Updated on 20th January 2025

25 Totally Unforgettable Days Out For Couples in Yorkshire

Your weekends are about to get epic.

Written on Things To Do Updated on 20th January 2025

Quality time together just became even more exciting because there are loads of amazing days out in Yorkshire for couples.

It doesn’t have to be just a wander to the pub or a mooch around town when you’re looking for ways to spend time together, oh no. In fact, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to things to do in Yorkshire for couples. We’re talking seaside adventures, romantic spa trips and epic explorations of the countryside in God’s Own County. Which one will you enjoy first?

Hike across the beautiful Ilkley Moor

Looking out from Cow and Calf rocks over Ilkley Moor

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This is an oldie but a goodie. Ilkley Moor has been the stomping ground of romantic days out in Yorkshire for yonks. The allure is clear to see. Heather-covered moors, undulating pathways, tucked-away picnic spots, stunning views and must-see landmarks like the Twelve Apostles rocks and Hebers Ghyll Waterfall.

Pick a well-trodden trail or simply roam the hilltops, hand-in-hand, and see where your feet take you. Wherever you end up, make sure to pay a visit to the cracking Cow and Calf pub near the rocks of the same name – those roaring fires and magical moorland views are the stuff romance novels are made of.

Why we love it: There are few views better or more romantic than from the top of Ilkley Moor
Where? Ilkley Moor – find it on Google Maps.
Find out more: ilkleymoor.org

Find out what the charming Temple Newsam has to offer

The house and tiered grounds at Temple Newsam in Leeds

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The gorgeous Grade-I listed Temple Newsam in Leeds boasts plenty for couples to do. You can start your date off with a relaxed stroll around the grounds, landscaped by no other than Capability Brown. Walk hand-in-hand through nature trails, past lakes and through gardens where you can marvel at romantic rose beds.

Head inside the Tudor-Jacobean house and take in the grand interiors, with its treasure-trove of features and artefacts. Or wander down to the farm with its historic cobblestones and rare critters. Of course, you can make things even sweeter with a stop by The Tea Rooms and a slice of something delicious to share.

Why we love it: From wonderful walks to picturesque picnic spots, cute farm animals and afternoon tea, there’s so much to do here.
Where? Temple Newsam, Temple Newsam Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS15 0AE.
Find out more: museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk

Tread along the cobblestones on Haworth Main Street

The cobblestone streets and storefronts on Haworth high street

Credit: Visit Bradford

Swoop your loved one off their feet with a trip somewhere truly special. Haworth Main Street is a magical spot where you can indulge in unique shopping and dining experiences, set on cobblestone streets and backdropped by the rolling Yorkshire countryside.

You can tuck into fine food at Pave or The Hawthorn, spoil them at Mrs Beighton’s Sweet Shop or AndChocolate, and find unique gifts from the likes of Hawksbys and The Cabinet of Curiosities. Just a short walk away is The Brontë Parsonage Museum, where you can discover more about the life of the literary sisters, before toasting each other with a drink at the cosy bars and pubs along Main Street. It’s the ideal setting for your own love story.

Why we love it: It’s one of the most charming and quaint spots in all of Yorkshire, with a dose of literary history to boot.
Where? Main Street, Haworth, Keighley, West Yorkshire.
Find out more: bronteadventures.co.uk

Descend into The Deep’s world of sealife

Turtles in the water at The Deep in Hull

It’s time to stare into the deep blues of the sea, instead of your partner’s eyes – just for a few hours. The Deep is an immense aquarium, home to 3,500 different marine animals, and walking through it is like entering an underwater paradise, perfect for a date day out of the norm.

Recreate your own Romeo & Juliet moment at the crystal clear fish tanks, lark around with the Gentoo penguins in the Kingdom of Ice, and watch stingrays glide overhead as you pass through the underwater viewing tunnel. It’s a riot of colour and light, strangely mesmerising, and you can stop for a bite to eat and get back to a deep stare into each other’s eyes at one of two cafes.

Why we love it: It’s one of the UK’s best aquariums and your ticket gives you access for the next 12 months!
Where? Hull – find it on Google Maps.
Find out more: thedeep.co.uk

Take a walk around The Piece Hall

The spire of Piece Hall in Halifax

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Is it a Roman courtyard? Is it a Venetian piazza? No, it’s The Piece Hall in Halifax! Britain’s last surviving cloth hall building of its kind is a Georgian masterpiece not-so-long-ago transformed into one of the coolest places to shop, eat, drink or just hangout in the UK.

But what makes it the perfect day out in Yorkshire for couples? You can discover its heritage on a private tour, or show your other half the ropes with a quirky bell-ringing experience. Art and craft workshops pop up throughout the year, while independent boutiques and cosy cafes are a mainstay. Add in exquisite restaurants and quality bars, the whole day is sorted.

Why we love it: Shopping or concerts, nights out or a day of culture – it does it all.
Where? Halifax – find it on Google Maps.
Find out more: thepiecehall.co.uk

Go for a dip and some R&R at Harrogate Turkish Baths

The frigidarium at the Turkish Baths in Harrogate

What’s more romantic than a day of indulgence at the historic Turkish Baths and Spa in Harrogate? However, this is not an ordinary spa, not by any stretch. The Moorish design gives it a sense of old-world opulence, all restored to its former glories with painted ceilings, Islamic arches and ornate Italian mosaics.

The result is a perfect place to relax with your partner. You’ll start your experience in the heated Frigidarium, before moving into steam rooms, heat chambers, plunge pools and relaxation beds. If that’s not enough, you can complete your experience with a series of treatments and spa packages.

Why we love it: It’s the ultimate in luxurious R&R and unique to Yorkshire.
Where? Harrogate – find it on Google Maps.
Find out more: turkishbathsharrogate.co.uk

Spend a day at the seaside at Robin Hood’s Bay

Looking towards the town from the beach at Robin Hood's Bay, Whitby

Robin Hood’s Bay has the lot when it comes to romantic days out in Yorkshire. It’s both picturesque and rugged, peaceful and heavy with the weight of history. Venture into this charming old fishing village and you’ll learn about a turbulent past full of pirates, bandits and smugglers.

The local museum is on hand for all the info, but don’t leave it too long to head down to the yellow sands. The beach offers up fossil hunting, rock pooling and the obligatory sandcastle building as wholesome activities, but it pays to explore. Follow the shoreline south to find a hidden cove at Boggle Hole and seal colonies at Ravenscar.

Why we love it: A day at the seaside is always well spent and Robin Hood’s Bay is a proper hidden gem.
Where? Robin Hood’s Bay – find it on Google Maps.
Find out more: robin-hoods-bay.co.uk

Try your hand at skiing and snowboarding at Snozone

Someone skiing down a snowy slope

It’ll be cold hands and warm hearts at Snowzone. Found in Xscape in Castleford, this indoor real snow centre gives you the chance to get skiing and snowboarding on the slopes without ever needing to step outside of God’s Own County.

Taking place on Fridays, you can choose from day-long courses or two-hour coaching sessions in skiing and snowboarding. These group sessions will help you develop your skills with expert guidance and a range of different manoeuvres and drills. After admiring your date’s moves, you can spend some one-on-one time together with a coffee or bite to eat at the on-site Alpine Kitchen or one of the many bars and restaurants in Xscape.

Why we love it: It’s something a bit different – making it memorable date material.
Where? Snozone Yorkshire, Xscape, Colorado Way, Castleford, West Yorkshire, WF10 4TA.
Find out more: snozoneuk.com

Discover the natural beauty of Malham Cove

Looking up towards the clifftop at Malham Cove in North Yorkshire

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There’s no doubt Malham Cove is a much-loved beauty spot. Formed during the Ice Age thousands of years ago, the magnificent curved limestone cliff adds a dollop of grandeur to your usual couples day out in Yorkshire. A number of walking routes take you there, but if you want to pack in as much spectacular scenery as possible, opt for the 4.5-mile circular walk.

This bad boy kicks off from Malham’s Yorkshire Dales National Park car park and fits in waterfalls at Janet’s Foss and Gordale Scar. Still got some juice left? Climb the rough steps beside the cove and survey the panoramic views from the limestone pavement at the top.

Why we love it: This is one Yorkshire’s natural wonders with epic views from the top.
Where? Malham – find it on Google Maps.
Find out more: malhamdale.com/malhamcove

Walk into the world of Roman & Viking York

Looking down the Roman city walls towards York Minster at dusk

You may think a jaunt around York’s ancient city walls is more for tourists than couples, but don’t rule it out just yet. It forms part of a hugely romantic day out in Yorkshire and, best of all, it’s free! The circular walk takes you high above the sights, offering a different perspective on the famed city.

You’ll pass abbey ruins, fortified gateways, two rivers, hidden masons’ marks, Roman towers, and even some grisly murder holes on the way, not to mention splendid elevated views of York Minster. The entire route takes just a couple of hours, so you’ve got plenty of time to visit other attractions like Jorvik Viking Centre and The Shambles.

Why we love it: From the Roman walls and Viking past to amazing food and drink, York’s got the lot.
Where? York – find it on Google Maps.
Find out more: visityork.org

Sip beer and spirits with Spirit of Yorkshire

The copper still pots at the Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery

Beer lover? Whiskey aficionado? If you and your partner are one or both, Spirit of Yorkshire has the perfect day out for you. First, it’s all about the hops. You’ll visit Wold Top Brewery near the Yorkshire coast – they’ll show you how they make their much-loved brews, let you in on their history and finish with a tasting.

Then you’ll make the short trip down to Hunmanby to the Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery, where they use old ale casks from the Wold Top to store and age their award-winning whiskies. You’ll get a glimpse of the whole distillery process before getting a tutored tasting of a few wee drams. Cheers to that!

Why we love it: This is a proper taste of Yorkshire and the perfect night out with a difference for couples.
Where? Driffield – find it on Google Maps.
Find out more: spiritofyorkshire.com

Go bird spotting along the Yorkshire coast

A puffin sat amidst the daisies on Bempton Cliffs with the sea in the background

If you and your other half are looking for things to do in Yorkshire for nature-loving couples, make plans to spend the day at Bempton Cliffs. Nestled on the North Yorkshire coast and blessed with incredible views out across the North Sea, it’s home to one of the most incredible wildlife spectacles in the UK.

Between March and October every year, around half a million seabirds gather to raise their families on the towering chalk cliffs that make up the coastline. Get your walking boots on, binoculars at the ready and get twitching. Finish with a trip, or stay, in North Landing down the coast, home to cafes and pubs.

Why we love it: This is the perfect nature-packed date, full of views and wildlife.
Where? Bempton – find it on Google Maps.
Find out more: rspb.org.uk

Go back in time at Castle Howard

The exterior of Castle Howard

You can live your Bridgerton life with a trip to Castle Howard – the hit series was filmed here, and you’ll soon see why. This is an 18th-century country house packed full of history and encircled by 1,000 acres of landscaped grounds. It’s the perfect place for a hand-in-hand wander, but that’s just the start.

Inside, it’s just as wonderful, with lots of stories to tell, all of which will reveal themselves as you move from the grandest of halls to the most opulent of sitting rooms. Throw in walled gardens, woodlands, lakes, fountains and temples, as well as a series of shops and cafes, and you’ll have romance in abundance.

Why we love it: You can live out your Bridgerton dreams in this 18th-century wonderland.
Where? York – find it on Google Maps.
Find out more: castlehoward.co.uk

Go on a Michelin-starred culinary adventure

A plate of food at The Star Inn, Harome.

There are few finer ways to spend time with your loved one than over a meal – but how about a Michelin Star meal? Well, it’s time to take a trip out to Harome near York to experience the culinary wonders of The Star. It’s owned and run by Andrew Pern, as it has been since 1996, who creates menus using the finest locally-sourced ingredients.

Think North Sea octopus carpaccio, smoked east coast lobster and, their signature, the grilled black pudding and pan-fried foie gras. But it’s not just the eating that makes it one of the best things to do in Yorkshire for couples, you can even stay the night in the luxurious Cross House Lodge.

Why we love it: Michelin-star food in sumptuous surroundings will give you a meal to remember.
Where? Harome – find it on Google Maps.
Find out more: thestaratharome.co.uk

Explore gothic abbeys and great beers in Whitby

Looking over Whitby from the East Cliff at sunset

Perched high above the much-loved seaside town of Whitby, this hilltop monastery may win first prize for ruins-with-a-view. For nearly 1,500 years, Whitby Abbey’s Gothic ruins have inspired awe, art and poetry. You may know that Whitby and the abbey played a key role in Bram Stoker’s Dracula, but fewer realise it was also home to the earliest named English poet, Cædmon.

Climb the 199 steps from the town to admire the views out to sea, wander the eerie abbey, and be spooked and spellbound in equal measure. Top tip, the smashing Whitby Brewery is just round the corner with an ace beer garden, and regularly hosts events like live music and street food.

Why we love it: From the abbey and brewery to fish & chips on the beach, it’s perfect for couples.
Where? Whitby – find it on Google Maps.
Find out more: visitwhitby.com

Take on the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail

A waterfall on the Ingleton Waterfall Trail in Yorkshire

Enter a magical world where two tumbling rivers, the Twiss and Doe, guide you on an 8-kilometre circular journey past an array of natural waterfalls, spouts, gorges and forces. Ingleton Waterfalls Trail lets you soak in the best of these watery wonders, on a well-kept path that’s ripe for a romantic day out in Yorkshire.

As you climb beside the water, the scenery develops from heavily canopied woodland, beloved by mosses and ferns, to the wilder open-air brackens and heathers. And at every turn, waterfalls. Trickling, plummeting, roaring and bubbling – Yorkshire’s magnificent landscape never looked better.

Why we love it: This walk to a collection of iconic waterfalls is both romantic and nature-packed.
Where? Ingleton – find it on Google Maps.
Find out more: ingletonwaterfallstrail.co.uk

Enjoy a wine tasting at the Yorkshire Heart vineyards

You don’t have to travel to the south of France to enjoy a spectacular vineyard experience, not when you have Yorkshire Heart ready and waiting on your doorstep. Based just outside of York, they’re winemakers of note and offer a series of wine-based experiences.

You can keep it simple with a Cellar Door wine tasting, take it a little further on one of their vineyard tours, tailored to the seasons, or go all out with a whole weekend experience. That includes vineyard and brewery tours with tastings and a two night stay at their campsite – now that’s one of the best things to do in Yorkshire for couples.

Why we love it: Their acclaimed Yorkshire-made wine is the perfect way to treat your other half.
Where? Nun Monkton – find it on Google Maps.
Find out more: yorkshireheart.com

Wander around the ruins of Bolton Abbey

The Strid flowing downstream near Bolton Abbey

Lose yourself in history with a romantic day out exploring Yorkshire’s own Bolton Abbey. The imposing, 12th-century monastery ruins form a mighty impressive backdrop as you traverse the River Wharfe and stretch out on its picnic-perfect banks.

You may be tempted to spend all your time canoodling at the water’s edge and venturing among the abbey ruins, but don’t forget there’s a whopping 30,000 acres of countryside to play with. Skip over the river’s stepping stones and you’ll find 80 miles of woodland trails, valley waterfalls, flower carpets and paths up to Barden Moor, where sublime views of the Dales await.

Why we love it: The dramatic abbey ruins and its sumptuous grounds are perfect for a picnic you’ll never forget.
Where? Skipton – find it on Google Maps.
Find out more: boltonabbey.com

Ride the North Yorkshire Moors Railway

People watching as a train leaves a North Yorkshire Moors Railway station

Step back in time to an era of steam engines, dining carriages and scenic stations as you travel between Pickering and Whitby. The volunteer-run North Yorkshire Moors Railway is a nugget of pure old world joy and ideal for couples as well as train buffs.

You can hop on and off steam trains at any number of wonderfully preserved stations, many of which have been featured in TV and film, like Harry Potter. Chug through the beautiful North Yorkshire scenery, treat yourself to an on-board afternoon tea, nip off for a spot of sightseeing and then take a break from ogling each other to enjoy the views.

Why we love it: The sight and sound of the steam engines, complete with afternoon tea, is an unforgettable experience.
Where? Skipton – find it on Google Maps.
Find out more: www.nymr.co.uk

Get arty in the outdoors at Yorkshire Sculpture Park

A large sculpture of the human body in the fields at Yorkshire Sculpture Park

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Yorkshire Sculpture Park is where art and the great outdoors join in joyful matrimony. An array of open-air exhibitions and installations are just the fuel you need to power around 500 acres of glorious greenery. British artists take centre stage with works of art by Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth and Antony Gormley scattered among trees, sat on hilltops and overlooking the lake.

There are around 80 alfresco sculptures to track down at any one time, but don’t let a rainy day put you off. Ever-changing indoor exhibitions, creative workshops and free entry make this a year-round couples activity in Yorkshire – and you’ll soon see why it’s so popular.

Why we love it: There’s not an art gallery like it anywhere else.
Where? Wakefield – find it on Google Maps.
Find out more: ysp.org.uk

Check out the World Heritage wonders of Saltaire

Looking towards Salt's Mill, Saltaire from the Aire Valley Towpath

If you’re looking for cheap, cultural days out in Yorkshire for couples, look no further than the beauty of Saltaire. It’s home to Salt’s Mill, once the largest industrial building in the world, which the town itself was built around. The town is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and there’s so much to explore.

The mill has been transformed into one of Yorkshire’s finest landmarks with the 1853 Gallery and the works of local artist David Hockey at its heart. There are cafes, shops and restaurants in there too, but head out into the town for incredible bars, breweries, independent business and the wonderful Roberts Park.

Why we love it: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s now the ultimate Yorkshire day out.
Where? Saltaire – find it on Google Maps.
Find out more: saltsmill.org.uk

Spend the day at Filey beach

Looking down Filey beach along the North Sea Coast in North Yorkshire

Five glorious miles of golden sand awaits at Filey – of course, a day at one of the best beaches in the UK is the perfect couples activity on the Yorkshire coast. Don’t just take our word for it – it was named Beach of the Year by the Sunday Times in 2018.

But you can find out why for yourself – take a wander along the promenade, take on the cute Sculpture Trail and visit the colourful beach huts that line the beach. There’s rock pooling up at Filey Brigg and you can even jump on the Cleveland Way for more exploration. Back in the town, Filey’s home to plenty of pubs and oodles of fish and chip shops. Perfection.

Why we love it: Filey’s beach is a little less busy than others on the Yorkshire coast, but no less beautiful.
Where? Filey – find it on Google Maps.
Find out more: discoveryorkshirecoast.com

Pootle around Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal

The incredible view towards Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal from the nearby trees

Whatever the season, Fountains Abbey is a total treasure. This National Trust site is a must-do day out in Yorkshire for any couple in need of a history hit and fresh air fix. It boasts the largest monastic ruins in the entire country – you can step inside crumbling walls to explore a captivating network of chapels, cloisters and dining rooms.

The dramatic abbey church, now open to the elements but with towering arches rising high into the sky, is nothing short of breathtaking. But make sure to keep some time back. The 800 acres of parkland, tranquil Studley Royal Water Gardens and herds of deer are calling your name too.

Why we love it: Monastic ruins and beautiful gardens combine for an incredible date day.
Where? Ripon – find it on Google Maps.
Find out more: nationaltrust.org.uk

Fall in love with the flora at RHS Harlow Carr

The gardens at RHS Harlow Carr in North Yorkshire

Prefer relaxing jaunts to hair-raising hikes? The Royal Horticultural Society runs just five public gardens in the UK, and one is right here in Yorkshire. Whatever time of year, the 58-acre RHS Harlow Carr is heaving with horticultural delights.

Cosy up for the Winter Walk and soak in the fragrance of the winter flowering shrubs, return in spring when the wildflower meadows burst into life, kick back in summer with a bunch of al fresco events like outdoor screenings and live music, then bask in the glorious autumn colours as the season changes once more. To finish? Tea for two and a Fat Rascal at Betty’s Tea Room!

Why we love it: Beautiful gardens and exceptional events make it a must for all.
Where? Ripon – find it on Google Maps.
Find out more: rhs.org.uk

Get wild at Yorkshire Wildlife Park

A red panda looking into the camera at Yorkshire Wildlife Park

Credit: Yorkshire Wildlife Park

Get a little wild on your next date and let loose on the great plains of Yorkshire Wildlife Park. It’s a roar-some day out in Yorkshire for couples, a 260-acre swathe of parkland that’s home to nearly 400 different animals. Lions, tigers, leopards, polar bears, meerkats, baboons, otters – they’re all here.

But what makes this park particularly special is its attention to detail. The enclosures are vast, packed with variety and animal welfare is paramount. From happy polar bears playing in the water to cheeky lemurs leaping above your heads in the walk-through experience, it’s a true walk on the wild side.

Why we love it: The most fun you can have on a date, exploring the wonderful wildlife at Yorkshire’s incredible zoo.
Where? Ripon – find it on Google Maps.
Find out more: yorkshirewildlifepark.com

Cover image Credit: Chris Lacey.
Joseph Sheerin Senior Writer

Joseph has lived in Leeds for the last 15 years and written about it for the last 12. From restaurants to gig venues, walking routes to coffee shops, he has a wealth of experience behind him and an unparalleled knowledge of the region.

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