Last minute holidays UK - Amazing Day Trips from York

York is without doubt one of the UK’s top staycation destinations. Perfect for half term getaways and Christmas retreats, York lends itself to holidays throughout the year because it simply offers so much to see and do in all weathers. Filled with history, quirky streets and incredible architecture, there is no end to exploring this small but fascinating city. But what many don’t know is just how close York is to a whole host of nearby attractions. The range of incredible day trips from York is nothing if not impressive. If you’re seeking last minute holidays in the UK, York, with its range of nearby sights, should certainly be at the top of your list.

Whitby

Take a road trip from York straight to Whitby for a day of traditional seaside fun at this remarkable coastal location. Combining dramatic, rugged cliffs (the highest in the UK) with picturesque beaches and activities for all to enjoy, Whitby certainly isn’t short on reasons to visit. Famous for the stunning Whitby Abbey – dating all the way back to the seventh century – Whitby also boasts a plethora of unique shops, selling everything from smoked kippers to Whitby jet. A trip to Whitby wouldn’t be complete without calling in at nearby Robin Hood’s Bay for some of the best fish and chips around whilst enjoying stunning views of the coastline. What’s more, literature lovers should most certainly absorb Whitby’s stunning surroundings, for the town, its history and its locale inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

Ilkley Moor

For rambling and taking photographs, there are few places better for pursuing both passions than Ilkley Moor. Rising to over 1,300 feet above sea level, the moorland is home to the famous Ilkley Quarry, where the impressive Cow and Calf rocks can be found. There are also ‘earthfast boulders’ on the moor which exhibit Neolithic carvings – offering a fascinating glimpse into ancient history. A site for Special Scientific Interest, Ilkley Moor is also home to many bird species, including Merlin, Curlew, Redshank and Golden Plover; there is plenty to see when visiting this picturesque landscape. As one of the most memorable day trips from York, Ilkley Moor also offers paranormal intrigue as it was supposedly the site of an infamous alien sighting in 1987!

Castle Howard

Just 15 miles north of York, Castle Howard is a breath-taking estate with one of the most recognisable facades of any stately home in the world. Used as the ‘Brideshead’ house in both the 1981 and 2008 adaptation of the novel Brideshead Revisited, Castle Howard has become an iconic destination across the world and attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists every year. Taking over 100 years to complete, the building is filled with exquisite and lovingly-maintained relics and architecture, all of which is continually restored by Castle Howard Estate Limited. Part of the pleasure in visiting this historic gem is knowing that your entry fee goes towards this conservation effort. Besides the beautiful house, Castle Howard entices visitors with its stunning grounds. Featuring an arboretum, woodland walk, manicured lawns and more – much of a day visit to Castle Howard will be spent enjoying its picturesque surroundings.    

Fountains Abbey

Founded in 1132, Fountains Abbey is one of the best preserved Cistercian monasteries in England. Pillaged by order of Henry VIII in 1539, today the Abbey exists only as ruins, but its magnificent architecture continues to enthral countless visitors. The abbey resides within the Studley Royal Park – an area covering 800 acres. In addition to the abbey, visitors can explore an 18^th century landscaped garden, Jacobean mansion and Victorian church. There are also several walks around the site – aimed at different ability levels – meaning those of all ages can enjoy the incredible views on offer throughout the park. Ornamental lakes, canals and temples form the water garden, and a range of deer species roam the medieval deer park. There really is no end to what you can find on this, one of the must-experience day trips from York.  

Haworth

Located close to nearby Bradford, the village of Haworth exemplifies the traditional Yorkshire village of old. This hilltop settlement is filled with the familiar darkened stone and quaint architecture of England’s oldest townships and makes for a mesmerising trip back in time. Shop to your heart’s content in Haworth’s selection of bookshops, boutiques and independent stores. There is also a range of tea rooms, cafes and pubs populating the small village – so a well-deserved afternoon break is definitely on the cards. But Haworth is best known for its connection to the Bronte sisters. Although born in nearby Thornton, the Bronte sisters wrote their most famous works at the Haworth Parsonage – which is now a museum filled with original Bronte manuscripts, letters and much more. For those seeking to discover more Bronte connections, a walk from the village leads to the Bronte Falls and Bronte Bridge – much of the area having been frequented by the sisters, and some landmarks having inspired aspects of their greatest novels.  

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