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Planning a Great British getaway after lockdown?
Perhaps you are planning to head for the bright lights of London, or maybe you have your heart set on the romance of the Scottish Highlands?
Whatever you do, don’t forget to include Yorkshire in the mix, otherwise you’ll miss out on a unique blend of Roman, Viking and Norman history, ravishing rural countryside and cool cities like Leeds and Sheffield.
With something to satisfy every traveler, Yorkshire might be England’s most eclectic county – here’s some advice on how to enjoy it to the maximum.
Getting to Yorkshire
The most convenient airport for Yorkshire is Leeds Bradford (LBA) and you’ll find good prices for direct and connecting flights on Skyscanner – search as early as possible for early bird bargains.
Hire a car at LBA with Enjoy Travel and you’ll be ready to roll out on your Yorkshire adventure – although it’s possible to travel via public transport, this is the type of county that is best explored on your own terms in a reliable vehicle.
Discovering Historic York
York is a town that practically oozes history – from its ancient Roman walls to its Norse heritage, there’s something new to discover around every corner.
Visiting York Minster is a must, because this beautiful cathedral is blessed by some of the most sublime stained glass windows in the world, and offers panoramic views of the city from the top of its central tower.
But another highlight is visiting the Jorvik Viking Centre – this inspirational and immersive attraction faithfully recreates a 9th Century Norse village, and allows you to travel back in time to experience the smells, sights and sounds of the city’s past.
Embracing Lively Leeds
Leeds is a Yorkshire city where ancient meets modern in all manner of mind-blowing ways. Whether you want to shop, sample craft beer, listen to live music or watch football – you’re in for a fantastic time.
Leeds Grand Theatre is an amazing place to take in an opera, ballet or pantomime and there’s something special to see all year round, while fans of independent cinema absolutely adore watching art house films at Hyde Park Picture House.
Last but not least, if you buy tickets for Leeds United, you can watch this famous team take on the competition at Elland Road, and even try to learn some of the colourful chants invented by their fans.
High Tea in Harrogate
Don’t leave Yorkshire without popping into pretty Harrogate for afternoon tea at Bettys.
Established in 1919, this institution has been serving the best of British loose leaf tea, fresh scones and beautifully baked tarts and cakes to generations of gourmets from Yorkshire and beyond.
Plus, everything tastes better in gorgeous retro surroundings where even the staff are dressed in the same starched uniforms that were worn a century ago.
Apart from the towns and cities, the surrounding countryside of the Yorkshire Dales is simply delightful, with hills, valleys, fields and picturesque villages folding into a fabulous undulating patchwork.
These attractions are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Yorkshire attractions, but hopefully they’re enough to whet your appetite – bring us back a Betty’s scone when you visit!
