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Take your weekend to the next level with our pick of the top five things to do in the North of England on a Sunday. From the bustling historic streets of York to the humble town of Whitby, we’ve got a great selection of Sunday activities to end the week.

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Close-up of two smiling adult women with a child between them1. The Royal Armouries Museum, Leeds

Nearest station: Leeds

The Royal Armouries Museum is the premier spot for a hands-on history lesson through the lens of the nation’s greatest battles. With live battle demonstrations and exhibits, including Henry VIII’s armour, an Indian war elephant’s suit, and Japanese samurai swords, expand your knowledge of the world’s military history with a trip to the Royal Armouries. To top it all off, entry is free, with only special exhibitions needing tickets. Travel with Northern and grab a duo ticket for cheaper travel when with a partner.

Discover the Royal Armouries Museum

2. Whitby Walks

Nearest station: Whitby

A scenic walk. Fish and chips by the sea. Some sun (hopefully). These are the makings of a perfect Sunday, all of which you can find in the small coastal town of Whitby. Try out the Miles Without Stiles walk, an accessible walking route that winds right past the historic Whitby Abbey and along the coast, making for an easy walk right along the Yorkshire Coast. Feeling spontaneous? Book a same-day ticket with Northern and get there right away for cheaper.

The Shambles in York busy with people in the daytime3. The Potions Cauldron, York

Nearest station: York

Make your Sunday magical with a trip into J.K. Rowling’s world of wands, wizards, and mystique by visiting The Potions Cauldron in York. Learn how to craft your own potions at the Potions Academy or soar on a broomstick through the air in Broom School; whatever you do, you’ll find yourself surrounded by magic, mystery, and fun at The Potions Cauldron. Get to the Shambles with Northern and save with a family ticket.

Take a trip to The Potions Cauldron

4. Ouseburn and Quayside food

Nearest station: Manors

Picked by Which? as the best place in the UK for food, Newcastle is filled with plenty of delicious food options, especially around Ouseburn and the Quayside. If you’re looking for a spot of afternoon tea, then Proven Goods Co. is a great option due to their homemade doughnuts and diverse range of hot drinks. If savoury is more your speed, then Tiger Hornsby is a great spot for a Sunday drink featuring a great range of gins, wines, whiskies along with a delicious menu of olives, bar snacks, and warm flatbreads. Remember kids go half price on all Northern trains!

Small blonde child looking in a glass case in a museum5. National Justice Museum and City of Caves, Nottingham

Nearest station: Nottingham

Spend your day in Nottingham with a trip to the National Justice Museum, as well as the caves that lie beneath the city, making up the UK’s largest cave network. Purchase a joint ticket and meet the matrons, gaolers, and prisoners that walked the stony and cold halls of the gaol. Then head beneath and discover what happens in the depths of Nottingham, from noble drinking dens to air raid shelters, Nottingham’s history is preserved within its ground. Get prepared for your trip and book your joint tickets at the same time as your advanced ticket from Northern.

Visit the National Justice Museum

More things to do in the North

Outdoor activities in the North

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Cheap days out in the North

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Streamline your journey and get tickets straight to your phone. Making your journey contact-free.