Category: Yorkshire

Yorkshire has some of the best art in the country, from world-famous sculpture to small craft studios. Here’s how to plan an art-filled break.

The Yorkshire Sculpture Triangle

Four galleries make up the Yorkshire Sculpture Triangle:

• Yorkshire Sculpture Park: over 500 acres of parkland with sculptures by artists including Barbara Hepworth, Henry Moore and Damien Hirst.
• The Hepworth Wakefield: modern British art, named after the Yorkshire-born sculptor Barbara Hepworth.
• Leeds Art Gallery and The Henry Moore Institute in Leeds.

Saltaire and Salts Mill

Saltaire is a model Victorian village built by Sir Titus Salt for his workers in 1851. Today Salts Mill houses a gallery with a focus on the work of David Hockney.

Crafts and makers

Look out for craft markets, independent galleries and studios in market towns across the county. The Hepworth Wakefield hosts an artisan market in its gardens, and towns like Skipton have regular craft markets.

Planning your art escape

• Check exhibition dates and opening times before you travel.
• Combine galleries that are close together, such as Leeds and Wakefield, on the same day.
• Leave time for the gift shops, where local makers often sell their work.

Where to stay

Archie’s Place in Headingley is a handy base for Leeds and Wakefield, and Moor View in Ilkley is a short drive from Saltaire. See our Leeds accommodation and West Yorkshire holiday homes.

Nestled within the captivating embrace of the delightful Yorkshire region, Kist Accommodates offers a diverse range of stylish and unique self-catering properties that provide the perfect base from which to explore the area’s stunning natural attractions, invigorating outdoor activities, and hidden gems. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of a challenging hike, a tranquil ramble through idyllic gardens, or an awe-inspiring encounter with dramatic coastal landscapes, Yorkshire has it all. 

With its diverse landscapes comprised of iconic dales, picturesque moorlands, and dramatic coastline, Yorkshire is a natural playground that inspires a multitude of outdoor pursuits perfectly suited for visitors of all ages and abilities. From the invigorating heights of the York Moors and the serenity of the serene Yorkshire Dales, to the breathtaking magnitude of Flamborough’s coastal cliffs and the charming seclusion of hidden bays, the region’s natural marvels beckon you to step out and explore. 

In this comprehensive guide, we delve deep into the lush greenery, rolling hills, striking cliffs, and enchanting woodlands of Yorkshire, highlighting the must-see landscapes and outdoor experiences that ensure your stay with Kist Accommodates is a truly unforgettable adventure.

A Journey through the Dales: Yorkshire Dales National Park

Spanning an area of 841 square miles, the Yorkshire Dales National Park is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its lush valleys, winding rivers, picturesque villages, and traditional stone barns, the Dales offer a delightful variety of landscapes for visitors to explore. Whether you’re wandering around Malham Cove, taking in Gordale Scar’s dramatic limestone ravine, or hiking to the top of Ingleborough—one of the famous Yorkshire Three Peaks—you’ll find unforgettable experiences around every corner.

Walking trails and footpaths traverse the Dales catering to all levels of walkers, from gentle strolls, such as the Aysgarth Falls Walk, to more challenging hikes like the 24-mile Three Peaks Challenge. Cyclists will enjoy the scenic splendour of routes like the Swaledale Trail, while wildlife enthusiasts should head to Grassington’s moorlands to try spotting the red grouse or curlew, which call the area home.

Discovering the Untamed Beauty of the North York Moors

The North York Moors National Park offers a contrasting landscape to its Dales counterpart, characterised by vast expanses of heather-covered moorland, ancient woodlands, and vibrant coastline. With over 1,400 miles of walking and cycling trails, as well as captivating heritage sites like the atmospheric ruins of Rievaulx Abbey, the North York Moors present a rich and varied tapestry of natural attractions and outdoor activities.

Charge your camera batteries and head to the Hole of Horcum, a dramatic natural hollow that offers sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding moors. Explore the beautiful grounds and walled gardens of Helmsley Castle, or embark on a journey through Rollright Stones’ wonder-filled woodland walks. The coastline of the North York Moors holds unique attractions, too, such as the fossil-filled charms of Robin Hood’s Bay and the dramatic sea views from Ravenscar’s clifftops.

Coastal Adventures Along Flamborough’s Cliffs and Bays

With its towering chalk cliffs, charming bays, and hidden sea caves, the Flamborough Headland Heritage Coast presents an entirely different aspect of Yorkshire’s natural splendour. The dramatic coastal landscape, a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest, supports a remarkable array of seabird populations—including gannets, puffins, and guillemots—making it a prime destination for birdwatching and wildlife photography enthusiasts.

Lighthouses hold a prominent place on the Flamborough Heritage Coast. Be sure to visit the new Flamborough Lighthouse or the Old Beacon to learn about their role in maritime history. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Bempton Cliffs, where you can take in stunning views of the coastline and observe seabirds in their natural habitat. For a more secluded experience, venture down to Selwicks Bay—a picturesque beach that remains hidden from the more well-trodden paths of Flamborough.

Journey Into the Past: Yorkshire’s Historic Gardens

If you’re seeking a more tranquil outdoor experience, Yorkshire is home to an array of enchanting gardens that combine natural beauty with historical intrigue. These havens of horticulture showcase intricate designs, exotic plant species, and captivating tales of history, offering visitors an immersive journey into the region’s past.

Make your way to Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site that combines the grand ruins of a Cistercian monastery with elegant Georgian water gardens. Wander the walled gardens of Helmsley Walled Garden, a fully restored 18th-century treasure, brimming with vibrant plants and floral displays. Lastly, pay a visit to Beningbrough Hall’s 18th-century landscaped gardens. With its grand hall, wilderness play area, and interactive galleries, Beningbrough is perfect for an enchanting day out that appeals to all ages.

Embracing Yorkshire’s Natural Wonders and Kist Accommodates

Yorkshire is a region that boasts an impressive array of natural wonders, outdoor activities, and hidden gems. Whether you’re seeking a challenging hike in the Dales, a tranquil stroll through historic gardens, or an awe-inspiring encounter with coastal landscapes, Yorkshire has it all. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore Yorkshire’s captivating landscapes, outdoor experiences, and hidden gems, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Yorkshire’s captivating landscapes and awe-inspiring outdoor experiences are perfectly complemented by the luxurious comfort of Kist Accommodates’ unique self-catering accommodations. Whether you’re scaling the dizzying heights of the Dales, soaking in the serenity of the North York Moors’ heather-covered vistas, or feeling the salty spray from Flamborough’s imposing cliffs, you’ll find a sense of contentment and adventure that’s only enhanced by your stay with Kist Accommodates. Ready to explore Yorkshire’s natural wonders and create unforgettable memories? Book your stay with us today!

Where to stay nearby

For the North York Moors and the coast, our cottages at Sands Farm near Pickering are at the gateway to the Moors. For the Dales, try Loft 11 near Pateley Bridge or The Little Chantry at West Tanfield. See all our rural properties.