‘World famous ice cream and a hidden beach that’s paradise’ – Sun readers’ favourite underrated places in Yorkshire

The Sun

YORKSHIRE is home to arguably Britain’s best food (Yorkshire puddings), has a fascinating history and natural scenery so stunning it spawned a thousand hymns.

But away from the big tourist desinations like York’s shambles and Whitby Abbey, there are plenty of lesser-known gems in ‘God’s Own Country’ that deserve their moment in the – admittedly rare – sun.

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Staithes was once a bustling fishing port but is now celebrated for its rich maritime history[/caption]

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Flamborough Head is described as an outdoor lover’s paradise with its rugged white cliffs and abundance of wildlife[/caption]

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Brimham Rocks is a great place to take kids and offers some stunning views over the Yorkshire Dales[/caption]

We asked Sun readers for the most underrated places within the region for our Best of British series, and they shared everything from their best seal-spotting beaches, to deserted medieval villages and a wild swimmer’s paradise.

The ‘lovely and peaceful’ Fraisthorpe Beach on the East Yorkshire Coast

Sun reader Denise Brown said: “Fraisthorpe Beach is lovely and peaceful for a long dog walk and it has a wonderful cafe.”

Fraisthorpe Beach is a flat, sandy beach that forms part of Bridlington Bay – stretching for around 1.5 miles southwards, it’s a popular spot for walkers and horse riders.

Considerably quieter that nearby Bridlington, it’s great for visitors looking for a peaceful retreat. And for those who get hungry there’s dog-friendly cafe and takeaway The Cow Shed located on the beach, selling everything from fry-ups to burgers and cream teas.

The village of Fraisthorpe is quite small, with less than 200 residents. But if you’re looking for plenty of pubs, shops and restaurants, Bridlington is less than a 20-minute drive away.

Location: Fraisthorpe Beach, Barmston, Driffield, YO15 3QU

Flamborough Head is ‘fantastic for spotting nesting puffins and seals’

Sun reader Tracey Highland said: “Flamborough Head is a fantastic location for bird and seal watching.”

The stretch of coast inn the East Riding of Yorkshire is described as an outdoor lover’s paradise with its rugged white cliffs, scenic nature reserve, and two ancient lighthouses nearby.

Nesting puffins can be seen from the cliff tops from mid May to mid July, and seals are often spotted playing in the sea just yards off the shore.

The village of Flamborough has a traditional sweet shop, cafes, fish ‘n’ chip shops, and several pubs to satisfy all seaside holiday needs.

There’s also Flamborough Lighthouse that contains a small museum, and tours are available to learn about its history.

Location: Flamborough Head, Bridlington, YO15 1AP

The ‘little-known Forbidden Garden’ with a discovery round every corner

Sun reader Neil Perry said: “Forbidden corner is an amazing place to visit for the whole family, but surprisingly little known. We discovered it by accident and had a great time as a family exploring the whole site.”

The Forbidden Corner is a folly garden nestled in the Yorkshire Dales National Park The family attraction is set within a four-acre garden in the heart of Tupgill Park, and there’s something to be discovered round every corner.

There are tunnels, follies and chambers to discover, clues to work out and quests to complete.

Tickets for adults are £17.60 and for children aged 4-15, £15.60. 

Location: The Forbidden Corner, Middleham, Leyburn, DL8 4TJ

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‘World famous’ Ripley Ice Cream offers soft serve, scoop ice cream, sorbet and dairy free ice cream in a variety of flavours[/caption]

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Ripley Castle dates back to the 14th century and has magnificent grounds, lakes, a deer park, walled gardens, hothouses and a kitchen garden[/caption]

‘Grab some world famous ice cream in the charming village of Ripley’

Sun reader Terry Anderson said: “Ripley is a charming little village. Be sure to grab some of its ‘world famous ice cream’!”

Just a few miles north of popular spa town Harrogate is Ripley, a village dominated by its castle, which dates back to the 14th century, with plenty of other little charms about it.

Many of the buildings in Ripley date back to the 18th and 19th centuries, and after admiring them during a stroll through the village you can grab a bite to eat from the quaint cafes and restaurants.

Ripley is also home to ‘world famous’ ice cream. Ripley Ice Cream offers soft serve, scoop ice cream, sorbet and dairy free ice cream all in choice of tubs and cones and a variety of flavours from rhubarb to salted caramel.

Location: Ripley Castle, Ripley, Harrogate, HG3 3AY

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Wharram Percy is a desert medieval village located north east of York, in the Yorkshire Wolds[/caption]

‘The fascinating abandoned village of Wharram Percy’

Sun reader Lydia Fisher said: “Wharram Percy is a fascinating place.”

Wharram Percy is a deserted medieval village perched on the side of a valley in the Yorkshire Wolds. It was continuously occupied for six centuries before it was abandoned shortly after 1500.

The village suffered many problems before it was eventually deserted. Problems began in the 1300s when the owner Peter Percy II died, without leaving a male heir to take up the management of the land.

The rising price of wool in the late Middle Ages meant families were evicted and their houses destroyed to make room for more sheep.

Today, the village is cared for by English Heritage and is a great place to visit. You can trace the outlines of many lost houses and substantial remains of the church and the millpond.

It’s free to visit but there is a £2 parking charge for non-English Heritage members.

Location: Wharram Percy, Centenary Way, Wharram-le-Street, Malton, North Yorkshire, YO17 9TD

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How Stean Gorge offers activities such as save exploring and rock climbing for outdoor lovers[/caption]

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Among the different experiences available at How Stean Gorge is underground camping at Stump Cross Caverns[/caption]

‘How Stean Gorge is fantastic’ for outdoors adventurers’ – and make sure to camp underground’

Sun readers Marcus Fleming said: “How Stean Gorge is fantastic if you’re an outdoors adventurer. If you can, do their experience camping underground.”

How Stean Gorge is an attraction in the Yorkshire Dales that specialises in outdoor pursuits – it allows visitors to explore natural caves, walk through flowing ravines, and climb up rocks.

A unique experience is its Adventure Caving and Camping Exhibition, where brave campers can travel deep into Stump Cross Caverns and camp underground overnight.

The caves are described as nice and warm, “natures own ready built bothies”… with no risk of downpours or arguing about who’s putting up the tent.

Location: How Stean Gorge, Lofthouse, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, HG3 5SF

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Gaddings Dam is often described as a secret beach and a wild swimmer’s paradise by visitors[/caption]

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Herds of cows have been known to frequent the beach, sunbathing on the sand and taking a dip in the water[/caption]

‘Gaddings Dam is a wild swimmer’s paradise’

Sun reader Olivia Barry said: “Gaddings Dam is a wild swimmer’s paradise.”

Gaddings Dam is an disused reservoir located on top of the moors between Todmorden and Walsden, often described as a secret beach.

The reservoir was constructed to supply water to the mills of Lumbutts, but fell into disuse when mills began to use steam power.

It was due to be drained in 2001 due to its poor condition, but was saved by a determined group of locals, who repaired it and continue to maintain it.

There’s no vehicle access and can only be reached by a steep hike to the top of the moors, making it a more secluded location.

Over the years the beach has also been enjoyed by a herd of cows, who come to sunbathe on the sand and even take a dip in the water.

Location: Gaddings Dam, Todmorden

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Hawes is a market town located in Wensleydale and is surrounded by beautiful landscape[/caption]

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Cheese and butter demonstrations run daily at the Wensleydale Creamery – just book online[/caption]

Beautiful Hawes in North Yorkshire a ‘haven for cheese lovers’

Sun reader Jared Summers said: “Hawes not only has beautiful surroundings, it’s also a haven for Wensleydale cheese lovers.”

Hawes is a market town located at the head of Wensleydale – the home of Wensleydale cheese. When you’re done nibbling on all its varieties at the Wensleydale Creamery, there’s plenty of other things to do.

There’s the Dales Countryside Museum where visitors can learn all about the people who’ve lived in the Yorkshire dales for the last thousand years, or ride the Little White bus to the Snaizeholme red squirrel trail to see the native creatures in their natural habitat,

Walkers are spoilt for choice with the stunning routes around these parts, taking in beautiful villages like Sedbusk and sites like the Asygill Force waterfall.

Location: Dales Countryside Museum, Burtersett Road Station Yard, Hawes, DL8 3NT

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Holmfirth Vineyard opened in 2008 and offers tours, breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon tea[/caption]

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The vineyard, which is family owned, also offers overnight stays in its apartments, which range from one bedroom to three bedrooms[/caption]

Taste some ‘delicious’ wine at one of Yorkshires only vineyards

Sun Reader Ryan Palmer said: “Yorkshire isn’t well known for its wine, but definitely head to Holmfirth Vineyard to try some, it’s delicious.”

The majority of commercial vineyard plantings in the UK are situated in South East England – areas such as Kent, East and West Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire, and the Isle of Wight.

But in Holmfirth, there’s a family owned vineyard that’s helped put Yorkshire on the British wine making map.

Holmfirth Vineyard opened in 2008 and now offers tours, breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon tea menus in its restaurant, as well as overnight stays.

Location: Holmfirth Vineyard, Woodhouse Ln, Holmbridge, Holmfirth, HD9 2QR

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Filey Beach is a great family beach as there are plenty of facilities and rock pools for little ones to explore[/caption]

‘The underrated Filey Beach is an excellent quiet alternative to Scarborough’

Sun reader Mae Duffy said: Filey is an underrated seaside destination in Yorkshire. It’s a great alternative to Scarborough.”

Just 20 minutes up the coast from Flamborough Head is Filey Beach, with a far a quieter stretch of golden sand than neighbouring Scarborough Beach.

It’s an ideal location for young families, particularly because of all the many rock pools that can be explored during low tide, and Filey Brigg, a long narrow peninsula situated about a mile north of Filey, offers stunning views of the coastline.

A visitor on Tripadvisor described Filey Beach as “A nice place for a walk or to let a child loose with a bucket and spade.

“Easy parking at the Country Club car park which is huge (used the pay go app), excellent ice cream and even a bit of beach for dogs.”

Location: Filey Beach, 1 Flat Cliffs, Filey, YO14 9RD

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Beverley attractions include Beverley Minster, its racecourse, and its historic buildings[/caption]

Beverley is ‘the perfect place to explore Yorkshire’s beauty spots’

Sun reader Keith Dougherty said: “Beverley has a lot to offer and is a the perfect base to explore beauty spots in Yorkshire.”

Often overshadowed by York and Hull, Beverley is a small market town with historic buildings, a racecourse, and its very own Minster.

Visitors are attracted by the variety of things to do – as well as a day at the races and visiting Beverley Minster, there’s lots of boutique shopping to be done and meals to be enjoyed in the many cafes, bars and restaurants.

With the Yorkshire Wolds nearby and the East Yorkshire coast within easy reach, Beverley is also the perfect base to explore Yorkshire.

Location: Beverley Minster, 38 Highgate, Beverley, HU17 0DN

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Pontefract is full of history with Pontefract Castle having played a significant role in the English Civil War[/caption]

Discover ‘tonnes of history’ in Pontefract, West Yorkshire

Sun reader Emily Long: “Pontefract is incredibly underrated as a tourist destination as there’s tonnes of history to discover.”

Pontefract is perhaps best known for its links to liquorice – its sandy soil makes it one of the few places in Britain where it can grow well. But the market town is also steeped in history, with Pontefract Castle playing a significant role in the English Civil War.

The town hall in Market Place was built in 1866 and features a mix of Gothic and classical architectural styles. Parts of St Giles Church date back to the 12th century.

Pontefract Racecourse is one of the longest horse racing tracks in the UK, and the town has three railways stations providing good transport links to other parts of the country.

Location: Pontefract Castle, The Lodge Castle Chain, Castle Garth, Pontefract, WF8 1QH

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Cayton Bay Beach is between Filey and Scarborough with a sweeping bay that’s dog-friendly all year round[/caption]

Cayton Bay is ‘one of the best beaches in the whole of Yorkshire’

Sun reader Elaine Young said: “Cayton Bay Beach is one of the best beaches in Yorkshire to head to on a sunny day.”

Inundated by five star reviews on Tripadvisor and described as a “hidden gem” by those who have visited, Cayton Bay Beach sits between Filey and Scarborough on the East Yorkshire coast.

It’s got a wide sweeping bay and is dog-friendly all year round, parking is affordable, and there are cafes and shops nearby.

Cayton Bay Surf Shop and Scarborough Surf School is located nearby for those who want to try their hand at surfing, as are Scarborough Castle and Flamingo land Theme Park.

Location: Cayton Bay Beach, Cayton, Scarborough, YO11 3NR

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Strines Reservoir is an upland lake surrounded by hills offering lots of trails for walkers[/caption]

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Picnic benches are scattered around the reservoir, but if you’re looking for a pub, The Strines Inn is nearby[/caption]

Take a ‘lovely walk round Strines Reservoir – finishing up at a great pub’

Sun reader Melanie Stafford said: “Strines Reservoir is a lovely walk and we like to finish up at the great Strines Inn pub.”

Just eight miles west of the centre of Sheffield is the 19th century Strines Reservoir.

A haven for wildlife, there’s lots of trails for keen ramblers and when it’s time to refuel, The Strines Inn pub is just north west of the reservoir. It sells local ales, giant Yorkshire puddings and homemade pies.

Locations: Strines Reservoir, Sheffield, S6 6LE

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Penistone Paramount was built in the 1900s and shows one or two movies daily[/caption]

‘Pretty Penistone’ is the highest market town in England

Sun reader Penny Lawson said: Penistone is a pretty town in South Yorkshire with plenty to do.”

Penistone is the highest market town in the country, standing at an elevation of more than 250 metres above sea level.

As well as being a stunning town with an excellent range of pubs and restaurants, plenty of walks across Peak District moorland start from here and don’t forget to sample the goods at the local farmers market.

Trans Pennine Trail offers bike hire with there being plenty of cycling opportunities nearby – one of the best ways to take in the views of the surrounding countryside.

There’s also the charming Penistone Paramount Cinema, built in the 1900s, to enjoy a film at.

Location: Penistone Paramount Cinema, Shrewsbury Rd, Penistone, Sheffield, S36 6DY

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Bridlington North Beach has a sand and shingle shoreline surrounded by wide promenades with shops and cafes[/caption]

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Bridlington South Beach is slightly more sandy than North Beach with Bridlington Spa nearby which offers music, drama and comedy[/caption]

‘Bridlington’s beaches are a great family day out’

Sun reader Callum Wheeler said: “Bridlington North Beach and South Beach is a really enjoyable day out for the family.”

Bridlington receives rave reviews online for being beautiful, clean and sandy, and having plenty to do.

The beach is actually split into two – North Beach and South Beach. The North Beach is a sand and shingle beach surrounded by wide promenades lined with shops and cafes.

South Beach is a sandier beach with views over Bridlington Bay. Again, with its own promenade and Bridlington Spa offering music, drama and comedy shows.

Location: Bridlington North Beach, Limekiln Lane, Bridlington, YO15 2LY

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Barnsley is full of history and independent shops, and there are four local markets with a wide range of goods on offer[/caption]

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Barnsley is also surrounded by some beautiful countryside, with the Peak District National Park nearby[/caption]

‘Bad rep Barnsley is actually full of history’

Sun reader Ellie Dawson said: “Barnsley gets a bad rep, but it’s full of history, great for independent shops, and the Peak District National Park is nearby.”

Barnsley may not be everyone’s first choices of towns to visit in Yorkshire, but its historic roots, famous markets (four local markets offering a wide range of goods) and location next to the Peak District National Park make it well worth visiting.

Barnsley Town Hall, which is a great example of 1930s architecture, is home to the Experience Barnsley Museum and Discovery Centre, where you can learn all about the town’s history. The Cooper Gallery is also worth a visit if you’re an art lover.

There’s also a great variety of independent shops alongside high street favourites. And if you want to escape the hustle and bustle then you can head out on one of the walking routes in the Peak District.

Location: Barnsley Town Hall, Church St, Barnsley, S70 2TA

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Staithes’ rugged cliffs and traditional seaside cottages are the perfect backdrop for walking the Cleveland Way[/caption]

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The Staithes Museum contains stories of the village’s history, including Captain Cook’s life and achievements[/caption]

‘There’s no place quite like picturesque Staithes’

Sun reader Amy Stevenson said: “There’s no place quite like Staithes, it’s just so picturesque.”

Staithes was once the largest fishing port on the North East coast, but is now an unspoiled village with its quaint streets and a rich maritime history.

Its rocky beach is a great place to search for fossils, and its picturesque surroundings, rugged cliffs and traditional seaside cottages, make a lovely backdrop for walking the Cleveland Way.

Find stories of Staithes history in the Staithes Museum, enjoy local art at the Staithes Gallery, and wander round the independent boutiques.

Location: Staithes Museum, High St, Staithes, Saltburn-by-the-Sea, TS13 5BQ

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Brimham Rocks is a popular place for skilled rock climbers, but also for children who want to scramble through tight spaces[/caption]

‘Go weasling in Brimham Rocks natural playground’

Sun reader Katie Burns said: “Brimham Rocks is a wonderful place to take kids and if you want to enjoy some beautiful views.”

Brimham Rocks is a site full of incredible rock formations that are like a natural playground to clamber around. For skilled rock climbers there’s opportunity for bouldering, rope climbing and abseiling with an instructor.

Children can have a go at ‘weaseling’, which involves scrambling through tight spaces and around twisty passages.

There’s also plenty of walking routes to discover and views of the surrounding Nidderdale countryside to enjoy.

Brimham Rocks is free to enter, but you must pay for parking at the pay and display machines.

Location: Brimham Moor Road, Summerbridge, Harrogate, HG3 4DW