Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chester-le-Street to Hull
If you love driving, there's no better way to spend a day than by embarking on a road trip. One of the best routes to take is the drive from Chester-le-Street, England to Hull, England. This 105-mile drive takes just under two hours if you take the fastest route, but why rush? Take the time to enjoy the scenery and make a few stops along the way. Here are five unexpected places to stop that are worth it.
Halfway Point: York, NYK
Before we dive into the additional stops, let's highlight the halfway point on this journey: York. York is a beautiful walled city that's a perfect place to stretch your legs and explore, with its medieval streets, ancient city walls, and incredible history. Plus, it's home to some of the country's most beautiful architecture, including York Minster, one of the largest cathedrals in Northern Europe.
1. Selby Abbey, Selby
Located about 20 miles south of York on the banks of the River Ouse, Selby is a quiet little town that's a must-visit for anyone interested in local history. The star attraction of Selby is its abbey, an impressive feat of medieval engineering that's been operating for nearly 1000 years. The abbey's gothic-style architecture is jaw-dropping, and inside, you'll find a treasure trove of artifacts and treasures dating back centuries. The best time to visit Selby Abbey is during one of their monthly musical events, where you can catch local classical music talent.
Food to try: Don't leave Selby without trying their famous Yorkshire pudding, a savory dish that can be served with gravy or filled with meat and vegetables.
2. Bempton Cliffs, Bridlington
For an unforgettable outdoor experience, head to Bempton Cliffs. Situated 30 miles northeast of Hull, this natural reserve is known for its stunning views of the North Sea and great location for birdwatching. The cliffs are home to thousands of puffins, kittiwakes, and gannets, making it a popular spot for bird watchers. Take a walk along the cliffs or sign up for a guided boat tour to see the birds up close. The site has plenty of benches scattered around to take in the breathtaking views.
Food to try: A day spent in the great outdoors requires packed sandwiches, freshly baked scones and homemade jams at Attic Tea Rooms in Bridlington.
3. Beverley Minster, Beverley
Beverley Minster is about 15 miles east of Hull, making it an excellent pitstop for people on their way to spend a day by the sea. This ancient church is known for its Gothic architecture and is an essential visit for anyone interested in medieval English architecture. Inside the church, you'll find an impressive collection of medieval artifacts, including several stained glass windows dating back over centuries. Beverley as a town grew up around the church, so be sure to take a stroll around the streets and explore the beautiful surroundings.
Food to try: For some quintessential British pub grub, head to The Tiger Inn. Sit outside in the courtyard and enjoy a locally brewed beer alongside handmade pizza.
4. Kiplingcotes Chalk Pit, Market Weighton
If you're looking for a little adventure on your drive (and why not?), give Kiplingcotes Chalk Pit a visit. This former mine is a fascinating location that's been mined for hundreds of years. The site today is managed by the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, which has transformed the abandoned quarry into a thriving nature reserve. Visitors can now explore the site's nature trails, which are home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare orchids and birds of prey.
Food to try: The small town of Market Weighton has some fantastic local fish and chip shops. Try the Kingfisher Fish and Chips restaurant for a taste of traditional English cuisine.
5. Fort Paull, Kingston upon Hull
Our last stop is Fort Paull, located just outside of Kingston upon Hull. This fort was built in 1542 to protect the Humber Estuary from attack, and it's a fantastic site to visit if you're interested in military history. Visitors can explore the fort's tunnels and underground bunkers, which were used as ammunition depots during World War II. The site also has several outdoor exhibits, including tanks and airplanes.
Food to try: For a taste of something sweet and indulgent, visit Dinsdale's Joke Shop. This family-run shop sells all kinds of candy, chocolates, and treats.
Conclusion
If you're looking for a unique way to spend a day and explore the beauty of England, taking a drive from Chester-le-Street to Hull is a great choice. From medieval abbeys and ancient churches to nature reserves and underground bunkers, there's something for everyone on this route. Be sure to take your time, stop at a few locations and savor the local cuisine along the way. You may be surprised at how much fun you can have, even if you're just taking a drive.