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Friday 11am, we arrive at Easihire/Easicampers Blackburn, to pick up our home for the weekend, a magnificent Volkswagen California Ocean, sat glistening in the rain. So much for the hope of sunshiny days, but I can’t be down hearted, it is January and we’re in the North of England, Gods own county of Lancashire and we have planned an excursion o’er t’border to see them there folk in Yorkshire. Fingers crossed for better weather, but I’m not betting on it.
Wrap up, decent shoes or boots and nothing to worry about, we have food, heating and a vehicle to travel in, and we’re off before you know it!
Todays plan, an afternoon in Haworth & an Evening in Harrogate
There’s something magical about spending an afternoon in Haworth, immersing yourself in its rich history, before heading to Harrogate for an elegant evening. With the freedom of a campervan, this Yorkshire adventure blends heritage, relaxation, and scenic beauty into one perfect weekend.
Afternoon in Haworth: Walking in the Footsteps of the Brontës
Haworth is a place steeped in literary history. It is relatively local to where we live, merely an hour away, yet I have spent so little time here, sadly. I decided my wife and I would have a stop off here, and do the ‘touristy bit’. Never one to like crowded places, I was pleasantly surprised to find it busy, but nothing too bad, (maybe it being winter and a damp day put people off?).
Perched on the edge of the rugged Yorkshire moors, this charming village is forever linked to the Brontë sisters, who penned some of English literature’s most famous novels here. Arriving just after midday, I parked up and strolled along the cobbled Main Street, its quaint shops and tea rooms exuding timeless character.
A visit to the Brontë Parsonage Museum was essential. Wandering through the house where Charlotte, Emily, and Anne lived and wrote, I could almost hear the echoes of their creativity. Their original manuscripts, letters, and personal belongings painted a vivid picture of their lives.
From the museum, we ventured onto the Brontë Way, following the well-trodden path that inspired Wuthering Heights. The rolling moorland stretched out before me, its windswept beauty both haunting and exhilarating. A short fifty minute walk led me to the picturesque Bronte Waterfall, where we paused to soak in the tranquillity before making our way back to the village.
Before arriving in Haworth, we had made a reservation at Cobbles & Clay, a well renowned and delightful café where I enjoyed a strong Yorkshire tea and a hearty slice of parkin—a traditional ginger cake with a rich, treacly warmth perfect for a cool afternoon.
Evening in Harrogate: Elegance and Indulgence
From the rugged romance of Haworth, we made the short drive to Harrogate, a town synonymous with elegance and indulgence. As dusk closed in, the Victorian spa town twinkled under golden streetlights, and we strolled through the famous Valley Gardens, enjoying the crisp late afternoon air.
No trip to Harrogate would be complete without experiencing its spa heritage, so we headed to the Turkish Baths for the last evening session (that’s 18.30 and they close at 20.30). The warm, aromatic steam and the stunning Moorish architecture transported me to another world—a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration.
Dinner called for a visit to The Ivy Harrogate, where we treated ourselves to a luxurious meal. The decadent surroundings, with their Art Deco-inspired interiors, perfectly complemented my choice of a rich steak accompanied by a glass of deep red Malbec.
A Night Under the Stars
With the campervan stocked and ready, I drove a short distance through beautiful countryside to Rudding Holiday Park, a campsite just over five miles outside of Harrogate. Nestled amongst rolling hills, it offered the best of both worlds—peaceful seclusion yet close to the town.
As we settled in for the night, wrapped in a blanket with a mug of hot chocolate each, we gazed up at a sky bursting with stars. The only sounds were the occasional hoot of an owl and the rustling of leaves in the gentle night breeze.
This day had been a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature—proving once again that Yorkshire never fails to charm.
Early start in the morning as we head off for a day in the Medieval city of York.
Night night!
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Always the dilemma……do I cook breakfast or just stop off somewhere en route to York. We choose the latter, much easier and with that decision made we say good bye to Harrogate and make our way to the gorgeous city of York.
Vikings, History, and a Pint on the Shambles
York is a city that brims with history, charm, and an undeniable sense of adventure. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just someone who loves a scenic stroll, this ancient city has something for everyone. If you’re planning a day trip, here’s how to make the most of your time, with a perfect blend of Viking history, medieval streets, and, of course, a well-earned pint along the way.
Morning: A Journey Back in Time at the Jorvik Centre
Our adventure began at the Jorvik Viking Centre, one of York’s most famous attractions. The immersive experience swept us back to the 10th century, when York was a thriving Viking settlement known as Jorvik. The moment we stepped inside, the sights, sounds, and even the scents of the Viking Age surrounded us. The centre’s state-of-the-art ride transported us through a faithfully reconstructed Viking street, complete with animatronic residents going about their daily lives. After the ride, we took our time to explore the impressive collection of artifacts, from weapons to household items, all unearthed from beneath the streets of York.
Leaving the Viking era behind, we took a stroll along York’s city walls, the longest medieval walls in England. The walk offers spectacular views of the city’s historic skyline, including the iconic York Minster. With every step, you’re quite literally walking through history, passing through ancient gateways like Micklegate Bar, which once served as the main entrance to the city. The walls provide a fantastic perspective on York’s layered past, from its Roman foundations to its medieval grandeur.
A Pint and a Bite on The Shambles
After working up an appetite, it’s time to stop at The Shambles, one of the most famous and picturesque streets in the world. With its overhanging timber-framed buildings, cobbled lanes, and charming shopfronts, it feels like stepping into a Harry Potter film (in fact, many believe it inspired Diagon Alley!). Here, you can find a cosy pub or café to refuel with a hearty lunch and a refreshing pint. Pub for us! A decent pint and a glorious steak and ale pie – a rare treat, I might add.
With our hunger satisfied, we spent the afternoon soaking in more of York’s treasures. York Minster, is awe-inspiring, an absolute masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Feeling energetic, we climbed the tower for breathtaking panoramic views (if you’ve been to Coventry Cathedral and done their steps, you’ll have an idea of what these were like). Alternatively, you can always visit Clifford’s Tower, the last remaining part of York Castle, where you can enjoy another impressive viewpoint over the city.
York is a city that effortlessly blends the past and present, offering an unforgettable day of exploration. From the Viking echoes of Jorvik to the medieval charm of The Shambles, every corner of this city tells a story. Whether you visit for history, culture, or simply a good pint in a centuries-old pub, York never disappoints.
Time sadly did not allow us to pop into the Yorkshire Museum and Gardens, a beautiful spot to relax and take in more of the city’s Roman and medieval history. The gardens provide a perfect place to unwind and relax, but not for us as we were off again, this time towards Malham Cove.
A Scenic Escape: York to Malham Cove
With our campervan prepped for a cozy overnight stay at Lodge Park, we set off on a journey filled with natural wonders, historic charm, and delicious food. Our little road trip, takes us now from York to Malham Cove and weaving through the Yorkshire Dales’ breathtaking landscapes. Leaving York behind, we took a leisurely drive west, watching the scenery transform from city streets to rolling countryside. Sometimes, the best adventures are right on your doorstep.
There is no way we can pass Skipton without stopping off for a light dinner. The Woolly Sheep is magnificent. I settled for the haunch of Venison and my dear wife chose the Pan Seared Sea Bass with a delicious Sauvignon. I really fancied a glass of Punta de Vacas Malbec or even better a bottle of Finca La Colonia, another Malbec, though I was also tempted with their Pinot Noir, but I can restrain myself occasionally and I am driving, so I settle for a diet coke. I have a bottle of Wanderer (such a fitting name) in the campervan, so maybe a glass whilst sitting out wrapped in a blanket once we reach Lodge Park, which is still about an hour away.
With our stomachs full and spirits high, the food and atmosphere was exquisite, we made our way to Lodge Park, our chosen spot for the night. Nestled in the Dales, this campsite provided a peaceful retreat, with just the right balance of comfort and nature. After setting up our campervan, we enjoyed a quiet evening under the stars, granted this time blocked by heavy clouds, but they were there above them. We recounted our day’s adventures over that glass of Wanderer I promised myself, before snuggling down for the night.
A Walk at Bolton Abbey
Waking up to the sound of birdsong, we set off early intent on exploring Malham Cove. However, before going to Malham, we make a delightful pit stop at Bolton Abbey only half an hour away. It is well worth it! Nestled along the River Wharfe, this historic estate offers stunning walking trails, ancient ruins, and a peaceful atmosphere. We opted for a riverside walk, crossing the famous stepping stones and soaking in the crisp Yorkshire air.
As lunch beckoned, we treated ourselves at The Devonshire Arms. This elegant country inn is known for its warm hospitality and excellent food. We indulged in a hearty meal featuring a magnificent Fish Finger Butty each – a well-earned reward after our morning stroll. The relaxed ambiance and beautiful setting made it the perfect lunch before continuing our journey.
Exploring Malham Cove
This awe-inspiring limestone formation is a sight to behold, its sheer cliffs and unique pavement leading to breath-taking views of the surrounding countryside. The short but steep climb to the top is worth the effort, offering a panoramic vista that stretches for miles. The Cove’s dramatic beauty has even made it a filming location for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, adding a touch of magic to our visit.
After soaking in the beauty of Malham Cove, we reluctantly packed up and began our journey home, we made a few spontaneous stops to admire the landscape and snap a few final photos. By the time we arrived back, we felt refreshed, recharged, and already dreaming of our next adventure. Maybe we really should explore more of our own home county – Lancashire, home of football history with clubs like Accrington Stanley and Burnley, the history of the Lancastrians and War of the Roses, the industrial revolution and we cannot forget Pendle Hill and the Trough of Bowland and it’s association with the Pendle Witches?
My Final Thoughts
Our trip to Haworth, Harrogate and on to York, then our final stop at Malham Cove and all the places in between was the perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and indulgence. From the historic charm to the mouthwatering delights of all the eateries we visited, and the breathtaking scenery of the Yorkshire Dales, every moment was unforgettable. For anyone looking for a short yet fulfilling getaway in the heart of Yorkshire, this route is a must.
Our thanks has to go also to the people at Easihire in Blackburn, who without them our little road trip couldn’t have happened. The VW California Ocean campervan was amazing, such a joy to drive and had everything we possibly required in it, plus it was comfortable and warm at night too.
Until next time, happy travels!
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