Yorkshire and the Humber, United Kingdom Travel Guide
Discover Yorkshire and the Humber: A captivating blend of stunning landscapes, historic cities, and culinary delights in the heart of Northern England.
Yorkshire and the Humber, in the north of England, is a blend of beautiful landscapes and rich history. The region boasts stunning national parks like the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors, where rolling hills and charming villages await. Along the coast, you'll find picturesque seaside towns like Whitby and Scarborough, perfect for a relaxing getaway. History buffs will love exploring cities like York, with its ancient walls, the majestic York Minster, and the fascinating Jorvik Viking Centre. Leeds offers a modern contrast with its vibrant shopping scene, bustling nightlife, and cultural attractions like the Royal Armouries Museum. Don't miss a visit to the historic city of Hull, named UK City of Culture in 2017, with its maritime heritage and lively arts scene. Yorkshire and the Humber is also known for its culinary delights. From traditional fish and chips by the coast to hearty Yorkshire puddings and local ales, there is something to satisfy every palate. Be sure to try a classic afternoon tea in one of the region's quaint tearooms. Whether you're hiking through breathtaking countryside, delving into the past, or savoring local flavors, Yorkshire and the Humber offers a diverse and unforgettable experience.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Yorkshire and the Humber.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes; the region is perfect for exploring on foot.
- Check the weather forecast; Yorkshire's weather can be unpredictable.
- Book accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Don't miss the local markets for unique crafts and fresh produce.
- Use public transport or consider renting a car to explore remote areas.
Top City Travel Guides in Yorkshire and the Humber
The cities of Yorkshire and the Humber, and the easiest places to base yourself.
Destinations in Yorkshire and the Humber
Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.
Explore Yorkshire and the Humber: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more
Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Yorkshire and the Humber
Top-rated picks
Best Attractions
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Castle Howard
Explore Castle Howard’s stunning Baroque architecture, vast gardens, and rich history in a majestic North Yorkshire estate near York.
Leeds Kirkgate Market
Explore Leeds Kirkgate Market, Europe’s largest indoor market, where historic charm meets vibrant multicultural shopping and dining.
Millennium Square
A vibrant cultural hub in Leeds’ heart, Millennium Square hosts year-round events from live music to festive markets and community celebrations.
North York Moors National Park
Explore 44,000 hectares of heather moorland, historic villages, and dramatic coastline in one of England’s most tranquil and scenic national parks.
Best landmarks in Yorkshire and the Humber
Top-rated picks
Best Landmarks
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28 Shambles
Medieval York's most iconic street, where 900 years of history meet vibrant modern commerce.
Leeds Town Hall
A Victorian architectural masterpiece and cultural icon, Leeds Town Hall commands the city skyline with its grand clock tower and rich civic history.
Humber Bridge
Walk or cycle the world's longest pedestrian-accessible suspension bridge across the Humber Estuary.
Middleham Castle
Medieval fortress and childhood home of King Richard III, where history's greatest power struggles unfolded.
Best restaurants in Yorkshire and the Humber
Top-rated picks
Best Restaurants
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Where There's Smoke Restaurant
Experience bold smoky flavors and artistic dining in Masham’s Michelin-starred Where There's Smoke, a unique culinary gem with local roots.
Arras
Innovative British dining with seasonal flair and impeccable service in York’s stylish Old Coach House setting.
Ate O'Clock
Enchanting modern British dining in York’s fairy-lit alley, blending classic flavors with stylish charm and warm hospitality.
Black Bull Inn
Experience authentic Yorkshire hospitality with award-winning pub cuisine, seasonal local produce, and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of Moulton.
Best bars in Yorkshire and the Humber
Top-rated picks
Best Bars
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Cold Bath Brewing Co
Harrogate's working microbrewery where fresh craft beer meets Asian street food in an industrial-chic taproom.
House Of Trembling Madness // Lendal (No table bookings)
Step into York’s medieval gem where historic ambiance meets an extraordinary craft beer selection in a quirky, lively setting.
Angelica & Crafthouse
Sophisticated rooftop bar and restaurant duo offering stylish cocktails, hearty British dishes, and city views in Leeds’ Trinity Centre.
Black Horse Inn
Historic Whitby pub and inn offering cozy rooms, Yorkshire tapas, and a warm, Dickensian atmosphere in the town’s cultural heart.
Best nightclubs in Yorkshire and the Humber
Top-rated picks
Best Nightclubs
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Flares - York
Experience York’s vibrant retro nightclub with disco vibes, classic hits, and an inclusive party atmosphere at Flares on Tanner Row.
Popworld York
York’s ultimate pop and dance nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and five decades of party anthems.
Spiders
Hull’s legendary alternative nightclub with decades of goth, punk, and rock heritage, vibrant atmosphere, and welcoming community spirit.
The Welly
Hull’s iconic alternative nightclub with over a century of live music, club nights, and a legendary atmosphere on Beverley Road.
Best shops in Yorkshire and the Humber
Top-rated picks
Best Shops
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All Shops
Leeds Corn Exchange
Victorian landmark housing 80+ independent shops, artisan vendors, and creative community spaces in Leeds city centre.
Victoria Leeds
Premier shopping fusion of Victorian heritage and contemporary luxury in Leeds city centre
Designer Outlet York
Discover over 100 designer brands with up to 60% off, family-friendly amenities, and a vibrant Food Quarter just minutes from York city centre.
Antiques on High Harrogate
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm at Antiques on High, Harrogate’s premier destination for quality antiques and collectibles.
Explore Yorkshire and the Humber on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Yorkshire and the Humber, mapped for you.
Yorkshire and the Humber Essentials
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Yorkshire and the Humber is well-connected to the rest of the United Kingdom and beyond. The region is served by several major airports, including Leeds Bradford Airport, Humberside Airport, and Doncaster Sheffield Airport. International and domestic flights are available at these airports. Additionally, Yorkshire and the Humber can be accessed by train, with major railway stations in cities like Leeds, York, and Sheffield offering frequent services to and from London and other major UK cities. For those traveling by road, the M1, M62, and A1(M) motorways provide convenient routes into the region.
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Public transportation in Yorkshire and the Humber is extensive and efficient. Trains operated by Northern Rail and other companies connect the major cities and towns. The region also has a comprehensive bus network, with services provided by companies such as First and Arriva. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are available in larger cities. For those who prefer to drive, car rental services are widely available. Cycling is also popular, especially in the cities which have dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing schemes.
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The official currency in the United Kingdom is the British Pound (GBP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Yorkshire and the Humber, including in most shops, restaurants, and hotels. Contactless payments are common. ATMs are plentiful, especially in urban areas. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas where card payments may not be accepted.
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Yorkshire and the Humber is generally a safe region for tourists. However, as with any destination, it's important to remain vigilant and take standard precautions. Some areas in larger cities like Leeds, Sheffield, and Hull have higher crime rates, particularly for petty crimes such as pickpocketing. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit and deserted areas at night. Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places.
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In case of emergency, dial 999 or 112 to reach emergency services (police, fire, ambulance). Hospitals and medical facilities are readily available in the major cities. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available and can provide over-the-counter medications. In the event of a minor issue, many pharmacies offer consultation services.
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Fashion: Do dress in layers due to the often unpredictable weather. Smart-casual attire is generally acceptable in most places. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly or disabled passengers. Don't engage in loud conversations or play music without headphones. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Yorkshire pudding and Wensleydale cheese. Don't tip excessively; a service charge is often included in the bill.
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To experience Yorkshire and the Humber like a local, visit the bustling markets such as Kirkgate Market in Leeds or Shambles Market in York. Engage with locals, who are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Don't miss exploring the stunning Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors National Parks. For a unique experience, take a heritage railway ride on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway or the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway.
When is the best time to visit Yorkshire and the Humber?
Useful Local Phrases for Yorkshire and the Humber
You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.
— Eve
Here are the phrases I use most often in Yorkshire and the Humber. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
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- HelloEy up
[ay up] - GoodbyeTa-ra
[ta-ra] - YesAye
[ai] - NoNaa
[nah] - Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
[pleez/no prob] - Thank youCheers
[cheerz] - Excuse me/SorryS'cuse me/Sorry
[skews mee/sorri] - How are you?How's tha?
[how's tha] - Fine. And you?Reet, and thee?
[reet, and thee] - Do you speak English?D'ya speak English?
[duh ya speek ing-lish] - I don't understandI don't get it
[I dont get it]
- HelloEy up
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see t'menu, please?
[can I see t'men-yoo, pleez] - I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
[I dont eet meet] - Cheers!Cheers!
[cheerz] - I would like to pay, pleaseCan I pay, please?
[can I pay, pleez]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see t'menu, please?
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- Help!Help!
[help] - Go away!Clear off!
[clear off] - Call the Police!Ring t'police!
[ring t'police] - Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
[get a doktor] - I'm lostI’m lost
[I'm lost] - I'm illI feel poorly
[I feel poor-lee]
- Help!Help!
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- I'd like to buy...I want to buy...
[I want to buy] - I'm just lookingJust browsing
[just browsin] - How much is it?How much's this?
[how much's this] - That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
[that's a bit steep] - Can you lower the price?Can you knock it down?
[can you nok it down]
- I'd like to buy...I want to buy...
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- What time is it?What time's it?
[what time's it] - It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
[it's one o'clock] - Half past (10)Half past ten
[half past ten] - MorningMornin'
[mornin] - AfternoonArvo
[arvo] - EveningEvenin'
[evenin] - YesterdayYesterday
[yesterday] - TodayToday
[today] - TomorrowTomorrow
[tomorrow] - 1One
[one] - 2Two
[two] - 3Three
[three] - 4Four
[four] - 5Five
[five] - 6Six
[six] - 7Seven
[seven] - 8Eight
[eight] - 9Nine
[nine] - 10Ten
[ten]
- What time is it?What time's it?
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- Where's a/the...?Where's t'...?
[where's t'...?] - What's the address?What's t'address?
[what's t'address] - Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me on t'map?
[can you show me on t'map] - When's the next (bus)?When's t'next bus?
[when's t'next bus] - A ticket (to ....)A ticket to ...
[a tiket to ...]
- Where's a/the...?Where's t'...?
History of Yorkshire and the Humber
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Yorkshire's history stretches back to Roman times when the city of Eboracum, now known as York, was established in 71 AD. As a major military center, it played a crucial role in the Roman conquest of Northern England. Emperor Constantine the Great was proclaimed Emperor here in 306 AD.
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In the late 9th century, the Vikings arrived, leaving an indelible mark on the region. The Norse warriors captured York in 866 AD and renamed it Jorvik, turning it into a thriving trading hub. Evidence of their influence can still be seen today in place names and archaeological finds.
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During the Middle Ages, Yorkshire became an economic and political powerhouse. The construction of York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe, began in the 13th century. The Wars of the Roses, fought between the Houses of York and Lancaster, also highlight the region's historical significance.
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The 18th and 19th centuries saw Yorkshire transform during the Industrial Revolution. Towns like Leeds, Bradford, and Sheffield became centers for wool, textiles, and steel manufacturing. The region's canals and railways, such as the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, facilitated rapid industrial growth.
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Yorkshire played a vital role during both World Wars. The region's factories were repurposed to produce munitions, and its airfields were crucial for the RAF. The city of Hull suffered significant bombings during the Blitz, reflecting the area's strategic importance.
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Today, Yorkshire and the Humber is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage. Cities like Leeds and Sheffield are known for their vibrant arts scenes. The annual Yorkshire Festival and events like the Tour de Yorkshire showcase the region's ongoing cultural renaissance.
Neighbouring Regions of Yorkshire and the Humber
The closest regions to Yorkshire and the Humber, if you have time for more than one.
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Explore More of United Kingdom
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Explore United KingdomYorkshire and the Humber in Photos
Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.
Yorkshire and the Humber: A Tapestry of Heritage and Nature
Yorkshire and the Humber, in the north of England, is a blend of beautiful landscapes and rich history. The region boasts stunning national parks like the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors, where rolling hills and charming villages await. Along the coast, you'll find picturesque seaside towns like Whitby and Scarborough, perfect for a relaxing getaway. History buffs will love exploring cities like York, with its ancient walls, the majestic York Minster, and the fascinating Jorvik Viking Centre. Leeds offers a modern contrast with its vibrant shopping scene, bustling nightlife, and cultural attractions like the Royal Armouries Museum. Don't miss a visit to the historic city of Hull, named UK City of Culture in 2017, with its maritime heritage and lively arts scene. Yorkshire and the Humber is also known for its culinary delights. From traditional fish and chips by the coast to hearty Yorkshire puddings and local ales, there is something to satisfy every palate. Be sure to try a classic afternoon tea in one of the region's quaint tearooms. Whether you're hiking through breathtaking countryside, delving into the past, or savoring local flavors, Yorkshire and the Humber offers a diverse and unforgettable experience.