10 Best Days Out in Yorkshire and the Humber

On the hunt for fun days out in Yorkshire and the Humber? There are tonnes of fantastic days out just waiting for you, whether you like beautiful countryside, exciting cities, historic villages or something more unique, this list certainly has you covered.

There are some absolutely brilliant days out in Yorkshire and the Humber that will keep everyone – from your kids to your grandparents – thoroughly entertained.

From great places to take the little ones, to fascinating English history must-see spots, to picture-worthy country walking locations to get your steps up, to some of the best cities in the region, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to days out in Yorkshire and the Humber.

You can always count on Day Out In England to serve up the very best from around the country, so without further ado, here are the 10 best days out in Yorkshire and the Humber…

1. Day out at Yorkshire Wildlife Park

You can’t go wrong with an animal-themed day out, and Yorkshire Wildlife Park has exactly what you need.

This is definitely one of the best days out in Yorkshire and the Humber, because you can hope to see a number of exciting critters in this park including popular favourites like polar bears, red pandas and capybaras, as well as lesser known creatures like African painted dogs, maned wolves, okapis, and many more.

Yorkshire Wildlife Park is one of the best days out in Yorkshire and the Humber for families as there are so many things to do to keep them entertained, such as a walk around the wetlands area or woodland trail, a visit to the Jungle Lookout play area, a stroll around the Pangea – Discovery of Dinosaurs exhibit, and much more. Best. Day. Ever!

2. Day out exploring the city of York

York is a city not far from Leeds, with a historic charm that’s perfect for a day out. You’ll find plenty of great shops, restaurants and other things to do along the medieval streets of York, but it’s also a great place for an aimless wander.

York Minster is the stunning Gothic cathedral that you can’t miss if you visit the city, and it’s one of the best cathedrals in England (yes, it’s that good!)

One of the main attractions York has to offer is The Shambles; a small, cobbled street that takes you back to medieval times with the quaint houses that overhang the street and the old timey shops. Some of the buildings are as old as the 14th century.

Take a stroll along the preserved walls of York where you’ll love the amazing views over the city. If you want even more history (on the slightly spookier side), the York Dungeons are a great addition to your day out.

The fascinating thing about the Dungeons is that they are always unique to each area of the country, and in this one you’ll learn lots about the olden days of the city of York.

You’ll find more in our dedicated York Day Trip Itinerary: What to Do, See, Eat & Drink

3. Day out hiking in the Yorkshire Dales

Nothing beats a day out hiking, and if you’re anywhere near Yorkshire you would be a fool not to head straight for the glorious Yorkshire Dales to get your walking done – this is one of the best places in the whole of the UK for hiking.

This has got to be one of the most beautiful days out in Yorkshire and the Humber, and you won’t be stuck for walks there. It is always best to plan out a route before you arrive and remember to take the essentials with you – layers, water, snacks, and anything else you need.

You’ll find 3 wonderful walks across the Yorkshire Dales here if you want some inspiration, and don’t forget there are plenty of things to do in Yorkshire Dales besides hiking, such as these 14 best pubs in the Yorkshire Dales for an after-hike tipple. Go on…

4. Day out learning about the Brontë sisters

England is home to some of the most famous writers in the world, but some that are often left off the list are the Brontë sisters who are now memorialised at The Brontë Parsonage Museum in Haworth.

Bronte Parsonage Museum, Haworth — Image Credit: Bronte Parsonage Museum Facebook Page

The Brontë Parsonage Museum is a writer’s house museum which was once home to the Brontë family, known for their writing genius. If you’re unfamiliar with how the sisters in this house shaped the literary landscape of England, Charlotte Brontë was the author of the masterpiece ‘Jane Eyre’, while Emily Brontë was well-known for penning the classic Wuthering Heights, and their not-so-famous (but still noteworthy) sister Anne Brontë wrote The Tenant of Wildfell Hall.

The home is now maintained by the Brontë Society, and if you are into your literature and writing knowledge then this is certainly one of the best days out in Yorkshire and the Humber for adults.

Wander around the fascinating museum, attend one of the many workshops they put on there, and don’t forget to pop into the gift shop before you leave to line your bookshelf at home with some classics.

5. Day out at The Deep in Hull

This award-winning aquarium by the sea in Hull is a must-visit if you’re in the area and have kids to entertain. From sea turtles and sharks to tiny, unique fish you’ve never set eyes on before, this will be a jaw-dropping day out.

The Deep, Hull, England — Image Credit: The Deep Facebook Page

You can wander around this aquarium without a plan and still come away having had the best day, however it’s worth keeping an eye on the timings of their fascinating daily talks to learn more about the creatures they have on display.

Set a phone alert for their Endless Ocean Talk, the Lagoon of Light Talk, the Kingdom of Ice Penguin Talk (a favourite!), the Endless Ocean Shark Talk (a popular one), and the Lagoon of Light Artefact Handling session. If you want an educational day out for your kids, this is one you’ll all enjoy.

It’s also one of the most interesting days out in Yorkshire and the Humber for seniors, as their popular Silver Sharks club is open to those over 55, where older adults can come to learn about the majestic ocean animals they have in The Deep, and the conservation work they do.

If you’re in the mood to splash out, they even do sleepover sessions where you can stay overnight and fall asleep counting fish instead of sheep.

6. Day out at Billy Bob’s Parlour

Prepare yourself for a day out at Billy Bob’s Parlour, which sits just outside of Skipton in Yorkshire. You’ll definitely need your energy for this one, because this is, without a doubt, one of the best things to do in West Yorkshire with the kids.

Billy-Bob's Parlour, Yorkshire — Image Credit: Billy-Bob’s Parlour Facebook Page

Step inside this old timey American diner for excellent food and, of course, ice cream from their ice cream bar for dessert. But this place is so much more than a diner. With endless play opportunities, both indoor and outdoor, and unique eating spots like inside an American school bus, this is one of the quirkiest days out in Yorkshire and the Humber that will leave your whole family smiling from ear to ear.

They offer special events at certain times of the year, so go along for their pumpkin patch in Autumn and their Christmas events at the end of the year. It’s an absolute favourite with little ‘uns, and the perfect place to go if you want an excuse to greet people with ‘Howdy!’

7. Day out discovering the city of Leeds

Leeds is a great city, and easily one of the best places in West Yorkshire for a day out, but it tends to be underrated.

There are plenty of things to do in Leeds no matter who you’re visiting with – family, friends, kids, there’s something for everyone.

Make a visit to the 12th-century Kirkstall Abbey if you enjoy history, or the Royal Armouries Museum which showcases England’s warfare history. Or head out to the beautiful stately home, Temple Newsam, to see some unique grand Tudor-Jacobean design.

Or if you want to stay central, Leeds City Museum is a great stop on your tour, featuring a range of exhibits that showcase everything from the city’s industrial heritage to its natural history.

Take a walk around Roundhay Park, say hello to the animals at Meanwood Valley Urban Farm, and don’t forget to grab a bargain at Leeds Kirkgate Market before you leave.

This is one of the best days out in Yorkshire and the Humber, and you’ll find more information with these 17 exciting things to do on a day out in Leeds.

8. Day out at Lightwater Valley

Lightwater Valley is the theme park to visit in the north of England, as there are tonnes of hair-raising rides and things to do for young children too – a brilliant day out that you won’t forget in a hurry.

Image Credit: Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park Facebook Page

Designed for families, the park is home to over 40 rides and attractions that are perfect for kids under 12 years old, which makes it one of the best options for days out with the kids.

Some famous faces appear at the park from time to time, such as Peppa Pig and Bluey, and in 2024 they have a brand new family rollercoaster opening called The Rocket – keep your eyes peeled for updates on this.

There’s always lots to do at this park, including things like Jeep expeditions, the Valley theatre shows, the Savannah Express train, the Jungle Jump inflatable pillow, an outdoor play area, an interactive arcade, and much more.

Get a date in your calendar for one of the best days out in Yorkshire and the Humber – your kids will absolutely love this place.

9. Day out to see Brimham Rocks

Not far from Harrogate sit the Brimham Rocks, a giant natural rock formation created by a river 100 million years before the dinosaurs walked the earth… you may never have witnessed anything so old before!

These rocks have become what they are thanks to hundreds of thousands of years of ice, rain and wind, and the wacky shapes show this – see if you can spot the Dancing Bear, the Gorilla, the Eagle and the Turtle.

It is free to enter the site and view these amazing rocks, and the rocks begin only a 10 minute walk from the car park so it’s a convenient place to explore without too much walking involved.

Brimham Rocks are considered a Site of Special Scientific Interest, so you may spot some geologists in the area on one of your new favourite days out in Yorkshire and the Humber.

10. Day out on Scarborough Beach

You can’t beat a good beach day, especially when the weather is looking optimistic for your day out. Scarborough is the ideal place if you want a beach and lots to do.

A day out at the beach is a no-brainer, as Scarborough is easily one of the 12 best beaches in Yorkshire for a sandy day trip. But there’s lots to do in Scarborough besides sunbathing, including seeing Scarborough Castle, and visiting the SeaLife Centre there.

If you’re in the area, you have to go to Peasholm Park, an oriental themed park in the area with a trail of beautiful streams and waterfalls, mini bridges and gorgeous gardens.

In July and August this park is definitely worth visiting because it is home to the world famous Naval Warfare; a miniature sea battle that you may have spotted on TV in the past. It’s thought to be one of the longest running shows of all time, so it’s certainly worth adding to your itinerary for your days out in Yorkshire and the Humber.

Got more ideas you think should be on our list of the best days out in Yorkshire and the Humber? Let us know below so we can keep adding more. There’s tonnes to do in this part of the country, so keep an eye out here for more ideas in future.