About
North Yorkshire is England's largest county, lying in the north of the country within the United Kingdom. Its size means a visit can take in very different kinds of scenery, from open upland to coastline and historic towns.
Landscapes to explore
Much of the county's character comes from its countryside. The Yorkshire Dales offer rolling hills, stone walls and river valleys, while the North York Moors present a wider, more open landscape of heather and high ground. Both suit walkers and those who simply want to take in a view and slow down.
Historic York
The city of York is the county's best-known urban centre. Its historic character gives the city a strong sense of the past, and it makes a natural base for exploring the wider county. Many visitors combine a few days in the city with trips into the countryside around it.
Because the county is so large, it is worth planning around one or two areas rather than attempting to cover everything at once. Travel between the dales, the moors and the city can take time, and a slower pace tends to suit the landscape best.
- Walking and scenic countryside across the Dales and Moors
- Historic York as a base and a place to visit in its own right
- A varied, uncrowded rural setting across a very large area
