Between Scarborough And Hull Is A Charming Market Town Called 'Capital Of The Wolds' With Indie Shops And Trails

Most people planning a trip to Yorkshire will be familiar with its two main national parks: the Yorkshire Dales, hugging the elevated hinterland, and the North York Moors, stretching from the hills out to the coast. But not many people will be as familiar with the village-studded, chalky hills of the Yorkshire Wolds, one of the most picturesque (and underrated) spots in the northeastern corner of God's Own Country. Because of its unique proximity to the Wolds, the market town of Driffield has earned the title of Capital of the Wolds. Many spots of natural and historical beauty orbit around Driffield, from the wild pond of Nafferton Mere to the rolling slopes of Spellowgate to the many grandiose manor houses, like Burton Agnes Hall and Sledmere House with its eclectic gardens.

Alongside its hefty heritage and history, Driffield has plenty of activities, events, and markets livening it up in the present day. There are also several independent shops lining its main street – which is itself a picturesque showcase of historic houses and architecture. Notably, Driffield makes for an ideal base for anyone looking for easy access to the hiking trails and natural highlights which the Yorkshire Wolds have to offer.

Driffield is well connected to neighboring cities and transport hubs. It's located a little over 20 miles away from both the port city of Hull (a 35 minute drive) and the beautiful seaside town of Scarborough, which has beaches and fresh seafood galore. While visitors can reach the latter in about 40 minutes from Driffield, it will take double that time (90 minutes) to reach the closest international airport, Leeds Bradford International (LBA).

You don't need to head to England's first national park for windswept trails and beautiful scenery. Occupying a much smaller patch than the Peak District, the Yorkshire Wolds are strewn with scenic walking routes, many of which are accessible from Driffield. They range from relaxed walks to intensive treks, like the 44-mile long Wolds Rangers Way which crosses scenic hills and villages. Most people tackling this trek start and finish their journey in Driffield.

To warm up your appetite for the great outdoors, head to Sledmere House and Gardens, about 7 miles from the town. Occupying 25 acres of manicured greenery, Sledmere showcases several examples of stately countryside gardens — including a styled Walled Garden with its own geometrical orchard, topiary, and flower displays throughout. After strolling through the garden, you can continue on the easy, 2.5 mile Circular Walk which crosses Sledmere's deer park. 

Tackling the long-distance Yorkshire Wolds Way in its entirety (79 miles) can take up to a week, but if you're willing to put up with slight hillside elevation to access panoramic, open valley views, it's possible to walk sections of it from Driffield. An easy-going alternative to Yorkshire Wolds Way is the hiking loop connecting Driffield and Spellowgate, which measures 4 miles and crosses mostly level paths and gentle slopes along the way. Similarly, if you're after quaint, countryside views that don't require breaking a sweat, you can drive 4 miles to neighboring Nafferton, a quiet village with charming pubs and its own serene pond: Nafferton Mere. More than just a duck pond, the waters of Nafferton Mere are rich in biodiversity as a result of being spring-fed and connected to the mineral-rich waters that flow underneath the chalk Wolds hills. 

Head to the northwestern city of Liverpool and you will find one of the United Kingdom's best shopping destinations in a luxurious, open-air mall. Driffield, on the other hand, is best suited to people who want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of big cities while still having enough to do and explore. There is no shopping center in town. Instead, independent shops of all kinds – from clothing boutiques to vintage shops and cafes – are peppered around Driffield's downtown. Shops are especially concentrated around the contiguous streets of Market Place and Middle Street South. Here you will find Driffield's family-owned bookstore, The Little Book Emporium, and a plethora of second-hand charity shops, including Age UK and Sue Ryder. The Cheeky Squirrel Emporium specializes in unique items — think vintage, collectable pieces and quirky home furniture and decor.

The town also has plenty of independent food businesses, from delis and cafes to farm shops. Field House Coffee Barn is a mix of the latter two, serving hot, seasonal dishes alongside an array of coffee and cakes from a farmstead surrounded by the Wolds' scenery. For a quick meal while exploring, head to Rose Cottage Butchers, a deli and fresh foods purveyor in the heart of town. You will find classics like meat pies, sausage rolls, scotch eggs, and sweet pastries all using local Yorkshire ingredients.

Just like any market town worth its salt, Driffield holds a weekly, open-air market on the town's main square on Thursdays. It also holds a monthly farmers' market which takes over the Showground field (one mile away from the main street) on the first Saturday of each month.