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Discover the Yorkshire Wolds

Welcome to the Yorkshire Wolds, the place that inspired some of the most iconic images by artist, David Hockney (as well as many poets, writers, photographers, film makers, local artist and of course, visitors to the area). It’s easy to understand why the Yorkshire Wolds are a source of such inspiration when you take in its wide-open spaces, vast views, breath-taking landscapes and stunning wildlife. 

Whether you choose to explore the area on foot or by bike, car or horseback there’s plenty to see and do. From historic sites and beautiful period houses to glorious gardens and the natural beauty of the heritage coastline, the Yorkshire Wolds offers some very different experiences to enjoy. 

Yorkshire Wolds National Trail

The outstanding Yorkshire Wolds Way National Trail has been inspiring visitors for more than 40 years. This 79-mile trail (127km) National Trail, from Hessle to Filey provides memorable experiences along a route of chalk landscapes with hidden dry valleys, stunning field top views and an abundance of wildlife, thriving market towns and ancient villages Boasting some of the most tranquil and gentle countryside in England, the Yorkshire Wolds Way can be enjoyed by anyone and everyone looking to take pleasure from the great outdoors.

From easy to challenging there's a trail that's right for you

Maps and guides

Find resources to help you with your Yorkshire Wolds adventure

Be kind to East Yorkshire

Enjoy the Yorkshire Wolds responsibly

Eat in the Yorkshire Wolds

If you enjoy the warm welcome of a cosy inn or pub, you won’t be disappointed – you’ll find them in abundance in the Yorkshire Wolds. The culinary scene is much more diverse than you might first think though, from vintage tea rooms in our market towns to the Michelin-starred restaurant, The Pipe and Glass Inn , you will find an option to please all palettes. At the heart of the region are our farmers providing ingredients and inspiration to chefs across the Wolds so you can enjoy fresh produce, whatever the season.  If you are a keen cook, you can get hold of those same ingredients at one of many food festivals, farm shops and bakeries or if you need a culinary brush up, spend time at the Yorkshire Wolds Cookery School .

Find events in the Yorkshire Wolds

David Hockney

Discover how the Yorkshire Wolds inspired David Hockney

Find where to buy local produce

40 years of the Yorkshire Wolds Way

2022 was a landmark for the wonderful Yorkshire Wolds Way National Trail.  For 40 years locals and visitors from near and far have come to walk, run and enjoy wonderful experiences on this much loved trail.

To mark this special milestone, a number of events and activities were held including tree planting, a touring art exhibition featuring works by local artists Ian and Stef Mitchell and and a mass walk on 2 October, the big anniversary date. Groups of enthusiasts from the Ramblers Association and other organisations walked the full route in one day over 7 stages.  And of course there was birthday cake too!

Step outside, breath in the fresh air and start your adventure in the Yorkshire Wolds.

Yorkshire Wolds 40th anniversary

More inspiration, discovering the huggate poetry bench.

  • 6 minute read

If you haven’t yet discovered the beauty of the Yorkshire Wolds (or you have, but you’d like to explore more) I’m going to share three of the loveliest walks that Bill and I have found to date, all of which take in the poetry bench near Huggate. Huggate village All three begin in the pretty village…

10 highlights of the Yorkshire Wolds

  • 8 minute read

With miles of rolling hills, quaint towns and villages to explore, a thriving food and drink scene and fantastic attractions to enjoy, it’s little wonder that visitors flock to the Yorkshire Wolds. Be sure to include some of our top 10 highlights on your next visit. Adored by walkers of all…

Discover the Yorkshire Wolds in Autumn

  • 5 minute read

It could be argued for many reasons that Autumn is the best season, Halloween, Bonfire night and the anticipation of Christmas are a few highlights, but what makes it truly stand out is the transformation of the world around us. As the sky becomes a paler shade of blue and the air turns fresher, the…

Wolds getaways

  • 3 minute read

Rolling hills, big open skies, nature in abundance and stunning places to stay - the Yorkshire Wolds has the wow factor. Whether you want to pull on your walking boots and tackle the Yorkshire Wolds Way with overnight stays enroute, or escape the bustle of daily life and take a few days stay…

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The Yorkshire Wolds: Our Pick Of The Best Places To Visit

The Yorkshire Wolds lie to the east of God’s Own County and are often overshadowed by the  Yorkshire Dales  or Moors.

Indeed The Yorkshire Wolds Way is, arguably, one of the least well known National Walking Trails in Britain. It is 79 miles – or one week – of tranquil, isolated villages in the midst of beautiful  Yorkshire  countryside.

The trail starts at its most southern point in Hessle, at the foot of the Humber Bridge, heads north and then ends in the seaside town of Filey. Whether you decide to walk the Way, or just visit the villages on the trail, you can be sure that the Wolds will leave a life-long impression. Here are the top 10 places to visit..

If you’re interested in holiday cottages in Yorkshire then visit our post: Yorkshire Holiday Cottages | Self Catering In Yorkshire, Northern England

Table of Contents

yorkshire wolds

By David Wright,  CC BY-SA 2.0 ,  Link

This village, in the East Riding of Yorkshire, is at the start of the National Walking Trail. The trail starts from the bank of the Humber estuary before progressing into the heart of the Yorkshire Wolds.

Welton offers great views of the famous Humber Bridge – which was once the longest single-span suspension bridge when it was built in 1981 – at one mile long. Once you’ve taken some photos of the bridge, you can then head off for a nice, refreshing glass of wine at a nearby winery. The village is very well known for its wine tasting, as there are several Yorkshire vineyards in the area – yum.

2. South Cave.

This village is situated 14 miles to the west of Hull City Centre on the way to the market town of Market Weighton. If you get tired of walking, simply hop on a Penny Farthing and cycle your way through some of the Wolds.

There are a few Penny Farthing clubs in the area where you can visit these antique ‘high bikes’ – and perhaps even be allowed to ride one. Or, if you’re lucky, you might stumble across a Penny Farthing club event where experts in the area race the bikes for fun and you can just spectate.

3. Kiplingcotes

By Ian Lavender,  CC BY-SA 2.0 ,  Link

Speaking of racing, there is a unique event that occurs at the village of Kiplingcotes – which is 3.5 miles north-east of Market Weighton – every third Thursday in March, without fail.

It is the oldest horse race in Britain, and runs across 4 miles of the Wolds majestic countryside, every year since it began in 1519. Anyone can enter the race and, whether you’re competing or simply spectating, it makes for an excellent day out.

4. Millington

By Gordon Hatton,  CC BY-SA 2.0 ,  Link

The Yorkshire countryside just gets better as you head further and further into the Wolds. Situated a couple of miles north-east of Pocklington lies the village of Millington.

You might think that the stunning, vast landscapes surrounding this village look like they have stepped out from a painting – and that’s because they have. One of Yorkshire’s most famous painters, David Hockney, used the rolling hills of the Wolds as subjects for his paintings numerous times.

The Wolds are described as ‘David Hockney’s playground’ as stepping through them is essentially like stepping through works of art. Millington, in particular, is the subject for one of Hockney’s most memorable paintings: ‘A Larger Valley’. Although visitors often say that the real thing is much more impressive.

5. Nunburnholme

There are several pretty churches around the Wolds, but one of the prettiest is St. James’ Church in Nunburnholme. This village lies approximately 3 miles east of Pocklington and is a popular stop on the Wolds Way walking trail.

St. James’ church is full of history; it was built in the 13th century and had a very famous vicar between 1854 and 1893 called Reverend Morris. Reverend Morris used to study the wildlife around the area and produced a definitive guide during his time as vicar called ‘A History of British Birds’.

With its Early English architecture, and buzzing wildlife, St James’ church is definitely worth a visit.

6. Thixendale.

Thixendale is a village 20 miles east of York in the Wolds. If you like your art, you should visit Thixendale, without a shadow of a doubt. It is home to the Robert Fuller Gallery, where a lot of famous Wolds Way artwork is displayed.

Thixendale is certainly off-the-beaten-track – as it’ is one of the most remote villages on the trail – which makes it very peaceful and entrancing.

7. Bemptom.

By  Thomas Tolkien  from Scarborough, UK –  Bempton Cliffs, Bridlington, East Yorkshire Uploaded by  herkuleshippo ,  CC BY 2.0 ,  Link

If you have time, you can make a short detour just off the Wolds Way – around 4 miles north of Bridlington – and head to Bempton. Bempton is well known for their famous 350-feet-high chalk cliffs. The best way to see the cliffs is by taking the Yorkshire Belle out to sea on the RSPB boat trip.

However, if you’re not really into boats, you can simply walk along the cliff top where you can spot more than 250,000 birds in their peak time of May – hence why Bempton is called ‘Sea Bird City’.

8. Wharram Percy

By dennis smith,  CC BY-SA 2.0 ,  Link

If you thought Thixendale was remote, then think again. Wharram Percy is the most famous deserted medieval village in Britain on the western edge of the Wolds. It is about 1 mile south of Wharram-le-Street and attracts many visitors annually.

It was founded in approximately the 9th or 10th century, and was occupied for about 600 years, before being abandoned in the 16th century. It has an eerie yet mystical quality – and is certainly not to be missed.

9. Wintringham.

By  Nigelcoates  at  English Wikipedia ,  CC BY-SA 3.0 ,  Link

Nearing the end of the trail is the village of Wintringham in the Ryedale district of North Yorkshire – 6 miles east of Malton. You can climb the hill to the sculpture; though, be warned, it is a steep climb.

However, it is worth it when you reach the top, as those panoramic views of the North York across the Vale of Pickering are a treat for the eyes.

By  User:James@hopgrove ,  CC BY-SA 3.0 ,  Link

The final stop of the Way, where you can get some scrumptious fish and chips, is Filey. A great place to pause and take a breath, this seaside town is picturesque and offers fun for the whole family. It is part of the borough of Scarborough on the north east coast of England and has lovely beaches, as well as gorgeous greenery.

Filey Dams Nature Reserve is a must do for any wildlife lover, or perhaps you’d rather go golfing at Filey Golf Club. No matter how you decide to spend your time, Filey’s variety makes it easy to understand why it is loved by tourists and locals alike.

Whether you choose to cover some of these stops, all of these stops, or perhaps even just one – the Yorkshire Wolds Way is sure to awe and inspire at some point. You only have to take one look at the mesmerising, endless, rolling hills of the famous Yorkshire countryside for the Wolds to be imprinted in your mind, and in your heart, forever.

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places to visit in the yorkshire wolds

Great days out ... the Yorkshire Wolds

The Yorkshire Wolds Way is a fantastic route for exploring some of the most beautiful countryside in England.

This section describes our suggested 'Top Ten' experiences for you to enjoy along the Trail.

From the banks of the mighty Humber estuary, along wooded slopes and through tranquil dry valleys, it climbs gently onto the tops of the rolling hills where on a clear day “you can see forever”.

The trail covers a total of nearly 80 miles, but of course you don’t have to do it all at once! There are fantastic days out to be enjoyed along its course, a selection of which are described below.

There is also secret art to discover on some of the suggested walks. You can find out more about secret art on www.yorkshirewoldssecretart.co.uk

What are you waiting for? Go and explore!

Getting around.

Information on public transport is available at www.traveline.info

What to bring with you

We recommend downloading and printing a copy of our easy-to-follow walking maps , which are available for each 'Top Ten' destination along the Trail. You'll find links to download the walking maps on the pages listed below.

Suitable outdoor clothing and footwear are recommended. A map of the area is useful but not essential (Ordnance Survey map number 293, 294, 300, 301) or get a copy of the A-Z Yorkshire Wolds Way Map. You might also like to bring a pair of binoculars for spotting wildlife.

Accommodation, food and drink

Information on staying and eating locally is available at www.nationaltrail.co.uk/YorkshireWoldsWay

The Yorkshire Wolds Top 10 Trail Experiences

Get up close to the Humber Bridge

1 Get up close to the Humber Bridge

Gecaching

2 Go on a high-tech treasure hunt near Market Weighton

Londesborough Urns

3 See Red Kite at Londesborough Park

Warter Cottages

4 Follow in the footsteps of former rebels on the Pilgrimage of Grace

Stretch out on a poetry bench near Huggate

5 Discover secret art and a poetry bench near Huggate

Thixendale valley, Yorkshire Wolds Way, Fridaythorpe

6 Explore the hidden dry valleys around Fridaythorpe

Thixendale Dale © Paul Moon

7 Visit Thixendale and the Robert Fuller Gallery

Discover the lost village of Wharram Percy

8 Discover the lost village of Wharram Percy

Climb a steep hill and find a sculpture at Wintringham

9 Climb a steep hill and find a sculpture at Wintringham

Enjoy fish and chips at Filey ©

10 Enjoy fish and chips at Filey

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Best walks in the Yorkshire Wolds

Tranquil dales, cosy pubs and beautiful valleys: some of the most rewarding walks in Britain can be found in the rolling wolds of Yorkshire. We take a look at some of our favourite Yorkshire Wold walks – each route includes detailed directions, images and a map.

James Bradley

The Yorkshire Wolds encompasses well over 120 deep glacier-formed dales, dotted with isolated farmhouses and tiny villages. Many of these settlements were in existence before the Doomsday Book and are not much bigger now than they were then.

You will encounter some of these places on the Yorkshire Wolds Way, but there are many more great walks in the Yorkshire Wolds, each embedded with history, wildlife and an overriding sense of peace and solitude.

Here are some of the best circular walks in the Yorkshire Wolds, varying in length for easy half-day walks to more demanding full-day hikes.

Hanging Grimston Wold, North Yorkshire

8.6 miles/13.8km | 5 hours | moderate

Open Dale, North Yorkshire

Take a hike through peaceful dales and wolds and along country lanes on this moderate-level route through the Yorkshire Wolds. The circular walk passes though Thixen Dale, Open Dale and Water Dale and includes a great panoramic view of the Vale of York as well as a welcome drink at the Cross Keys in Thixendale.

Thixen Dale and Hanging Grimston Wold walking route and map

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Guide to Yorkshire: where to stay and eat, places to visit and best walks

Fridaythorpe, east riding of yorkshire.

7.7 miles/12.4km | 4.5 hours | moderate

Fridaythorpe/Credit: Jim Bradley

Fridaythorpe village is on the A166 and about a mile beyond the turning for the village of Thixendale . Turn left at the Farmers Arms and park opposite the village pond. Fridaythorpe is the highest of the Wolds villages.

This walk is especially magical in late January when snowdrops fill the landscape, marking the onset of spring.

Fridaythorpe walking route and map.

Deep Dale and Bishop Wilton, East Riding of Yorkshire

6 miles/9.8km | 4 hours | moderate-challenging

Deep Dale, Yorkshire Wolds

This walk at the western edge of the Yorkshire Wolds is probably one of the area’s more demanding routes. To get to the start of the walk, turn off the A166 at the top of Garrowby Hill, signed ‘Millington/Pocklington’. Head south along the Roman Road – they did seem to like it here. About halfway down the road you can pull onto the grass verge opposite Callis Wold farm, leaving room for tractors to turn.

This is farming and rambling country. There are no campgrounds, hotels or trinket shops, but instead homely pubs and the Ramblers Rest restaurant and tearooms at Millington – this is a good option for anyone interested in staying in the area.

Deep Dale and Bishop Wilton walking route and map

Londesborough and Nunburnholme, North Yorkshire

10 miles/16.4km | 5-6 hours | moderate-challenging

Dale and hills

This walk takes you through one of the most scenic valleys of the Wolds. Take the A1069 from York, heading east. As you approach Shiptonthorpe, look for the left turn to Londesborough. From here, a short drive, then a quick right and left, leads you on a narrow country road to Londesborough and Nunburnholme.

The village of Londesborough, nestled among woodland, is well worth a visit as it is quite entrancing. It’s well known to Yorkshire Wolds Way hikers as the route deliberately diverts them through it.

Londesborough and Nunburnholme walking route and map

Thixendale, North Yorkshire

Length: 7.4 miles/11.9km | duration: 4 hours | difficulty: moderate

Vale of York from North Dale Head, Yorkshire Wolds

There are many more great walks in the Yorkshire Wolds, including this route from the village of Thixendale. The village lies in the valley of Waterdale, just off the A166 York to Bridlington road (17 miles from York).

Parking is available in Thixendale, either outside the church or the pub. The name Thixendale, or Thixen Dale, is also used to describe two nearby dales.

Thixendale walking route and map.

Warter, East Riding of Yorkshire

8.5 miles/13.7km | 6 hours | moderate

Green hills and valleys

To reach the start of this Yorkshire Wolds walk, take the A1079 east of York, turn left on the B1246 and drive 17 miles to reach the village of Warter. Once in the village, turn right at the white thatched cottages and park in the large car park next to the school.

The artist David Hockney loves the landscape here, and one of his largest and most famous paintings was based on a scene from this walk. Unfortunately, many of the Dales around here are privately owned by the Healey Family and – unless you like and can afford a day’s pheasant shooting – access is denied to many of them.

Warter walking route and map

Cowlam, Cottam and Garton-on-the-Wolds, East Riding of Yorkshire

14 miles/23km | 8 hours | moderate-challenging

Cottam Church, North Yorkshire

This walk takes you to the home of Sir Tatton Sykes, who was a great benefactor to the people of the Yorkshire Wolds in the 19 th century. You’ll also have the chance to visit the remains of two medieval villages, Cowlam and Cottam on the Sledmere Estate, a fitting end to the day in the Wolds.

This figure-of-eight walk through the Yorkshire Wolds includes medieval villages and quiet wolds - the route can be cut in half for those looking for a half-day adventure.

Cowlam, Cottam and Garton-on-the-Wolds walking route and map .

Millington and Huggate, East Riding of Yorkshire

13 miles/21km | 6–7 hours hours | challenging

Greenwick Dale, Yorkshire

This 13-mile walk starts at the village of Millington in the East Riding of Yorkshire, heading north-east to another Yorkshire village, Huggate, before returning south. The route passes through 11 dales and includes locations made famous by the English painter David Hockney.

To reach the village, leave the A166 (heading east) at a right-hand signpost for Millington/Pocklington, The turn is at the top of Garrowby Hill, just beyond Wayrham Farm. Continue down the hill, keeping an eye out for a left turn to Millington. Turn left here and, at the bottom, take a right turn and park opposite the church.

Millington and Huggate walking route and map

Thixendale and Wharram Percy, North Yorkshire

9 miles/14.5km | 6 hours | moderate-challenging

Rolling Yorkshire countryside

The walk from Thixendale to Wharram Percy is popular with hikers as it is part of the Yorkshire Wolds Way. That is probably the reason that most ignore this walk ­– which takes the long way round to reach Wharram Percy – and as a consequence miss the spectacular changing scenery around Birdsall.

This 9-mile walk includes numerous climbs within a small area, encapsulating the diverse and picturesque countryside found in the Yorkshire Wolds.

Thixendale and Wharram Percy walking route and map

All walks and article images by Jim Bradley.

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places to visit in the yorkshire wolds

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York and the Yorkshire Wolds Attractions

Leading attractions.

Bayle Gate & Bayle Museum Bridlington, East Yorkshire

Baylegate is a Grade I listed Building and scheduled Ancient Monument housing the Bayle Museum showcases Bridlington's history using interactive exhibits.

Bayle Gate & Bayle Museum

Beningbrough Hall York, North Yorkshire

Beningbrough Hall, Gallery and Gardens make a great day out near York. Bring the family and enjoy the wilderness play area and interactive gallery with superb collection of 18th century portraits. The eight acres of formal gardens include over 50 varieties of apples and pears.

Beningbrough Hall

Beverley Puppet Festival Beverley, East Yorkshire

Beverley Puppet Festival promises a great family day out with amazing parades, shows, workshops and outdoor entertainment for all the family.

Beverley Puppet Festival

Bishop Wilton Show Pocklington, East Yorkshire

Bishop Wilton Showground is just outside Stamford Bridge and Pocklington in East Yorkshire. It makes a gread day out with farm animal classes classes, childrens and WI classes as well as craft tent space, show dance and fun dog zone. Held annually at the end of July.

Bishop Wilton Show

Blacktoft Sands Goole, East Yorkshire

Blacktoft Sands is on the south bank of the River Ouse, where the waterway widens to become the Humber Estuary. The reserve is full of waders, warblers and raptors, easily spotted from accessible trails and hides.

Blacktoft Sands

Burton Agnes Hall Bridlington, East Yorkshire

This is an Elizabethan Manor House built by Sir Henry Griffith in 1601-10 in the village of Burton Agnes. It has a notable art collection, a walled garden, a courtyard cafe and craft shops. They invite you to become a member of Burton Agnes Hall, to join us in enjoying & supporting their fabulous home and gardens.

Burton Agnes Hall

Burton Constable Skirlaugh, East Yorkshire

Burton Constable makes a brilliant family day out in East Yorkshire with lots to see and do. As well as acres of parkland to explore, this country-house museum is filled with fine furniture, paintings, sculpture, fossils, natural history specimens and an important collection of scientific instruments.

Burton Constable

Castle Howard Malton, North Yorkshire

Home to the Howard family for over 300 years, Castle Howard is a magnificent 18th-century residence set within 1,000 acres of breathtaking landscape. The Grade I listed building, stately home is 15 miles north of York. The grounds are open 10am - 4pm, the House opens at the end of March for the season. Parking is free.

Castle Howard

Dinostar Hull, East Yorkshire

Visit our exciting, interactive dinosaur museum in Hull. Highlights include a Tyrannosaurus Rex skull, Triceratops bones you can touch and our unique Dinosaur Sound Box. Open to the public and offer school trips and workshops.

Dinostar

Eden Camp Modern History Theme Museum Malton, North Yorkshire

We first opened to the public in 1987 and have since, with the help and support of our visitors, grown into one of the largest and most comprehensive museums covering British military and social history from 1914 onwards

Eden Camp Modern History Theme Museum

Filey Museum Filey, North Yorkshire

Filey Museum is voluntary run - full of historical displays, antiques and fossils.

Filey Museum

Flamborough Fire Festival Bridlington, East Yorkshire

Dress up as a Viking and get free entry ! The festival offer fireworks, fire artistry & all things Viking ! It is held on New Year's Eve and last was on in 2019 !

Flamborough Fire Festival

Howden Minster Howden, East Yorkshire

Howden Mister is a large Grade I listed Church of England church in the Diocese of York, part of English Heritage. It is the 14th century elaborately decorated ruins of the chancel and chapter house. It is dedicated to St Peter and St Paul. Open everyday except 24-26th Dec & 31st Dec - 1st Jan.

Howden Minster

Hunt a Hockney Art Location Bridlington, East Yorkshire

Visit the Yorkshire Wolds and follow the trail of David Hockney's Art Locations from the setting for 'Bigger Trees near Warter' to 'Late Spring Tunnel May' near Kilham. ‘Hockney Country’ is one of the most beautiful parts of the UK countryside, with much to explore among rolling hills, hidden dales and coast.

Hunt a Hockney Art Location

Jorvik Viking Centre York, North Yorkshire

Journey back to Viking-age York. Faithfully recreated following twenty years of archaeological research. Special exhibitions complete the experience.

Jorvik Viking Centre

Malton Festival of Racing Malton, North Yorkshire

Malton Festival of Racing gives racing fans and local people the opportunity to go behind-the-scenes at the yards of some of Yorkshire’s best known racehorse trainers. Visitors will also have the chance to look around one of racing’s crown jewels in the form of the Injured Jockeys Fund northern rehabilitation centre, Jack Berry House.

Malton Festival of Racing

National Railway Museum York, North Yorkshire

The National Railway Museum in York and Shildon is home of iconic locomotives and an unrivalled collection of engineering brilliance. Includes museum, visitor info, events, exhibitions, collections and shop.Plenty of history to be found here. Free entry but donations welcomed. Open daily 10am - 6pm.

National Railway Museum

North of England Activity Centre Rufforth, North Yorkshire

Based near York, the Activity Centre covers 34 acres and includes purpose built embankments, an exciting off-road driving course with steep gradients, water gullies and mud swamps. They offer professional tuition and fun team building activities.

North of England Activity Centre

Oakhill Nature Reserve Goole, East Yorkshire

This is run by volunteers Friends of Oakhill's who all work to protect this important green space. They fund-raise, manage the surrounding habitats, conduct surveys and lead free guided walks and educational events

Oakhill Nature Reserve

Piglets Adventure Farm Park York, North Yorkshire

Oink Oink! Piglets Adventure Farm offers a fantastic family day out, packed with exciting attractions and buckets of fun. There's animal cuties to get up close to, special events programme, delicious snacks, sweet treats and refreshments.

Piglets Adventure Farm Park

Richard III Museum York, North Yorkshire

Perhaps one of York's best kept secrets is this fascinating Museum situated in York's tallest and most impressive Medieval Gatehouse - Monk Bar.

Richard III Museum

RSPB Bempton Cliffs Bempton, East Yorkshire

Bempton Cliffs offer a great place to see, hear and smell seabirds. Between mid-Apr to mid-Jul the much-loved puffin makes its home here. From Feb to Oct thousands of gannets nest on the cliffs of the only mainland gannetry in England.

RSPB Bempton Cliffs

Sewerby Hall & Gardens Bridlington, East Yorkshire

Sewerby Hall is a Grade 1 listed Georgian country house set in 50 acres of award-winning, beautiful landscaped gardens, two miles from the seaside town of Bridlington. There is also a zoo to visit domestic and wild animals from all over the world.

Sewerby Hall & Gardens

Sledmere House Driffield, East Yorkshire

There is something about the charm of Sledmere which has captivated visitors for over 200 years.Carefully designed by Sir Christopher Sykes 2nd Baronet and nurtured by successive generations, this very special place brings new devotees every year.

Sledmere House

Sutton Park North Yorkshire

Sutton Park is set in beautiful countryside just outside York and this fine estate is owned by the Sheffield family. They offer, private venue, wedding venue, outdoor event and film location hire. For admission prices and opening times go to http://www.sutton-park.co.uk/visit-sutton-park/

Sutton Park

The Deep Hull, East Yorkshire

The Deep, one of the most spectacular aquariums in the world is located in Hull, East Yorkshire. This award-winning visitor attraction is home to over 3,500 fish including spectacular sharks and rays making it the perfect family day out.

The Deep

Treasurers House York, North Yorkshire

This National Trust property is just a few metres from York Minster, It has a history spanning 2,000 years, from the Roman road in the cellar to the Edwardian servants' quarters in the attics, and thirteen period rooms in between. Children's trails, tours, tearoom and relaxing walled garden.

Treasurers House

Wassand Hall Hornsea, East Yorkshire

Wassand Hall is a Grade II listed building and part of the National Heritage List for England. Wassand host the Yorkshire Youth Bands Summer Concert and a vintage car rally on May Bank Holiday. Open April - September for lovely walks round the grounds as well as open days where you can look around the large Regency hall.

Wassand Hall

William's Den East Yorkshire, East Yorkshire

William's Den includes indoor and outdoor wood and rope structures, with zip wires, tyre swings and places to make your own den in. This adventure playground hasn't been open long, but won many awards already. The host children's parties and school trips.

William's Den

York Castle Museum York, North Yorkshire

Experience life as a Victorian. Walk down cobbled streets and peer through the windows of shops long gone. Take a journey through six hundred years of everyday life. Welcome to the award winning York Castle Museum.

York Castle Museum

York Dungeons York, North Yorkshire

The York Dungeon brings together an amazing cast of theatrical actors, special effects, stages, scenes and a ride in a truly unique and exciting walkthrough experience that you see, hear, touch, smell and feel. It’s hilarious fun and it’s sometimes a bit scary.

York Dungeons

York Ghost Walk York, North Yorkshire

We offer a night of history and mystery. A thought provoking evening of fun drama to capture the imagination and inspire the mind. We promise a unique opportunity to discover the hidden magic of our Ancient City through the real art of storytelling.

York Ghost Walk

York Minster York, North Yorkshire

York Minster is one of the great cathedrals of the world. We invite you to enjoy its vast spaces, filled with music and revealing the human imagination at work on glass, stone, and other fabrics.

York Minster

York's Chocolate Story York, East Yorkshire

At York's Chocolate Story, one of Continuum Attractions, you can discover the stories behind the greatest names in chocolate, find out the secret of chocolate making and have a guided tour. Open daily from 10am (closed 25th & 26th December and 1st January)

York's Chocolate Story

Yorkshire Air Museum York, North Yorkshire

The Yorkshire Air Museum is the largest independent air museum in Britain and is also the location of The Allied Air Forces Memorial. It sits on the site of former RAF Elvington, North Yorkshire, a WW2 airfield. Open every day of the year apart from 25th/26th December + 1st January.

Yorkshire Air Museum

Yorkshire Lavender Terrington, North Yorkshire

This is Yorkshire's original family run lavender farm and it promises a great day out. It is 3 miles west of Castle Howard and has award winning gardens, a specialised plant nursery, a tea room, sculpture park, lavender maze and play area. It is open daily from 10 am - 5 pm, from the end of March to the end of September.

Yorkshire Lavender

Yorkshire Museum York, North Yorkshire

Walk in the footsteps of Romans. See beasts turned to stone and discover a land pillaged by Vikings. Journey back over 1,000 years. Welcome to the Yorkshire Museum and Gardens, one of England's first and finest.

Yorkshire Museum

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The Yorkshire Wolds Way

An expert guide to walking the yorkshire wolds way.

Daniel McCrohan

Daniel McCrohan

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Need-to-know

One of the quieter and lesser-known of the UK's walks , the Yorkshire Wolds Way leads across the glorious rolling farmland and chalk landscapes of East Yorkshire, an unspoilt corner of England largely neglected by popular tourism.

UK Yorkshire Wolds

The understated Yorkshire Wolds are a peaceful alternative to some busier routes

Walking the Yorkshire Wolds Way

Distance: 79 miles (127km)

Duration: six days

Start point: Hessle, East Yorkshire

End point: Filey, North Yorkshire

Difficulty: Easy to medium

Suitable for: Relaxed walkers who prefer quiet rural exploration over star attractions at every turn

The route wends its way from the banks of the expansive Humber estuary, across the tranquil countryside and unspoilt villages of the Wolds to reach the spectacular headland of Filey Brigg on the North Yorkshire Coast.

There are no cities on the route and no serious hills either. Don’t imagine it’s dull though: this is rural England at its best. It’s an area that seems to have bigger skies with wide panoramic views. It’s easy to see why artist David Hockney spent years painting landscapes here.

Yet the Wolds Way is never crowded. In fact, this has been called ‘Britain’s least known National Trail’ by the BBC. Nevertheless, the path is generally well mapped, maintained and way-marked.

The Yorkshire Wolds Way sections

Day one: Hessle to South Cave (13 miles/21km)

The path starts on the foreshore next to the landmark Humber Bridge then leads up into the Wolds along leafy paths and through quiet historic villages.

Day two: South Cave to Market Weighton (12 miles/19km)

Walk across hills with wide estuary views and then choose between the main route, via the classic historic country town of Market Weighton, or a trail offshoot to the pretty village of Goodmanham.

Day three: Market Weighton to Millington (9 miles/14km)

Today’s highlight is one of Yorkshire’s great hidden secrets: the photogenic old village of Londesborough and its grand aristocratic parkland. It’s a good spot to look for circling red kites too.

Day four: Millington to Thixendale (12 miles/19km)

Follow the path through a series of gentle dry valleys, enjoying long distance views, leafy countryside and friendly village pubs.

Day five: Thixendale to Sherburn (19 miles/30km)

Near the romantic deserted medieval village of Wharram Percy, cross the highest point of the Wolds Way at (700ft/215m). Savour views from Settrington Beacon during a day that mixes old woods with rolling open country.

Day six: Sherburn to Filey (17 miles/28km)

Leave this Saxon village to pass Iron Age earthworks on the hills above, then descend from the Wolds to the classic seaside resort of Filey for the opportunity to paddle on its wide sandy beaches.

Ruined church at Wharram Percy

The ruins of St Martins church in the deserted medieval village of Wharram Percy.

Hessle makes a good starting point: it’s just three miles west of Hull, at the northern end of the Humber Bridge, and road links couldn’t be better. Hessle also has regular rail and bus services.

At the other end of the walk, Filey has convenient road and rail links too. Some walkers celebrate by marching right out onto the spectacular headland of Filey Brigg, but even then it’s only a 20-minute walk back to the station.

For walkers planning a shorter version of the Wolds Way, public transport options are rather limited as this crosses a very rural area with no cities or rail links. The best option for a break is likely to be at Market Weighton, which offers buses to Beverley, Hull and York.

Rural East Yorkshire accommodation is generally unpretentious but welcoming in a cosy old-fashioned way. Expect homely inns, B&B’s and guesthouses, real ales and hearty traditional food.

It’s an all-year route but although winters are generally mild it can be bleak and windy up on the higher Wolds. Spring provides great wildflowers and the poppy fields of June are renowned. Don’t worry about summer crowds this far inland. The old broadleaved woodlands colour any autumn walk here too.

Hidden Gems

The Wolds Way passes the haunting remains of Wharram Percy, a deserted medieval village hidden among the trees on a grassy hillside. The ruined church, millpond and cottages are one of the biggest of the UK's 3,000 abandoned medieval villages and are now an English Heritage site. It’s open all the time and is free to enter.

About the author

The Yorkshire Wolds Way

Daniel is a prolific guidebook writer who divides his time between exploring Asia for Lonely Planet and Britain for Trailblazer. As well as writing close to 50 guidebooks for Lonely Planet, he has worked on more than a dozen Trailblazer walking guides, and has hiked and camped his way across many parts of the UK, China, Mongolia and India.

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The Yorkshire Wolds are a range of low, rolling hills formed from the most northerly outcrop of chalk in Britain.

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Latest news, articles and features.

1 Apr 2023 Spring 2023 Newsletter The west facing Wold escarpment from North Cave to Market Weighton reveals one of the underlying rock types of the Wolds – a hard band of impermeable Oxford clay forming a marked step in the scarp slope. Read more

30 Aug 2021 Summer 2021 Newsletter The view from High Gardam looking north captures the sweep of the Wolds from the field in the foreground, then left, the High Wolds beyond the Dalton Estate woodland, curving across the horizon towards Flamborough off to the right. Read more

21 Jun 2021 The Yorkshire Wolds Gardener There is a Chinese proverb: ‘If you have only two pennies in the world – with one buy bread, with the other buy a lily’. Read more

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10 Of The Most Beautiful, Quaint Villages To Visit In East Yorkshire

10 Of The Most Beautiful, Quaint Villages To Visit In East Yorkshire

East Yorkshire is mostly known for its beaches , seaside town of Bridlington and its city, Kingston Upon Hull. But, much like its neighbours North & West Yorkshire it has some of the most beautiful villages surrounded by the rolling chalk hills of the Yorkshire Wolds. We put together a list of some of the most pleasant villages East Yorkshire has to offer.

1. Sledmere

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mike Wright (@mikewrightimages)

Situated close to the great old market town of Driffield, Capital of the Wolds makes it a great palce to start. It can’t be a bad place to visit if it inspired one of the world’s greatest painters David Hockney to sit down and paint it’s beautiful war mural – can it? You can take in the splendour of Sledmere House also. Used for weddings, the house has the most beautiful grounds to wander around. We’d say it is well worth a visit.

2. Goodmanham

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Just outside of Market Weighton, Goodmanham is another village along the beautiful Yorkshire Wolds Way. The village is built on a south-facing slope of the Yorkshire Wolds – which may help with its pull. After all we all love a bit of sunshine. It has a delightful traditional country pub which has a museum that holds vintage motorcycles, pots and pans, pub interiors and more.

3. Kilnwick

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Found in the centre of the Yorkshire Wolds, just 5 miles from Driffield, Kilnwick is surrounded by natural beauty. The village also has a wonderful pond that is ripe with lush greenery to be enjoyed – especially in the summer months. The 18th-century park, Kilnwick Percy is a picturesque place to visit with a mature woodland, ornamental water, church and deserted village site. The site is now mainly in the ownership of the Madhyamaka Buddhist Centre.

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One of our favourite villages along the Yorkshire Wolds Way. You can enjoy a pint in the Wolds Inn village pub, and take a walk around the pretty houses taking in the wonderful views. Huggate also has one of the deepest wells in England. It has some amazing chalk hills to walk around before heading back to the pub.

5. Millington

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Millington is a tiny village on the outskirts of Driffield and Pocklington along the Wolds Way. Its beautiful chalk coloured houses are great to wander amongst before visiting its traditional pub, The Gait. You can also stay at their luxury lodges with hot tubs with views over the wolds. An amaznig and quaint place, it’s one of the villages in East Yorkshire you wouldn’t want to miss out on.

6. Bishop Burton

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Another village in the East Riding with those white washed houses that are synonmous with the chalky hills of the wolds. Their beautiful duck pond is a beautiful place to stop of and take in the idyllic village views. There is a beautiful pub and restaurant The Altisidora, that is well worth a visit for anyone checking out this wonderful village in East Yorkshire.

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Another village sat on the famous Wolds Way walk, the picturesque village of Warter has beautiful thatches cottages and is the most idyllic little village you’ll find. It’s also a stone’s throw away from where famous painter, known for his East Yorkshire landscapes painted ‘Bigger Trees near Warter’.

8. Cherry Burton

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Bay Horse, Cherry Burton (@bayhorsecherryburton)

This little gem is found on the outsirts of Beverley, on the eastern edge of the Yorkshire Wolds – and is well worth a visit. It is filled with quaint traditional houses that give the village a wholesome old-fashioned feel. The Bay Horse at Cherry Burton serves up some delicious homemade hearty grub that goes perfect with a nice local ale of Timithy Taylors after a wander through the WOlds.

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The sleepy village of Lund is great one for a Sunday stroll, you can potter through the quiet village’s surrounding countryside and then work your way back to the popular pub The Wellington Inn to relax by the fire. The picturesque village has a homely feel and is a great place for those looking to getaway from the hustle and buslte of city life.

10. South Dalton

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Home to the Michilen Star restaurant Pipe and Glass run by James and Kate Mackenzie, South Dalton can be found on the outskirts of Beverley, and is well worth a visit just for the former mention. The picture postcard village is set within rolling countryside of East Yorkshire/ The Dalton Estate is beautiful place for a short stroll it you’re looking to work off your meal after visiting the famous restaurant.

Read More: 8 Of The Most Beautiful Nature Walks In East Yorkshire

Feature Image: Photo ©  Chris Morgan  ( cc-by-sa/2.0 )

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Yorkshire Bucket List | 63 Amazing Yorkshire Travel Ideas for 2024

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Welcome to my mammoth Yorkshire bucket list! If you haven’t guessed by now, I LOVE Yorkshire. I moved from Jersey to Yorkshire over ten years ago and have no plans to return.

It’s a beautiful part of northern England, with its hills and dales, vibrant cities, quaint towns and villages , stunning coastline and magnificent castles.

I spend a ton of my free time tracking down new Yorkshire places to visit and finding all the experience days Yorkshire has to offer (there are so many to choose from!)

If you’re looking for places to visit in Yorkshire , then check out this (ever-growing) Yorkshire bucket list to add some things to do in Yorkshire to your must-see list! 

Yorkshire bucket list with images of locations in Yorkshire including countryside and city views

My Big Yorkshire Bucket List

I’ve broken down my bucket list for Yorkshire by the four counties that make up the vast Yorkshire region in the north of England, as I think it’s so much easier for travel planning.

From the wild and beautiful North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales of North Yorkshire to the northern reaches of the stunning Peak District in South Yorkshire, you won’t be short of ideas for Yorkshire places to visit with this list as your inspiration! 

North Yorkshire Bucket List

Beautiful country roads for cycling in Goathland

North Yorkshire is breathtaking, and that’s just one of the reasons I’ve made it my home. There is an incredible amount of things to do in North Yorkshire, but here are some of the highlights.

  • Visit York (atmospheric medieval city)
  • Experience the most stylish afternoon tea
  • Find the town’s best dog-friendly places to eat
  • Take a tour of the original Victorian Turkish Baths
  • Follow the springtime cherry blossom trail.
  • Visit Knaresborough (home to the oldest paid tourist attraction in the UK)
  • Visit Ripon (medieval city and cathedral)
  • Visit Staithes (a quaint traditional fishing village with the narrowest street in the north of England.
  • Visit the thriving market town of Skipton
  • Skipton Castle – the most complete inhabited castle in the North of England
  • Spofforth Castle – located in the prettiest little village
  • Harewood Castle – a proper hidden gem
  • Bolton Castle
  • Scarborough Castle
  • Helmsley Castle
  • Visit Grassington (film location for “All Creatures Great and Small”)
  • Visit Bolton Abbey (home to the most dangerous river in the world ).
  • Explore the picturesque old smuggling village of Robin Hood’s Bay .
  • Go on a wine-tasting tour at an award-winning English vineyard
  • Discover charming coastal villages on a North Yorkshire Coast road trip
  • Go hiking or climbing at Brimham Rocks – my favourite place in the world to “blow away the cobwebs”!
  • Discover a sensational gin distillery – in the heart of rural Nidderdale .
  • Explore the waterfalls at Aysgarth, Lumb Hole and Hull Pot 
  • Spend 24 hours in Goathland to explore the village’s Harry Potter connections and Heartbeat filming locations .
  • Do some epic hikes on the challenging 3 peaks of Yorkshire route.
  • Discover the UK’s biggest piece of public art – a real hidden gem near the town of Pateley Bridge
  • Go stargazing in the UK’s biggest designated dark sky reserve.
  • Drive along “ England’s only truly spectacular road” (rated by Jeremy Clarkson).

West Yorkshire Bucket List

West Yorkshire is home to the cities of Leeds and Bradford and is famous as the birthplace of the Bronte sisters, numerous cricketing legends, and poet Ted Hughes. There are some incredible things to see and do in West Yorkshire!

Sunrise over Arthington Viaduct west yorkshire

  • Spot the city’s most Instagrammable places (there are lots!)
  • Discover cool places to stay in Leeds
  • Go on awesome day trips
  • Explore the Royal Armouries Museum
  • Visit Leeds Art Gallery
  • Check out Kirkgate Market and the Victorian covered arcades
  • Learn interesting facts about Leeds that most tourists don’t know
  • Explore Harewood House – one of the most beautiful stately homes in the UK.
  • See the stunning Georgian Piece Hall in Halifax
  • Take a trip on the Keighley & Worth Valley heritage railway .
  • Visit Bradford (Home of the National Science and Media Museum )
  • Visit Haworth (home of the Bronte Sisters ) for the Brontë Parsonage Museum , cobbled streets and traditional tea rooms
  • Travel to Wakefield for the Hepworth Art Gallery on the waterfront.
  • Enjoy walks and incredible views on Ilkley Moor
  • Enjoy wine tasting with picturesque views at Holmfirth Vineyard
  • Browse the galleries and craft stores in bohemian Hebden Bridge
  • Get cultural outdoors at the Yorkshire Sculpture Park
  • Hike through the picturesque Hardcastle Crags Valley
  • Explore the atmospheric ruins of Kirkstall Abbey
  • Discover historic East Riddlesden Hall
  • Time your trip for a cricket match or rugby union game at Headingley Stadium. 
  • Explore some of the best waterfalls in Yorkshire
  • Take a day trip to Saltaire Village – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with Victorian architecture and the Salts Mill art gallery.
  • Wakefield Cathedral: A beautiful cathedral with a history dating back to the 12th century.
  • Take the kids to Eureka! The National Children’s Museum .
  • Last of the Summer Wine Exhibition: Perfect for fans of the long-running TV show.
  • Explore medieval church and cobbled streets in picturesque Heptonstall village.

East Yorkshire Bucket List

drinking dinosaur rocks east yorkshire

Vibrant and diverse East Yorkshire is bordered by the vast Humber River to the south, with a rugged and beautiful coastline. Famous for the Yorkshire Wolds, East Yorkshire views will take your breath away.

I spent five years in East Yorkshire as a young child and have a whole heap of places I can’t wait to revisit!

  • Visit the stunning Spurn Point nature reserve and climb the steps of the lighthouse to enjoy views of the North Sea, the Humber Estuary and the historic Humber Forts.
  • Spot the “Drinking Dinosaur” at Flamborough Head, beyond the beautiful lighthouse and look out for th sunbathing seals on the beach.
  • Enjoy spectacular sunrises and sunsets over Bempton Cliffs, a seabird reserve where you can see thousands of nesting seabirds, including puffins and gannets.
  • Walk across the 1.4 mile Humber Suspension Bridge which was the longest suspension bridge in the world when it was built. The views of the Humber Estuary and Hessle Foreshore are amazing when you drive over, but incredible if you walk.
  • Discover Painsthorpe Dale and more stunning landscapes in the Yorkshire Wolds that inspired famous artist David Hockney
  • Discover the fascinating heritage of Hull Old Town with its cobbled streets, historic buildings, and museums.
  • Admire the gothic masterpiece of Beverley Minster, one of the largest parish churches in the UK.
  • Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Yorkshire Wolds with its rolling hills, charming villages, and walking trails. The Wolds Way is a popular long-distance footpath.
  • Explore the stately homes of Burton Constable Hall and Sewerby Hall and Gardens
  • Enjoy the seaside town of Bridlington with its sandy beaches, amusement arcades, and the historic Bridlington Priory.
  • Explore the gardens and woodlands of Wassand Hall, a beautiful estate with a Victorian walled garden.
  • Visit the charming market towns of Driffield and Market Weighton, known for their local markets and historic architecture.
  • Spend a day at Sewerby Hall, a Georgian country house with beautiful gardens, a zoo, and stunning views of the coast.

South Yorkshire Bucket List

free things to do in Sheffield UK

South Yorkshire is home to the well-known cities of Sheffield, Doncaster, Rotherham and Barnsley, and on the doorstep of the beautiful Peak District National Park. Close to the border with the US, there are plenty of fun things to do in South Yorkshire!

  • Kelham Island Museum: Explore the industrial heritage of Sheffield.
  • Relax in the Botanical Gardens
  • Wander through the Winter Gardens
  • Browse the city centre Millennium Gallery
  • Check the race schedule at Doncaster Racecourse:
  • Explore medieval Conisbrough Castle and its well-preserved circular keep.
  • Get nerdy at Magna Science Adventure Centre (my son loved it here)
  • Step back in time at Wentworth Woodhouse – one of the UK’s largest country houses
  • Get active in the Peak District National Park .
  • Enjoy the Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife and Falconry Centre (near Sheffield) .
  • Visit Elsecar Heritage Centre for the heritage railway, antiques, and craft shops.
  • Explore the working water mill and surrounding country park at Worsbrough Mill .

Final Thoughts: Yorkshire Bucket List

So there you have it! There are so many amazing Yorkshire places to visit; I hope you’ve found this Yorkshire bucket list helpful and it’s inspired you to add some experience days in Yorkshire to your UK itinerary.

Did you like this? Share the best Yorkshire places to visit now!

Yorkshire Bucket List 2

Coralie Thornton, the owner and author of Grey Globetrotters, has been a traveller for more than four decades. Today, she helps others experience the UK, Europe and bucketlist destinations with meticulously crafted guides and affordable luxury itineraries, Her passion for adventure has led her through over 40 countries, seeking cultural experiences, delicious foods, and hidden gems.

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Discover Holidays in The Wolds

  The Wolds is often described as a walker’s paradise. This description is thanks to the Yorkshire Wolds Way National Trail which stretches for nearly 80 miles from Filey to Hull through some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery. The trail, with its panoramic views, attracts the most discerning of hikers but there are shorter routes available for enthusiastic beginners and families too. Choose your track and relax into the elegant landscapes with gently rolling hills and stunning floral backdrops of soft green fields peppered with bright red poppies. The Wolds Way will even take you through the most famous deserted medieval village in England: Wharram Percy. This fascinating ‘lost’ village has been deserted since 1550 and still feels unnervingly eerie today.   The Wolds is the setting in which the world-famous artist David Hockney found the inspiration for many of his great works. His artwork was even recently exhibited at the Royal Academy in London. When visiting the Wolds, you can complete the ‘Hockney Trail’ and see the delightful scenery that was portrayed by the Yorkshire born artist.    There are also a number of stately homes to visit in the Wolds such as the Georgian Sledmere House with its fine Chippendale and Sheraton furnishings or the Burton Agnes Hall , a late Elizabethan building filled with delightful treasures and artworks. The latter is particularly charming as it is, and always has been, a ‘loved and lived in’ home. However, visitors beware as legend has it that the ghost of former resident Katherine Anne Griffith still haunts the Queen’s State Bedroom! If you want yet more scares and thrills whilst holidaying in the Wolds then pop to Malton and visit Flamingo Land Theme Park and Zoo for white knuckle rides and more. With plenty of towns and villages to discover such as Filey, Bridlington, Driffield and Beverley, the Wolds offers a large selection of all accommodation types to its tourists.

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Places to Visit

The Howardian Hills, easily accesible from York, is an area just waiting to be explored. Rolling hills, woodlands, country estates and visitor attractions make for a great day out in every season.

In Spring enjoy the bluebells as you wander along the many woodland paths. In Summer stroll alongside the River Derwent or Rye as damselflies and dragonflies feed over the water. Autumn colour turns the AONB landscape beautiful shades of red and orange and in winter the trees stand out against snow covered hills.

places to visit in the yorkshire wolds

Parklands & Estates

The landscape and villages of the Howardian Hills have been shaped by the numerous Country Estates with their grand houses, forestry, parklands and follies. Explore the parklands and wider estates of these country houses using the extensive network of footpaths and bridleways, or take a closer look at the houses and their gardens? We think Castle Howard, Nunnington Hall, Hovingham Hall and Newburgh Priory are well worth a visit.

Why not visit Ampleforth Abbey, with its visitor centre and cider mill tours, the tranquil ruins of Kirkham Priory or the beautifully-restored Howsham Mill where you can learn about hydro-power and renewable energy.

Within and close to the Howardian Hills you will find a diverse range of beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces. Yorkshire Lavender, Helmsley Walled Garden, The Yorkshire Arboretum and Scampston Hall are all wonderful places to while away a few peaceful hours.

Local Market Towns

Our local market towns of Malton ,  Pickering ,  Kirkbymoorside ,  Helmsley  and  Easingwold  provide ample opportunities for shopping, eating out and hotel accommodation.  Picturesque villages such as  Slingsby ,  Hovingham , Nunnington,  Husthwaite ,  Crayke  and Terrington offer a chance to admire the stone and brick vernacular architecture of the area.

Slightly further afield are a rich variety of opportunities within easy reach for day trips:

Heather-covered hills and dramatic coastline characterise the  North York Moors National Park .   Sutton Bank Visitor Centre  lies at the south west corner of the North York Moors, offering advice about visiting and exploring the area, a cafe, gift shop and  Sutton Bank Bikes  for cycle hire.

The historic  City of York , with its world-renowned Minster and medieval architecture, art galleries and theatres and the  National Railway Museum .

The  Yorkshire Nature Triangle  encapsulates the rolling chalk hills of the  Yorkshire Wolds  and the varied, wildlife-rich coastline of the North and East Yorkshire Coast. There are many opportunities to discover the wildlife and landscape of the area through guided walks and events, visits to reserves and walks along the cliff-top paths.

The Forestry Commission-owned  Dalby Forest  offers a multitude of activities and facilities set within a rich and varied forest landscape. Stay close to the action around the modern, sustainable visitor centre or head off into the depths of the forest on one of the many trails. A wholesome day trip for everyone from toddlers to top-class mountain bikers.

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Photo Credit: Header – Nunnington Orchard by Richard Perkins | Second Image – Autumn in Robin Hoods Bay by Ceri Oakes 

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  3. 13 Most Charming Towns and Villages in Yorkshire

    places to visit in the yorkshire wolds

  4. Top 21 most beautiful places to visit in Yorkshire

    places to visit in the yorkshire wolds

  5. The 17 places in Yorkshire you must visit in your lifetime

    places to visit in the yorkshire wolds

  6. Why you need to walk the Yorkshire Wolds Way

    places to visit in the yorkshire wolds

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  1. Visit the Yorkshire Wolds

    The outstanding Yorkshire Wolds Way National Trail has been inspiring visitors for more than 40 years. This 79-mile trail (127km) National Trail, from Hessle to Filey provides memorable experiences along a route of chalk landscapes with hidden dry valleys, stunning field top views and an abundance of wildlife, thriving market towns and ancient ...

  2. The Yorkshire Wolds: Our Pick Of The Best Places To Visit

    The Yorkshire Wolds lie to the east of God's Own County and are often overshadowed by the Yorkshire Dales or Moors.. Indeed The Yorkshire Wolds Way is, arguably, one of the least well known National Walking Trails in Britain. It is 79 miles - or one week - of tranquil, isolated villages in the midst of beautiful Yorkshire countryside.. The trail starts at its most southern point in ...

  3. The Yorkshire Wolds

    The Yorkshire Wolds is a great place to visit year-round, with each season offering its own unique charms and attractions. The area is a hidden gem of northern England, offering visitors a chance to discover a unique landscape and rich cultural heritage. Yorkshire Wolds FAQ's.

  4. Great days out ... the Yorkshire Wolds

    7 Visit Thixendale and the Robert Fuller Gallery. Thixendale village is one of the most charming places to visit on a trip to the Yorkshire Wolds. Its location at the bottom of many intersecting dales is a delightful setting and makes it one of the most isolated villages in the area.

  5. Things to see and places to stay in the Yorkshire Wolds

    Carr Ln, East Heslerton, Malton, YO17 8RP. 01944 728510. THE WOLD COTTAGE B&B. Opt for luxury B&B in the Georgian manor house or choose one of the pretty cottages, including the cute Miss Wells Garden Room for two. Heating and water supplied from a straw burner, locally sourced food and fresh flowers from the garden.

  6. What is the Yorkshire Wolds? Everything you need to know about the

    Peaceful, charming and a place of true natural beauty, the Yorkshire Wolds boasts rolling hills, picture perfect villages, and trickling streams - the perfect place for a day out in God's Own County.

  7. 8 great walks in the Yorkshire Wolds

    William Bradley was born in Market Weighton and known as the Yorkshire Giant at 7ft 9ins (Image: Joan Russell Photography). Market Weighton Start from the small green in front of the town hall of Market Weighton, where there is a statue of William Bradley and pass by St Helen's Well, a natural spring which has become a place to leave offerings to ask for divine help.

  8. Best walks in the Yorkshire Wolds

    Our detailed walking routes include images, maps and directions, offering you the chance to explore the majesty of the Yorkshire Wolds.

  9. Yorkshire Wolds

    The Yorkshire Wolds are hills in the counties of the East Riding of Yorkshire and North Yorkshire in Northern England. They are the northernmost chalk hills in the UK and within lies the northernmost chalk stream in Europe, the Gypsey Race.. On the western edge, the Wolds rise to an escarpment which then drops sharply to the Vale of York.The highest point on the escarpment is Bishop Wilton ...

  10. Yorkshire Wolds Way: A Guide To

    Credit: Unsplash. The Yorkshire Wolds Way, which is a 79-mile walking route, is broken up into manageable chunks that any Tom, Dick and Harry could try this summer. From rural dog walks, to grand valleys and hidden gems pubs - there's absolutely tons of uncover (and plenty ot come back to our neck of the woods for, too).

  11. Visit York and Yorkshire Wolds What to See and Do Guide

    Visit the Yorkshire Wolds and follow the trail of David Hockney's Art Locations from the setting for 'Bigger Trees near Warter' to 'Late Spring Tunnel May' near Kilham. 'Hockney Country' is one of the most beautiful parts of the UK countryside, with much to explore among rolling hills, hidden dales and coast. Email 0370 3331181 Website.

  12. The Wolds Essentials

    The 79-mile Yorkshire Wolds National Trail makes this region the perfect place for those who love the great outdoors - miles of walking paths and cycling trails provide the adventure of a lifetime, from journeys through woodland to discovering the Yorkshire shoreline. The writer Winifred Holtby, born in Rudston, described the Yorkshire Wolds ...

  13. Walking The Yorkshire Wolds Way: An Expert Guide

    The Yorkshire Wolds Way. Distance: 79 miles (127km) Duration: six days. Start point: Hessle, East Yorkshire. End point: Filey, North Yorkshire. Difficulty: Easy to medium. Suitable for: Relaxed walkers who prefer quiet rural exploration over star attractions at every turn. The route wends its way from the banks of the expansive Humber estuary ...

  14. 6 reasons to visit the Yorkshire Wolds

    One of the best - and most exhausting - ways to discover more about the Wolds is to put on your walking boots and fill a flask (coffee, whiskey - whatever propels you) and hike the 79-mile (127km) National Trail from Hessle, near the Humber Bridge, to Filey Brigg. Originally developed in the early 1970s by the East Riding Area of the ...

  15. Warter

    Yorkshire Wolds Heritage Centre: A Repository of History and Beauty in Warter ... quaint villages, scenic walks, and myriad places to visit. The Stained Glass Marvels. A notable highlight for visitors is the breathtaking stained glass that adorns St James. Two large, half-circle stained glass windows, resplendent with colour and detail, arrest ...

  16. Yorkshire Wolds Heritage Trust

    Dedicated to the promotion, protection and enhancement of The Yorkshire Wolds. More about the Trust →. The Wolds. The Yorkshire Wolds are a range of low, rolling hills formed from the most northerly outcrop of chalk in Britain. ... Discover places to visit around The Wolds. See all places ...

  17. 10 Of The Best, Most Quaint Villages In East Yorkshire

    Its beautiful chalk coloured houses are great to wander amongst before visiting its traditional pub, The Gait. You can also stay at their luxury lodges with hot tubs with views over the wolds. An amaznig and quaint place, it's one of the villages in East Yorkshire you wouldn't want to miss out on. 6. Bishop Burton.

  18. Yorkshire Bucket List

    Visit Ripon (medieval city and cathedral) Visit Staithes (a quaint traditional fishing village with the narrowest street in the north of England. Visit the thriving market town of Skipton. Explore magnificent castles. Skipton Castle - the most complete inhabited castle in the North of England.

  19. Discover places to stay in The Wolds

    The Wolds is the setting in which the world-famous artist David Hockney found the inspiration for many of his great works. His artwork was even recently exhibited at the Royal Academy in London. When visiting the Wolds, you can complete the 'Hockney Trail' and see the delightful scenery that was portrayed by the Yorkshire born artist.

  20. Places to visit in Yorkshire

    From the undulating hills and valleys of the Yorkshire Wolds to the bracing sea air of the heritage coast, East Yorkshire … Read more . South Yorkshire. ... Stunning places to visit in Yorkshire. We've chosen some of our favourite destinations from across the county, but in truth, any trip to Yorkshire is well worth taking. ...

  21. Places to Visit

    The Yorkshire Nature Triangle encapsulates the rolling chalk hills of the Yorkshire Wolds and the varied, wildlife-rich coastline of the North and East Yorkshire Coast. There are many opportunities to discover the wildlife and landscape of the area through guided walks and events, visits to reserves and walks along the cliff-top paths.