15 Day Trips from Rotherham for Food Lovers
Rotherham is well positioned for food lovers who want to explore Yorkshire and beyond. From Michelin-starred restaurants to charming market towns and food festivals, there are plenty of destinations within a 90-minute drive that promise a memorable culinary experience. Here are 15 top day trips from Rotherham for anyone with an appetite for adventure.
Leeds – Global Cuisine and Kirkgate Market
Leeds is a vibrant city with a food scene to match. Start your day at Kirkgate Market, one of the largest indoor markets in Europe, with food stalls offering everything from Yorkshire pies to Ethiopian coffee. For lunch or dinner, try Ox Club for wood-fired dishes or Tharavadu for authentic South Indian cuisine.
Travel Time: ~50 minutes
Must-Try: Street food at Trinity Kitchen, especially during rotation weeks.
York – Historic Charm and Fine Dining
York blends medieval charm with modern gastronomy. Visit The Star Inn The City for riverside dining or book a table at Roots, a Michelin-starred restaurant by Tommy Banks focused on seasonal British produce. Don’t miss the Shambles Market for local treats and baked goods.
Travel Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
Must-Try: Tasting menu at Roots.
Sheffield – Steel City Eats
Just next door, Sheffield offers an impressive array of independent restaurants, cafes, and food halls. Head to Cutlery Works or Kommune for diverse options under one roof, or explore the Kelham Island area for gastropubs like The Milestone and Jöro, the city’s Michelin-recommended standout.
Travel Time: ~20 minutes
Must-Try: Scandinavian-Japanese fusion at Jöro.
Malton – Yorkshire’s Food Capital
Known as Yorkshire’s food capital, Malton is a haven for artisanal food lovers. Take a cookery class, visit local producers, or time your trip with one of the town’s famous food festivals. Try the handmade gelato at Groovy Moo, or sit down at The Talbot for classic British fare with seasonal flair.
Travel Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
Must-Try: Cheese and charcuterie from Malton Relish.
Bakewell – Pudding and Beyond
Famous for its namesake tart, Bakewell offers much more. Visit The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop for a taste of history, then enjoy modern British cuisine at Rafters at Riverside House or explore charming tearooms dotted through town.
Travel Time: ~1 hour
Must-Try: Authentic Bakewell pudding, not just the tart.
Whitby – Seafood by the Sea
This coastal town is a dream for seafood lovers. Feast on freshly caught fish at The Magpie Café, or try Trenchers for award-winning fish and chips. Round out the day with a walk along the harbour and a traditional ice cream from Fortune’s Kippers.
Travel Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
Must-Try: Smoked kippers or crab sandwiches.
Harrogate – Elegant Eateries and Afternoon Tea
Known for its spa heritage, Harrogate also excels in refined dining. Enjoy award-winning French cuisine at Le D2, or indulge in classic afternoon tea at Bettys Tea Room. The Montpellier Quarter is perfect for browsing and grazing.
Travel Time: ~1 hour 10 minutes
Must-Try: Afternoon tea with Fat Rascals at Bettys.
Huddersfield – Market Town Feasting
Huddersfield offers a variety of local markets and independent food spots. Head to the indoor market for fresh local produce or dine at Apadana for Persian delicacies. Nearby Holmfirth is also worth visiting for its vineyard and cosy pubs.
Travel Time: ~50 minutes
Must-Try: Persian lamb stew at Apadana.
Lincoln – Cathedral Views and Local Bites
Explore the historic cathedral, then take a walk down Steep Hill to discover Browns Pie Shop and Stokes Café. Local delis and chocolatiers line the streets, and you’ll find a balance of heritage and creativity in both the food and the atmosphere.
Travel Time: ~1 hour 10 minutes
Must-Try: Lincolnshire sausages from a local butcher.
Hebden Bridge – Artisan Cafés and Slow Food
This artsy town in West Yorkshire offers a laid-back foodie vibe with emphasis on sustainability. Stop by Hebden Bridge Farmers’ Market, or try Mooch Café for hearty breakfasts and ethical ingredients. Vegan and vegetarian options abound.
Travel Time: ~1 hour
Must-Try: Vegan cakes and small-batch coffee at Mooch or Humblest of Pleasures.
Hathersage – Scenic Dining in the Peaks
Located in the heart of the Peak District, Hathersage is great for combining hiking with hearty meals. Book a table at Bank House, a bistro serving seasonal, locally sourced dishes, or grab a gourmet burger from Coleman’s Deli.
Travel Time: ~50 minutes
Must-Try: Venison pie after a walk along Stanage Edge.
Nottingham – From Street Food to Michelin Stars
The Lace Market district offers eclectic dining, while Alchemilla, a Michelin-starred restaurant, is a must-visit for serious foodies. You’ll also find great coffee shops, craft breweries, and globally inspired street food.
Travel Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
Must-Try: Vegetarian tasting menu at Alchemilla.
Hull – Coastal Flavours with a Twist
This underrated port city is home to fantastic fish restaurants like 1884 Dock Street Kitchen, as well as vibrant street food scenes around Humber Street. It’s a rising star in the North’s culinary landscape.
Travel Time: ~1 hour 20 minutes
Must-Try: Shellfish platter at Humber Fish Co.
Chesterfield – Markets and Pubs
Home to one of the largest open-air markets in England, Chesterfield is ideal for a browse-and-bite day out. Explore local cheeses, baked goods, and snacks before heading to a traditional pub like The Market Pub or Cocina at Casa Hotel for modern European dining.
Travel Time: ~30 minutes
Must-Try: Local cheese and real ale pairing.
Barnsley – The Hidden Food Scene Next Door
Close to home but often overlooked, Barnsley has a growing food scene. From artisan bakeries and award-winning fish and chip shops to Beatson House, a fine-dining restaurant in a converted Georgian home, it’s well worth a visit.
Travel Time: ~20 minutes
Must-Try: Sunday lunch at Beatson House or Barnsley chop with mint sauce.
Final Thoughts
Rotherham may be home base, but a short drive in any direction opens the door to some of the UK’s most exciting culinary destinations. Whether you’re in the mood for high-end tasting menus, rustic pubs, or bustling markets, these 15 day trips offer something for every food lover.
