Have your cuppas at the ready (builder’s brew, of course) as Yorkshire day is just around the corner, happening on the 1st August!
To you and I, Yorkshire day is accompanied by a sentiment of pride. It’s a day to celebrate the rich history, and treat ourselves to some well deserved Yorkshire puddings! All whilst wearing a nice and cosy flat cap in a battle against the recent storms…
However, many of us get so caught up in this and can end up forgetting its origins. Before being a day of pride, Yorkshire day was a day of politics and liberty. In 1975, it originated as a protest against the re-organisation of local government. 140 years later, Yorkshire MP William Willberforce (recognisable as the face of the Wilberforce Trust) celebrated the passing of the Slavery Abolition Act, after dedicating himself to emancipation.
With all of this combined, there is no reason to not celebrate. Luckily for you, we have curated a list of fun activities to do across Yorkshire:
1. If you’re located in York like we are then we have a perfect day of relaxation lined up for you. Picture this: your day begins with a brew (I think you can already guess which kind, are there even any other options?), your breakfast of choice, and is then followed by a slow walk around the York walls (bonus points for taking a Whippet with you). By this point you’ve earned yourself a hearty dinner, so why not visit the York Roast Co for a yorkie wrap? My personal favourite is the pork one with a side of crackling. Continuing the historical route, your options are: the Minster, the Jorvik Viking Centre, York Chocolate Story, the Castle Museum, a mooch around the Shambles, or even the Art Gallery!
2. How does a trip to the coast sound? Whitby’s coastline is renowned for its Fish, Chips, and stunning views (if you’re a true northerner you’ll be reaching for the curry sauce too!). Alternatively, why not go to Scarborough? Beyond the food and the sea, try your luck on the 2p machines, maybe you’ll win enough to get some Rock for the way home!
3. The Yorkshire Dales are home to the Geological phenomenon called Brimham Rocks, located just outside of Ripon. The rocks are also a National Trust sight, adding even more culture to the day. Here, an array of activities are on offer, depending on how active you are feeling. There is abseiling, climbing, and even yoga for some true relaxation in a scenic location.
4. Harrogate offers a range of indulging pass-times, such as the gorgeous Betty’s tea room, antique shops, and the Baths, due to Harrogate being an old spa town.
5. For a day in a picturesque environment, Mother Shipton’s Cave in Knaresborough ticks every box going. The River Nid, Riverside Walk, and the Medieval Castle Ruins all combine to make Knaresborough a must-see. You can take the whole family on a boat down the river, and there is also a free outdoor lido nearby (if England decides to revert back to Summer again).
6. If you’re wondering about activities for the kids, how about Flamingo Land, and for Tweens why not scare them into tidying their rooms at the York Dungeons! A day of adrenaline for them, and a day of satisfied laughter for you.
If you do take any of our recommendations then please feel free to tag us on Instagram or Twitter and show us how it’s done! On Instagram, Facebook, and Tiktok we are @IndigoGreensYork, whilst on Twitter we are @Indigo_Greens (to whoever stole our username, we want it back!)
