Things to do in Yorkshire

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

A harbor with colorful boats, a historic building, and a clear sky.
A historic cathedral with a clock tower, Gothic architecture, and a clear blue sky.
A grand historic building with ornate architecture, surrounded by lush greenery and a well-maintained garden.
A suspension bridge over a calm body of water with a clear sky.
A dense cluster of orange sea anemones in an underwater environment.

Yorkshire Attractions

If you're ready to explore Yorkshire, sign up for a few of the top tours & day trips on offer, and let an expert show you the most popular attractions. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our {199 fun activities in Yorkshire fun activities in Yorkshire} are also worth looking into.

Things to do

The York Dungeon Tour

The York Dungeon Tour

$29
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
The York Dungeon Tour
MANCHESTER: Yorkshire Adventure - Sightseeing Day Trip Tour

MANCHESTER: Yorkshire Adventure - Sightseeing Day Trip Tour

$92
per adult
MANCHESTER: Yorkshire Adventure - Sightseeing Day Trip Tour
York Evening Escape On The Ouse Cruise

York Evening Escape On The Ouse Cruise

$24
per adult
York Evening Escape On The Ouse Cruise
RHS Garden Harlow Carr Entry Ticket

RHS Garden Harlow Carr Entry Ticket

$20
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
RHS Garden Harlow Carr Entry Ticket
Shared Walking Tour in York

Shared York Walking Tour – Hidden Gems & History

$24
per adult
Shared York Walking Tour – Hidden Gems & History
Chocolate Bar Making Workshop - York Cocoa Works

Chocolate Bar Making Workshop at York Cocoa Works

$33
per adult
Chocolate Bar Making Workshop at York Cocoa Works
York: "All Creatures Great and Small" Yorkshire Dales Tour

York: "All Creatures Great and Small" Yorkshire Dales Tour

$108
per adult
York: "All Creatures Great and Small" Yorkshire Dales Tour
Self Guided Walking Tour of York with Audio Guide

Self Guided Walking Tour of York with Audio Guide

$6
per adult
Self Guided Walking Tour of York with Audio Guide
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Yorkshire must see attractions

1. York Minster

York Minster is a Gothic masterpiece and among the largest and most impressive cathedrals in Europe. Climb the Minster’s historic tower, tour its underground chambers and discover 2,000 years of history. The current structure dates back to the 12th century and features medieval stained-glass windows.
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A large Gothic cathedral with intricate stonework and pointed arches.

2. Scarborough Open Air Theatre

Scarborough Open Air Theatre is a mixed entertainment venue set on a lake in Scarborough’s Northstead Manor Gardens. Its stage is on an island in the middle of the water while the audience has seating on the eastern bank. Throughout the summer months Scarborough Open Air Theatre has a busy schedule of music, theater and sporting events.
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The entrance to Scarborough Open Air Theatre with a sign welcoming visitors.

3. Shambles

The Shambles is a medieval street in York’s center with a topsy-turvy layout full of shops and restaurants. Stroll down the quaint cobblestone road that runs through the narrow street to see the lopsided 15th-century buildings jutting out overhead. Many visitors compare the jumbled arrangement of the street to Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter saga. In 2010, the Google Street Team voted it the most picturesque street in Britain.
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A narrow street with brick buildings, a shop with a glass display, and a sign for a museum.

4. Whitby Harbour

Spend a day enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Whitby Harbour. Townsfolk once said that the only road into Whitby is the sea and for centuries Whitby Harbour has been the town’s beating heart. The harbor flanks both sides of the River Esk, where shipbuilders and fishermen ply their trade on the riverbanks. At the same time, locals and tourists frequent the seafood shacks, cultural and entertainment attractions.
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A riverside town with historic buildings, a dock with boats, and a busy street with pedestrians and vehicles.

5. Whitby Beach

Whitby Beach commands a spectacular North Sea setting backed by cliffs and framed by Whitby Harbour and a dramatic headland. This beach has Blue Flag status, which means it meets certain criteria for amenities, cleanliness and water quality. Visit Whitby Beach for a fun-filled day admiring the sea views and geological formations, splashing in the cool water and watching pretty sunsets.
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A beach with people sunbathing, a pier with colorful buildings, and cliffs in the background.

6. University of Leeds

Renowned for its research and teaching, the University of Leeds is also set apart by its campus, which unites a variety of divergent architectural styles in a celebration of British architecture throughout the 20th century. Grouped on well-manicured lawns just outside the Leeds city center, it welcomes more than 30,000 students each year from a variety of backgrounds. The university was the first in the region to accept women, Catholics and other disadvantaged groups. Go on a walking tour of its many striking buildings and have a picnic on the grass, as you watch the students go past.
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The Laidlaw Library with modern architecture, a stone tower, and a bus stop.

7. York City Walls

York’s City Walls are one of the greatest treasures of the historic city. The medieval walls have been beautifully preserved for centuries and today provide one of the best routes for walking between York’s many attractions. Stroll along the City Walls Trail for a gentle and scenic walk that is steeped in the history and atmosphere of this stunning city.
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A historic cityscape with a prominent cathedral, a bridge, and a mix of traditional and modern buildings.

Recommended things to do in Yorkshire

Number of things to do
199
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Filey Bay: Battle of Flamborough Head Storytelling Tour: $6
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Yorkshire

Free Things to Do in Yorkshire

They say the best things in life are free. Be sure to visit the following around Yorkshire:

Kohima Museum - Filled with interesting objects and exhibits, this gallery is a paradise for curious minds.

Exhibition Square - Tour this local landmark and marvel at its exceptional design.

Margaret Clitherow House and Shrine - Feel like you've been transported back in time while roaming around this historic site.

King's Square - This vibrant place is a favorite of visitors and locals alike.

Newgate Market - If you want to see some of the more important or unique places in the community, start here.

Heworth Methodist Church - Do some quiet reflection and learn a thing or two about this site's religious importance.

Hull Road Park - Prepare a picnic and enjoy a stroll around the trees and shrubs.

Things to Do in Yorkshire with Kids

Yorkshire is a terrific place for a family getaway. Take the youngsters along and enjoy these family friendly experiences together:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Yorkshire? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular Yorkshire attractions

A large Gothic cathedral with intricate stonework and pointed arches.

York Minster

9.4/10 (3,458 reviews)
The city’s emblem is known for its superb stained-glass windows, underground treasure chambers and tall tower with spectacular views.
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Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Yorkshire

A grassy hillside with a rocky outcrop in the foreground.

Hathersage

A medieval castle surrounded by a lush green landscape and a small village in the background.

Helmsley

A town nestled in a valley with rolling hills and a clear blue sky.

Ilkley

A frozen lake with bare trees silhouetted against a cloudy sky.

Barnsley

A Gothic cathedral with intricate stonework and a statue in front.

Beverley

A calm harbor with boats docked, a small island with a dock, and buildings in the background.

Brighouse

Rolling hills, a small village, and a stone wall.

Burnley

A historic building with black and white timber framing, a prominent clock tower, and a pointed spire in the background.

Chesterfield

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Yorkshire on a sunny day?
You'll find loads of activities that'll tempt you out of your hotel room and into the sunshine:


What to do in Yorkshire on a rainy day?
A Hard Rock Cafe Manchester Dining with Priority Seating is a fantastic indoor activity to sign up for if the weather forecast isn't great.
What should I not miss in Yorkshire?
Put these things at the top of your must-see list to make the most of your visit:

  • York Minster
  • Fountains Abbey
  • York Castle Museum
  • Whitby Abbey

Are there cheap things to do in Yorkshire?
What can you do in Yorkshire for free?
Your vacation in Yorkshire needn't cost a bundle with free things like these to keep you on the go:

  • York Minster
  • Royal Armouries
  • Kirkstall Abbey
  • Peace Gardens

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