Yorkshire is one of the biggest, and most gorgeous, counties in the UK. It has brought us wonders such as Yorkshire puddings, Yorkshire tea, and Marks and Spencer! This is the perfect place for a lovely couple trip, or even just a day out together. For life can get busy and hectic, but you must always take the time to step back and enjoy the sunshine with the one you love. So here are our top fun days out in Yorkshire to help you do exactly that!
#1 Visit Lovers’ Leap
Legend has it that at Brimham Rocks, a miraculous love story took place many centuries ago. Edwin and Julia were madly in love but were forbade to be together. Driven mad by their desire and the possibility of life without one another, they decided to leap from the rocks to spend eternity together. But fortunately, instead of plummeting to their deaths, the couple gently floated to the ground. This miracle convinced Julia’s disapproving father to change his mind and consent to their marriage. These waterfalls are absolutely beautiful, so pack a picnic and surprise your partner by taking them there. Tell them this romantic story over a glass of bubbly, and make sure to stay away from the edge, miracles don’t happen twice!
#2 Storm a Castle
Or instead you can just visit one of the many dotted around Yorkshire. Make your loved one feel like a prince or princess by bringing them to a medieval castle. The castle at Hemsley has a gorgeous walled garden, where you can try sneak a kiss amongst the roses. It also overlooks the market town, which you can stop by after to pick up some lunch! Or if you’re an avid literature fan, head to Conisbrough Castle in South Yorkshire, which was the setting for Sir Walter Scott’s Ivanhoe novel. The floors and roof have been restored in the lofty circular, allowing you to fully appreciate the magnificence of the original 12th century building. The grassy areas around the castle walls are the perfect setting for a picnic. History fans will be intrigued by Bolton Castle, where Queen Elizabeth I imprisoned her cousin, Mary Queen of Scots. You can follow the footsteps of her attempted escape, and begin to wonder why she even tried to escape such a beautiful place!
#3 Hike the North York Moors National Park
The North Yorkshire Moors National Park is situated just above Scarborough, and is filled with things to do. It contains some of the region’s most loved villages, ancient landmarks and unspoilt woodlands. Hike along the Cleveland Way National Trail for an active way to enjoy time with your loved one. Then stop at the Cod Beck Reservoir to enjoy a breathtaking sunset. There are tons of activities in this Yorkshire park, such as a Go Ape zipline trail, waterfalls to swim in and biking routes. History fans will love Rievaulx Abbey, which is considered to be one of the most impressive Cistercian monasteries in England.
#4 Get your Adrenaline Pumping
Are you or your partner an adrenaline junkie? Or just looking to try something new that scares you senseless? Then Yorkshire has got you covered. Head to Malham or Brimham to go rock climbing, and see how high you dare to go. Or push yourself even further with a flying lesson, paragliding session or even skydiving! Following this incredible rush, you can come back to earth by stopping off at a nearby pub for a pint and bite to eat - if you can stomach it!
#5 Be a Beach Bum
If you’ve both been awfully busy lately, or just prefer this kind of day off, skip the sightseeing and go to the beach! Yorkshire is lined with beautiful shores for you to enjoy. Head over to Flamborough for the sunrise or sunset, and walk along the gorgeous coast hand in hand. Depending on the time of year, you could even spot some of the local wildlife! If you’re looking for something more secluded, then drive to Spurn Head, where you can take in the panoramic view of the North Sea and the mouth of the Humber. One of my personal favourite fun days out in Yorkshire is a trip to Scarborough, as I’m a big fan of traditional seaside trips. The South Bay is a lovely family area, where you can challenge your loved one to a sandcastle building competition or a game in the amusement arcade. Enjoy an ice cream, and maybe even try a donkey ride! The old-school seaside will take you back, and the cheery atmosphere is contagious. The North Bay is calmer in contrast, and can be reached via the Marine and Albert Drives along the coast. Make sure to enjoy the journey there as part of your trip, as it is beautiful. You can use an old-school victorian funicular to get up the mountain. Read paperbacks next to each other on the calm beach, and see which of you can brave it further into the cold waters!
#6 Go Shopping at a Market
One of the most fun days out in Yorkshire is a trip to a traditional market, which the county is absolutely filled with! From vintage fairs to foodie extravaganzas, you’ll be able to find the perfect market for you and your partner. Barnsley market is over 700 years old, and has about 300 stalls for you to browse at your leisure. Produce sold include food, flowers, and fashion! Or skip lunch and go to Kirkby Lonsdale Farmers market, which is considered to be one of the best and most varied farmers markets in Yorkshire. Everything on offer has been baked, brewed or caught by the sellers, providing a local fusion of seasonal specialities. Tasting the infamous Grasmere gingerbread there is actually one of my favourite activities in Yorkshire, especially when topped off with some local gin! Visit Leeds Kirkgate Market even if it just to admire the beautiful Victorian market hall which holds it. This is one of the largest indoor markets in the whole of Europe, and you’ll find everything from speciality food and drink to hardware to fashion. But a crowd favourite is the gourmet ingredients on offer. Pick up some of the aromatic spices or delicacies such as crab claws, and head home to cook a romantic candlelit dinner for your loved one!
#7 Take a Dip Together
Need to blow off some steam? Head over to the Harrogate Turkish baths. This is considered to be one of the best days out in Yorkshire for couples, and beat off competition from Paris to be named the third most romantic destination in the world! It offers a variety of luxury treatments and packages, so why not treat your partner to a couples massage? Being together whilst getting all your stress pounded out, wonderful! Or simply head to the Baths to relax and enjoy the tranquility together. The baths are surrounded by an intricate Italian mosaic floor, Islamic arches and a Moorish design. You will emerge a new person!
#8 Fill up on Afternoon Tea
The elegant ritual of afternoon tea was first started by Anna Maria Russell, the 7th Duchess of Bedford. And thank goodness for that, as it has become a staple of true Britain. Partake in this tradition by booking an afternoon tea for two at one of the best locations in Yorkshire. The Black Swan in Helmsley is award-winning, and their fruit scones are simply spectacular! Bettys Cafe Tea room in Harrogate is also one for the books, and the perfect stop after visiting the Harrogate Turkish Baths. They claim to have been perfecting their afternoon tea for 95 years, and once tasting it we aren’t surprised! They offer a wider sandwich selection than most, from the traditional road Yorkshire ham and mustard to the more exotic prawn Marie Rose and oak roast salmon. If you or your loved one have a strong sweet tooth, then Rudding Park in Harrogate is your haven! They have a delicious selection, including pistachio macarons, red berry tart with mango mousse and traditional scones. You can also upgrade for a glass of champagne - cheers!
There are so many more fun days out in Yorkshire for couples we could mention, but the list must end somewhere. So don’t wait any longer, on your next day off, take the one you love to some of these interesting places and things to do. Surprise them and show them how much you cherish them! Have some more fun days out in Yorkshire together, exploring this wonderful county whilst reconnecting with your partner.
