Traditional stone cottages, rolling countryside, old-fashioned pubs, award-winning beaches, friendly locals and of course, the home of the mighty Yorkshire Pudding – what’s not to love about God’s own country?
The definition of wholesomeness, Yorkshires laid-back charm makes it the perfect place for a refreshing escape. So, if you’re looking to channel your inner Emily Brontë, or just fancying a trip up t’North – keep reading because this blog’s got all the deets on four 'reight' beautiful Yorkshire Towns and Villages that are an absolute must-visit.
A quaint little market town located in the heart of rural North Yorkshire, Hawes is a must visit if you’re a BIG fan of cheese.
As the home of the Wensleydale Creamery and its flagship cheese centre, visitors to Hawes can enjoy a cheese experience like no other at The Yorkshire Wensleydale Cheese Experience – yum.
Enjoy a cheese demonstration, delve into the thousand-year history of artisan cheese making, and take a guided tour in the Yorkshire Tasing Room - because what’s the point in a trip to a cheese centre without tasting any actual cheese… Day trippers can also peek inside the Creamery and have their photo taken with Wallace & Gromit; it’s definitely an experience not to be missed.
BUT don’t worry if dairy really isn’t your thing, and you’re more of an outdoorsy type - there’s plenty of idyllic walking routes you can take around The Yorkshire Dales. Explore Hardraw Force, England’s highest above-ground single-drop waterfall, visit Gayle Mill, a restored 19th-century sawmill with working machinery and water-powered turbines, or head out on a circular walk starting at the tourist information centre and follow the Pennine Way.
Known for once being the home of the world’s most famous literary family, Haworth is a mecca for fans of the Brontë sisters and their work.
With its historic cobbled streets, rolling moors, and vintage charm that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back into another era, it’s no wonder that the village is said to have inspired some of the locations mentioned in Wuthering Heights.
As a homage to the sisters, many of the town's attractions bear their names, including the Brontë Waterfall and the Brontë Personage Museum - the sisters' former home. This is where Charlotte’s 'Jane Eyre', Emily’s 'Wuthering Heights', and Anne’s 'The Tenant of Wildfell Hall' were penned over one hundred and fifty years ago.
The village’s other attractions include the Keighley and Worth Valley five-mile Railway, which operates heritage steam and diesel trains, and the Hewenden Viaduct, a Grade II listed structure that stands as one of the highest viaducts in Britain. Although the village is small, it radiates charm, and its sloped high street, home to independent shops, offers an amazing view of the West Yorkshire countryside from the very top.
Another North York’s treasure is Robin Hood’s Bay, located just a few miles south of Whitby. This once smuggler’s den has been turned into quite the popular tourist destination.
Although small, the village offers a giant dose of charm with its cosy inns, fisherman’s cottages and spectacular costal walks along the steep cliff tops and down onto the beach.
The village is home to several species of birds and marine life, including puffins, seals and dolphins, so if you’re fancy a trip, make sure to pack your binoculars. If you’re a fossil enthusiast, you should definitely head to the Southern end of Robin Hood’s Bay, known as Boggle Hole, which is an area of scientific interest, due to the magnificent ammonites that have been found there over the years.
One of the quirkiest towns in Yorkshire, Hebden Bridge is a great place to visit for a wholesome day out. Surrounded by miles of beautiful West Yorkshire countryside, including the Pennine Hills and the Calderdale Way, the market town is a very popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to it’s walking and cycling trails.
In the town itself, there are plenty of artisan shops, friendly pubs, and quirky cafes to explore, as well as the weekly markets featuring locally produced food and other goods. The market operates on Thursday (general retail), Friday (preloved and second-hand), Saturday (arts and crafts), and Sunday (local produce) and can be found at Old Lees Yard in St Georges Square – the heart of the town.
If you’re in the area Hardcastle Crags, is a must-visit. Located in the South Pennines, and spanning over 400 acres of unspoilt woodland, it’s a great place to go for a stroll. Enjoy scenic views of Hebden Bridge and the West Yorkshire countryside from the very top of the Crags.
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