20 Places to Visit in North England
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This guide will take you through the best places to visit in North England and what to do when you get there.
Insider Tip: As you are planning your transportation during your visit to Northern England, I recommend using the Trainline app for easy planning and discounted rates on train tickets.
Places to Visit in Northern England
1. The Lake District
The Lake District, England
The Lake District is hands down one of the best places to visit in Northern England. Known for its outstanding natural beauty and cozy villages, this region is the perfect destination to experience quintessential English village life.
There are endless things to do and see in and around the Lake District including hiking through raw landscapes, as well as experiencing relaxing lake-life through lake cruises, boating, and wild swimming.
Coniston, Lake District, England
For literary lovers, there have been several great writers who have made their home in the Lake District and after you experience the inspiring beauty of the area, that will come as no surprise. Many fans make the pilgrimage to the Lakes to visit the home and gardens of Beatrix Potter, or the home and resting place of William Wordsworth.
For a comprehensive guide to visiting the Lake District, make sure to check out the article below.
Where to stay in the Lake District:
Ambleside is the perfect place to set up “home base” in the Lake District. The charming town sits on Lake Windermere, making it convenient to reach other destinations of the area. Lake Windermere Cruises leave the Ambleside dock often throughout the day, which is a great way to see the lake and its towns.
Check out this beautiful holiday home situated close to downtown Ambleside
2. The Peak District
The Peak District is known for its rugged landscape
The Peak District, England's first national park, is where you will find rugged landscapes and picturesque villages.
The area is home to several estates that have served as filming locations for well-known films including Chatsworth House (Pride and Prejudice), Hardwick Hall (Mary Queen of Scots), and Kedleston Hall (The Duchess). Needless to say, Kiera Knightly has spent her fair share in the Peak District.
The Peak District’s appeal lies in the countless walking trails that weave you through the wild landscape. One of the most famous routes, Mam Tor, is a ridge walk that leaves you stunned by the beautiful view overlooking the valley below.
Where to stay in the Peak District:
Matlock is a favored destination for travelers seeking the natural beauty of the Peak District. The area is not only known for Matlock Bath’s quaint town center, where you can explore local shops and cozy cafes, but also for its strategic location, offering easy access to the wider wonders of Derbyshire and the Peak District.
3. Yorkshire Dales
Yorkshire Dales, England
Once you visit the Yorkshire Dales, they will forever be imprinted on your heart. There is something magical about this part of England. With its rolling hills and welcoming market towns, the Yorkshire Dales is the perfect destination in the North of England.
After living in Yorkshire for 3 years, it is hard to narrow down recommendations for this beautiful area. There are numerous villages to visit that will fully immerse you in Yorkshire culture but some of my favorites include Hebden Bridge, Grassington, and Haworth. You will be overwhelmed by the charming atmosphere and the coziness you will feel here.
Where to stay in the Yorkshire Dales:
Grassington is one of the absolutely best place to stay during your trip to the Yorkshire Dales. This beautiful little town was the main character of the Channel 5 series, “All Creatures Great and Small.”
4. Northumberland
Northumberland, England
Northumberland, a region steeped in history and natural beauty, is a must-visit destination in North England. This area is renowned for its stunning coastline, dotted with golden beaches and dramatic cliffs, and its vast, unspoiled countryside, including the Northumberland National Park.
One of the most famous sites in Northumberland is Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site that stretches across the rolling hills, offering a glimpse into the region's Roman past.
Northumberland is also home to an impressive array of castles, including Alnwick Castle, famous as a filming location for the Harry Potter series, and Bamburgh Castle, perched majestically on the coast.
Where to stay in Northumberland:
Northumberland is the perfect place to enjoy a quiet retreat into nature. There is no better place to do this than a little cottage close to must-see destinations such as Hadrian’s Wall.
5. Leeds
Leeds, England
Leeds is a Northern city destination known for its shopping, nightlife, and art scene. With attractions such as the Royal Armouries Museum, Leeds Art Gallery, and the bustling Leeds Kirkgate Market, there are countless things to do and see during a visit to this vibrant city.
Another iconic Leeds site is the Kirkstall Abbey, beautiful ruins that once housed Cistercian monks for centuries.
Where to stay in Leeds:
While there are plenty of places to stay in Leeds, the Radisson Blu is the perfect central location in the city centre. You will be on the steps of Leeds Art Gallery, Museum, and town hall. The hotel is only a short walking distance to other notable attractions in the city.
6. York
York, England
York is one of the most historical cities of North England. You will be led down medieval alleyways and through breathtaking structures that hold rich culture and history.
The city's most iconic landmark, York Minster, is one of the largest and most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe. With its stunning stained glass windows and intricate stonework, you will be left breathless.
The Shambles, a narrow, cobbled street lined with overhanging timber-framed buildings, transports you back to the medieval era and is a must-see for its quaint shops and tea rooms. This was used as inspiration for Diagon Alley in Harry Potter.
The city walls, which encircle the heart of York, offer a leisurely walk with panoramic views of the city’s landmarks.
Where to stay in York:
The Marriott Hotel on the York Racecourse offers a relaxing retreat with luxurious amenities, including spacious rooms and luxurious amenities such as the indoor heated pool. It is just minutes from York's top attractions, a prime location making it easy access to the city center.
7. Newcastle upon Tyne
Newcastle upon Tyne, England
Newcastle upon Tyne is known for its unique blend of industrial heritage, unique architecture, and cultural scene.
Newcastle’s history is rooted in its centuries-old role as a hub of coal mining and shipbuilding, which is reflected in the city’s museums, such as the Discovery Museum, where you can learn about the city’s pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution.
The historic Newcastle Castle, which gave the city its name, offers a glimpse into the medieval origins of Newcastle and is definitely worth visiting.
Art lovers will appreciate the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, housed in a converted flour mill on the riverbank, showcasing cutting-edge exhibitions.
And of course, this seaside city is known for its beautiful beaches that are accessible with a short drive or ride on public transport. Marsden Beach is a favorite, with dramatic cliffs as a backdrop and a golden sandy beach.
Where to stay in Newcastle:
The Holiday Inn Express in Newcastle upon Tyne is right in the heart of the city center, offering easy access to major attractions, shopping, and dining options. With modern amenities, complimentary breakfast, and affordable rates, it provides a comfortable and convenient base for travelers exploring this Northern city.
8. Manchester
Manchester, England
Manchester, a city of innovation and creativity, is one of the most dynamic urban centers in North England.
The city is a global music powerhouse, having given rise to iconic bands like Oasis and The Smiths, and continues to thrive with a vibrant live music scene in venues such as the Manchester Arena and smaller, more intimate spots like the Band on the Wall.
Manchester might be most famous for its football scene, with two world-famous football clubs, Manchester United and Manchester City, drawing fans from around the globe.
Art lovers will want to visit the Manchester Art Gallery and The Lowry which offers everything from classic masterpieces to contemporary performances.
The revitalized Northern Quarter, with its independent shops, street art, and eclectic cafes, encapsulates the city’s creative spirit.
Where to stay in Manchester:
The Manchester Marriott Hotel Piccadilly is the best place to stay in the city due to its prime location near Piccadilly Station, offering easy access to Manchester's top attractions, shopping districts, and cultural landmarks. With elegant rooms, exceptional dining options, and first-class amenities like a fitness center and spa, it provides a luxurious and convenient experience.
9. Liverpool
Liverpool Docks, Liverpool, England
As the birthplace of The Beatles, Liverpool attracts music lovers from all over the world, with landmarks like The Cavern Club, where the band played some of their earliest gigs, and The Beatles Story museum, which chronicles the band’s rise to global fame.
Liverpool’s waterfront is home to the Royal Albert Dock, a striking complex of historic buildings now filled with museums, galleries, shops, and restaurants.
For sports enthusiasts, Anfield Stadium, home to Liverpool FC, offers a chance to experience the passion of one of the world’s most famous football clubs.
Where to stay in Liverpool:
The Holiday Inn Liverpool City Centre is the best place to stay in Liverpool due to its location directly opposite Lime Street Station. This makes it incredibly convenient for exploring Liverpool’s iconic attractions.
10. Whitby
Whitby, England
Whitby, a picturesque coastal town in North England, is a place where history, legend, and natural beauty converge. Whitby is perhaps best known for its connection to Bram Stoker’s Dracula, with the haunting ruins of Whitby Abbey overlooking the dramatic seaside cliffs, providing a dramatic backdrop that inspired the novel.
The town’s bustling harbor, lined with colorful fishing boats, is the perfect place to sample fresh seafood, particularly the famous Whitby fish and chips.
Hiking in Whitby, England
Whitby is also a famous hub for hikers, with the famous Cleveland Way weaving through the city and through to a popular nearby village, Robin Hood’s Bay.
Where to stay in Whitby:
The Royal Hotel Whitby is known for its stunning cliff-top location with panoramic views of the town and harbor, combined with historic charm and easy access to Whitby's top attractions.
11. Scarborough
Scarborough, England
Scarborough, one of England’s oldest seaside resort towns, offers a blend of traditional charm and modern attractions, making it a much loved destination in North England.
Scarborough’s sandy beaches have been attracting visitors for centuries. The seafront is lively, with amusement arcades, ice cream parlors, and the Scarborough Spa, a grand Victorian venue that still hosts concerts and events.
Overlooking the sandy beach and pier below is the dramatic and historic Scarborough Castle, perched high on a cliff, which has stood guard over the coastline for over 3,000 years.
Peasholm Park, with its Japanese gardens, offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling promenade.
Where to stay in Scarborough:
The Salisbury Luxury Apartments in Scarborough is the best place to stay in Scarborough for its spacious, elegantly designed accommodations that offer the comfort of home with the luxury of a high-end hotel, all while being conveniently located near the town's beautiful beaches and top attractions.
12. Harrogate
Harrogate, England
Once a fashionable destination for the Victorian elite, Harrogate continues to charm visitors with its timeless appeal. The town is best known for its Turkish Baths, where visitors can indulge in traditional spa treatments that the rich and famous coveted for generations.
The RHS Garden Harlow Carr is a stunning garden set amidst woodlands, showcasing seasonal displays of flowers and plants.
Betty's Tea Room, Harrogate, England
Harrogate’s vibrant town center is filled with stylish boutiques, antique shops, and the famous Bettys Café Tea Rooms, where you can enjoy afternoon tea in elegant surroundings.
Where to stay in Harrogate:
The Inn at Cheltenham Parade is the best place to stay in Harrogate for its central location, offering stylish, comfortable accommodations just steps away from the town's renowned attractions, such as the Harrogate Convention Centre and the beautiful Valley Gardens.
13. Knaresborough
Knaresborough, England
Not far from Harrogate sits the charming market town of Knaresborough, perched on the cliffs above the River Nidd.
The town’s picture-perfect setting is enhanced by its historic architecture, winding streets, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Knaresborough’s most famous landmark is Mother Shipton’s Cave, the birthplace of England’s most famous prophetess, where you can also see the Petrifying Well, where objects are slowly turned to stone by the mineral-rich waters.
The ruins of Knaresborough Castle, once a formidable fortress, now offer panoramic views over the town and the river below.
The town’s riverside is perfect for leisurely walks, with the iconic viaduct stretching across the River Nidd and rowing boats available for hire in the warmer months.
Where to stay in Knaresborough:
The Knaresborough Inn is the best place to stay in Knaresborough for its charming setting in the heart of the historic town, offering cozy accommodations, excellent dining, and easy access to local landmarks like Knaresborough Castle and the River Nidd.
14. Hebden Bridge
Hebden Bridge, Yorkshire, England
Hebden Bridge is easily one of my personal favorite destinations in the North of England. It is a quirky and vibrant town, known for its artistic community and stunning natural surroundings.
Once a mill town, Hebden Bridge has transformed into a haven for artists, musicians, and writers, with its independent shops, galleries, and cafes reflecting the town’s creative spirit.
The town is surrounded by lush landscapes, with green valleys, rivers, and woodlands offering opportunities for outdoor adventures, including hiking, cycling, and birdwatching.
Gibson Mill, Hardcastle Crags, Hebden Bridge
Nearby, the National Trust-owned Hardcastle Crags provides a beautiful woodland setting with trails leading to the 19th-century Gibson Mill.
Where to stay in Hebden Bridge:
The Cabin in Hebden Bridge is the best place to stay for its tranquil setting with stunning views, a private garden, and close proximity to the town center, offering the perfect blend of peaceful retreat and convenient access to local shops, cafes, and attractions.
15. Haworth
Howarth, England
Haworth, a small village set amidst the wild and windswept moors of North England, is forever linked with the literary Brontë sisters, who drew inspiration from the surrounding landscape for their classic novels.
The village’s most famous attraction is the Brontë Parsonage Museum, the former home of Charlotte, Emily, and Anne Brontë, where visitors can explore their preserved living quarters and learn about their tragic lives and brilliant works.
Brontë Parsonage Museum, Haworth, England
The moorland that inspired novels like Wuthering Heights and Jane Eyre can be explored on foot, with trails leading to landmarks like Top Withens, said to be the inspiration for the Earnshaw family home in Wuthering Heights. You will, almost certainly, step right into their novels.
Haworth itself is a picturesque village with cobbled streets, independent shops, and cozy tea rooms, all contributing to its timeless charm.
Where to stay in Howarth:
Rosebud Cottage Guest House in Haworth is the best place to stay for its cozy, charming atmosphere, offering a perfect blend of traditional character and modern comfort, just a short walk from the village center and the Brontë Parsonage Museum.
16. Saltaire
Saltaire, England
Saltaire, a UNESCO World Heritage site just outside of Leeds, England, is a meticulously preserved Victorian model village that offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Founded by Sir Titus Salt in the mid-19th century to house workers from his nearby textile mill, Saltaire was designed to provide a high standard of living, with well-built houses, schools, and recreational facilities.
The centerpiece of the village is Salts Mill, a massive former textile mill that has been repurposed into an artsy, cultural space, housing galleries, shops, and cafes.
The village’s Italianate architecture, wide streets, and green spaces reflect the visionary planning of its founder, and today, Saltaire remains a thriving community with a strong sense of history.
Where to stay in Saltaire:
Northern Lights Apartment in Saltaire is the best place to stay for its stylish, modern accommodations with a unique character, located in the heart of the historic village, offering easy access to Salts Mill, local shops, and scenic riverside walks.
17. Chester
Chester, England
Chester, a city with Roman and medieval heritage, is one of the most charming and well-preserved cities in North England. Founded by the Romans in AD 79, Chester’s ancient city walls are some of the best-preserved in Britain.
The city’s unique Rows, two-tiered medieval shopping galleries, are home to an array of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Where to stay in Chester:
Holiday Inn Express, Chester Racecourse, is the best place to stay in Chester for its prime location right on the historic racecourse, offering convenient access to Chester's city center attractions, complimentary breakfast, and comfortable, modern rooms.
18. Bridlington
Bridlington, England
Bridlington, a charming seaside town in North England, popular as a summer beach spot. The town offers visitors the perfect British coastal experience with its beautiful sandy beaches, historic harbor, and a variety of family-friendly attractions.
The town’s two beaches, Bridlington North and South, are perfect for leisurely walks, building sandcastles, or simply enjoying the fresh sea air and a dip in the sea.
Where to stay in Bridlington:
Doriam Guest House in Bridlington is the best place to stay for its warm, welcoming atmosphere, comfortable accommodations, and convenient location just a short walk from the beach and town center, making it an ideal base for exploring the seaside town.
19. Berwick upon Tweed
Berwick upon Tweed is England’s northernmost town. It is a place where history and stunning coastal views converge, offering a unique glimpse into the turbulent past of this once fiercely contested border town.
The imposing ruins of Berwick Castle, once a formidable fortress, stand as a reminder of the town’s military significance. Today, visitors can walk along the town’s historic ramparts, explore the charming streets lined with Georgian and Victorian architecture, and learn about Berwick’s past at the Berwick Museum and Art Gallery.
The town’s coastal location also makes it a perfect base for exploring the beautiful Northumberland coastline, with its windswept beaches and rugged cliffs.
Where to stay in Berwick upon Tweed:
Marshall Meadows Manor House in Berwick upon Tweed is the best place to stay for its stunning coastal location, offering elegant accommodations in a historic Georgian manor surrounded by beautiful gardens, with easy access to both the town center and scenic walking trails along the rugged coastline.
20. Blackpool
Blackpool, England
Blackpool, another Northern seaside town, offers a lively and nostalgic experience that draws visitors of all ages. The town’s most famous landmark, Blackpool Tower, has been a symbol of fun and entertainment since it opened in 1894.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach, one of the UK’s most popular amusement parks, is home to thrilling rides, including the historic Big Dipper and the modern-day ICON roller coaster, ensuring an adrenaline-filled day for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Each autumn, Blackpool lights up with the famous Blackpool Illuminations, a dazzling display of lights that stretches for miles along the promenade, creating a magical atmosphere that has been dazzling visitors for over a century.
Where to stay in Blackpool:
The Marsden Hotel in Blackpool is the best place to stay for its friendly atmosphere, comfortable accommodations, and excellent location just a short walk from the famous Pleasure Beach, making it an ideal choice for enjoying all the attractions and entertainment Blackpool has to offer.
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