Phill’s Yorkshire Road Trip 2026 | Must-See Routes

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Yorkshire Road Trip 2026 Routes and Stages

Welcome to Phill’s Yorkshire Road Trip 2026 — an inclusive adventure created to help everyone explore the very best of this iconic English county. From rolling dales and historic towns to dramatic coastlines and sweeping moorlands, there’s something here for us all. To begin with, we’ll travel along classic routes through West Yorkshire and the Howardian Hills; then, as the journey continues, we’ll uncover charming market towns, nature-rich landscapes and cultural highlights that showcase Yorkshire’s wonderfully diverse heritage. Along the way, this carefully planned itinerary blends must-see landmarks with peaceful hidden gems, so whether you’re travelling with family, friends, as a couple, or on your own, you can enjoy a truly memorable journey through Yorkshire’s heart and soul. We will visit 75 Yorkshire locations over 9 sections of the 2026 road trip. Let’s wet your tastebuds with the itinerary below!

Calling Points:

Season: Spring 2026

Just outside Leeds, Airedale offers a lovely mix of peaceful countryside and easy city access. Set along the River Aire, it’s perfect for scenic walks, welcoming market towns and relaxed days out. Meanwhile, with Leeds only a short drive away, we can enjoy rural charm alongside vibrant shopping, culture and dining — making Airedale an ideal base for exploring wider Yorkshire.

Calling Points:

Season: Spring 2026

Harrogate and the Yorkshire Dales bring together elegant spa-town charm and stunning countryside. First, we can enjoy Harrogate’s boutique shops, Turkish Baths and Valley Gardens; then, just beyond, the Dales reveal rolling hills, dry-stone walls and scenic walking trails. Along the way, welcoming villages, cosy tearooms and unforgettable views make this area an ideal base for exploring the very best of North Yorkshire.

Calling Points:

Season: Early Summer 2026

York and the North York Moors beautifully blend rich history with open countryside. First, we can explore York’s ancient walls, famous Minster and charming streets; then, just beyond, the Moors unfold with sweeping views, heather-clad hills and peaceful walking trails. Along the way, picturesque villages, heritage railways and cosy cafés create a wonderful mix of culture, nature and classic North Yorkshire charm.

Calling Points:

Season: Spring 2026

Herriot Country and Cleveland capture the heart of rural North Yorkshire. First, we wander through timeless market towns and gentle farmland inspired by James Herriot; then, just beyond, Cleveland reveals rugged moorlands and dramatic clifftop walks. Along the way, traditional villages, cosy tearooms and scenic drives come together to offer an authentic Yorkshire experience full of character and natural beauty.

Calling Points:

Season: Spring 2026

West Yorkshire brings together lively cities and beautiful countryside. First, we can enjoy Leeds’ shopping, culture and dining; then, nearby Bradford, Halifax and Huddersfield add rich heritage and scenic surroundings. Along the way, easy access to the Pennines, welcoming market towns and peaceful walking routes makes this a brilliant base for everyone seeking authentic Yorkshire experiences — whether we fancy urban buzz or quiet landscapes.

Calling Points:

  • Penistone
  • Barnsley
  • Sheffield
  • Conisborough
  • Doncaster

Season: Spring 2026

South Yorkshire brings together rich industrial heritage and refreshing green spaces. First, we can explore Sheffield’s creative quarters and leafy parks; then, nearby Rotherham, Barnsley and Doncaster reveal historic towns full of character. Along the way, easy access to the Peak District, scenic walking routes and welcoming attractions makes this region ideal for enjoying relaxed countryside moments alongside vibrant urban culture.

Calling Points:

Season: Early Summer 2026

The Yorkshire Coast beautifully combines dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches and welcoming seaside towns. First, we can explore Scarborough and Whitby; then, just along the shore, Robin Hood’s Bay and Filey invite us to enjoy coastal walks, historic harbours and classic fish and chips. Along the way, scenic drives, heritage sights and outdoor adventures come together to create a perfect mix of natural beauty, culture and traditional seaside charm.

Calling Points:

  • Selby (N Yorks)
  • Pocklington
  • Market Weighton
  • Beverley
  • Humber Bridge
  • Kingston upon Hull
  • Driffield

Season: Spring 2026

The East Riding of Yorkshire blends rolling countryside with welcoming market towns and a scenic coastline. First, we can explore historic Hull; then, just beyond, peaceful villages and the golden beaches of Hornsea and Bridlington invite us to slow down and unwind. Along the way, walking routes, heritage spots and local flavours come together to offer a relaxed, authentic Yorkshire experience — perfect for day trips or longer stays.

Calling Points:

Season: Early Summer 2026

The Howardian Hills offer rolling countryside, historic estates and peaceful walking trails. First, we can wander through charming villages and scenic river valleys; then, along the way, stately homes and heritage sites invite us to slow down and explore. Altogether, this tranquil Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty provides a beautiful, authentic Yorkshire escape for everyone who loves nature and quiet adventures.

Location Directory

Phill’s Yorkshire Road Trip 2026 | Must-See Routes

Hyperlinked locations indicate places we’ve visited and you can now view their pages.

Ampleforth Abbey & Village


Barnsley
Bedale
Bempton Cliffs
Beverley
Bingley
Bingley Five Rise Locks
Boroughbridge /Aldwark
Bolton Abbey
Bradford
Bridlington
Byland Abbey


Castle Howard & Coneysthorpe
Castleford
City of York
Conisborough
Coxwold
Crayke


Doncaster
Driffield


Easingwold


Filey
Filey Brigg

Goathland
Grassington
Grosmont

Halifax
Harrogate
Hebden Bridge
Hole of Horcum
Hovingham
Huddersfield
Humber Bridge
Hunmanby Gap

Ilkley

Keighley
Kingston upon Hull
Knaresbrough
Kirkham Priory

Leeds City Centre
Low Dalby


Malton
Market Weighton
Middlesbrough


Northallerton


Otley


Pateley Bridge
Penistone
Pickering
Pocklington
Plumpton Rocks
Pontefract


Redcar
Richmond
Ripon
Ripley Castle
Rodley
Robin Hood’s Bay
Ruswarp


Saltaire
Saltburn By the Sea
Scarborough
Selby (N Yorks)
Sheffield
Shipley
Sleights
Stockton On Tees


Tadcaster
Thirsk
Thornton Le Dale
Wakefield
Welburn
Wetherby
Whitby
Yarm

I will be visiting…

Ampleforth Abbey & Village

I can’t wait to explore the peaceful vibe of Ampleforth Abbey & Village, where history and countryside calm come together perfectly. A gentle wander around the abbey, followed by a stroll through the pretty village streets with a coffee in hand, feels like the ideal way to slow things down and soak up the setting.

Barnsley

Barnsley feels like one of those places that quietly surprises you. With its strong industrial heritage and friendly town centre, I’m really looking forward to having a proper explore, finding a good lunch spot and getting a feel for the local character.

Bedale

Bedale looks like classic market-town Yorkshire at its best. I’m imagining a relaxed wander through the centre, a browse in a few independent shops and maybe a coffee stop before heading back out onto the road.

Bempton Cliffs

The thought of Bempton Cliffs genuinely excites me — dramatic chalk cliffs, huge skies and seabirds everywhere. This feels like one of those stops where you slow right down, take a deep breath and just enjoy being on the Yorkshire coast.

Beverley

I’m really looking forward to Beverley, with its beautiful Minster, leafy streets and relaxed but stylish feel. It seems like the perfect place for a long wander, a good lunch and plenty of unplanned detours.

Bingley

Bingley feels like a lovely, easy stop — ideal for a canalside stroll and a relaxed bite to eat. It’s one of those places that doesn’t shout for attention but ends up being quietly memorable.

Bingley Five Rise Locks

Seeing the Bingley Five Rise Locks in action is high on my list. Watching boats make their way up this impressive stretch of canal feels like a proper Yorkshire moment and a great excuse to pause for a while.

Boroughbridge / Aldwark

I love the sound of Boroughbridge and Aldwark — riverside walks, open skies and that peaceful market-town feel. It seems like a brilliant place to slow the pace and enjoy a quieter side of the trip.

Bolton Abbey

Bolton Abbey is an absolute must for me. Between the riverside paths, ancient ruins and endless walking routes, it feels like the kind of place where time just disappears.

Bradford

I’m really keen to spend time in Bradford, a city packed with culture, striking architecture and a seriously good food scene. It feels like one of those stops where there’s always more to discover than you expect.

Bridlington

Bridlington brings classic seaside energy — long beaches, salty air and plenty of chances for fish and chips. I’m planning a proper promenade walk and a relaxed afternoon by the sea.

Byland Abbey

There’s something very special about Byland Abbey. Quiet, atmospheric and steeped in history, it feels like the kind of place that naturally encourages you to slow down and take it all in.

Castle Howard & Coneysthorpe

Castle Howard and Coneysthorpe feel like a real highlight — grand architecture, sweeping gardens and a lovely village nearby. I’m already planning to allow extra time here because it feels like one stop won’t be enough.

Castleford

I’m curious to explore Castleford, especially its riverside areas and strong local identity. It feels like a good place to wander without a plan and see what turns up.

City of York

York is one of those places I never get tired of. Walking the walls, exploring hidden streets and soaking up centuries of history feels like a non-negotiable part of this trip.

Conisbrough

I’m really looking forward to Conisbrough, especially its impressive castle keep overlooking the town. It feels like a great mix of history, views and quiet exploring.

Coxwold

Coxwold looks wonderfully traditional — a proper Yorkshire village with charm in every direction. I’m planning a gentle wander and a pause to enjoy the atmosphere before moving on.

Crayke

Crayke feels calm, rural and perfectly placed for a peaceful stop. Stone cottages, open views and quiet lanes make it exactly the kind of village I love finding on a road trip.

Doncaster

Doncaster adds a lively, urban edge to the journey. I’m keen to explore its heritage, enjoy the town centre buzz and see a different side of Yorkshire along the way.

Driffield

Driffield seems like a friendly market town that’s ideal for a short wander and a relaxed break. It feels unpretentious and very much part of everyday Yorkshire life.

Easingwold

I’m really looking forward to Easingwold — a town that seems to balance history, cafés and a welcoming atmosphere beautifully. Perfect for a slow afternoon.

Filey

Filey has that classic seaside feel that’s hard to beat. Long sandy beaches, fresh sea air and a laid-back pace make it somewhere I’m keen to spend proper time.

Filey Brigg

Filey Brigg feels dramatic and wild — rocky coastline, big views and plenty of space to wander. It’s one of those places that really reminds you how varied Yorkshire’s coast is.

Goathland

I’m genuinely excited to visit Goathland. Between the steam railway, village green and surrounding moorland, it feels like stepping into a postcard.

Grassington

Grassington is exactly what I picture when I think of the Dales — cobbled streets, cosy cafés and stunning scenery all around. It feels like a place you instantly relax in.

Grosmont

Grosmont looks full of character, especially with its railway heritage. I’m really looking forward to exploring the village and soaking up that nostalgic atmosphere.

Halifax

I’m keen to explore Halifax, with its impressive architecture and strong sense of history. It feels like a great mix of town life and easy access to countryside.

Harrogate

Harrogate feels effortlessly elegant. Between the gardens, historic spa buildings and brilliant food spots, it’s somewhere I know I’ll want to linger.

Hebden Bridge

Hebden Bridge is right up my street — creative, independent and surrounded by beautiful valley scenery. I’m planning plenty of wandering and people-watching here.

Hole of Horcum

The Hole of Horcum is one of those places I’ve wanted to see for ages. The sheer scale of it sounds incredible and it feels like a proper North York Moors moment.

Hovingham

Hovingham looks peaceful and full of quiet charm. It feels like the perfect village stop where nothing needs to be rushed.

Huddersfield

Huddersfield feels like a great balance of town life and dramatic surrounding landscapes. I’m looking forward to exploring both sides of it.

Humber Bridge

Stopping at the Humber Bridge feels like a real edge-of-the-map moment. Big views, fresh air and a sense of just how far this road trip reaches.

Hunmanby Gap

Hunmanby Gap feels wonderfully open and wild — dunes, cliffs and sea views all rolled into one. A great place for a long walk and plenty of fresh air.

Ilkley

I’m really looking forward to Ilkley, with its smart town centre and easy access to moorland walks. It feels like a brilliant mix of comfort and adventure.

Keighley

Keighley feels like a solid, characterful Yorkshire town and a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside. A proper road-trip stop.

Kingston upon Hull

I’m excited to spend time in Kingston upon Hull, exploring its maritime heritage, cultural spots and lively city atmosphere.

Knaresborough

Knaresborough is one of those places that feels instantly special. The river, the viaduct and the castle ruins make it a highlight I’m really looking forward to.

Kirkham Priory

Kirkham Priory feels calm and atmospheric — a quiet historical site that’s perfect for a reflective wander and a pause from busier places.

Leeds City Centre

Leeds brings big-city energy to the trip. Shops, food, culture and canals all packed together make it somewhere I’m keen to explore properly.

Low Dalby

Low Dalby looks beautifully rural and peaceful — an ideal spot for a countryside walk and a breather before heading deeper into the Moors.

Malton

I’m genuinely excited about Malton, especially with its reputation for great food and lively markets. It feels like a place that really enjoys itself.

Market Weighton

Market Weighton feels relaxed and traditional — the kind of town where a short stroll and a coffee break fit perfectly into the day.

Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough adds a bold, modern edge to the journey. I’m looking forward to seeing how it contrasts with the surrounding countryside.

Northallerton

Northallerton feels like a classic Yorkshire market town and a great crossroads for exploring different parts of the county.

Otley

Otley looks like a real gem — riverside walks, independent shops and a friendly feel that makes it perfect for an unhurried stop.

Pateley Bridge

I’m really looking forward to Pateley Bridge, with its riverside setting and strong sense of place. It feels like a town made for wandering.

Penistone

Penistone feels firmly rooted in South Yorkshire character. I’m keen to explore the town and enjoy the surrounding countryside views.

Pickering

Pickering is high on my list, especially as a gateway to the Moors. Heritage, market-town charm and scenic driving all rolled into one.

Pocklington

Pocklington feels welcoming and relaxed, with great food spots and easy access to the Wolds — perfect road-trip territory.

Plumpton Rocks

Plumpton Rocks looks like one of those unexpected natural gems. A peaceful walk, interesting rock formations and a bit of quiet time.

Pontefract

Pontefract brings history and character, with its castle ruins and strong local identity. Definitely worth a proper explore.

Redcar

Redcar feels like classic seaside Yorkshire — wide beaches, fresh air and that slightly nostalgic coastal atmosphere.

Richmond

Richmond feels like everything a Yorkshire town should be — castle views, historic streets and a beautiful riverside setting.

Ripon

Ripon is one I’m really looking forward to, especially its stunning cathedral and relaxed city feel. Ideal for a slow, culture-filled stop.

Ripley Castle

Visiting Ripley Castle feels like a real treat — elegant grounds, village charm and a very classic country-estate atmosphere.

Rodley

Rodley feels like a perfect canalside pause point. A short walk, a bite to eat and back on the road feeling refreshed.

Robin Hood’s Bay

I can’t wait to explore Robin Hood’s Bay — steep streets, clifftop views and one of the most characterful villages on the coast.

Ruswarp

Ruswarp looks peaceful and welcoming, with riverside paths and a quieter pace that feels like a lovely contrast to busier spots nearby.

Saltaire

Saltaire is one of those places I always enjoy visiting — historic, creative and relaxed, with plenty to explore at an easy pace.

Saltburn-by-the-Sea

Saltburn-by-the-Sea feels like a brilliant coastal stop — pier views, cliff lift rides and long seaside walks.

Scarborough

Scarborough brings full-on seaside energy — beaches, headlands and that unmistakable holiday atmosphere.

Selby

Selby feels historic and calm, with its impressive abbey and riverside setting making it a great southern gateway stop.

Sheffield

I’m really looking forward to Sheffield, a city that blends creativity, culture and green space better than almost anywhere else.

Shipley

Shipley feels relaxed and friendly, with riverside walks and an easygoing pace that suits a road trip perfectly.

Sleights

Sleights looks like a lovely, low-key village stop — peaceful and well-placed for exploring the surrounding area.

Stockton-on-Tees

Stockton-on-Tees adds riverside charm and a bit of town buzz, making it a great place to stretch the legs and explore.

Tadcaster

Tadcaster feels like a proper Yorkshire market town — pubs, history and a welcoming feel all wrapped together.

Thirsk

Thirsk is pure Herriot country, and I’m really looking forward to soaking up that gentle pace and market-town atmosphere.

Thornton-le-Dale

Thornton-le-Dale feels almost storybook-perfect — quaint, scenic and ideal for a slow wander with the camera out.

Wakefield

Wakefield feels like a great mix of heritage, art and riverside walking — a city stop I’m keen to explore more deeply.

Welburn

Welburn looks wonderfully peaceful — a small village that feels ideal for a quiet pause on the journey.

Wetherby

Wetherby feels like the perfect riverside market town stop — relaxed, scenic and very easy to enjoy.

Whitby

I’m genuinely excited for Whitby — harbour views, historic streets and that unmistakable seaside character.

Yarm

Ending with Yarm feels spot on — a beautiful high street by the river and a relaxed, friendly place to wrap up a brilliant Yorkshire adventure.

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