Things to do in East Yorkshire. Activities, attractions and hidden gems

Fun, beautiful, active, relaxing, unique, exciting, historical, romantic, creative or energetic; whatever words describe the things you like to do on holiday, you’ll be able to do them right here in East Yorkshire. Whether you're looking for family friendly things to do like hitting the beach or enjoying outdoor play at William's Den, searching for couple's activities such as discovering stately homes, vineyards and museums, or you want to blow off some steam on dog friendly day out, taking in the likes of RSPB Bempton Cliffs, you're spoilt for choice in East Yorkshire. Where will your adventure start?
 

Family friendly attractions and days out

Families can spend their days on the beach watching the kids building sandcastles and wearing themselves out running in the sand, before indulging in fresh fish and chips by the sea. Enjoy new adventures together, trying new sports, exploring hidden coves or visiting exciting attractions filled with kid friendly activities.  

Make the most of East Yorkshire's beautiful beaches where kids can build sandcastles and splash in the sea, followed by tucking into fresh fish and chips on our bustling seaside promenades. Places like Bridlington and Hornsea deliver bucket loads of classic seaside charm, perfect for relaxed family days out together. Down at Bridlington Harbour, you can take the fun up a notch with classic pirate ship rides, thrilling speed boat trips and peaceful pleasure cruises along the coast onboard the Yorkshire Belle. It’s an easy way to add a bit of adventure to your visit and enjoy the coastline from a brand-new perspective.

For outdoor play, William’s Den is a must-visit, offering indoor and outdoor climbing, den-building and woodland fun designed to help kids burn energy in the best way possible. Over in the Yorkshire Wolds, Woldies combines nature, play and discovery with its themed gardens, willow-maze and hands-on activities that spark curiosity.

If your family loves quirky attractions, Bondville Model Village in Bridlington is a gem - a charming miniature world with tiny houses, shops and even a working harbour model. Nearby, Bridlington Animal Park offers a mix of animal encounters and bird displays.

Many of East Yorkshire’s stately homes are perfect for families too. Beautiful estates such as Burton Agnes Hall, Burton Constable Hall and Sledmere House offer spacious grounds, woodland walks and brilliant play areas to explore. At Sewerby Hall and Gardens, the family fun goes even further! Not only can children run wild in the play areas and gardens, but they’ll also love visiting the on-site zoo, home to penguins, lemurs and more.

Whether you’re exploring our coast, play parks or historic estates, East Yorkshire is packed with family days out that mix fun, learning and fresh air in equal measure.

Discover more family friendly things to do in East Yorkshire.

Indoor and outdoor activities 

East Yorkshire is rich in history, culture, and creativity. For history enthusiasts, Beverley Minster and St Mary’s Church in Beverley are must-visit landmarks. Both showcase stunning Gothic architecture, intricate carvings, and centuries of fascinating stories.

Art lovers will enjoy the Robert Fuller Gallery in Thixendale, featuring captivating wildlife art and inspiring exhibitions, or the Beverley Art Gallery, which hosts a mix of traditional and contemporary works. These spaces provide a perfect escape for a rainy day.

Stately homes like Burton Agnes Hall and Sledmere House invite visitors to explore their lavish interiors, period furnishings, and historical significance.

For those who love spending time outdoors, East Yorkshire offers an abundance of activities to enjoy. The Yorkshire Wolds National Trail provides breathtaking views, with 79 miles of walking paths through picturesque rolling hills, historic sites, and charming villages. For cyclists, the Trans Pennine Trail offers an extensive network of routes connecting East Yorkshire to the wider region, perfect for exploring by bike.

The East Yorkshire Coast

The East Yorkshire coast is full of exciting attractions for visitors.

Why not start your adventure at Withernsea Lighthouse which offers stunning views over the coast? Or just down the road is Hornsea Mere, Yorkshire's largest fresh water lake and the perfect spot for a relaxing walk or a boat ride.

RSPB Bempton Cliffs is a must-visit for birdwatching enthusiasts, especially in the spring and summer months. And in nearby Bridlington you can spend the day exploring the zoo at Sewerby Hall, or take a boat ride from Bridlington's harbour to see the town from the sea.

There’s something for everyone on this scenic stretch of coastline.
 

Unique activities in East Yorkshire 

East Yorkshire offers a variety of unique activities for adventurous visitors. For a truly unforgettable experience, take a Spurn Point Safari, where you’ll explore this wild, remote peninsula, rich in wildlife and stunning landscapes. For animal lovers, several places offer alpaca trekking and if you're seeking something more daring, try skydiving for a thrilling aerial view of East Yorkshire.

Walking across the Humber Bridge, one of the UK's most iconic landmarks, offers breathtaking views of the Humber Estuary. Or indulge in a wine tasting experience at one of the local vineyards, where you can sample fine, locally-produced wines while enjoying the scenic countryside. 
 

Activities for couples

Couples can explore quaint market towns with old, cobbled streets full of independent stores and boutiques, before heading to an award-winning wine bar or restaurant for a meal cooked with local produce, then heading back to a boutique hotel or luxury lodge. Or choose to spend a day enjoying the magnificent history, artefacts and architecture of one of the many museums and stately homes dotted across the region, before enjoying a decadent afternoon tea overlooking the gardens and then a night at the theatre. 
 

So, if you're wondering what to do in East Yorkshire, you'll discover a place that is as diverse as it is beautiful.