While there are so many amazing things to do in York, we highly recommend taking a few day trips to get a taste of the rich culture, history and natural beauty of this part of England.
Some of the best places in Yorkshire are not too far from York. With frequent train and bus services, this city is an excellent base.
So, whether you are interested in a hiking adventure at Malham Cove, discovering the literary connections of Haworth, following the footsteps of Dracula at Whitby or exploring the vibrant food scene of Leeds and Manchester – there are plenty of excellent choices for day trips that will intrigue all travellers.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the best places you can visit from York for a day. We have also added information about how to visit these places on public transport.
Day Trips Less Than One Hour from York
1. Knaresborough
One of the most quaint and historic market towns of Yorkshire, Knaresborough makes a very enjoyable day out from York. From rowing boats on the River Nidd to exploring the mysterious Mother Shipton’s Cave, there are plenty of amazing things to do in Knaresborough.
One of the highlights here is the historic Knaresborough Castle. Perched high above the River Nidd, this medieval fortress was built in the early 12th century by a Norman baron.
The castleyard offers one of the most iconic views of Yorkshire. Admire the picturesque setting of the Knaresborough Viaduct looming over the river.
Visit Mother Shipton’s Cave and Petrifying Well to learn about the mysterious prophetess Ursula Southeil and the legends associated with her.
How to Reach Knaresborough from York: Catch a train to Knaresborough, which takes only 24 minutes.
2. Castle Howard
Located only 15 miles from York, a day trip to Castle Howard is perfect for all history enthusiasts and culture lovers.
Set within a sprawling estate, Castle Howard is one of the grandest stately homes in England and is also one of the must-visit places of Yorkshire.
Built for the 3rd Earl of Carlisle, it took over one hundred years to finish and has been the residence of the Howard family ever since.
Take a tour of this historic house to marvel at its beautiful interiors. The rooms are decorated with many priceless paintings, sculptures and period furniture.
Also, don’t miss a walk around the surrounding gardens and parkland, which contains several statues, including the magnificent Atlas Fountain.
How to Reach Castle Howard: Catch bus number 81 from the Station Avenue bus stop near York Station, which takes around 50 minutes to reach.
3. Durham
Get on a train from York to Durham, and you’ll find yourself in a lovely part of England with important historical sites, cracking views and loads of greenery.
From walking on the riverside pathway along the River Wear to sampling delicious street foods at the lively Market Place, there are plenty of incredible things to do in Durham.
Start your day with one of the most iconic landmarks in the UK, Durham Cathedral. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This stunning building is also one of the filming locations for the famous Harry Potter movies.
Take a guided tour of the nearby Durham Castle, another key historical attraction of Durham, whose history dates back to the 11th century.
How to Reach Durham: There are regular train services from York, which take around 40 minutes.
4. Helmsley and Rievaulx Abbey
Those seeking the quintessential Yorkshire market town vibe should put Helmsley on their travel itinerary.
This town isn’t humungous, so start by exploring the quaint streets, and you will soon stumble on charming cafes, old-world pubs and pretty little shops.
To learn the medieval history of Helmsley and the surrounding area, visit Helmsley Castle. Stroll around the well-preserved ruins and climb the tower for lovely countryside views.
Located just below Helmsley Castle, the Helmsley Walled Garden is a beautifully restored Victorian garden spreading across five acres. It is a great place to relax.
Another must-visit attraction here is the nearby Rievaulx Abbey. Nestled in a tranquil valley, it is one of the most spectacular monastic ruins in England.
How to Reach Helmsley: It roughly takes 40 minutes to drive to Helmsley. Otherwise, from York, you can take bus number 31X.
5. Leeds
From sipping cocktails in one of the city’s trendy pubs to experiencing luxury shopping, there are loads of things to do in Leeds.
A train ride to Leeds can take as little as 20 minutes from York. For travellers who like city breaks, this day trip is perfect for them.
Start your visit with the Royal Armouries Museum. It houses the largest collections of arms and armour in the whole of Britain. Spread across five floors, there are over 4500 objects on display here.
Art lovers will love to explore the impressive collections of paintings at Leeds Art Gallery and Henry Moore Institute.
Take a local bus to visit the beautiful ruins of Kirkstall Abbey, whose history dates back to the mid-12th century.
How to Reach Leeds: Train runs regularly from York towards Leeds.
Day Trips Between One to Two hours from York
6. Newcastle
With countless thought-provoking museums, historical sights, beautiful bridges and stunning riverside vistas, discovering the best things to do in Newcastle can be a bit overwhelming.
Also, this bustling city is just an hour’s train ride from York and is perfect for a mini city break.
Stroll along the scenic Quayside to admire the stunning views of the River Tyne and its iconic bridges, including the spectacular Tyne Bridge.
Newcastle Castle is a must-visit for all history enthusiasts. You can tour this impressive fortress to discover its narrow passageways and dungeons.
Additionally, we would suggest paying a brief visit to the nearby Angel of the North, one of the most iconic landmarks of North East England.
How to Reach: Trains to Newcastle take only an hour.
7. Haworth
Haworth is truly one of West Yorkshire’s hidden gems. Home of the renowned Bronte sisters, this quaint village is somewhere you can easily fall in love with during an enjoyable day trip from York.
One of the main attractions in Haworth is the Bronte Parsonage Museum. It was their family home, and Charlotte, Emily, and Anne Bronte wrote their famous novels, including Wuthering Heights and Jane Eyre here.
Literary associations aside, Haworth is surrounded by stunning moorlands, which are great for hiking. The ruins of Top Withens and the moody landscapes are often cited as the inspiration behind Wuthering Heights.
Also, meander around the cobbled streets of the village centre. It is lined with pretty shops offering local food, art and crafts.
How to Reach Haworth from York: Jump on a train to Keighley and catch the Bronte Bus B1, B2 and B3 to Haworth.
8. Whitby
Escape the hustle and bustle of York to one of the most scenic coastal towns of Yorkshire, Whitby. We would suggest to do this day trip on a sunny day.
Climb the steep 199 Steps that lead to St. Mary’s Church and Whitby Abbey. From the top, you will get a breathtaking view of the town rooftops and the North Sea.
One of the main visitor attractions in Whitby is the atmospheric Whitby Abbey. Perched on a hill overlooking the North Sea, this ancient ruin dates back to the 7th century. The gothic architecture of Whitby Abbey has inspired Bram Stoker’s gothic horror novel Dracula.
Stroll along the busy harbour area. If weather permits, you can swim, sunbathe or go rock pooling at Whitby Beach.
How to Reach Whitby from York: It takes around an hour to drive to Whitby. Alternatively, you have to catch bus service 840 Coastliner from York.
9. Peak District
The incredibly stunning Peak District National Park is only one hour and thirty minutes drive from York. From keen hikers to culture lovers, the impressive amount of things to do in the Peak District will surely keep you busy on your day trip.
This area is renowned for its extensive network of hiking and cycling trails. Popular day hikes include Mam Tor, Monsal Trail, and Dovadale.
The magnificent Chatsworth House is a must-visit tourist attraction. This grand estate has been the seat of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire since the 16th century.
Also, Peak District is home to several show caves, including Peak Cavern and Speedwell Cavern. You can take guided tours to learn about their fascinating geology and history.
Though it is definitely possible to see some parts of the Peak District on a day trip from York, we would recommend staying for at least a couple of days to properly appreciate its natural beauty.
How to Reach Peak District from York: Hop on board a Sheffield-bound train. Buses for Peak District leave from Sheffield Interchange.
10. Fountains Abbey and Ripon
Fountains Abbey, along with the adjacent Studley Royal Water Garden, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is only a short journey away from York by car.
The abbey was founded in 1132 and is one of the largest ruined Cistercian monasteries in Britain. After exploring the impressive ruins of the Fountains Abbey, wander along the riverside path to explore the incredibly scenic Studley Royal Water Garden. The park is adorned with tranquil lakes and beautiful temples and sculptures.
Fountains Abbey is situated only a few miles from Ripon. So, you can easily combine both of them on your day trip. One of the main attractions of Ripon is the Ripon Cathedral, whose history dates back to the 7th century.
How to Reach: From York, you can catch a direct bus to Ripon. To get to the Fountains Abbey, take a taxi, bus or hike from Ripon.
11. Scarborough, Robin Hood’s Bay, Staithes
This day trip is a mix of some bustling coastal towns and lovely seaside villages of Yorkshire.
The first stop is Scarborough, a busy seaside town. You can swim, sunbathe or take a relaxing stroll along the lovely beaches of this town. History buffs will enjoy a tour of the medieval Scarborough Castle.
A 30-minute car ride from Scarborough will bring you to Robin Hood’s Bay. Famous as a smuggling hotspot during the 18th century, Robin Hood’s Bay has something for all travellers. Explore the intricate web of cobbled streets and stroll around the beach.
Staithes is a hidden gem of the Yorkshire coast. From exploring the scenic Staithes Harbour to hiking the coastal path to Runswick Bay, you will find plenty of activities to do here.
How to Reach: There are frequent train services to Scarborough from York station. For Robin Hood’s Bay, take bus X94 and X93 Max from Scarborough, which takes only 40 minutes. For Staithes, change bus at Whitby.
12. Malham Cove
While a stroll around the atmospheric cobbled streets of the Shambles will surely transport you into the magical world of Harry Potter, why not take a day trip to one of the filming locations of the movie, not very far from York? The spectacular Malham Cove has appeared in the Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows.
It is one of the most striking natural landmarks in Yorkshire. The distinctive crescent-shaped cliff was formed at the end of the Ice Age and rises 260 feet.
Malham Cove is a popular destination for both walkers and rock climbers. We recommend hiking the scenic circular walk from Malham village to Malham Cove, Gordale Scar and Janet’s Foss for some spectacular scenery.
How to Reach Malham Cove from York: Catch a train to Skipton and then take a bus to Malham from there. However, bus services are limited. So, you will need proper planning if using public transport. It typically takes only an hour and a half to reach here by car from York.
13. Goathland, Thornton-le-Dale and Hutton-le-Hole
On this day trip, you will explore some of the most scenic places in North York Moors National Park.
Thornton-le-Dale is known for its quaint settings, which feature traditional thatched cottages and a winding stream. Look out for the iconic Beck Isle Cottage, which is often featured in calendars and tourist brochures.
Next, visit Hutton-le-Hole, another cute little village in Yorkshire. The main attraction here is the Ryedale Folk Museum. It is an open-air museum showcasing the colourful history and culture of this area.
Your next destination is Goathland, where you will visit the iconic Goathland Station, which is famous for its appearance in the Harry Potter movies. You can take a steam train ride here or explore the nearby walking routes.
How to Reach: From York, you can take bus 840 Coastliner to Goathland and Thornton-le-Dale. But Hutton-le-Hole is difficult to reach by public transport.
14. Manchester
Manchester is a great day trip choice for city break lovers visiting York. This city is known for its rich industrial heritage, world-class sports teams, architecture and vibrant culture.
Start your trip with a stroll in the bustling Northern Quarter. Here, you will find an eclectic mix of cafes, bars, quirky shops, and independent boutiques. Also, look out for street art.
Football lovers can’t miss the nearby Old Trafford and the Etihad Stadium. Manchester is home to two of the world’s most famous football clubs: Manchester United and Manchester City. You can learn fascinating history and go behind the scenes with a guided tour of the clubs.
To discover this city’s role in the Industrial Revolution, visit the Science and Industry Museum.
How to Reach Manchester from York: A fast train will take around an hour and 20 minutes to get to Manchester Victoria Station.
15. Saltaire
Another destination not too far from York, Saltaire offers an enjoyable day out with family. This Victorian village was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001 for its remarkable industrial heritage.
The main tourist attraction here is the Salts Mill, a textile mill founded by Yorkshire-born businessman and philanthropist Titus Salt in the mid-19th century.
Today, it houses an art gallery showcasing an extensive collection by reputed British artist David Hockney.
After your visit to the Salts Mill, wander around the village, followed by a peaceful walk along the canal and the River Aire. On summer days, Robert’s Park is a great place to enjoy a picnic.
Plus, we would suggest a quick stop at the nearby Bingley Five Rise Locks, the steepest flight of locks in the UK.
How to Reach Saltaire: There is no direct train from York. You have to change at Leeds, which is only 20 minutes by train from Saltaire.
16. Ripley Castle and Brimham Rocks
Brimham Rocks is only a 15-minute drive from Ripley Castle. So, it makes sense to combine both of these incredible places on your day visit.
Located only 25 miles from York, Ripley Castle has been the home of the Ingilby family for over 700 years.
Aside from taking a tour to see the grand interior of Ripley Castle, visitors can ramble around the surrounding gardens and parkland within the estate.
Brimham Rocks is a must-visit geological wonder of Yorkshire. Here, you will find a group of ancient rocks scattered around the area, formed over 325 million years ago.
There are several walking trails to follow. It is fun to climb some of the rocks. Also, from the top, you will get an awe-inspiring view of the Yorkshire countryside.
How to Reach from York: For Ripley Castle, jump on a train to Harrogate and then catch a bus. It is not easy to reach Brimham Rocks by public transport from Ripley. Better to hire a taxi.
17. Skipton and Bolton Abbey
Situated near the Yorkshire Dales, the charming market town of Skipton is just over an hour’s drive from York and, together with Bolton Abbey, it promises a jam-packed day out for travellers.
Those looking to take in some history cannot miss a tour of the historic Skipton Castle, housing over 900 years of fascinating history.
Shopping enthusiasts will love browsing through the different stalls of Skipton Market, which takes place on the High Street on specific days of the week.
Bolton Abbey lies only 10 minutes from Skipton by car. It is one of the most historically significant sites in all of Yorkshire.
Marvel at the picturesque ruins of Bolton Abbey, founded in 1154 by Augustinian canons. Then, cross River Wharfe using the iconic stepping stones.
How to Reach Skipton: From York, jump on a train to Leeds and catch a train to Skipton from there. For Bolton Abbey, take a taxi or local bus from Skipton.
18. Grassington, Hawes and Muker
On this trip, you will explore some of the less visited, nonetheless very charming villages and small towns of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. For this one, we would suggest hiring a car as some of these places have very limited to no public transportation.
Surrounded by the idyllic countryside, Grassington looks like you have stepped into a period drama. Streets are lined with stone-built cottages, cute book and souvenir shops and traditional pubs. Take a short walk to the nearby Linton Falls.
After Grassington, drive to Hawes and take a tour of the Wensleydale Creamery, home of the famous Wensleydale cheese. Also, just a short walk from Hawes is Hardraw Force, the highest single-drop waterfall in England.
Muker, another pretty village in Yorkshire, is only a 15-minute drive from Hawes. Also, if you have time, make a brief stop at the lovely Aysgarth Falls.
19. Lincoln
A destination that may not come to your mind when planning your day trip from York, Lincoln is a cathedral city full of grand architecture and rich history.
Dominating the skyline, Lincoln Cathedral is one of the most iconic buildings of this city. Admire the intricate Gothic architecture of the cathedral. Also, watch out for the Lincoln Imp, which has become a symbol of this city.
After visiting the cathedral, take a tour of the nearby Lincoln Castle. Built by William the Conqueror in 1068, it houses one of the original copies of the Magna Carta. Plus, you can walk along the castle’s walls for an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the city.
How to Reach Lincoln from York: The easiest way to reach Lincoln is by train. But you have to change the train at Newark Northgate station, and the journey lasts approximately an hour and a half.
20. Filey Beach and Flamborough Head
We’ve combined these two together as they aren’t too far from each other and, when paired, make for a cracking day out for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
The town of Filey is famous for its spectacular sandy beach, which stretches for about five miles. It is often named one of the best beaches in Yorkshire.
On hot summer days, tourists and locals enjoy swimming and sunbathing here. Crescent Gardens is the perfect place to enjoy delicious fish & chips.
Not too far from Filey is the spectacular Flamborough Head, a gem of Yorkshire coastline. It is the home to numerous seabirds and wildlife.
There are various coastal walking trails here, which will take you to hidden beaches and sea caves.
How to Reach from York: The train journey to Filey takes around an hour and 10 minutes. To visit Flamborough Head by public transport, you have to take a bus or train to Bridlington and catch bus number 14. Otherwise, by car, it takes only 20 minutes from Filey.
Day Trips from York Over Two Hours
21. Edinburgh
If you are short on time, you can make a day trip to Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland. Direct train from York takes about two and a half hours to reach Edinburgh Waverley Station.
Perched over an extinct volcanic rock, the Edinburgh Castle is one of the main tourist attractions in Edinburgh. Enjoy a street performance at the historic Royal Mile. Also, make a brief stop to visit the colourful Victoria Street.
In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely stroll in the tranquil Dean Village. Follow the riverside pathway to the bustling Stockbridge.
Finally, end the day with a breathtaking view from Calton Hill or Arthur’s Seat before coming back to York.
22. Lake District National Park
If you don’t mind the long drive from York, you can easily take a road trip to one of the most scenic corners of the UK.
Lake District is renowned for its stunning landscapes, tranquil lakes, towering mountains and picturesque villages. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017, it has something for everyone.
There are numerous hiking trails around this area. Keen hikers can try climbing Helvellyn and Scafell Pike. Also, you can enjoy various water- sports here, like kayaking and paddle boarding. In summer you can go wild swimming.
Culture lovers can take a tour of the Dove Cottage, the home of William Wordsworth. Also, fans of Beatrix Potter can visit her former home, Hill Top.
23. Hadrian’s Wall
This is another day trip destination from York that you can easily add to your itinerary if you love road trips. Built by the Romans in AD 122, Hadrian’s Wall stretches across Northern England. Today, it is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Start your day with a tour of the Housesteads Roman Fort. Ramble around the extensive ruins. Here, you will find the barracks, a hospital, and latrines once used by the Roman soldiers.
Next, see the Vindolanda Roman Fort and the Sill. It was once a Roman auxiliary fort and civilian settlement. The museum houses several artefacts.
Take a short hike along the wall to the Sycamore Gap. Also, watch out for the famous tree.
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