The 10 Most Stunning Sights To See In Yorkshire
Yorkshire is a historic county in northern England. The county town is York, and the largest city is Leeds. Yorkshire is famous for its beautiful countryside, including the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors.
The county is also home to a number of important historical sites, such as Castle Howard and Fountains Abbey. In addition, Yorkshire has a rich industrial heritage, with cities such as Sheffield and Bradford having once been major centers of the British steel industry.
Today, Yorkshire is a popular tourist destination, with people from all over the world coming to enjoy its stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage.
The city of York is home to some of the most popular tourist attractions in Yorkshire. And no trip to Yorkshire would be complete without exploring some of its beautiful countrysides.
Most Stunning Sights To See In Yorkshire
From the dramatic coastline to the stunning countryside, Yorkshire is a feast for the eyes. This English county is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Here are the most stunning sights to see in Yorkshire.
The Yorkshire Dales National Park- A Hidden Gem in the UK
Tucked away in the North of England is a hidden gem known as the Yorkshire Dales National Park. This picturesque landscape is home to rolling hills, tranquil lakes, and picturesque villages straight out of a storybook. The Yorkshire Dales have been attracting visitors for centuries and it’s easy to see why. Here are just a few reasons why you should add the Yorkshire Dales National Park to your travel bucket list.
One of the most obvious reasons to visit the Yorkshire Dales is for the scenery. This national park is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the United Kingdom. The gentle rolling hills, pristine lakes, and quaint villages make the Yorkshire Dales a photographer’s dream come true. Whether you’re an amateur shutterbug or a professional photographer, you’ll be able to find plenty of photo opportunities throughout the park.
Another great reason to visit the Yorkshire Dales National Park is for the wildlife. This national park is home to a variety of different animals including red deer, wild boar, red squirrels, and otters. If you’re lucky enough, you might even catch a glimpse of one of the park’s elusive residents- the golden eagle.
In addition to being a nature lover’s paradise, the Yorkshire Dales are also rich in history. The park is home to a number of different historical sites including castles, abbeys, and Roman ruins. Visitors can also take part in a number of different activities such as tours led by local historians or visiting one of the museums located throughout the park.
Whether you’re looking for scenic vistas, an opportunity to commune with nature, or a chance to explore the history, you’ll find it all at the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
The North York Moors
The North York Moors national park is located in the north of England and covers an area of 554 square miles. The moors are home to a variety of wildlife including red deer, roe deer, hares, foxes, badgers, and otters. There are also many different types of birds that can be found in the area such as peregrine falcons, ravens, and red kites.
The North York Moors is a beautiful place to explore with stunning scenery and plenty of opportunities for walking, cycling, and horse riding. There are also a number of historic sites that can be visited including castles, abbeys, and stately homes. If you’re looking for a place to get away from it all and enjoy some peace and quiet, then the North York Moors is definitely worth a visit.
The North York Moors is easily accessible by car or public transport. By car, the journey from London takes approximately four hours. If you’re coming from further afield, then there are regular flights into Durham Tees Valley Airport which is located just outside of the national park. Once you’re in the area, there is an excellent network of roads and public transport links so getting around is easy.
There are two main towns within the national park – Pickering and Whitby. Pickering is located on the edge of the moors and is a good base for exploring the area. Whitby is situated on the coast and is well-known for its association with Dracula as well as being a popular seaside resort town.
There are plenty of things to keep you occupied during your stay in the North York Moors. If you’re looking to get out into nature then there are plenty of walking and cycling trails to explore. For something a bit different, why not take a ride on the steam train that runs through the national park? Or if you’re feeling really adventurous, you could even try your hand at abseiling down one of the cliffs!
If you’re interested in history then there are plenty of historic sites to visit including castles, abbeys, and stately homes. Or if you prefer something more modern, then you could check out one of the many museums or art galleries in the area. And if you’re visiting with children then they’ll be sure to enjoy a day out at one of the farms or animal parks in the region.
Whitby Abbey
Whitby Abbey is a ruined Benedictine abbey overlooking the North Sea on the East Cliff above Whitby in North Yorkshire, England. It was founded in 657 AD by King Oswiu of Northumbria as a double monastery for monks and nuns. In 1078, William the Conqueror appointed his half-brother Odo, Bishop of Bayeux, as the abbot. The abbey was dissolved by Henry VIII in 1540 during the Dissolution of the Monasteries. Since then, it has been owned by the Crown and managed by English Heritage. Despite its ruinous state, the abbey is a Grade I listed building and a Scheduled Monument known for its spectacular views and rich history.
The first mention of Whitby Abbey in historical records comes from Venerable Bede’s Ecclesiastical History of the English People, which was completed in 731 AD. In it, Bede recounts how King Oswiu of Northumbria founded the double monastery at Whitby in 657 AD. According to Bede, Oswiu had originally intended to found the monastery at Streonshalh (now known as Scarborough), but he had a dream in which Saint Hilda (the abbess of nearby Hartlepool Abbey) appeared to him and told him to build the monastery at Whitby instead.
The original buildings of Whitby Abbey were made from wood, but they were replaced with stone buildings in the 10th century. The abbey was significantly damaged by fire in 1137 and again in 1379, but it was rebuilt each time. The last major addition to the abbey was made in 1420 when the cloisters were built.
The dissolution of the monasteries began during the reign of Henry VIII, and by 1540 Whitby Abbey had been dissolved and all its property confiscated by the Crown. Over the centuries that followed, the abbey fell into ruin as its stone was scavenged for building materials elsewhere. Today, only a small portion of the original abbey remains to stand, but its ruins are still an impressive sight.
Scarborough Castle
Scarborough Castle is a medieval castle situated on a headland overlooking the North Sea and Scarborough, North Yorkshire, England. Built in the 11th century, it was occupied by the Crown until 1645 when it was sold to Sir Hugh Cholmondeley. It then changed hands numerous times before passing into state care in 1929. Today, the castle is managed by English Heritage and is open to visitors throughout the year.
The origins of Scarborough Castle date back to the 11th century when William de Percy, 1st Baron Percy, built a wooden motte-and-bailey castle on the site. The castle changed hands several times over the next few centuries before being taken over by King Henry VIII in 1530. During the English Civil War, Scarborough Castle was held by Royalist forces before being captured by Parliamentarians in 1645. Following the war, the castle was sold to Sir Hugh Cholmondeley and remained in private hands until 1929 when it was given to the Ministry of Works. In 1984, English Heritage took over responsibility for the upkeep of Scarborough Castle.
The castle is situated on a rocky headland overlooking the North Sea and Scarborough town. The keep, which was built in the 12th century, is one of the largest surviving examples of its type in England and is surrounded by an inner and outer bailey. A number of other buildings are located within the castle walls including an early chapel, gatehouse, barracks, and Great Hall. The castle also has an extensive series of earthworks which were created to defend against attacks from land and sea.
Visitors can explore the keep, Great Hall, chapel, and other buildings within the castle walls or take a walk around the extensive earthworks. Whether you’re interested in history or just looking for a great day out, Scarborough Castle is definitely worth a visit!
Fountains Abbey
Fountains Abbey is a fascinating place with a long and storied history. Founded in 1132 by a group of Benedictine monks, the abbey flourished for centuries, playing an important role in both the religious and political life of England. The Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century brought an end to monastic life at Fountains, but the abbey ruins remain one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Let’s take a closer look at the history of this incredible place.
They settled on the banks of the River Skell near Ripon in North Yorkshire and began construction on their new abbey. The first years were difficult, as they struggled to clear the land and build shelter before winter set in. But by 1135, they had constructed a temporary wooden church, and life at the abbey began to take shape.
The next few decades were prosperous ones for the monks of Fountains. The abbey became rich and powerful, thanks in part to generous donations from local nobility. In 1147, Pope Eugenius III issued a bull confirming Fountains’ status as an independent monastery, exempt from all secular authority except that of the pope himself. This made Fountains one of only four monasteries in England with such status.
By 1200, the abbey was home to over 60 monks and had begun to acquire landholdings throughout England. The 13th century was marked by several large building projects, including the expansion of the church and cloisters, as well as the construction of a new infirmary and guest house. Life at Fountains Abbey reached its peak in the 14th century; at its height, there were over 80 monks living and working at the abbey.
The good times came to an end in 1539 when King Henry VIII ordered the Dissolution of the Monasteries as part of his effort to break with Rome and gain control over the Church of England. The last monk left Fountains Abbey on December 27th, 1539, bringing an end to centuries of monastic life there.
After dissolution, many abbey buildings were destroyed or sold off for their stone. However, some parts of the complex were converted into a country house known as Fountain Court. In 1745, Charles Watson-Wentworth inherited both Fountain Court and Fountains Abbey from his uncle; he proceeded to demolish most of Fountain Court so that its stone could be used to repair damage caused by years of neglect at Fountains Abbey.
Today, visitors can explore over 800 acres of stunning countryside that includes not only ruins of Fountains Abbey but also Studley Royal Water Garden—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and 7 miles (11 km)of riverside walks along the River Skell. It’s easy to see why this is one of England’s most popular tourist destinations!
Bolton Abbey
Tucked away in a valley in the Yorkshire Dales, Bolton Abbey is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. This picturesque ruined abbey, set against a backdrop of rolling hills and pristine waterways, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region. But Bolton Abbey is more than just a pretty face; it’s steeped in history dating back over 800 years. Here’s everything you need to know about this fascinating place.
Bolton Abbey was founded in 1154 by Augustinian monks from Clairvaux Abbey in France. The monks were invited to England by King Henry II, who hoped they would help to reform the corrupt English church. The abbey quickly became a wealthy and powerful institution, owning large tracts of land and playing an important role in regional politics.
Bolton Abbey’s fortunes changed dramatically during the Dissolution of the Monasteries under King Henry VIII. In 1539, the abbey was dissolved and its assets seized by the Crown. Many of the monastic buildings were demolished, leaving only the ruins that can be seen today.
Despite this tumultuous history, Bolton Abbey remains a place of great beauty and tranquility. Visitors can explore the ruins of the abbey church, stroll through the picturesque grounds, or take a dip in the River Wharfe (if they’re brave enough!). There’s also a cafe on site, making it the perfect spot for a pit stop during a day out in Yorkshire.
Whether you’re interested in history or simply looking for a beautiful place to spend an afternoon, Bolton Abbey is well worth a visit. So next time you’re in Yorkshire, be sure to add this hidden gem to your itinerary!
Ripley Castle: Discover the Secrets of Ripley Castle
Nestled in the heart of North Yorkshire, Ripley Castle has been home to the Ingilby family for over 700 years. Today, the castle is open to the public and is a popular tourist destination. But what secrets does this ancient castle hold? Let’s take a closer look.
One of the most famous stories associated with Ripley Castle is that of Lady Anne Clifford. Lady Anne was born at the castle in 1590 and spent much of her life there. She was married twice and had 16 children, but her first husband died young and her second husband was often away from home, leaving her largely alone at Ripley.
It is said that after Lady Anne’s death in 1676, her ghost began to haunt the castle. Visitors have reported seeing her ghostly figure in various parts of the castle, including the Great Hall, the Long Gallery, and even in some of the bedrooms.
Another ghost said to haunt Ripley Castle is that of the Green Lady. The identity of the Green Lady is unknown, but she is said to have been a servant at the castle who fell in love with one of the Ingilby sons. When their relationship was discovered, she was swiftly dismissed from her position. It is said that she died of a broken heart not long afterward.
Since then, her ghost has been seen wandering the grounds of Ripley Castle. She has also been known to play tricks on visitors, such as moving objects or hiding keys.
One final secret associated with Ripley Castle is that of the secret room. It is said that there is a secret room hidden somewhere within the castle walls, although its exact location remains a mystery. Rumors abound as to what this room might be used for, with some people saying it was used as a dungeon for prisoners and others saying it was where Lady Anne Clifford kept her treasure.
Whatever its true purpose may be, the secret room remains hidden to this day and its location continues to elude visitors and historians alike.
Harewood House
Harewood House is a stately home located in Harewood, West Yorkshire, England. The house is set in formal gardens and a park designed by Capability Brown and includes a bird garden, landscaped walks, and a folly. The house is built of ashlar stone and has five stories, with the main floor being the piano nobile where the family would have resided. The house was built between 1759 and 1771 for Edwin Lascelles, 1st Baron Harewood and his wife Dorothy.
The house was designed by John Carr of York who also designed many other notable buildings in Yorkshire including Abbotsholme School and Thorp Arch Trading Estate. The interiors were designed by Robert Adam who was responsible for the decoration of the public rooms on the piano nobile. Many of the original furnishings remain in the house today including furniture, paintings, and sculptures.
The house remained in the Lascelles family until 1922 when it was sold to King George V who gifted it to his son, Edward, Prince of Wales (the future King Edward VIII). In 1947, the house was given to Princess Mary, Countess of Harewood who opened it to the public in 1950. The estate remains in the ownership of the Lascelles family today and is open to visitors from April to October.
Harewood House is a stunning example of 18th-century architecture that has been beautifully preserved. If you’re ever in West Yorkshire, be sure to pay a visit to this historic home.
Temple Newsam House
Located in Leeds, England, Temple Newsam House is a Tudor-style mansion that was built in the early 16th century. The house has been owned by a number of different families over the years and has undergone a number of renovations. In the early 20th century, the house was purchased by Leeds City Council and opened to the public as a museum. Today, the house is open to the public for tours and also hosts a number of events throughout the year.
The original house was built in 1530 for Sir Thomas Gargrave and his family. The Gargrave family lived in the house for nearly two hundred years before selling it to Sir John Savile in 1714. The Savile family made a number of changes to the house during their ownership, including adding an additional wing and renovating the interior.
In 1822, the Savile family sold the house to William Wentworth-Fitzwilliam, the 4th Earl Fitzwilliam. The Earl made even more changes to the house, including adding a conservatory and several outbuildings. In 1897, after the death of the 6th Earl Fitzwilliam, Temple Newsam House was inherited by his nephew, Viscount Milton. Lord Milton decided to sell the house in 1901 due to financial difficulties.
Leeds City Council purchased Temple Newsam House in 1922 with plans to open it to the public as a museum. A number of restoration projects have been undertaken since then in order to return the house to its former glory. Today, visitors can tour the house and grounds and see firsthand how this historic property has changed over time.
Temple Newsam House is a historic Tudor-style mansion located in Leeds, England. The house has been owned by a number of different families over the centuries and has undergone many changes. Today, it is open to the public for tours and also hosts various events throughout the year. If you’re ever in Leeds, be sure to check out this fascinating piece of history!
Brimham Rocks: The Mysterious Brimham Rocks
Have you ever been on a hike and come across a giant rock formation that just doesn’t look quite right? That’s what happened to me when I came across the Brimham Rocks. Located in North Yorkshire, England, the Brimham Rocks are a collection of strangely-shaped rocks that have been eroded over time. But how did they get there? Let’s take a closer look.
Geologists believe that the Brimham Rocks were formed during the Late Devonian period, which was around 360 million years ago. At that time, the area where the rocks now stand was actually underneath a shallow sea. Over time, sediments built up and eventually solidified into rock.
Fast forward to the present day, and you can see how erosion has carved out some interesting shapes in the rocks. The most famous of these is probably the “Dancing Bear,” which is a large boulder that looks suspiciously like a bear rearing up on its hind legs. Other popular formations include the “Honeycomb,” the “Giant’s Cave,” and the “Watching Rock.”
There are many theories about how exactly the rocks got their strange shapes, but no one knows for sure. One thing is certain, though: they make for a very unique hiking experience! So if you ever find yourself in North Yorkshire, be sure to check them out.
There you have it, 10 of the most stunning sights to see in Yorkshire! This English county is truly a feast for the eyes, with its beautiful scenery and historic landmarks. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Yorkshire today!
Conclusion
Whilst there are endless sights to see in Yorkshire, these are our top 10. With its verdant landscapes, wild moors, and dramatic coastline, Yorkshire is a feast for the senses. If you’re planning a visit to this scenic region, make sure to add these breathtaking sights to your itinerary.
