Stroll through the serene parkland of Yorkshire’s rural county and visit the charming hamlets with old churches and abbeys.
North Yorkshire is a large county with national parks full of sprawling mountains and valleys. The Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors decorate the region with their scenic terrain, while quaint cities such as YorkOpens in a new window add historic ambiance. Encounter all types of wildlife and vegetation as you traverse the footpaths and fields of one of England’s greenest areas.
Among the nation’s most historic and beautiful cities is York, in the county’s centre. Marvel at the extraordinary façade of York MinsterOpens in a new window, one of Europe’s largest cathedrals. Enter through the large central portal to see its ornate nave and vast collection of stained-glass windows.
Although large, the city retains its quirks with cobblestone streets and historic buildings. Spend days exploring highlights such as York Castle MuseumOpens in a new window, York Dungeon and the National Railway Museum.
Other important communes include Harrogate, Middlesbrough and ScarboroughOpens in a new window. Visit the latter for the North Bay Railway, with a historic train and family activities. Learn about Captain James Cook’s seafaring voyages in nearby WhitbyOpens in a new window.
North Yorkshire offers stunning scenery in North York Moors National Park. Cycle past lakes, rivers and forests. Discover the rare heather moorland and spot birds such as the red grouse and golden plover. Reach the coast for the rugged cliffs and shores.
West of this park is the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Visit and hike the Three Peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Ingleborough and Whernside.
The climate throughout the county ranges greatly depending on the area. Brave the cold in the snowy Pennines in winter. Bring an umbrella to the Yorkshire Dales but expect dry weather in the Vale of Mowbray.
The county is in the northern part of England, beside Lancashire and CumbriaOpens in a new window. Fly to Leeds-Bradford Airport and drive east for 30 miles (50 kilometres) to reach York. Drive south to LondonOpens in a new window in 4 hours or take a 2-hour train ride.
North Yorkshire is a blend of some of England’s finest green terrain with its most historic and charming villages and cities.