June and July are traditionally the months when expats head back to a mild and frost-free UK to catch up with family and friends – and perhaps start the hunt for their ideal property ready for a more permanent move back home.
North Yorkshire is a favourite destination for expats who are visiting – and those who are moving back. If you’re tempted by the dry stone walls, the historic castles and abbeys and the proximity to the vibrant cities of Leeds, Manchester and York, read our tips for expats on renting and buying in Yorkshire.
If you’re still not quite sure what the future might hold, here’s a reminder of what pulls expats back to British shores – and Yorkshire - every summer:
A green and pleasant land
Yorkshire is the largest county in England and home to the UK’s highest pub, the Tan Hill Inn. The Tour de France was held here in 2014 and keen cyclists have been making a pilgrimage ever since to tackle the breathtaking peaks and troughs of its country roads. For expats, the open space, green hills and traditional stone cottages are an oasis of charm and tranquillity compared to the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur.
Family time
Global communication has never been easier but nothing beats catching up face to face, hearing the family news first hand and meeting any new arrivals that have made an appearance since the last visit home. This is one of the main reasons expats come back to the UK for a summer break and it’s also a key motivator for a permanent move home, particularly if it means being closer to ageing parents.
Culture
Yorkshire has inspired many an artist and writer over the years. The Bronte sisters, Alan Bennett and Ted Hughes hail from here as do David Hockney, Barbara Hepworth and Henry Moore. If you prefer your culture to be a bit livelier, Manchester is just across the Pennines and has more than its fair share of live music and theatre venues. Check out The Lowry, the Arena, Bridgewater Hall, the Palace Theatre and The Comedy Store. Our part of Yorkshire is also blessed with more than its fair share of independent cinemas. Try out Wetherby Film Theatre, the Ritz in Thirsk, Cottage Road in Headingley and Ilkley cinema. Renowned arts festivals in North Yorkshire include the Harrogate Festivals season and Theakstons Old Peculiar Crime Writing Festival and the Northern Aldborough Festival which celebrates its 25th year in 2018.
Food
England in the summertime is a delight to behold for foodies. Strawberries and cream, Pimms and lemonade, cucumber sandwiches and quiche are in abundance. What more could an expat wish for? Yorkshire has a fabulous selection of Michelin star restaurants to choose from, including the Yorke Arms near Harrogate and The Man Behind the Curtain in Leeds. Tripadvisor favourites in North Yorkshire include Rascills in Raskelf between York and Thirsk and The Hare Inn at Scawton near Helmsley.
Education
For those looking to move permanently back to the UK, education is often a driving factor. Good quality state and private schooling is a big tick in the box for those totting up the pros and cons, particularly as fewer global companies are now footing the entire cost of international schooling fees for expats. Harrogate is fortunate to have some of the UK's best state secondary schools and the choice of private education and public schools is extensive.
If you find yourself in Yorkshire for the expat holiday season and would like some advice about settling in God’s Own County, pop in and see us in our Harrogate office or give one of our friendly team a call on 01423 501211. As Harrogate’s biggest letting agent, we can find you somewhere to rent while you look around. We also have thriving residential sales and auction departments to help you hunt for your perfect property to buy.