Mums. They’re so busy looking out for everyone else they sometimes forget about themselves. But this March the spotlight shines brightly on mums, and on women in general. International Women’s Day falls on Saturday 8th March and Mother’s Day is on Sunday 3oth in 2025, the same day the clocks leap forward bringing us longer, lighter days. At last!
This mother’s day why not forget the chocolates and flowers and focus on making memories instead? Yorkshire is packed with ways to treat your mum, whether it’s a day out in a stunning location, a cosy homemade afternoon tea, or something a little different. Here are our ten suggestions for celebrating in true Yorkshire style.
1. Enjoy a Yorkshire Afternoon Tea
Take your mum to one of Yorkshire’s best afternoon tea spots. From an indulgent afternoon tea The Grand – York’s only five star hotel – where you can choose from a vegan, a sparkling, a spring and even a children’s afternoon tea to a British Raj High Tea at Realitea in Ripon where you can enjoy a Masala Chai with this Indian inspired afternoon tea.
2. Plan a Countryside Walk & Picnic
Yorkshire is blessed with beautiful landscapes – pack up a picnic, don your walking boots and head to the Dales, the Moors, or a scenic coastal spot like Robin Hood’s Bay. If you want a less strenuous option, a gentle stroll around RHS Harlow Carr or Fountains Abbey is a great alternative. You’ll find fabulous cafes at both locations with the tea room at Harlow Carr run by Betty’s and featuring some lovely gift options for mum.
3. Visit a Historic Yorkshire House or Garden
Many of Yorkshire’s stately homes and gardens open their doors for special Mother’s Day events. Castle Howard, Harewood House, or Burton Agnes Hall make for a great day out, with gorgeous scenery and afternoon teas available. Castle Howard is serving a special Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea this year with cakes created in Malton by master pâtissier Florian Poirot.
4. Have a DIY Yorkshire Spa Day at Home
If a spa visit isn’t an option, bring the experience home! Run mum a bubble bath, light some locally made Yorkshire candles, and treat your mum to a relaxing pamper session. (You could even book her a reflexology or facial treatment for later in the year!)
5. Cook a Sunday Roast Together
There’s nothing like a proper Yorkshire roast! Instead of taking her out, why not cook together? Get the whole family involved, make your own Yorkshire puddings, and enjoy a slow Sunday filled with good food.
6. Take a Trip on a Heritage Train
Hop aboard one of Yorkshire’s heritage railways for a nostalgic day out. The North Yorkshire Moors Railway or the Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway offer beautiful routes through the countryside, often with special Mother’s Day journeys.
7. Explore an Artisan Market or Craft Fair
Support Yorkshire’s independent makers and treat your mum to a trip to an artisan market. Places like Malton’s Monthly Food Market or the Leeds Corn Exchange are great for discovering unique, handcrafted gifts. Little Bird Artisan Markets are held throughout Yorkshire and feature some really lovely local artists and makers.
8. Enjoy a Film & Wine Night
For a relaxed evening, set up a movie night at home with your mum’s favourite film and a bottle of wine from a Yorkshire vineyard (yes, Yorkshire makes wine!). You could also visit an independent cinema like Hyde Park Picture House in Leeds.
9. Try a Hands-On Activity Together
Get creative with a shared experience like a pottery class, a painting workshop, or even a cheese-making session. Yorkshire has plenty of hands-on activities to try, making for a fun and unique way to spend time together.
10. Go on a Scenic Drive & Find a Cosy Pub
If your mum loves a good view, take her on a scenic drive through the Yorkshire Dales or North York Moors, stopping off at a cosy country pub for lunch. The Tan Hill Inn (Britain’s highest pub) is a great option for fab food and live music.
If you’re looking for even more ways to make your mum feel special, why not browse our handpicked selection of local experiences? From pamper days to artisan workshops, we’ve got something for every kind of mum.