The Best Places to Buy a Holiday Home in North Yorkshire

Recent findings in research conducted by ourselves have revealed that Yorkshire is among the 10 most popular UK locations for in 2024. With increased demand for short-term breaks across the north of England, buying a holiday let in North Yorkshire offers an opportunity for property investors to boost their rental income.

To help you make an informed decision, we've analysed our booking data and identified the best places to buy a holiday home in North Yorkshire.

Why buy a holiday let in North Yorkshire?

Buying a holiday let in North Yorkshire offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and strong tourist appeal, making it an ideal investment for those looking to capitalise on the region's popularity.

Key attractions include the majestic ruins of Whitby Abbey, the seaside charm of Scarborough Castle, the stunning Gothic architecture of York Minster, and North York Moors National Park. North Yorkshire Moors Railway, Castle Howard's grandeur and the serene Fountains Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offer further historical allure.

It is a popular destination for short term breaks, with plenty of of affordable options for holiday home investment.

Use our Holiday Let Income Calculator to discover how average earnings from North Yorkshire properties compare against other holiday let locations in the UK.

Where are the best places to buy a holiday home in North Yorkshire?

Using our booking and revenue data, we've determined the best places to buy a holiday home in North Yorkshire.

1. Whitby

The iconic seaside town of Whitby is the second most popular location for summer bookings, according to Sykes' Staycation Index.

Famous for its association with Bram Stoker’s Dracula and its historic abbey, Whitby boasts a perfect combination of sandy beaches, cobbled streets, and cultural heritage. For those who love the coast, a holiday home in Whitby offers stunning sea views and access to local fish and chips and quirky boutiques.

The average property price in Whitby is £275,000, with rental yields of 3.6%

Whitby is one of the best places in North Yorkshire to generate a steady holiday let income. Its year-round appeal, charming harbour, and connections to the scenic North York Moors make it an ideal spot for a holiday home.

2. Scarborough

According to Sykes' internal data, the coastal town of Scarborough is among the top 10 most popular locations for summer bookings.

Known as one of the UK’s first seaside resorts, Scarborough remains a family favorite with its award-winning Blue Flag beaches, amusement arcades, and lively promenade. Key tourist attractions include Scarborough Castle, the Sea Life Centre, and a range of entertainment options, including the iconic Stephen Joseph Theatre.

It makes a great choice for holiday let investment, offering a prime location for exploring North Yorkshire.

3. Filey

The Edwardian town of Filey offers a quieter seaside experience, with a long stretch of sandy beaches and a charming

It is an affordable option for investors looking to expand their holiday let property portfolio, with an average house price of £225,000 and rental yields of 3.9%.

Filey is also in close proximity to the Flamborough Headland Heritage Coast. Its tranquil atmosphere and family-friendly appeal make it a great destination for holiday home investment.

4. Skipton

Skipton, known as the "Gateway to the Dales," is a historic market town located within easy access to the Yorkshire Dales National Park. With an array of tourist attractions including Skipton Castle, canal boat rides, and a bustling market, Skipton attracts both history enthusiasts and families alike.

Skipton’s proximity to the Dales makes it an ideal base for exploring the countryside, boosting its appeal as a promising location for buying a holiday let.

5. Pickering

Pickering is renowned for its ancient castle and heritage steam railway, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR), which draws in thousands of visitors annually.

Nestled on the edge of the North York Moors, Pickering offers easy access to walking trails, cycling routes, and scenic landscapes.

Pickering hosts several annual events, such as the 1940's Wartime Weekend, helping to boost holiday let occupancy rates throughout the year.

6. Staithes

This quaint fishing village is a favorite for artists and photographers, thanks to its narrow streets, colourful cottages, and dramatic cliffs.

Staithes has a deep history tied to Captain Cook and is part of the Staithes Group of Artists, adding to its unique appeal. Its secluded atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for buying a short term holiday let in North Yorkshire.

7. Settle

Settle is a charming market town on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, offering stunning views, outdoor adventures, and a rich cultural history.

Its world-famous railway route attracts many visitors who come to experience one of the most scenic train journeys in the UK.

With access to a labyrinth of cobbled streets, amenities and trails including the Three Peaks Challenge and other Dales walks, Settle is a good investment choice for those looking to increase their holiday let income.

8. Grassington

Grassington is a beautiful Dales village lined with stone cottages, farmers markets, and vibrant arts and cultural scene.

It gained even more fame as the filming location for the recent All Creatures Great and Small series, attracting fans of the show. Grassington hosts several popular events, including the Grassington Festival and Dickensian Christmas, which help maintain high visitor numbers year-round.

With easy access to farmland in the Dales, Grassington offers a lucrative opportunity to diversify and generate a steady return on investment.

9. Richmond

Richmond boasts a rich history, with its imposing castle, Georgian architecture, and cobbled marketplace, making it a popular tourist destination. Home to The Georgian Theatre Royal, the oldest working theatre in the UK, and various galleries and museums, Richmond is an excellent location for buying a holiday let.

As one of Britain's most picturesque Georgian market towns, Richmond makes a fantastic base for those looking to maximise their rental income.

10. Hawes

Hawes, the highest market town in England, is a gateway to the stunning scenery of Wensleydale, offering a true rural escape. Visitors flock to the Wensleydale Creamery, making Hawes a popular destination for food lovers.

With its proximity to hiking trails, waterfalls like Hardraw Force, and scenic landscapes, Hawes is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.

One of the benefits of holiday let management with Sykes is that property owners can capitalise on market trends and demand in North Yorkshire using our data-driven pricing system, generating an extra 26% revenue on average.

Holiday Homes for Sale in North Yorkshire

If you're thinking of buying a holiday home, why not browse the Holiday Homes for Sale in North Yorkshire to find the perfect match.

Still undecided? Choosing our flexible holiday let management companies across the Sykes group can help you make an informed decision for your property investment.

With over 25 years' experience in holiday letting, Yorkshire Coastal Cottages are local letting agents who can share their expertise and locate a holiday home on the Yorkshire Coast that suits your unique criteria.

Contact our property experts today for tailored advice to help you find the best place to buy a holiday home in North Yorkshire.