Getting away from the hustle and bustle of a city can be so important for our health these days, both physically and mentally.
With so many of us stuck inside, sitting at desks, both the stress levels and lack of exercise can leave us feeling tired, glum and even exacerbate more serious issues. The likes of addiction, depression and anxiety are all increasing across the UK, with more people seeking out help from places like a private rehab centre than ever. It’s a sign that we should all be doing more to look after ourselves, and taking a break from the day-to-day stresses plays a big part in that.
Yorkshire is the perfect spot for a weekend getaway and across the county there are some stunning spots with some of the most majestic scenery. But with so many options to choose from, here are our five favourites, come rain or shine…
Grassington: A Gateway to the Yorkshire Dales
In the heart of the Yorkshire Dales you’ll find Grassington, a quintessentially Yorkshire village that provides a lovely blend of natural beauty and cultural charm.
Well known for its cobbled streets and stone cottages, Grassington is the perfect base for a weekend of exploring the delights of the Dales. Walks to enjoy include along the River Wharfe, or taking on some of the local fells, most notably Simon’s Seat. You can also enjoy a trip to Bolton Abbey.
Time it right and you may even see the town alive with a festival, such as in December, when the Grassington Dickensian Festival takes place.
Robin Hood’s Bay: A Coastal Gem
If you’d rather head out to the coast, North Yorkshire is the spot. Robin Hood’s Bay is a must-see village that’s nestled between Scarborough and Whitby, two other seaside towns ideal for a weekend’s break.
The charming fishing village is full of history and you can’t help but get a sense of that as you work your way through the winding streets. Reach the coast and you’ll get stunning views of the North Sea.
Robin Hood’s Bay is a walker’s paradise, whether it be strolls along the beach, or taking the Cleveland Way National Trail, while in the town you can learn all about its history, with plenty of tales of smugglers and shipwrecks.
Hutton-le-Hole: A Step Back in Time
The picturesque village of Hutton-le-Hole is like stepping back in time to ye olde England. Located in the North York Moors National Park, it’s what you’d expect to find on a postcard from Yorkshire, with charming stone cottages, a stream trickling through the town and a village green ideal for sitting in the sunshine.
It’s a great place to learn all about rural life, as well as truly escaping the hustle and bustle of the city. There are plenty of walking trails nearby, while the village has a lovely pub to kick back and relax after a day of exploring.
Hebden: A Hidden Gem in Wharfedale
Not to be confused with Hebden Bridge in West Yorkshire, Hebden is a small village closeby Grassington that is surrounded by rolling hills, limestone crags and lush meadows. It’s a true paradise for walkers, particularly when it comes to the iconic Hebden Suspension Bridge as you cross the River Wharfe.
It’s a good spot for basing yourself and exploring the rest of the Yorkshire Dales, or just kicking back for a quiet weekend. Either way, you won’t be left disappointed.
Thornton-le-Dale: A Picture-Perfect Escape
Thornton-le-Dale, often described as one of the most beautiful villages in Yorkshire, is located on the edge of the North York Moors National Park. With its charming thatched cottages, babbling brook, and the iconic Beck Isle Cottage, Thornton-le-Dale looks like it has stepped straight out of a storybook.
The village is an excellent base for exploring the North York Moors and Dalby Forest, which offers miles of walking and cycling trails. In the village, you can visit the Thornton-le-Dale Motor Museum, home to a fascinating collection of vintage cars and motorcycles. For a more relaxed afternoon, take a stroll around the village, enjoy an ice cream by the beck, or indulge in traditional Yorkshire fare at one of the local tearooms or pubs.
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