The best things to do this autumn in North Yorkshire

North Yorkshire is a fantastic holiday destination to visit no matter what time of the year it is. However, with its gorgeous, unspoilt landscape, autumn is a wonderful time to book a trip there. With so much on offer, you’ll be sure to find activities to suit you; from following winding trails through country parks to sipping on a hot chocolate whilst watching the boats bob in the harbour, there’s never been a better time to visit than in this coming season. Find out more about the sort of thing that you can look forward to with our guide below.

AUTUMN WALKS IN NORTH YORKSHIRE

North Yorkshire is renowned for its beauty hotspots, many of which make fantastic locations for you to visit throughout autumn. Whether you’re partial to enjoying a relaxing stroll or are simply looking for more ways of getting outside, the region is scattered with gorgeous walks for you to try over the coming season. An Arboretum is always a wonderful option if you’re looking to marvel at the falling leaves, and Thorp Perrow Arboretum is no exception. Watch as the plethora of trees change colour from a luscious green to vibrant amber and scarlet, creating a dramatic backdrop. “We celebrate this stunning season with guided tours led by Curator, Faith and Fungus Forays which offer a fascinating insight into the world of Fungi in the Arboretum”, says the team at Thorp Perrow, meaning that this is definitely worth a visit.

Elsewhere in North Yorkshire, the 1000-acre landscape of Castle Howard and the 19^th-century architecture has an incredible history that is sure to intrigue you whilst you wander around. Wrap up warm as you view the grounds before heading inside, where “friendly and knowledgeable guides are on hand to share stories with you as you tour the house at your own pace, exploring a treasure trove of inspiring architecture and interiors, as well as world-renowned collections.” The castle often has a series of exhibitions available for you to browse, normally related to its past.

If you’re looking for somewhere with sweeping views out over North Yorkshire, then Sutton Bank National Park Centre is the place for you. Follow the winding paths through the rolling hills either on foot or by bike to appreciate the natural, unspoilt beauty of the area. Entry to the national park is free, and bikes are available to hire, allowing you to navigate one of the many paths and trails which are outlined, all of which are signposted along the way.

There are a number of walks which you will find conveniently close to your hotel in Scarborough for you to sample, with Broxa Forest one of the most picturesque. The six-mile circular route is suitable for all walking abilities and is adaptable to make it slightly shorter if the chilly autumn air begins to pick up. The forest surroundings come to life during autumn, with the fiery avenues towering above you as you walk. Plus, with the forest dating back to the 12^th century, it is a great opportunity to see various species of plants.

Peasholm Park is regularly voted as one of the best parks in the UK and it is easy to see why. Open all year round, the park is transformed in autumn, making it a hotspot not to be missed. The glistening lake is at its focal point, with the chance to hire a boat not to be missed. The oriental influence is evident as you take a stroll through the park, with the layout incorporating lily ponds and bridges, as well as sculptures made from tree stumps to follow the theme.

SIGHTSEEING IN NORTH YORKSHIRE THIS AUTUMN

The town of Scarborough has a host of things to see and do, as does the larger region of North Yorkshire. However, one of the most impressive sights for you to see is Scarborough Castle. Towering above the town, the castle has 3,000 years of history waiting for you to uncover, as well as offering you panoramic views over the bays of the town. Here you can listen to an informative audio tour, which provides “a fascinating insight into its past, from Iron Age settlements to the Roman signal station and medieval chapel”, or simply wander around the 16-acre site alone, exploring at your own pace.

Whether you’re looking for a bite to eat or are interested in a spot of shopping, a day out to Whitby should be on your list of things to see and do. Additionally, the seaside town has some incredible spots waiting for you to discover on your next day trip there. Whitby Harbour, bustling with life, and Whitby Abbey, which dates back to the Bronze Age, provide you with great views, as well as being one of the only places where you can watch the sun both rise and set over the shimmering sea!

ATTRACTIONS TO VISIT THIS AUTUMN

When it comes to planning a day out, it can sometimes be difficult finding something that everyone involved will love to do. Fortunately, North Yorkshire has a range of different attractions so finding something to do should come very easily!

The Stephen Joseph Theatre offers “a unique, intimate experience in our renowned theatre-in-the-round as well as the more traditional end-on McCarthy theatre and cinema”. Although the Stephen Joseph Theatre has been open since 1955, it found a home in an old Odeon cinema in 1996 and has been open ever since. Today, the theatre showcases a number of different productions across film, drama, music and comedy, with some must-see performances.

For something a little bit different, a trip to the Rotunda Museum wouldn’t go amiss. Full of a variety of different items, such as fossils and a Bronze Age skeleton, the building is the first purpose-built museum and opened in 1829. The circular building is a fantastic place to get lost in for a couple of hours, especially if you’re interested in looking at Jurassic geology.

With autumn upon us, Halloween is getting ever-closer. However, Scarborough attraction, Terror Tower, is ready to spook you year-round. “Inspired by the best horror movies, Terror Tower is a Haunted House attraction with a serious twist, combining live actors, animated scenes and special effects.” Although the walk through the attraction only takes a couple of minutes, that is all the time you’ll need to get scared out of your skin!

To recap, here are the best walks to try and attractions to visit in North Yorkshire this autumn:

• Thorp Perrow Arboretum
• Castle Howard
• Sutton Bank National Park Centre
• Broxa Forest
• Peasholm Park
• Scarborough Castle
• Whitby Abbey
• Whitby Harbour
• Stephen Joseph Theatre
• Rotunda Museum
• Terror Tower