From its show-stopping vistas to its hidden corners, dramatic landscapes and storied buildings, there is so much more to Yorkshire than you might imagine. Even if you live nearby!
A staycation here is special for many reasons. Not just for the immersion in natural beauty, rich history and vibrant culture, but also for the abundance of luxury accommodation options to choose from too. So, if you’re thinking about where to stay in Yorkshire, come with us as we explore the diverse region to help you find your dream location.
Sandsend
Sandsend is perfect if you crave the exhilaration of being by the sea but want to stay away from the crowds. A former fishing village, its beautiful expanse of beach is there to be enjoyed, whether it’s blustery walks with your four-legged friend or picnics and rock pooling with your little ones. This part of the coastline is also prime fossil hunting territory. Armed with a hammer to chip away at the rocks, your little explorers can find traces of life long left behind; ammonites, belemnites and even dinosaur footprints are just waiting to be uncovered!
Venture into the village and you’ll find charming independent shops and cafes. The ideal spots to happily while away a few hours finding the perfect holiday souvenir or enjoying a delicious local crab sandwich. If epicurean pleasure is high on your holiday wishlist, Sandsend is also home to the area’s first two AA rosette restaurant – Estbek House.
When it’s time to explore further afield, grab your walking boots and set out onto the Cleveland Way. This part of the National Trail hugs the coastline and as you stomp along the clifftops, you’re offered breathtaking views. Head north to the charming and picturesque villages of Runswick Bay and Staithes where you can enjoy a well-earned pub break. Or, head south to Whitby for crabbing, amusement arcades and its spectacular gothic Abbey.
Does Sandsend sound like one of the best staycations in Yorkshire to you? You can explore our luxury properties along the Yorkshire coast here.
Skipton
Known as the “gateway to the Dales”, Skipton is surrounded by dramatic countryside and is the perfect base if you’re yearning for green fields and open spaces. However, inside this charming market town lies a treasure trove of distractions, from a cool castle to a sleepy waterway.
History buffs and excitable children will find plenty to keep themselves entertained at Skipton Castle, an exquisitely preserved medieval fortress complete with a spooky dungeon. After you’ve finished exploring every nook and cranny, a walk in the neighbouring woods is the perfect reset. Follow one of the three trails along beautiful woodland and the river valley. You may even spot a kingfisher or two!
The Leeds and Liverpool canal passes through Skipton and a lazy trip along its waterway offers serene views of the surrounding dales. You can book a guided tour or adventurous souls might prefer to hire their own boat, where you can navigate wherever you like and salute your fellow sailors with a glass of bubbles on the deck. It’s the perfect way to spend a sunny day.
Need to blow off steam? A train ride over the iconic Ribblehead viaduct is an experience not to be missed. The view from foot, however, is even more awe-inspiring. The train from Skipton stops at Ribblehead where you can alight and marvel at this feat of engineering. This stop also marks the foot of Whernside, the highest point in Yorkshire and one of the Yorkshire Three Peaks. Once you conquer this peak, you’re instantly rewarded with spectacular views and you can also revive yourselves with a cool refreshment from the Station Inn at the end of the walk.
Plan your Yorkshire Dales staycation by browsing our properties here.
York
Inside York’s ancient walls lies a vibrant city filled with history, incredible attractions, quirky shops and a thriving foodie scene. One of the best ways to start your visit is with a walk around these walls, soaking up the incredible vantage point they offer of the city.
Once back on lower ground, you can continue to explore. Twisting and turning your way through York’s winding streets and narrow alleyways, you’ll uncover a story round every corner. Whether it’s Dick Turpin’s resting place, the original meat hooks hanging above old butchers’ shops in the Shambles or the city’s most haunted pub.
The city’s diverse and storied past can be seen everywhere from the preserved medieval buildings of the Shambles to the gothic splendour of York Minster. Curious young minds will love the many attractions that bring York’s rich history to life in a hands-on way. From exploring the sights (and smells) of York’s Viking times at The Yorvik Viking Centre to uncovering Roman and medieval artefacts at Dig, there’s so much to learn while having lots of fun.
Perhaps most pleasing of all is the city’s long tradition with chocolate making. York’s Chocolate Story is the perfect way to explore this fascinating history, keeping your energy levels high with lots of chocolatey treats along the way.
Take a look at our luxury York holiday homes here.
Richmond
Sitting at the eastern border of the Yorkshire Dales, Richmond is a handsome Georgian market town full of character and history. Surrounded by the sweeping vistas of Swaledale and intersected by the River Swale, it’s among one of the best Yorkshire staycations.
Richmond’s focal point is its Norman castle, perched on a hill high above the town. Alongside a fascinating glimpse back in time, visitors to the stronghold are rewarded with peaceful gardens and stunning views of the town, the riverside and the countryside beyond.
The town itself has plenty to keep you entertained. Visit the Georgian Theatre Royal to gain a unique insight into the most complete working Georgian playhouse in Britain. Or, while away a few hours in the town’s galleries and independent shops. Hopefully you’ll find that perfect memento to remember your trip by.
There are plenty of great walks right on the doorstep too. Our favourite is along the riverside to Easby Abbey. Make sure to admire the incredible River Swale Waterfalls as you go.
The stunning Swaledale valley is also just begging to be explored by bike. Little legs will love tackling sections (or all) of the Swale Trail, a mountain bike route which runs from nearby Reeth through woodland and riverside to picture-postcard Keld. Don’t forget, all cyclists must be rewarded with an ice-cream at the end! Lycra lovers, on the other hand, might be tempted to tackle the Swaledale circular or the many other more challenging road routes in the dales.
Start planning your North Yorkshire staycation by browsing our property collection here.
Pateley Bridge
The exhilarating drop down into Pateley Bridge sets the tone for a holiday in this area. It’s the first of many wow moments you’ll experience in this captivating market town.
Stroll down its picture-perfect high street, where you can duck into any of the independent shops that catch your eye. From herbal medicines to books to the Oldest Sweet Shop in England, you never know what treasures you’ll find. Catch your breath at one of the quaint tea rooms to take stock over your bounty!
Pateley Bridge lies in the heart of the Nidderdale Valley which is one of the most stunning natural landscapes in the UK. Nidderdale National Landscape (formerly known as an AONB) provides the perfect playground for magic seekers. Lay down beneath the dark skies to gaze at the twinkling stars, roam through the dramatic heather moorland and catch a glimpse of curlew and oyster catchers in the fields and wetlands.
Fairies await at the secret woodland and meadows at Studfold Farm. All you have to do is find them! A short drive away lies Brimham Rocks. These incredible rock formations were sculpted by the earth’s movement, glaciers and the elements over millions of years. Sit and listen to their whispered stories on the breeze or indulge your inner adventurer to climb and clamber and squeeze through their hidden tunnels.
All our North Yorkshire self-catering accommodation can be found here.
Ripon
With its gothic cathedral, weekly market and thriving cultural scene, Ripon certainly earns its place as one of the best staycations in Yorkshire.
The market square acts as the hub for this compact city and every Thursday stall owners showcase their wares. Once you’ve explored the market, head into the surrounding streets and snickets to discover the art galleries, artisan bakeries and antique shops. A friendly welcome awaits at the many great restaurants and pubs whatever the weather. Whether you’re curled up next to a roaring fire in wintertime or sat by a riverside pub on a sunny day with a glass of something cold.
Step inside Ripon Cathedral to discover the beauty that lies within. From exquisite stained glass windows, magnificent rib-vaulted ceilings and an Anglo-Saxon crypt, you can simply stand and marvel at its gloriousness. Follow in the footsteps of Alice in Wonderland and explore the architectural features and intricate carvings in the cathedral that are thought to have provided inspiration to Lewis Carroll when he lived in Ripon as a child.
The ancient ruins of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal provide an idyllic place to just be, whatever the season. Come Christmas the abbey is lit up and the sounds of carols float through the air. In summertime, the lush grass, water garden and follies provide the perfect landscape to lie, laugh and play.
Have we inspired you with our Yorkshire staycations? From child-friendly properties to intimate cottages, you’re sure to find the perfect place for yours in our extensive range of luxury Yorkshire holiday homes. Browse our full collection here.
