A Guide to 16 fun day trips from York
There are many exciting day trips from York in the United Kingdom. We know it may not be easy to leave the beautiful city and travel beyond, but let’s face it – York can be busy, and sometimes you fancy a change of scenery and want to explore somewhere new. York has some of the most beautiful and famous national parks in the country on its doorstep, so once you’re finished with York’s attractions, it may be time to venture further away.
The best thing is that some of these are day trips from York by train, and they are less than 2 hours away. After all, a day trip needs to be manageable.
Valuable Tips for the best day trips from York
- If you are going by train, make sure that you book your train tickets in advance as train travel in the UK can be very expensive. We recommend using Trainline to find the best deals.
- If you want to ride on the North York Moors Railway, we recommend buying tickets in advance.
- Many of the day trips from York we have suggested get very busy on weekends, so arrive early or consider visiting during the week to avoid the crowds.
- Leave no trace and take all litter home with you to leave these places beautiful.
- Support local businesses and independent shops in the towns and villages where possible.
16 Best Day Trips from York
North York Moors National Park
Distance from York: 25 miles
Drive Time from York: 45 minutes
The North Yorkshire Moors National Park is one of the best places for walks around York, and you can always discover something new – which means it is easily one of the best day trips from York.
The North York Moors National Park was established in 1952 and covered over 1,436 square km. From cycling to sailing, to exploring there is something for everyone in the moors.
If you visit in summer, you will see the blanket of purple heather over the moors, as it is home to one of the largest areas of heather moorland in the UK.
Popular walks include the Cleveland Way and Lyke Wake Walk, and since 2020, it has been named an International Dark Sky Reserve, which means that it is excellent for astronomy due to the low levels of light pollution.
North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Distance from York: 27 miles
Drive Time from York: 50-minutes
Volunteers have run the Yorkshire Steam Railway since 1967, and this steam train ride is easily one of the best day trips from York. The train runs from Pickering to Whitby, and you can get off at different stations or spend some time in Whitby before heading back.
There is something special about a ride on this train as you journey through the English countryside towards the coast. It is like stepping back in time, and although when we went on it, it was full of children enjoying the ride, we felt like big kids too, with the biggest grins.
Alternatively, if you do not fancy a whole day out on the train, you could go on the Goathland to Grosmont walk and then catch the steam train back, which is a popular activity to do. The train stations are quaint and charming, with tea shops that sell everything from souvenirs to ice cream. Does it remind you of Harry Potter? Goathland’s station was Hogsmeade station from the famous films. There is no wonder that it is a favourite of the best day trips from York.
Please read our guide to the Goathland to Grosmont walk for more information.
Yorkshire Dales National Park
Distance from York: 33 miles
Drive Time from York: 1 hour 10-minutes
Northeast of York, you will find the beautiful Yorkshire Dales National Park. There are so many things to do here, from walking to exploring the beautiful, charming towns and villages.
You can also visit Nidderdale, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty since 1994. We love Pateley Bridge, a market town with the world’s oldest sweet shop. You can also see the National Trust attraction of Brimham Rocks with outstanding rock formations nearby too.
There is also the incredible Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal, a World Heritage Site, or you can climb to Coldstones Cut to see a wonderful sculpture by Andrew Sabin. There are so many hiking trails, and you can return time and time.
Castle Howard
Distance from York: 15 miles
Drive Time from York: 30-minutes
York to Castle Howard is an excellent day trip from York because you can see one of the grandest stately homes in the country – both the interior and exterior are exquisite.
One of the best things you can do is go on a guided tour of the house to learn about its history and how it took over a century to complete. It is in the Howardian Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Where can I eat and drink at Castle Howard?
The Courtyard Café, The Fitzroy Café and The Boathouse Cafe!
Leeds
Distance from York: 28 miles
Train: 25 minutes
Drive Time from York: 55-minutes
Leeds is a 21st-century city that booms with life due to its large student population. From museums to breweries to world-class shopping and large country parks – there is something for everyone to enjoy. Therefore, it is an excellent option for a day trip from York. Some of the best things to do in Leeds include visiting Leeds Kirkgate Market to see the first Marks and Spencer store and visiting the magnificent Corn Exchange. You can also explore Temple Newsam’s marvellous house, grounds and operational farm.
A unique experience is to catch a water taxi from Granary Wharf to Leeds Dock. Whilst there, you can attend a yoga class at Yoga Hero, grab a coffee at North Star or head to the Royal Armories museum to see an impressive collection for free.You can also visit Roundhay Park, Leeds City Museum and the Tetley Brewery.
Where can I eat and drink in Leeds?
Mommy Thai, Bundobust, Belgrave Music Hall, Headrow House, Trinity Kitchen or anywhere on Call Lane!
Please read our complete guide to Leeds or our directory for Free things to do in Leeds.
Whitby
Distance from York: 47 miles
Drive Time from York: 1 hour 15-minutes
A day trip to Whitby from York is an excellent idea. What’s better than the Yorkshire Coast? You can experience the birthplace of Dracula and go on a Dracula experience tour – if you dare.
If mobility allows, you can walk the 199 steps up to the beautiful St Mary’s Church Courtyard for fabulous views over Whitby, and you can access Whitby Abbey from the graveyard too. English Heritage looks after it, and they put on many events throughout the year.
Some of the best things to do in Whitby include visiting the Captain Cook Memorial Museum, enjoying time on the beach and walking along the coast to Robin Hood’s Bay.
Where can I eat and drink in Whitby?
Abbey Wharf for the view!
Manchester
Distance from York: 72 miles
Train: 1 hour, 20-minutes
Drive Time from York: 1 hour 28-minutes
Why not visit the exciting city of Manchester on a day trip from York? The buzzing city has historic canals, Roman ruins and a trendy bar scene. That’s before you get to experience its football madness. It is home to two of the English Premier.
On a day trip, you should visit the Northern Quarter, see its street art, have brunch or drinks in the evening. There are also many beautiful museums to visit in Manchester, including the Imperial War Museum North, the Manchester Museum, the Science and Industry Museum and the National Football Museum.
Arguably, football has made Manchester a world-famous city, so whilst you visit, you may want to fit in a football stadium tour at Man City’s Etihad or Manchester United’s Old Trafford. Depending on whether you are blue or red, of course.
We also recommend checking out Castlefield’s canals or Media City for a stroll, or if it is not your first time in Manchester, then you can make your way into a trendy suburb to enjoy local life, such as Chorlton or Didsbury.
Where can I eat and drink in Manchester?
Noi Quattro, Mackie Mayor, Evelyn’s, 20 Stories
Check our our guide to 24 hours in Manchester here.
Scarborough
Distance from York: 42 miles
Train: 50-minutes
Drive Time from York: 1 hour 20-minutes
Scarborough is the epitome of a British seaside town with the smell of fish and chips in the air, amusements running along the promenade and two excellent beaches. Unfortunately, Scarborough does not have the best reputation, as many of it has fallen into disrepair, but that does not mean that you shouldn’t include it on your list of day trips from York.
Indeed, Scarborough is an exciting day out, especially if you have kids. Some of the best things to do are visiting Scarborough Castle, riding the Victorian tramway (although short) and heading to South Bay or North Bay Beach. You can also do numerous walks, including walking around the harbour, the castle walls, and South Cliff Gardens.
Where can I eat and drink in Scarborough?
Anton’s for cocktails and Thai Orchard for yummy Thai food!
Bolton Abbey
Distance from York: 37.5 miles
Drive Time from York: 1 hour 10-minutes
A visit to the 12th century Bolton Abbey is a must because it is surrounded by beautiful countryside. But, unfortunately, it was closed when Henry VIII started to reform the Church of England and fell into disrepair.
If you have not visited an abbey before, we recommend this one due to the beautiful countryside and woodland surrounding it, as you can go for a walk or explore the charming village, which makes it a fantastic day trip from York.
Knaresborough
Distance from York: 17 miles
Train: 30-minutes
Drive Time from York: 35-minutes
Another excellent option for a York day trip is the famous North Yorkshire town of Knaresborough. It is a day trip for those that fancy a coastal experience without heading to the beach. Trust us, walking along the banks of the River Nidd with ice cream is a dream, no wonder people call it the Yorkshire Riviera. The Knaresborough Viaduct stands proudly over the River, and one of the best things to do in Knaresborough is to hire a rowing boat and row under its arches for the Insta worthy shot. Remember though, because of the great British weather, and it is only open from March to October.
Other exciting things to do in Knaresborough include visiting the 12th century Knaresborough Castle, Knaresborough Market Place, the shops, Bebra Gardens, Mother Shipton’s Cave, River Nidd waterside walk, St John the Baptist Church and the Window Trail.
Where can I eat and drink in Knaresborough?
Mother Shipton’s Inn is a 16th-century pub with a beautiful beer garden overlooking the river.
Please read our complete guide to the best things to do in Knaresborough.
Helmsley
Distance from York: 24.5 miles
Drive Time from York: 50-minutes
Helmsley is a delightful market town with a lot of history in the Ryedale district of N. Yorkshire. It is easily one of the best day trips from York because there are many exciting things to do in the town. Helmsley has been a market town since the 12th century, and therefore, the best time to visit is on a Friday when the market is in full swing, but this will also be the busiest time.
Other than the market, the best things to do are visiting Helmsley Castle, the Walled Garden and the Helmsley art centre. You can also admire the beautiful All Saints Church and peruse Helmsley’s independent shops, including the book shop, Hunters of Helmsley and the Traditional Sweet Shop.
There are also many other things to do just outside the town, and these include Duncombe Park, having a dip at the open-air swimming pool and walking amongst the outstanding Rievaulx Abbey.
Where can I eat and drink in Helmsley?
The Helmsley Brewing Company, Porters, Black Swan Tea Rooms
Please read our guide to the best things to do in Helmsley.
Yorkshire Sculpture Park
Distance from York: 39 miles
Drive Time from York: 50-minutes
Why not visit the best sculpture park in the country on your day trip from York? It is set over 500 acres and is home to world-class sculptures, galleries, woodlands and wildlife, including Highland cows. The YSP is open every day of the year besides Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and it is best visited on a day where there is no rain, although if it does rain on your visit, there is an indoor gallery.
The best things to do at the YSP include:
Exploring the sculptures.
Taking pictures with the Sculpture Cam app.
Having a picnic.
Enjoying the six indoor galleries.
Going on a free guided tour.
Where can I eat and drink at the Yorkshire Sculpture Park?
You can have an afternoon tea or grab a coffee from the Centre Café or the café at Yorkshire Sculpture Park Learning. Alternatively, enjoy the views at the Weston Kitchen at the YSP Centre. There are a lot of choices!
Read our guide to a day trip at the Yorkshire Sculpture Park for everything you need to know.
Peak District
Distance from York: 52 miles
Drive Time from York: 1 hour 10-minutes
One of the best day trips from York is to the oldest national park in the UK – the Peak District. The Peaks covers over 555 square miles, so you have a lot of choices of where to go and what to do. It is divided into the White Peaks and the Dark Peaks. The southern white peaks are full of beautiful villages and green forests. In comparison, the northern Dark Peak’s are known to bewilder.
If you want to visit for attractions, our picks would be Peveril Castle, Chatsworth House and Blue John Cavern. However, if you are searching for the best hiking, we have many guides to the best hikes in the Peak District. These are some of the best: Ladybower Reservoir, Kinder Scout, Padley Gorge, Stanage Edge and Thor’s Cave.
Where can I eat and drink in the Peaks?
The Rambler Inn, The Fox House Pub, Royal Oak, Coleman’s Delhi, Old Smithy in Beel
Lake District
Distance from York: 110 miles
Drive Time from York: Around 2-hours – 2 hours 30 -minutes
The Lake District is an excellent option for those seeking a nature-filled day trip from York. From boating on Windermere to climbing England’s highest peak- Scafell Pike, or Helvellyn’s scary edges to its deepest lake – Wastwater there is always something fun and adventurous to do.
The Lake District is a World Heritage Site and is undeniably beautiful. However, as England’s largest national park, there is a lot to see and do, and if you are on a day trip from York, you won’t want to venture too far as you will want to spend most of your days exploring. Therefore, we recommend checking out Ullswater, Glenridding or Windermere and Ambleside.
You can read our guides to the best walks from Ambleside , Ambleside waterfall walk or the best things to do in Ambleside for more inspiration.
Haworth
Distance from York: 46.5 miles
Drive Time from York: 1 hour 20-minutes
Haworth Village may be small, but it was home to the famous Bronte Sisters, and a day trip from York will not disappoint. Remember to visit the excellent and informative Bronte Parsonage Museum to learn about one of the most famous literary families of all time in the house where they wrote some of their famous novels.
You can also walk to the Bronte Waterfall and Top Withens, which is about 3-miles from the village (we drove here), to experience the moors that inspired the sisters.
The main street is worth visiting too as it is full of independent shops, cafes and pubs. You can also visit Central Park, which leads you down to Keighley and Worth Valley Railway Station, which starred in the classic film ‘The Railway Children’.
Where can I eat and drink in Haworth?
Haworth Old Hall, Cobbles and Clay
Liverpool
Distance from York: 101 miles
Train: 2 hour 10-minutes
Drive Time from York: 2 hour 5-minutes
If you are after a city with a completely different feel to York, then a day trip to Liverpool is for you. Liverpool’s has 2500 + listed buildings, and the architecture is stunning. The first thing you’ll notice is how alive Liverpool is, with live music blasting from every corner of the street. Indeed, there is Beatles Mania in the city, and that’s before you even visit the Beatles Museum or go and visit some famous Beatles spots, such as the Cavern Club Strawberry Fields, Penny Lane and John Lennon’s childhood home.
Other exciting things to do on your day trip from York to Liverpool is cross the Mersey on the iconic colourful ferry, visit one of the many free museums, such as Merseyside Maritime Museum, the Tate (an impressive art gallery) and the Museum of Liverpool.
You can also head to the Baltic Triangle to the market, visit the two magnificent Cathedrals, the Bombed Out Church, the Radio City Tower, or go on a stadium tour or watch Liverpool FC at Anfield.
Where can I eat and drink in Liverpool?
Head to the Baltic Triangle, Castle Street, Bold Street and Lark Lane. In Albert Dock, we like Peaberry Coffee House and Kitchen, Smuggler’s Cove and the Pump House.
For more about Liverpool, please read our guide to the best free things to do in Liverpool or a weekend in Liverpool itinerary.
That’s a wrap on the best day trips from York, let us know in the comments if you have any suggestions on what should be added to this exciting list. We would love to hear from you!
Photo Credits: averagelive.com
