural beauty. Large parts of the National Park are covered by heather moorland, forests, villages and valleys, showing off the best of rural England.

Amongst its sweeping hills, walkers will find 1,408 miles of dedicated footpaths waiting to be explored. Choose from quaint villages full of traditional Yorkshire pubs and tea rooms, or head to the coast to tackle some of the National Park’s 26 miles of stunning coastline.

Put simply, the North York Moors is home to some of the best walks in North Yorkshire. Some of the most popular include:

  • Dalby Forest: Just a short drive from Scarborough and Filey, Dalby Forest is home to 8,500 acres of nature and adventure. There are 13 dedicated walking trails, from quick and easy to all-day hikes. There are also plenty of bike trails, play areas and fantastic facilities – making it one of our favourite North Yorkshire family days out.
  • Roseberry Topping: Feeling energetic? Then why not take on one of North Yorkshire’s most famous hills. Roseberry Topping is just over 1,000 feet high but is pretty steep, making for a challenging climb to the top. For a longer day out in North Yorkshire, try the National Trust suggested walking routes, taking in North Yorkshire coastal classics like Saltburn-by-the-Sea and the Captain Cook memorial.
  • Ravenscar to Robin Hood’s Bay: If you’re looking for fresh sea air, try the coastal path from Ravenscar to Robin Hood’s Bay. The entire loop route is 11 miles long, taking in clifftop walks and gorgeous beaches. For a shorter walk, you can walk the four-mile one-way route and catch local transport back.

2. Ride aboard the North York Moors Railway

If you fancy a more relaxed tour of the North York Moors National Park, why not take the train? But this is no typical train journey – hop on board the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) for a trip back in time to the age of steam.

A train arriving at Grosmont Station

With its 24 miles of tracks and six distinctive stations, you can design a day out that suits you. Want to sit back and relax? Then travel the entire route between Pickering and Whitby. If you prefer to explore, jump off at any of the stations along the route.

  1. Pickering: The North York Moors railway line starts (or ends) in Pickering, depending on your direction of travel. Leave a little time to explore the local market town and 1930s-themed station before hopping on board.
  2. Levisham: This quaint station makes a great starting point for some stunning walks, taking in nearby landmarks like Skelton Tower and the Hole of Horcum.
  3. Newtondale: A hidden gem nestled far away from civilisation, the request-only stop of Newtondale is a fantastic spot for hikers, bikers and nature lovers.
  4. Goathland: The NYMR’s celebrity station. Harry Potter fans will recognise Goathland as Hogsmeade station, while it will also look familiar to fans of British TV’s Heartbeat.
  5. Grosmont: Next, hop off at Grosmont to learn more about the engineering history of the NYMR. There are also stunning walks, with many visitors taking the three-mile stroll between Grosmont and Goathland.
  6. Whitby: At the end of the line, you’ll find the charming seaside town of Whitby. Stop here to explore its winding streets, visit Whitby’s pubs and restaurants, or eat fish and chips along the seafront.

3. Spend a day at Scarborough Beach

While the North Yorkshire coast is home to many stunning spots, Scarborough beaches are often one of the most popular. Whether you’re walking the dog, taking in the sights or need an idea for family fun in North Yorkshire, Scarborough has you covered.

An ariel view across Scarborough beach

Fans of the traditional British seaside should head over to Scarborough South Bay beach. There, you’ll find classic attractions for the whole family. Think sandcastles, ice creams and arcades for those rainy days. Of course, you’ll also find award-winning fish and chips along the promenade.

For a different vibe, stroll around the headland to Scarborough North Bay beach. You’ll find a more relaxed atmosphere, with dog walkers and surfers a plenty.

Head up the North Bay section of the Cleveland Way coastal path to visit the Sea Life Centre, one of our favourite things to do in Scarborough. You’ll also find restaurants, beach huts, a visitor centre, and plenty of cafes for a spot of afternoon tea.

4. Explore Staithes

Last on our list of the best days out in North Yorkshire is exploring the postcard-perfect harbour of Staithes. As you wander Staithes’ winding streets and marvel at its colourful cottages, you’ll be transported back to its rich maritime tale.

An ariel view above the rooftops of Staithes to the coast beyond

The story began centuries ago. Staithes was home to a young Captain Cook during his early life in the 1700s – today, you’ll find pubs, shops and museums all dedicated to the famous explorer and naval captain.

And, while it has a history as a working harbour, there are plenty of other things to do in Staithes. You might get hands-on with one of the best fossil hunting spots on the North Yorkshire coast, or head into a tea room for cake and coffee.

Staithes is also a popular destination for walkers, with its scenic trails heading north and south along the dramatic Cleveland Way coastal path. Whatever you choose to do, Staithes makes for a fabulous day out for all the family.

Have we inspired your next day out in North Yorkshire? Browse our selection of North York Moors cottages to find your perfect home away from home.

For more wonderful ways to spend your time, browse our guide on North Yorkshire events! And if the weather isn’t on your side, give our blog on indoor activities in Yorkshire for a rainy day a read!

For more inspriation on how to spend your time, take a look at our guide on dog friendly pubs in Bridlington.