The Best Views in Yorkshire to Admire!
Last Updated on February 10, 2026 by Lauren Allen
Yorkshire is the largest county in all of England. Due to this, it is no surprise that the area boasts outstanding beauty. This popular region of the United Kingdom attracts thousands of tourists each year and it isn’t hard to understand why. From interesting historical attractions to impressive architecture, there is a lot to see. In this post, I will share the best views in Yorkshire so you can be sure to check them out on your next trip!
The very best views in Yorkshire, England:
The top of Cowbar Bank, Staithes
Situated in North Yorkshire, Staithes doesn’t see as many tourists as Whitby. However, the picturesque fishing village offers just as much charm (if not more).
A day in Staithes is long enough to appreciate being by the seaside, exploring the winding streets and admiring one of the very best views in Yorkshire. Situated at the top of Cowbar Bank, you will find the most beautiful view of Staithes. As you overlook the village, you will spot coastal homes, the drained harbour and the sea.
Although the steep incline is a little difficult to climb, it’s totally worth it when you make it to the top. I personally spent a good while up there enjoying the views, taking way too many photos and relaxing. The whole time I was there, not one other person turned up. This means it would be an ideal spot to chill out with a book.
Whilst I visited during the day, I imagine this would be the perfect spot to watch the sunset. You could even take a picnic, just watch out for seagulls! Lastly, be careful on your way down if it’s after dark. I recommend taking a torch (or using your phone).
North York Moors
Boasting some unreal views, North York Moors has become one of the most loved national parks in the whole of England. The area, which is bursting with natural beauty is visited by over 8 MILLION people every single year. If that doesn’t tell you how stunning this area is, I’m not sure what will!
Some of the best views in North York Moors include the Hole of Horcum, Beacon Hill and Dalby Forest. Roseberry Topping also offers a fantastic view as you reach the peak.
Victoria Hotel, Robin Hoods Bay
Similarly to Staithes, Robin Hoods Bay has seen an influx in tourism in recent years. Known for its stunning cobblestoned streets and lovely holiday cottages, Robin Hoods Bay is a dream for artists and photographers.
One of the prettiest views in the village is from Victoria Hotel. Offering a fantastic outdoor seating area, the hotel shares views across Robin Hoods Bay and beyond. It’s a truly fantastic spot to grab some food and appreciate your surroundings. So much so that I sat there for hours painting and drinking perhaps a few too many ciders (oops).
Sunnyside, Robin Hoods Bay
Nearby, Sunnyside Street down in the village is perhaps the most photographed spot in the area. If you’ve seen snaps of Robin Hoods Bay on Instagram or Pinterest, I’m sure you know what I’m talking about.
This spot is incredibly popular and has heavy traffic in terms of tourists and locals, so it can sometimes be difficult to get your shots without anybody in them. However, patience is totally worth it as it’s pretty hard to NOT take a stunning photo of this street.
Fun fact: These homes are holiday cottages. If you fancy enjoying this view with your morning coffee (or tea), you should book a night or two here. That way you can wake up to one of the very best views in North Yorkshire!
Top of the 199 Steps, Whitby
One of the best things to do in Whitby is the climb to the top of the 199 steps. Once at the top, there are a number of things to check out. You can either wander the church graveyard, visit the historical landmark of Whitby Abbey or enjoy a beer at Whitby Brewery.
However, the key thing to do when you get to the top is to admire the gorgeous view. From there, you’ll be able to spot the lighthouses, some other Whitby attractions and the boat trips drifting off to sea. Plus, this is one of the very best sunset spots in Yorkshire. I can’t recommend it enough!
Whitby Abbey
Next, Whitby Abbey is one of the most visited attractions in Yorkshire and well worth visiting. The grounds offer some fab viewpoints of the Abbey from a variety of different angles. The incredible architecture has made this spot well-loved by photographers, artists and travellers alike. Plus, during sunset, the pink and orange hues of the sky look fantastic amongst the Abbey.
If you are visiting Whitby on a budget, don’t fret. There is no need to pay to catch a glimpse of the abbey. Just going for a walk around the area makes this possible. You just won’t be able to get close enough to check out every detail.
Ilkley Moor
If you enjoy walking and pretty views, Ilkley Moor needs to go to the top of your UK bucket list. Located in West Yorkshire, it’s known for being the perfect hiking location. With so many paths to wander down, you could easily spend a day here taking in your surroundings.
City Walls, York
To see some of the best views in Yorkshire, head to York to walk the city walls. The attraction (which is completely free of charge) is a great way to wrack up some steps. Throughout your stroll, you will see some unique angles of the city (including the Minster in the distance).
Low Petergate, York
For one of the most amazing views of York Minster, take a walk down Low Petergate. Here you will discover different styles of architecture sitting next to each other with the spires standing tall above the city. This makes this location a dream to photograph. Don’t miss it if you’re spending a day in York. In fact, I recommend heading here during sunset. The skies around this time of the day are truly stunning and make for the perfect photo. Trust me!
Main Street, Haworth
Made famous by the world-renowned Bronte sisters, Haworth has risen in popularity in recent years. Most people head to the village to visit the home of these celebrated authors. However, the view from the top of Main Street is just as impressive.
With a weekend in Haworth, you can do way more than just check out the scenery. The local area boasts some fab indie stores, great tourist attractions and an array of bars and pubs to visit. I’d highly recommend staying for longer than a few hours if you can.
Malham Cove
With so many spectacular views on offer inside Yorkshire Dales National Park, you’d be a fool for not adding this spot to your Yorkshire bucket list. Malham Cove is well-loved by many and has become one of the area’s best locations for a hike. After climbing around 320 steps, you’ll be treated to some fantastic aerial views of the area.
Fans of the Potter series will love this place as scenes from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows were filmed here.
To truly appreciate the scenery and allow enough time to take it in, give yourself around 4 to 5 hours to explore. This also allows time to stop and take some photos.
Knaresborough Castle
Knaresborough is another location that has become increasingly popular in recent times. Despite only being small, it’s easy to spend half a day (or longer) exploring the local area.
Aside from taking a boat ride, grabbing an ice cream and wandering around town, the views from Knaresborough Castle are unreal. From the grounds, you will be able to look out onto the River Nidd and Knaresborough Viaduct. On a nice day, it’s a lovely spot to do some people-watching.
Ribblehead Viaduct
Made famous by Harry Potter, it’s worth stopping by Ribblehead Viaduct if you are on a road trip through Yorkshire. The picturesque bridge makes for a fantastic backdrop and offers up excellent views into the fields.
The Cleveland Way
Stretching for 110 miles, The Cleveland Way starts in Helmsley and ends in the coastal town of Filey. There are many things to see and do along the way including tasting handmade beer at Helmsley Brewery, visiting Whitby Abbey (as previously mentioned) and spending a day in Robin Hoods Bay.
Although many of the key spots have already been named in this post, it’s worth mentioning that there are a number of self-guided tours online that take you the full length of The Cleaveland Way in manageable portions. In around 10 days, you to check out some of Yorkshire’s best tourist locations in one trip.
FAQ about admiring the best views in Yorkshire:
Where can I watch the sunset in Yorkshire?
As I’ve already mentioned a few times in this post, there are a number of amazing spots to watch the sunset in Yorkshire. For example, the 199 steps in Whitby and Cowbar Bank in Staithes are just two of the top sunset locations in the county.
What is the prettiest part of Yorkshire?
It’s impossible to state the prettiest part of Yorkshire because the county is full of so many amazing places. From charming seaside towns such as Robin Hoods Bay to vibrant cities like Leeds, there are a lot of spots worth adding to your Yorkshire bucket list.
Tips for checking out Yorkshire’s best views:
Travel with your camera or art supplies
As I’ve already said, Yorkshire is great for photographers and artists. In fact, in my opinion, it’s one of the best places to visit in the UK if you are creative in any way.
A large number of photogenic places in Yorkshire makes it hard to put down your camera. As such, make sure you don’t forget it! Alternatively, if you enjoy painting or drawing, ensure you carry your art supplies. You’re guaranteed to feel inspired! I know I did…
Plan your route
If you’re spending longer than a day in Yorkshire, you will be able to visit several places during your trip. For example, in a few days, you can stop in Whitby, Robin Hoods Bay and Staithes. The fact they are so close to each other makes it easy to check out some of the most beautiful views on this list.
Check the weather
Well, this is England after all… Be sure to check the weather before embarking on your trip. You wouldn’t want to climb 199 Steps in Whitby if it’s snowing and slippy. Well, I wouldn’t anyway! Checking the weather before heading to your chosen destination means you’ll be prepared. It also means you can dress appropriately.
Dress for your chosen activities
On that topic, it’s important to dress for what you will be doing. For example, if you will be hiking, wear suitable footwear. If you’re exploring on a sunny day, take your sunnies! Protect yourself and your body by travelling around Yorkshire prepared.
Has this post inspired you to check out the best views in Yorkshire? Share your favourite locations in the comments section below!
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