Wander Mak

The historic region of Yorkshire is neatly tucked up in northern England and is known for its Roman and Viking heritage, Norman castles, rolling lush countryside and of course, the picturesque villages and bustling cities that are scattered across the 4 counties that make up Yorkshire.

I’ve been lucky enough to call Yorkshire home for past year after moving to England as an expat. Unlike London which is extremely diverse and almost a country in itself, Yorkshire is exactly what you’d picture regular life to be in this part of the world. I’ve been able to immerse myself in the authentic English culture. Within this time I have explored far and wide, often stumbling upon hidden gems and breathtaking views.

If you’re planning to visit Yorkshire, then look no further for inspiration. I have put together 5 places that have completely blown me away.

1. Knaresborough & Harrogate

Harrogate is an affluent spa town and home to a luxurious victorian Turkish style spa that is famed for its purifying mineral water, local boutiques and breathtaking garden displays that spray the the stunning Victorian architecture that lines the streets.

Located in Harrogate borough is the picturesque town on Knaresborough. The town is the oldest tourist destination in the whole of the United Kingdom. It also hosts castle ruins that once housed medieval monarchs and views that over look the river Nidd, Knaresborough viaduct and quaint cottages, this is the perfect destination for a day trip or relaxing weekend away.

Related posts: How to spend a day in Knaresborough

2. Flamborough Head

I stumbled across this gem after searching for beach locations when I fell victim to the British heat wave. It turned out that this beautiful destination was a mere 45 minutes away from my house. With clear turquoise waters that wash rugged white cliffs, this is the perfect place to bring a picnic blanket and take in the breath taking landscape.

There are park benches located everywhere on the hillside that are discreet and surrounded by lush greenery and dappled by vibrant wild flowers. You can also take in the famed ‘drinking dinosaur’ along with birds eye views of a seal colony that love to bask in the sun and sleep on the cliff ledges below. Just make sure not to approach them and respect their environment.

3. Robin Hoods Bay & Whitby

Found on the coastline of North Yorkshire, these two locations are a mere 10 minutes drive apart. Both are known for their narrow ‘snickets’ that pirates once took advantage of in the past and compact ‘jenga’ of fisherman’s cottages that fall from the rolling green fields above, these are an underrated must! You can also find Whitby cathedral which inspired the novel Dracula.

Both destinations also offer their own beaches and bays which even I was impressed by as an Aussie. This is truly one of my favourite destinations in all of England!

Related posts: A day in Robin Hood’s Bay

4. Haworth & Yorkshire Dales

Located in the west of Yorkshire is the extremely scenic town of Haworth which is nestled within he rolling green hills that make up a small section of the Yorkshire Dales. This historic community attracts thousands of visitors from around the world and has been home to the Bronte sisters as well as sets for a number of movies and series such as Wild Child and Peaky blinders, and there’s a good reason why.

The streets are lined with quaint cottages, tea rooms and pubs that show off their quintessential traditional English interiors that look upon the cobbled streets where performers such as classical singers and musicians can be seen, entertaining the crowds that are strolling the streets.

The village also boasts a number of scenic walks that trail West Yorkshire’s landscape that make up some of the Dales.

Related posts: How to spend a day in Haworth

5. York

York is one of the most stunning and charming cities in all of England. It’s also lesser known internationally than the likes of London, Manchester and Oxford, making it the perfect place to indulge in English culture without being swarmed by too many tourists.

The city remains enclosed by its original walls which had once protected its Celtic, English and Viking inhabitants throughout their tenure whom have all influenced the city into the York we know today. It also homes one of Europes largest cathedrals and the worlds most preserved chain of streets; the Shambles which appears to be taken right out of a Harry Potter novel.

Aside from it’s incredible architecture and history, the city also boasts hundreds of old pubs, famed restaurants, unique artisan stores and German Christmas markets in the winter. There really is something for everyone to see and explore.

Related posts: The complete guide to York

I’m an Australian blogger based in Central West NSW who has spent the last few years exploring the four corners of the globe, living as an expat and falling in love with the world just a little bit more everyday. Here you can find my tips, guides and experiences to help inspire you for your next trip!

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