Foodie places to visit in North Yorkshire

Begin your trip at the magnificent York Minster Cathedral, one of the finest medieval buildings in the world and among the most popular places to visit in North Yorkshire. Climb its Central Tower and spot the gothic gargoyles as you climb the 275 steps to the top (you’ve been warned!). And yes, the views are worth the trek.

Next, explore York’s famous Shambles, the medieval shopping streets that look like they’ve been plucked straight from Harry Potter. Other top places to visit in North Yorkshire include York’s Chocolate Story, which reveals how the city’s history is intertwined with chocolate. Trainspotters, meanwhile, will go off the rails for The National Railway Museum’s Flying Scotsman virtual reality experience.

Next, head to The York Dungeon, one of the most popular attractions in the city, alongside the Jorvik Viking Centre. Both will whisk you through York’s past: The York Dungeon is for those who like their history horrible, including the plague, Vikings and Guy Fawkes, while Jorvik is all about the Vikings. Two of the top places to visit in North Yorkshire.

After all that exploring, it’s time for some indulgence! Couples on a romantic break should book a spa treatment at York’s The Grand Hotel – followed by a cocktail in its heritage bar, or dinner in one of its fine-dining restaurants. This is also your recommended hotel for tonight.

Another highlight for couples is a boat trip down the River Ouse – this historic waterway is one of the most romantic places to visit in North Yorkshire. See the city in all its nighttime glory with a special floodlit evening cruise. For those who are a little more adventurous, you can also take a self-drive boat trip before the sun goes down.

Travelling out of York, take a short drive north to the magnificent Castle Howard – one of North Yorkshire’s most romantic attractions. Tour the stately home, which was used as a filming location for both Brideshead Revisited and Bridgerton, and wander its 1,000 acres of glorious grounds, making time for a coffee at its lovely Boathouse café.

Next, make a pit stop at Malton, one of the best places to visit in North Yorkshire for foodies. This market town is passionate about its artisan producers and is home to countless independent shops and eateries. At Talbot Yard you’ll find delights galore: from the macarons of Florian Poirot to artisan spirits by the Rare Bird gin distillery.

From one market town to another – next, head to Helmsley, which also proudly champions local producers. Mooch through the shops or visit the atmospheric ruins of Helmsley Castle, one of North Yorkshire’s most beautiful places for couples to go.

While in Helmsley, pop into RHS Helmsley Walled Garden, which is a beautiful and romantic series of gardens over five acres – full of flowers, vegetables and fruit. It’s so picture-perfect, that it was used as a filming location for The Secret Garden – and includes a labyrinth, sculpture trail and Vine House Café.

For an extra special date night, treat yourself to dinner at The Black Swan inn. As one of the top Michelin star restaurants in Yorkshire, its menu is inspired by what the team grows and forages – and you can also stay overnight.

Start the day by heading west to another top place to visit: the market town of Masham, home of Yorkshire beer. Wander its streets, grab brunch in a café or visit its two brewery sites - Black Bull in Paradise Visitor Centre and the Black Sheep Brewery.

From Masham, it’s a short drive to Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden. The ruins of an ancient abbey is now a National Trust and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander around the beautiful Studley Royal Water Garden, and look out for the elegant wildlife in its deer park.

Leave plenty of time for a leisurely lunch at Grantley Hall. This luxury country hotel is one of the top foodie places to visit in North Yorkshire, with its Michelin-starred restaurant Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall. It’s headed by the famous Yorkshire chef, and there are a further four other eateries to choose from – plus a spa.

Driving south into Harrogate, head to the town’s famous Turkish Baths this afternoon – a unique place to visit in North Yorkshire. Relax in the beautiful Middle East-inspired décor, book a spa treatment or simply experience the timeless hammam cleansing ritual. Bliss!

Finish your trip with a mooch around Harrogate’s many shops and galleries, including its Montpellier Quarter which is full of boutiques, salons and delis. Last but not least, those looking for North Yorkshire’s best restaurants should visit Harrogate institution Betty’s, where you can enjoy afternoon tea or snap up some scones to scoff on the way home.