There’s no wrong time to visit Yorkshire. Each season brings something different, from spring gardens and summer festivals to autumn colour and cosy winter breaks. Here’s what to expect through the year, and where to stay.
Spring: gardens and lambing season
Spring brings blossom to Harrogate’s Valley Gardens, lambs to the fields and fewer crowds at the big attractions. The Harrogate Spring Flower Show is a highlight for gardeners. It’s a great time for walks at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal and in the Dales before the summer rush.
Where to stay: our Harrogate holiday homes or one of our homes in Ripon.
Summer: festivals, the coast and long evenings
Summer is the busiest time of year. The Great Yorkshire Show comes to Harrogate, the beaches at Whitby, Scarborough and Filey are at their best and the long evenings are made for eating outside. Book early, especially for school holidays.
Where to stay: our cottages at Sands Farm near Pickering make it easy to reach the coast.
Autumn: colour and quieter roads
Autumn turns the Dales, Nidd Gorge and the woods around Studley Royal gold and red. The roads and attractions are quieter, and it’s a lovely time to walk and come back to a log burner.
Where to stay: the Morndyke Shepherds’ Huts near Thirsk (with log burners) or Loft 11 near Pateley Bridge.
Winter: Christmas markets and cosy breaks
Winter is the season for Christmas markets, festive lights and frosty walks followed by a pub lunch. Knaresborough and Harrogate are lovely in the run-up to Christmas. Rural cottages with a hot tub, like those at Sands Farm or The Little Chantry in West Tanfield, are a treat on a cold night.
Where to stay: our hot tub properties, or the town-centre homes in Knaresborough.
Tips for any season
- The weather can change quickly, especially on the moors and the coast, so pack layers and waterproofs.
- Check opening times before you travel, as many attractions have shorter hours in winter.
- Midweek breaks are usually quieter than weekends.
