Things to do in North Yorkshire

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A coastal town with stone buildings, a café, and a view of the sea.
A coastal town with stone buildings, a sea wall, and cliffs.
A coastal road with vehicles, a beach, and buildings in the background.
A coastal town with a prominent red brick building, a pier, and a large white building in the background.
A historic town with a prominent church tower, lush green cemeteries, and a dense residential area.

North Yorkshire Attractions

You're ready to set a course in a different direction. Perpetually prepared for broadening your horizons and imaginative ways to get inspired, you're eager to discover a new destination like a pro. Next stop: North Yorkshire! It's not challenging to fill an itinerary, because Expedia makes it easy to book tons of things to do. Book your activities now, and the only thing you'll have left to do is count the days until your getaway and prepare to have fun.

  • The activities in North Yorkshire are not only among the best, but they won't bust your budget. We have 199 things to do here, and you can make them yours starting at just $6. Get your favorite excursion on Expedia at an ideal value, and you'll still have money for a dream hotel or fine meal while you're visiting.
  • North Yorkshire is a favorite among sightseers like yourself. In fact, many travelers have been visiting North Yorkshire to learn about local culture and explore the best things to do, and a good portion of these travelers cannot wait to come back. The most popular things to do can earn the curiosity of even seasoned travelers, and one look at our list explains why. Our list includes a wide range of entertainment and opportunities for adventure. With unique ways to see the best this area has to offer like a Guided Day Tour of Haworth & Bolton Abbey via Minicoach to one-of-a kind ways to check out the best this area has to give like a Heartbeat Filming Locations Tour, there is a huge selection of things to do at your disposal when you check out the best tours and excursions here at Expedia.

Our activities are the ideal way to organize your trip. You'll want a little planning to make the most of a trip to North Yorkshire, especially when you long to pack in trips to museums and outdoor activities. And it's evident that you don't plan to sleep all day—you're ready to get out and see what life is like for locals. You look forward to checking off the best activities around, and a quiet day exploring local neighborhoods is always time well spent. Book group tours on Expedia, and you don't need a map.

Things to do


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North Yorkshire must see attractions

1. 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.

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. 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.

4. South Bay Beach

South Bay Beach is the livelier of Scarborough’s main sandy stretches. The Castle Headland provides shelter from the northern winds, enabling excellent sunbathing conditions. Scarborough Castle stands at the northern part of the beach, while Scarborough Spa borders the south edge. Traverse the sandy bay in style with a traditional donkey ride.
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A harbor with boats, a lighthouse, and buildings along the waterfront.

5. North Bay Beach

North Bay Beach is a tranquil stretch of golden sand with restaurants, beach cabins and family activities. It is the quieter and wilder of Scarborough’s two main beaches, a little farther out from the town center. Trek with your family past the picturesque outcrops and rock pools to the main sandy area and headland.
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A beach with people, colorful buildings, and houses on a hillside.

6. Robin Hood's Bay Beach

Robin Hood’s Bay Beach is a charming sandy opening on the eastern side of a small fishing village. The picturesque beach lies at the foot of the quaint hilly streets of its namesake village and is a part of the North York Moors National Park. Enjoy the steep walk down to the beach via narrow alleys from the summit of the village.
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A coastal landscape with a clear sky, a calm sea, and a small village with houses and boats.

What to do in North Yorkshire

Free Things to Do in North Yorkshire

Taking a break in North Yorkshire on a budget? The following can be experienced for nix.

Thirsk Museum - Wander the halls and study the intriguing exhibits at this popular museum.

Ripon Cathedral - Throw a bit of spirituality into your vacation by dropping by this holy site.

Pebble Beach - Breathe in the ocean air and watch the waves rolling in at this beautiful coastal spot.

The Dutch House - If you relish digging about the garden, this attraction will fascinate your inner green thumb.

Things to Do in North Yorkshire with Kids

There are plenty of memorable experiences in North Yorkshire that the whole gang will enjoy. Here are some of the most popular family friendly experiences in the area.


 

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

 


 


Stay near popular North Yorkshire attractions


 

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Popular day trips from North Yorkshire

Frequently asked questions

What to do in North Yorkshire on a sunny day?
If you're eager for a bit of fun in the sun, you'll be interested in these outdoor adventures:


What should I not miss in North Yorkshire?
If you're eager to see the best of this place, slot these attractions into your schedule:

  • Fountains Abbey
  • Whitby Abbey
  • Turkish Baths and Health Spa
  • Richmond Castle

Are there cheap things to do in North Yorkshire?
What can you do in North Yorkshire for free?
Your getaway in North Yorkshire needn't send you broke with free attractions like these to enjoy:

  • Peasholm Park
  • Bolton Priory
  • Robin Hood's Bay Beach
  • Whitby Harbour

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