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From exploring the Yorkshire Dales to a day out at Castle Howard, these are the best day trips from York perfect for the whole family.
York is one of my favourite cities in the UK, and it’s perfect for a weekend away. Whether it’s shopping along the Shambles, learning about York’s history (which usually involves eating a lot of chocolate), or discovering medieval pubs to cosy up in, it’s one of those cities that you’ll instantly fall in love with.
However, if you’re looking at staying in the city for more than a couple of days, then here are some of the best day trips from York. This is perfect if you want to see some more of Yorkshire (and you should because it’s beautiful).
Yorkshire is known as “God’s Own Country”, so no trip here would be complete without hiking the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Another must is the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, an old fashioned steam engine. This is one activity that’s perfect for the whole family. I’m not going to lie to you, the dads always seem to love it more than the kids!
I really can’t recommend York and the surrounding countryside enough though. Hopefully these day trips will help you plan your trip here. Some of them are a bit further than others, but this should be a guide you can keep coming back to and ticking places off. Right, let’s get into it!
How many days do you need in York?
I’d say two to three days is the sweet spot for York. That gives you enough time to walk the city walls, wander down the Shambles, climb the tower at York Minster and still have an evening or two for the medieval pubs.
York is compact, so you can see the main sights in a packed weekend. But if you can, I’d give yourself four or five days and use York as a base to explore the rest of Yorkshire. That’s when the city really comes into its own.
York station is one of the best connected in the North, so Leeds, Harrogate, Knaresborough and even Durham are all under an hour away by train. If you’ve got a car, the options open up even more. Castle Howard is only 30 minutes away, and you can be on the North York Moors in under an hour.
My top pick? Whitby for fish and chips on the harbour, or the Yorkshire Dales if you want to get your boots muddy. Travelling with kids? I’d stick to one day trip for every two days in the city. Trust me, it keeps everyone happy!
If you’re visiting York, then make sure you check out my guide will all the best things to do. This is the perfect starting point for planning a weekend here.
Quick overview
| Destination | Journey time | Best mode of transport | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whitby | 1 hr 30 mins | Car | Seaside, fish and chips and Dracula fans |
| Yorkshire Dales (Malham) | 1 hr 30 mins | Car | Hiking and big landscapes |
| Kilburn White Horse | 45 mins | Car | Walkers and photographers |
| Castle Howard | 30 mins | Car | Stately homes and filming locations |
| North Yorkshire Moors Railway | 50 mins (to Pickering) | Car or Coastliner bus | Families and steam train fans |
| Leeds | 25 mins | Train | Shopping, food and museums |
| Haworth | 1 hr 15 mins | Car | Literature lovers |
| Saltaire | 1 hr | Train | UNESCO heritage and art |
| The Forbidden Corner | 1 hr 15 mins | Car | Families with young kids |
| Durham | 45 mins | Train | History and a gorgeous cathedral |
| Knaresborough | 25 mins | Train | Riverside walks and quirky history |
| Bolton Abbey | 1 hr 10 mins | Car | Riverside walks and priory ruins |
| Harrogate | 35 mins | Train | Spa days and afternoon tea |
If you’re travelling by train or bus, you can check times and compare ticket prices on Omio, which brings together routes from different rail operators so you can book everything in one place.
13 Amazing Day Trips from York
Whitby
Located on the Yorkshire Coast, Whitby is such an amazing place to visit in Yorkshire. Check out the Pavilion where you can watch the latest films in the cinema, rock out at a gig, or grab a portion of tasty fish and chips.
Of course you’re going to want to visit the beach at Whitby. Hop on the Whitby Coastal Cruise where you can sail out into the bay and explore the Yorkshire Coastline. If you prefer to keep your feet on land, you can enjoy the open-top bus tour instead.
Fans of Dracula are going to want to try the audio-guided GeoStories where you can follow in the footsteps of Bram Stoker. Stoker famously wrote the novel in Whitby, so if you’re a fan of the book there’s an extra special connection here.
By public transport: Around 2 hours 30 minutes on the Coastliner 840 bus from York, via Malton and Pickering. You can also take the train to Middlesbrough and change for the Esk Valley Line to Whitby.
By car: About 1 hour 30 minutes from York.
Yorkshire Dales National Park
Known for its picturesque scenery, Yorkshire Dales National Park is the perfect choice for those who love the great outdoors. Whether you choose to go walking or to visit historical towns and castle ruins, there’s something for everyone.
The Dales are full of natural attractions, like Malham Cove and Aysgarth Falls. Will you be brave enough to tackle the Three Peaks? Take in the landscapes as you take on one peak, or conquer all three.
If you’re more into sightseeing, there’s so many quaint towns to visit. I love checking out the independent shops in Kirkby Stephen, a small market town. The Parish Church has one of two Loki stones in Europe, which depict the Norse God.
Yorkshire Dales National Park
By public transport: Around 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes by train to Skipton (changing at Leeds), then the Cravenlink 864 or 210/211 bus to Malham.
By car: About 1 hour 30 minutes from York to Malham.
Kilburn White Horse
Located in the hills of the North Yorkshire Moors National Park is Britain’s largest white horse. Kilburn White Horse is one of the most famous landmarks and a fun day trip from York.
At a massive 318 feet long and 220 feet high, you can’t miss it! Why not take a walk down the scenic footpath to see the majestic horse up close? Did you know, the best view is from Bagby Road? Take a seat on one of the benches or capture the perfect picture to share on Instagram!
By public transport: Around 45 minutes to 1 hour by train to Thirsk, then a short taxi ride to the White Horse car park. There’s no direct bus.
By car: About 45 minutes from York.
Castle Howard
Castle Howard and gardens is a unique day trip from York. The well preserved house and exquisite gardens are a must-see. Whilst touring around the house, there are so many unique exhibits and tours to choose from. You can learn about the hidden lives of the women at Castle Howard, hidden objects, or the impact of the war. I would personally recommend visiting the chapel, with its stunning Pre-Raphaelite stained glass windows designed by Edward Burne-Jones.
Castle Howard is a popular filming location. Can you spot where scenes from Bridgerton and Victoria were filmed? It was even used in the Arctic Monkeys ‘Four Out Of Five’ video! If you’re heading to Castle Howard, you can buy your tickets here.
By public transport: Around 45 minutes on the East Yorkshire 81 bus from York station (Monday to Saturday only).
By car: About 30 minutes from York.
North Yorkshire Moors Railway
For a fantastic day out, head to the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. This heritage steam railway runs for 18 miles between Pickering and Grosmont, cutting right through the heart of the North York Moors National Park. Some services carry on along the Esk Valley Line to Whitby, so you can easily pair it with a day at the seaside.
The line closed in 1965, but a group of volunteers brought it back to life and it reopened in 1973. Each station has been restored to a different era of the railway’s history, and Goathland might look familiar. It starred as Hogsmeade station in the first Harry Potter film! It’s now one of the busiest heritage railways in the world.
On the train you can have afternoon tea, have a delicious dinner, meet Santa during the holiday season, or my favourite, solve a murder mystery. These are some of the themed days/nights they have on the train. Otherwise, the standard train ticket which takes you up and down the railway line is still perfect.
By public transport: Around 1 hour 15 minutes on the Coastliner 840 bus from York to Pickering station.
By car: About 50 minutes from York to Pickering.
Leeds
Visit Leeds, the unofficial capital of Yorkshire, for a fantastic day out. Whether you’re a couple enjoying a date, a family looking for fun or you want to shop ‘till you drop, there’s plenty for everyone in this city.
Head to Tropical World or Meanwood Valley Urban Farm for an animal-packed day with the kids, or check out one of Leeds’ many museums for a quieter day. We love visiting the ancient Egyptian mummies at Leeds City Museum! Don’t forget to check out the independent food scene – after all, Leeds is known as the foodie capital of the North.
By public transport: Around 25 minutes by direct train from York.
By car: About 45 minutes to 1 hour from York.
Haworth
Home of the Bronte sisters, Haworth is a must-visit. With a rich literary history and surrounded by the Moors, there’s so much to do in this picturesque village.
Of course you must visit the Bronte Parsonage Museum and experience how the famous sisters lived as they wrote novels which would stand the test of time. Perhaps you’d prefer to explore Haworth village and park on a short one mile walk through the cobbled streets?
Treat yourself to a delicious afternoon tea at Cobbles and Clay or head to Mrs Beighton’s Sweet Shop to choose from over 500 different varieties of sweets!
By public transport: Around 1 hour 30 minutes by train to Keighley (changing at Leeds), then the Brontëbus B1 or B3 to Haworth.
By car: About 1 hour 15 minutes from York.
Saltaire
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, the charming village of Saltaire has a rich industrial past. Now it’s home to many museums, including the infamous Salts Mill.
Why not hop aboard the Saltaire Trio Boat to see the charming village in all its glory as you sail down the canal? Be sure to look out for Victoria Hall and Roberts Park. Art fans can check out the David Hockney collection at Salts Mill. For a unique experience visit Interlude Cafe, a 1920s style tea room that specialises in a classic cream tea. Do you put jam or cream first?
By public transport: Around 1 hour by train to Saltaire, changing at Leeds for the Airedale Line.
By car: About 1 hour from York.
The Forbidden Corner
This place is perfect for the kids
Tucked away in the Yorkshire Dales near Middleham, The Forbidden Corner is one of the quirkiest attractions in Yorkshire. Located in Tupgill Park, its labyrinth of tunnels and chambers makes for a brilliant family day out.
Run through the underground dwellings and explore the stone pathways to see what surprises pop out. There are many things to see, from the Green Man and castle towers. The newest addition is the stained glass windows which have come from Carlton Church.
Don’t forget to take a picnic and enjoy the gardens and outdoors areas. I’ll be munching on fresh donuts from The Potting Shed – yum!
By public transport: Around 2 hours by train to Northallerton, then the 856 Wensleydale Flyer bus to Leyburn and a short taxi to Tupgill Park. Services are limited, so check times before you go.
By car: About 1 hour 15 minutes from York.
Durham
From museums and parks, to shopping and museums, there’s so much to do in Durham. This city is full of activities for family fun, a romantic date, or a solo adventure.
For some family fun, head to Beamish, the living museum of the North, just a 20-minute drive from the city. Here you can travel back in time in this immersive experience. It’s brilliant fun!
Durham is the perfect place for shopaholics. From farmers markets and antiques, to independent boutiques and shopping centres, you’ll find exactly what you need. Pick out a new cushion with your partner or take yourself on a shopping spree.
If you’re heading to Durham, make sure you check out my guide on the top things to do in the city and the surrounding area. This is a great place to start when planning a trip here.
By public transport: Around 45 minutes by direct LNER or CrossCountry train from York.
By car: About 1 hour 20 minutes from York.
Knaresborough
With stunning architecture surrounded by cliffs, Knaresborough is top of my list of places to visit in Yorkshire. I just love the feel of the marketplace surrounded by mediaeval streets.
Check out the mediaeval remains of Knaresborough Castle before checking out the independent shops in the traditional marketplace. I love visiting Yorkshire Mixture, where you can choose from 100 jars of traditional sweets.
If you love the great outdoors you’re going to want to visit Mother Shipton’s Cave and the Petrifying Well. The landmark is England’s oldest visitor attraction and has been open since 1630! Check out the mile-long walk along the River Nidd.
By public transport: Around 25 minutes by direct Northern train on the York to Harrogate line.
By car: About 30 minutes from York.
Bolton Abbey
There’s so much to see and do at Bolton Abbey making it a fantastic place to visit. From the Priory Church and Ruins and Barden Tower, to the Valley of Desolation and The Money Tree, you’ll be entertained for hours. Check out the stunning 12th century ruins of the Augustinian Priory before venturing through the riverside landscapes that surround it.
Why not admire the aqueduct or jump across the 60 stepping stones across the river, which were once a crossing point for workers.
By public transport: Around 1 hour 45 minutes by train to Ilkley (changing at Leeds), then the Cravenlink 873 bus to Bolton Abbey. Services are limited, so check times before you go.
By car: About 1 hour 10 minutes from York.
Harrogate
Rounding off my list of York day trips is Harrogate, which is a fantastic year-round destination. Discover the Victorian spa town and all it has to offer.
The Turkish Baths are perfect for a romantic getaway. Offering modern treatments with the Victorian Turkish baths decor, this is the ideal location for a relaxing couples activity. Why not finish your evening with a show at one of Harrogate’s many theatres?
I bet those green-fingered readers are going to love the variety of gardens in Harrogate. Check out the Himalayan Gardens and Sculpture Park where you can discover over 80 sculptures and botanical masterpieces!
By public transport: Around 35 minutes by direct Northern train from York.
By car: About 40 minutes from York.
Looking for another weekend break in the UK? Then check out my guides to Bristol, Cambridge, Durham, Norwich and York.
So there you have it, my favourite day trips from York! Have you been to any of these, or is there a hidden gem I’ve missed? Let me know in the comments below, I’d love to hear where you’d add to the list.
