Off the beaten track beyond York in the North of UK: enjoy summertime by car in national parks

To start with, we will drive to the Whitby Abbey, which is located on the East Cliff. The Abbey is a ruined Benedictine abbey that was founded in the 7th century. As one of the most iconic landmarks in Whitby, the Abbey offers breathtaking views of the town and the North Sea. For lunch, we will taste local seafood by heading to the charming fishing village of Whitby, where is famous for scampi as well as fish and chips. After lunch, head over to the Captain Cook Memorial Museum, which is dedicated to the life and achievements of Captain James Cook, born in Whitby. The museum features exhibits on Cook's voyages and discoveries, as well as artifacts from his life.

We will start our day in Harrogate with a visit to the beautiful RHS Garden Harlow Carr. This stunning garden features a variety of landscapes, including woodland, water gardens, and wildflower meadows. Take a stroll through the gardens and enjoy the stunning views. We will then taste local Yorkshire food and drink in one of the farm shop cafés. With Yorkshire meat from the local butchery and fresh produce from the farm shop, you will be rewarded with mouth-watering homemade food in wholesome Yorkshire flavour. After lunch, we will head to the historic town of Knaresborough and explore the Knaresborough Castle, which dates back to the 12th century. After exploring the castle, wander along the River Nidd and enjoy the beautiful views down the river near the iconic Knaresborough Viaduct. We will then explore the Mother Shipton's Cave, a mystical attraction that features a petrifying well and a park filled with spectacular rock formations.

To begin with, we will first start our day in Fountains Abbey. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the largest and best preserved ruined Cistercian monasteries in England. Explore vaulted ceilings, grand columns and an imposing tower. In addition, the garden is one of the best surviving examples of a Georgian water garden in England. The elegant ornamental lakes, canals, temples and cascades provide a succession of dramatic eye-catching vistas. We will then head to one of the many charming cafés or pubs in Hawes, and try some traditional Yorkshire Dales dishes like lamb stew or a hearty pie. After lunch, we will have a short walk in the Aysgarth Falls, a stunning series of waterfalls located in the heart of the National Park. The waterfalls are featured with alternating layers of limestone and soft shale, as well as a typical habitat for songbirds and dormice. We will make use of the rest of the afternoon in visiting the Forbidden Corner, which has been rated as the best European folly of the 20th century by the Folly Fellowship. This folly garden features a labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, follies, and surprises spread across a four-acre garden, including towers, statues, sculptures, and even a conifer dog's head.

North York Moors National Park We will first explore discover the impressive ruins of Rievaulx Abbey in the tranquil valley of the North York Moors. The Abbey was founded in 1132 and was one of England's most powerful Cistercian monasteries. For lunch, head to the nearby village of Hutton-le-Hole and enjoy local cuisine at one of the local establishments. We will then relax in Danby where the National Park Centre is located. A walk through the nearby Danby Beacon is stunning to experience some spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. We will then explore the charming town of Helmsley, located at the southern edge of the North York Moors. The town is featured with historic castle ruins and beautiful walled garden. In the evening, we will drive back to York to enjoy a traditional pub dinner at one of the local establishments.