yorkshire tourist attractions for families

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31 Magical Yorkshire Family Attractions That’ll Make Your Holidays Complete

Looking for exciting things to do with kids in Yorkshire this summer? We’ve got you covered, from amazing woodland trails to exciting adventure parks where they can run wild. There is something for everyone in God’s Own Country. We’ve hunted for the lesser-known things to do in Yorkshire as well as some classics and curated some fun-filled things for you to do.

As well as our guide to the prettiest free castles and heritage houses and gardens , this guide has found the best things for kids to do to make the most of time out of the house with them. Make sure you bookmark any of your favourites and make your way through our ultimate checklist of family fun days out.

1. Wentworth Woodhouse, Rotherham – Things To Do With Kids Yorkshire

A Grade 1 listed country house in Wentworth, near Rotherham, Wentworth Woodhouse is one of the largest houses in Europe and always has a range of activities and events for families taking place throughout the year.

Once home to the Fitzwilliam family, the house was bought by Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust in 2017 who organise guided tours of the house and fifty-acre gardens.

Wentworth, Rotherham S62 7TQ

2. Let Loose! Adventure Park, Beverley

Found in the heart of the East Riding of Yorkshire, this exciting adventure park has been open since 2017 and has caused quite a stir. It’s the perfect place to let your little tykes loose, it has a range of exciting things to do such as high ropes, zip lines, roller skating, and a super slide.

All of the above the kids will be buzzing as they play at this incredible park. Find out more  here .

Hull Rd, Woodmansey, Beverley HU17 0RS

3. Hole In The Wand Crazy Golf, York

Popular with Potter fans since its opening, The Hole In Wand allows visitors to take on wizard-themed holes with easter eggs from the show before enjoying magical refreshments such as Wand Dog, Uni-Pop Corn, Grobble-Nachos, alcoholic potions, and Butterbeer. Visit our write-up  here  for more info.

14-16 Coppergate Walk, York YO1 9NT

4. Falling Foss Tea Room, North York Moors

This magical woodland tea garden sits beneath a 30ft waterfall and is the perfect woodland walk for you and your family this summer. You can either take a two-mile walk or park up at the car park and enjoy a spot of tea.

You can find it just 6 miles outside of Whitby, and it has a natural play area and becks to paddle in. Check out Falling Foss Tea Garden here .

Midge Hall, Whitby YO22 5JD

5. Piglet’s Adventure Farm, North Yorkshire – Things To Do With Kids Yorkshire

Piglet’s Adventure Farm has a range of activities for the perfect day out with kids as well as events throughout the year including their pick-your-own pumpkins and Christmas event. The kids can play on their man-made beach whilst you sit in a deck chair and chill.

Or, they can let off steam in the playground before petting a range of animals in their petting zoos such as pigs, donkeys, Shetland ponies, rabbits, sheep, ducks, a pygmy goat, tortoise, and even guinea pigs. Towthorpe Grange, Towthorpe Moor Ln, Towthorpe, York YO32 9ST

6. Mother Shipton’s Cave, Knaresborough

Known as one of the UK’s oldest tourist attractions, Mother Shipton’s Cave has been mesmerising visitors with its magical well which waters turn everyday objects to stone.

You can also enjoy a woodland trail and enchanting tale that you’ll learn along the way in the Royal Forest of Knaresborough. The park’s natural beauty will have you mesmerised. Check out more info  here . Prophecy House, Harrogate Rd, High Bridge, Knaresborough HG5 8DD

7. Ninja Warrior, Bradford & Sheffield

If you’re a fan of the popular TV show, then you will love this new park opening in West Yorkshire. Test your skills on its range of Ninja Warrior inspired course that has something to test all abilities. There is a huge inflatable obstacle course as well as party rooms and a cafe to get refreshments. Find out more  here .

8. Studfold Fairy Adventure Trail, Yorkshire Dales – Things To Do With Kids Yorkshire

Found in the magical Yorkshire Dales, the fun-filled adventure is a great place to let your children’s imaginations run wild. It has some fantastic fairy houses and a beautiful trail through the woods where you can explore nature.

It has a fantastic new playground where the parents can sit and watch their children burn off some energy whilst having a chat. Find out more  here .

Studfold. Lofthouse, North Yorkshire ,HG3 5SG

9. Northwood Magical Fairy Trail, North Yorkshire

Love all things mythical, Want more fairy goodness? This place is designed to foster young children’s minds and let them run wild.

It has been an attraction for years and the 100-acre wood on the outskirts of York has plenty for you and your children to get stuck into this summer. Find out more  here .

Northwood Trail, Sunley Hill, Muscoates Lane, Nunnington, York, YO62 5XQ 

10. Diggerland, Castleford – Things To Do With Kids Yorkshire

One of Yorkshire’s newest attractions, found in West Yorkshire Diggerland is every machine-loving kid’s dream. They can have a go on real working diggers as well as go on exhilarating rides made from adapted diggers.

There are also go-karts and more to keep you entertained for hours this half term. If you’re looking for more excitement then this is for you! Find out more  here . Willowbridge Ln, Castleford WF10 5NW

Read More: 10 Weird & Wonderful Free Things To Do With Kids In Leeds

11. flamingo land, north yorkshire.

Yorkshire’s greatest theme park, full of fun for all ages, Flamingo Land is the perfect place to enjoy fantastic adrenaline fuelled rides, along with some fantastic games and fun activities.

You get a two-for-one with Flamingo Land they also have an amazing zoo which is full of lions, hippos, giraffes, and a whole host of creepy crawlies for you to discover (if you’re not too wet from the fantastic log flume that is).

12. Forbidden Corner, Yorkshire Dales – Things To Do With Kids Yorkshire

Full of follies, underground tunnels, and secret chambers, Forbidden Corner is built to fuel the imagination and wait for you and your kids to explore.

It’s definitely one of the best days out in Yorkshire, and we should know, it’s one of our personal favourites to visit. Many people can’t quite find the right words to describe this stunning venue, which is why you’ll just have to go and discover it for yourself. Find out more here . The Forbidden Corner, Middleham, Leyburn DL8 4TJ

13. Visit One Of Yorkshire’s Outdoor Swimming Pools and Lidos

We’ve already kicked off the summer with some of the hottest weather on record, so these outdoor swimming pools and lidos will be perfect for you to cool down.

The kids can run wild in a safe space enjoying splashing around in these beautiful outdoor pools and lidos in some of the most beautiful locations across Yorkshire. Find out more here .

14. Check Out One Of Yorkshire’s Family-Friendly Farms With Animals

Looking for things to do with kids in Yorkshire? The summer holidays are here and we all know how hard it is to keep the kids entertained. Farms are not just for growing crops all these fantastic places across Yorkshire have plenty to do for you and your kids including traditional petting farms to all-singing all-dancing adventure parks, here’s our guide to the best family-friend farms in Yorkshire to visit this summer. Find out more here .

15. Have Sometime Away In One of Yorkshire’s Weird & Wonderful Unique Stays

If you’re not going abroad this summer, or you are but fancy a cheeky getaway. These unique stays are perfect for things to do with kids in Yorkshire that involve sparking their imagination.

Whether you want to stay in the Gryffindor Common Room, lay your head in a Hobbit Hole, or fall asleep in a double-decker bus. These Yorkshire stays are definitely something you won’t have experienced before. Find out more here .

16. Temple Newsam, Leeds – Things To Do With Kids Yorkshire

Temple Newsam is a massive place to explore that is steeped in history as well as full of fun-filled activities. Take a trip around the outdoor trails or visit the on-site farm which houses sheep, cows, goats, pigs, and more.

After you’ve worked up an appetite, visit the farm shop for a taste of a few local delicacies. Temple Newsam Rd, Leeds LS15 0AE

17. National Science and Media Museum, Bradford

Found in Bradford, which was recently given city of culture for 2024, The National Science Museum has seven floors of galleries with permanent exhibitions focusing on photography,  television , animation, videogaming, the Internet, and more.

During the summer, kids can get used to not using their nogging, so why not get those neurons flowing with some inspirational activities that make a great family day out in Yorkshire possible?

The kids can explore interactive exhibitions, discover the origins of photography and play around with a whole host of activities that will keep them entertained all day. Did we mention it also has an IMAX cinema!? Pictureville, Bradford BD1 1NQ

18. York Maze, York

It’s only open for a few months of the year, but York Maze is a great day out with the kids. In the middle of the Yorkshire countryside, it boasts the biggest maze in Europe – the Giant Maize Maze. But that’s not all there is to do here.

There’s also a Jurassic Maze, a Mineshaft Maze, and a Finger Fortune Maze, not to mention loads of play zones, including a jumping pillow (that’s a bouncy castle without the walls) and a climbing zone. Find out more here .

Elvington Lane, York, YO19 5LT

19. Castle Museum, York

A former prison that once housed the famous highwayman, Dick Turpin, Castle Museum is one of the most amazing family days out in Yorkshire for you to experience.

It features a street that will take you back in time along with an immersive & nostalgic trip through time with their meticulously put-together exhibitions. Parents get ready to explain what a few things you grew up with are. We can’t believe Nintendo 64 is now considered vintage! Find out more here .

Tower St, York YO1 9RY

20. Dalby Forest, Pickering – Things To Do With Kids Yorkshire

Cycling, woodland walks, a fantastic park, and much much more, Dalby in North Yorkshire has great things to do with kids in Yorkshire’s best forest.

Whether you choose to take a picnic, venture on the Gruffalo Trail, or decide to get some food in the on-site cafe you can easily while away a whole day and more at Dalby. If you’re feeling brave, why not try out the Go Ape treetop course, or explore a segway tour? Dalby Forest Dr, Low Dalby, Pickering YO18 7LT

Read More: 15 Weird & Wonderful Free Things To Do With Kids In York

21. York Dungeons, York City Centre – Things To Do With Kids Yorkshire

Ready for a journey through 2,000 years of York’s darkest history? Then make sure you visit York Dungeon. You’ll be transported through the city’s murky past coming face to face with a Viking and learn all about Saxon enemies before meeting the famous Guy Fawkes and local with Isabella Billington.

The immersive sets and amazing special effects along with live actors is a fantastic event, but its not for the faint of heart. Head over to the website here to book, if you’re feeling brave enough. 12 Clifford St, York YO1 9RD

22. Yorkshire Wildlife Park , Doncaster

Home to over 300 animals and over 60 species, the Yorkshire Wildlife Park is Doncaster’s largest and number one visitor attraction. You can explore the park and visit the lions, tigers, polar bears, giraffes and everything in between.

The park supports the conservation and welfare of animals by helping rescue endangered animals and through breeding programmes. To get booked in, visit the website here . Hurst Ln, Doncaster DN9 3QY

23. Royal Armouries , Leeds

Who’s kid doesn’t love army stuff? The Royal Armies is a great day out for both adults and children. It holds the largest collections of military memorabilia in the world. It’s a real treat for those eager to learn and a great example of how free things to do in Leeds can be really amazing – where else are you shown such heritage and history for nothing?

Delve deep into the world of the military through the ages across five floors of galleries which include war, tournament, Oriental, self-defense, and hunting with over 8, 500 objects to see.What’s great is there are even re-enactments and jousting events for you to enjoy. Find out more here . Armouries Dr, Leeds LS10 1LT

24. Kelham Island Museum

Explore the making of Sheffield through the Kelham Island Museum. From master craftsmen to mass production, you’ll experience life and work during the Industrial Revolution. Follow the sights and sounds of progress through the Victorian era and celebrate the Women of Steel and how the modern Steel City was forged.

You’ll hear the roar and feel the rumble of the mighty River Don Engine, the 425 ton 12,000hp visitor-favourite in steam twice a day Thursday-Sunday, and find out more about the industry that saw Sheffield become world-renowned for making and innovation. Alma St, Sheffield S3 8SA

25. The Deep, Hull

The Deep is a fantastic day out – no matter how old you are. Found under the River Humber as it completes its journey to the North Sea, the wonderful aquarium is home to over 3,000 creatures – including sharks, stingray, jellyfish and even penguins.

Learn about the mesmerising creatures that call our oceans home, see fascinating mammals co-habit with one another, or, if you’re anything like us, just watch the penguins play for hours on end.  Book here .

26. Eureka! – Things To Do With Kids Yorkshire

Yorkshire has some of the most exciting and creative places where you can take your kids to entertain them. And, much like putting their veggies in a nice tomato sauce, the interactive museums get children to learn without them even knowing it’s good for them! Win, win.

27. Snozone, Castleford

Xscape in Castleford is home to Snozone and has an amazing ski slope where you can learn to ski and snowboard. It’s England’s largest indoor real snow resort. Your kids can get in-house lessons or just hit the slopes and enjoy fun times. Find out more  her e.

28. Lightwater Valley , North Yorkshire – Things To Do With Kids Yorkshire

 Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park is perfect for a full day of fresh air and entertainment for children aged 12 and under!With over 40 rides and attractions including, the UK’s largest Tree Top Adventure Nets, PLUS a jam-packed programme of daily entertainment, you’ll find mega adventures around every corner!

29. Stockeld Park, North Yorkshire

While Stockeld Park is a particularly brilliant spot to visit at  Christmas  time, the 2000 acre park has activities on all year round. The country house is located in Wetherby and features a maze, Enchanted Forest, a laser adventure and even mini boats you can ride in on the lake. The park is more of a family-friendly place, with most activities aimed at the kids.

30. Yorkshire Lavender, North Yorkshire

The heady scent and the heavenly colour palette of lavender flowers is a dream-like creation that hints at spring’s return. Set within the  Howardian Hills , Yorkshire Lavender fields in Yorkshire are a curated space of heady scents and distinct sights that will have you enamoured the moment you get there.

The triple award-winning attraction is a truly wonderful experience. Leave your expectations at the gate and surround yourself with the varied colours of lavender flowers.

31. Tropical World, Leeds – Things To Do With Kids Yorkshire

Full of all sorts of creatures and critters, the indoor jungle/ Leeds zoo Tropical World in Leeds, Roundhay is the perfect place to while away the hours on a rainy day.

Check out a range of fishes from the depths of the sea, menacing meerkats who look like they’re always up to no good, to beautiful butterflies that flutter around their enclosure – it’s a fun day out for all the family. And, did we mention there is a gift shop at the end?  Tropical World, Princes Ave, Roundhay, Leeds LS8 2ER Find out more  here .

Read More: The Ultimate Guide To Yorkshire’s Most Beautiful Seaside Spots

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Nathan Ellis

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Yorkshire Wonders

55+ Family Days Out in Yorkshire with the Kids!

Family days out in Yorkshire – I am lucky to live in a fantastic place where there are so many fabulous family days out in Yorkshire to enjoy with the kids!  

Have a look at the list of the days of with kids below that I have compiled of things to do in Yorkshire.

I’ve added in the links to all the places we have reviewed too if you want to know more in detail, see photos or get advice to make the most of your day. 

The Wizard Walk of York

Book tickets for The Wizard Walk of York.

The Magic Hatter is bringing his award-winning entertainment to the streets, with his Wizard Walk of York.

“Magic, mystery, comedy and excitement plus a dash of York’s history…the ingredients for a truly unforgettable experience for all the family!”

Public tours are running on selected evenings, starting from the bottom of The Shambles opposite The Golden Fleece. Pre-booking required.  Private tours are available for birthdays, school groups, brownies, cubs and more. A wonderfully whimsical tour that wizard fans will go Potty for!

Wizard Wand Kits are also available, subject to availability. A handcrafted wand and instructions for seven tricks that young witches and wizards can learn at home. Plus a FREE printable certificate!  

** Note from Nikki: If you have younger kids with you, there is no better tour for you.  We have seen The Magic Hatter many, many times when the kids were little and wholeheartedly recommend him. ** 

North Yorkshire Water Park

Long causeway rd, wykeham, lakes yo13 9qu.

You will find North Yorkshire Water Park near Scarborough.  As well as lots of fantastic water activities, (such as the aqua park, paddle boarding, wakeboarding, kayaking and more!) North Yorkshire Water Park have recently introduced more land activities.  I think they already had a (simply huge) zipline over their lake as well as puzzle rooms, but they have now added axe throwing, archery, a low ropes course and bushcraft to their catalogue of adventures!

Have a look at our review of North Yorkshire Water Park here.

Lightwater Valley, Ripon

Head out on an adventure to Lightwater Valley and discover a world of rides and attractions at one of the best attractions for kids in North Yorkshire.

Enjoy an exciting expedition through the NEW Go Safari area! Step aboard the Savannah Express on a journey through the African wilderness. Leap for joy on Kangaroo Jump before flying high on Elephant Flight and the Monkey Drop rides. Then head over for a flight aboard the Hot Air Balloon ride.

We love Treetop Trails, formerly Treetops Nets. This much-loved attraction takes adventurers on a net walk through the tree canopy high above the park, and will now be included as part of the park’s admission price.

As well as new rides, come and enjoy Lightwater Valley’s young family favourites, including Little Dipper, Carousel, Skyrider, the Lady Bird rollercoaster, Splash Falls and many more.

Take a peaceful glide around the lake aboard a Swan Boat, and see the park from a whole other angle on the Lightwater Valley Express train.

Get behind the wheel and practice your steering on the Vintage Car ride, fly through the sky on Pirate Swinger, and make your own adventures in the indoor and outdoor play areas.

There’s so much to choose from, it’s hard to know which ride to run to first!

Have a look at our review of the new attractions at Lightwater Valley.

Hull Rd, Woodmansey, Beverley HU17 0RS

Let Loose is an adventure park in Beverley in East Yorkshire.  They have so much going on for active kids.  High and Low Ropes (for younger ones), Zips, Roller Skating, Climbing, Archery, Go Carts, Leap of Faith & a Super Slide.

“Our High Ropes Adventure is a challenge for our older participants and for all the family to face their fears and build their courage, (10 years plus). With 18 obstacles to conquer at a 12-meter height, you will be challenging your inner-self physically and mentally whilst having the most fun.

After conquering the high ropes, you will be faced with a 150-meter zip wire with beautiful views across Woodmansey and East Yorkshire. Our zip wire means you and your family or friends can simultaneously zip down the line together on any of our three zip lines.

Once you have conquered the High Ropes and the Zip wire you will be feeling refreshed and full of adrenaline, but your adventure continues with the Big Leap & Super Slide where you will leap and free-fall for a moment onto an airbag and slide down our drop slide and free-fall momentarily onto another airbag.”

Ten Pin Bowling

We have two ten pin bowling alleys in York.  Ten Pin has been in place for many years whilst Hollywood Bowl opened more recently.  As well as bowling both have a cafe and arcade.  

See our review of Hollywood Bowl here on our dedicated York site.

Puttstars Mini Golf

Puttstars Mini Golf opened recently and the first time York has had a mini-golf of this size.  It’s very modern with great technological scoring and cool holes to play.  There are three 9 hole courses, an arcade and cafe bar.  It’s upstairs from Hollywood Bowl, on the Vanguard shopping area which also has lots of restaurants, a cinema and shops.

See our review of Puttstars here on our dedicated York site.

Great Ryedale Maze

The Great Ryedale Maze promises a field full of fun for adults, teenagers and children, with two mazes, an action-packed Vintage Funfair, Football Darts and a Big Top with live entertainment for families.  There will also be a range of hot and cold food and drinks to cater for all tastes, served from the Cabin Café.

The larger of the two mazes, the specially designed Yorkshire Dragon Maze, comprises nine acres of maize plants – that’s 55,000 seeds – and over two miles of paths to challenge the navigation skills, as well as a series of clues to test the powers of deduction.  For younger adventurers there’s the two-acre Mini-Maze, the design of which is still a secret but will feature some colourful characters as well as an environmental message.

The Vintage Funfair brings even more fun this year, for all ages – there’s an exhilarating motorbike ride aboard the 1936 Speedway, a race around the Brooklands Dodgems from 1937, a bird’s eye spin on the 1930s Chair-o-Plane, and for the adventurous, a newly restored 1950s Twister.  Children can climb aboard the oldest ride Hush Hush the Train dating from 1933, while Muffin the Mule and Swing Boats will bring further fun.

See all the details of The Great Ryedale Maze here.

Rock Up in Hull

We recently had my son’s birthday party at Rock Up in Hull.  They have 26 climbing walls that are 8m high!  The kids don’t need any experience and are on a safety harness.  There are things for the younger ones to do there too, like soft play so they don’t miss out on the fun.  

Have a look at our review of Rock Up Hull here.

Castle Howard, York

Castle Howard is a fab place to visit at any time of year and a brilliant place to go in Yorkshire with kids.  They have seasonal activities all year round.  We have written an overall review of Castle Howard with kids, and have also reviewed their fabulous adventure playground Skelf Island.  

Have a look at our review of Castle Howard with kids and our new review and video of Skelf Island.

Kayaking In Yorkshire

With an extensive network of canals with rivers offering flat waters and white-water, Yorkshire is an ideal place for kayaking. But don’t forget to bring your inflatable kayak for 2 person , as it is portable and easy to paddle on the water.  Allerthorpe Lakeland Park is a great place for “watersports fun for all ages and abilities with paddle boarding, pedalos, kayaks, canoes, open water swimming sessions and inflatable AquaPark. Play areas for the little ones. Well behaved dogs are welcome. No personal crafts are allowed.”

Wolds Way Lavender

Scampston, North Yorkshire

Wolds Way Lavender have really been developing their family friendly offering and have a great maze, land train and lawn games.  It’s a great family day out.  

Read our full review of Wolds Way Lavender here.

Treasurer’s House, York

Treasurer’s House is a National Trust property in the centre of York, right next to York Minster.  The house itself is a quirky eclectic mix of styles and the gardens are a beautiful oasis is the middle of busy York.  Usual National Trust fees apply to the house, but the gardens are free to enter.

Have a look at our review of Treasurer’s House here.

Go Ape Dalby Forest

If you are looking for adventure, check out Go Ape’s site for their exhilarating Tree Top Adventure or the Segway Trek.  Once they have finished there, there is an adventure playground at Dalby and a cafe, or you can take your own picnics or barbecues.

Have a look at our review of Go Ape at Dalby Forest here.

Northwood Trail Fairy Sanctuary – Enchanted Woodland Walk

This is a brand new attraction about 15 minutes East of York.  Set in a hundred acres of woodland, the Northwood Trail is an enchanted walk around fairy houses with surprises around every corner.  There is maze around halfway around and a play area and den building site at the end of the walk.

Have a look at our review of the Northwood Trail here.

The Deep Aquarium, Hull

The Deep in Hull is a fabulous, modern and slick aquarium.  There are loads of interactive exhibits for the kids, not to mention they have Gentoo penguins!  It’s reasonably priced and somewhere you can return to as many times as you like the same year for free. 

Have a look at our full review of The Deep here.

Sledging at Snozone at Xscape in Castleford

As well as skiing and snowboarding Snozone near Castleford so family fun sledging sessions.  It’s brilliant, 45 minutes of snowy fun running up the slope and sliding back down! 

 Our full Snozone review  is here – including tips on how to make the best of your visit.

Xscape Castleford, West Yorkshire

There is loads to do at Xscape Castleford from the cinema, to crazy golf, Snozone, laser quest and soft-play.  If you are looking for things to do with kids West Yorkshire – have a look at our review of Xscape Castleford. 

We recently visited and reviewed Volcano Falls Adventure Golf.

The Camp Hill Estate, near Bedale, North Yorkshire

The Camp Hill Estate has a fabulous looking adventure playground and high ropes course.  You can also book a quad bike session, foot golf or a segway woodland tour. 

We visited recently and reviewed   woodland segway tour here.

Temple Newsam Leeds

Temple Newsam is a beautiful place to take the kids in Leeds.  There’s a stately home, cafe and farm and acres to explore. 

See my full review of Temple Newsam and photos here.

Inflata Nation, Beverley

The new inflatable theme park in Beverley, East Yorkshire.   It’s a huge indoor space filled with inflatable climbing frames, bouncing areas and slides.  There is even a separate space for the real little ones too.

Have a look at my review and video  of Inflata Nation here.

Alpamare Waterpark Scarborough

Alpamare is a large waterpark in Scarborough.  There are two heated (hot!) outdoor swimming pools, a kids splash area, wave pool and four huge waterslides.  Great for the summer or winter as the outside pools are heated to 35 degrees (not too far off hot tub temperatures!).  There is a cafe on site too.  

See our full review of Alpamare here.

Go Strawberry Picking!

Ok, this one is at quite a specific time of year, but there are other things to pick at other times of the year too.  My children love strawberry picking and can happily cost me a fortune with their huge baskets (so watch that!). 

There are lots of places around Yorkshire for Strawberry picking , and I have made a list for you!

A Day on the Beach in Yorkshire

If you are looking for things to do in Yorkshire with kids we are spoilt for choice!  Yorkshire has many stunning and varied beaches.  From Whitby, to Scarborough and Bridlington.  Free days out in Yorkshire, family beaches. 

We have reviewed both Fraisthorpe Beach in the Summer and the Winter and Rock-pooling at Filey Brigg. 

Hollywood Bowl Leeds

Ten Pin Bowling is always fun and particularly good if the weather is not great!  Hollywood Bowl in Leeds has great, modern lanes, an arcade, bar and restaurant.

Have a look at our review of the Hollywood Bowl in Leeds.

Kilnsey Park Estate

The Kilnsey Park Estate has a nature walk, animals and family fun fishing .  Set in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales near the overhanging Kilnsey Crag.

See our full review of Kilnsey Park Estate here.

Jorvik Viking Centre

Jorvik Viking Centre is a must see place to visit in the centre of York.  Travel back in time to see what York was like as a Viking settlement. 

Have a look at our full review here.

York Dungeon, York

If you are looking for a fun, scary and entertaining time, consider York Dungeon.  Right in the centre of York, it’s perfect for older kids and teens (and adults of course!). 

Have a look at my review of York Dungeon here .

William’s Den, North Cave, East Yorkshire

William’s Den includes a 475sqm play barn and extensive outdoor play – including a 50metre zip wire, den making area and ‘mountains and molehills’ space for kids to run, jump and roll around freely.  It’s fab and completely worth a visit. 

Have a look at my William’s Den review  and video here.

York Maze, North Yorkshire

York Maze is brilliant and a fantastic day out, we love it there and go every year.  With a huge maize maze, bouncy pillows, giant slides and brilliant shows, it really is one of the best family days out Yorkshire.

They are only open during the Summer and at Halloween – we have reviewed both and made a video.

Burnby Hall Gardens, Pocklington

Lovely peaceful gardens set around a large lake with water lillies and carp that you can feed.  They have a children’s playground, cafe and run children’s activity days throughout the summer.

Have a look at our review of Burnby Hall Gardens here.

The Forbidden Corner, near Leyburn, North Yorkshire

The Forbidden Corner has to be one of my favourite places in the world, for it’s wonderful quirkiness!  It combines mazes and puzzles into something really unique.  It’s mostly an outdoor attraction, so really it’s better in good weather.  Make sure you book ahead of time.

See our review of The Forbidden Corner here.

North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR), North Yorkshire

North Yorkshire Moors Railway is a wonderful heritage railway.  Used in the Harry Potter films and the Heartbeat series, NYMR is a fab day out.  Check out their seasonale events too around Halloween and Christmas.

See our review of NYMR here.

York Castle Museum, North Yorkshire

York Castle Museum is a fab day out with the kids and so much more than your average museum.  

We have reviewed York Castle Museum here .

Family Days out Yorkshire

Free days out in yorkshire, family friendly parks.

We love a day in a park- just pack a picnic and have a lovely relaxed and free day out.  One of the many free days out with kids Yorkshire.

We have reviewed the park at Dunnington, near York and Jubilee Park in Fangfoss , near York.  Or see this review of Homestead Park in York.

Energi Trampoline Park, York, North Yorkshire

If you are looking for things to do with kids in Yorkshire, then this is a brilliant place for them to bounce and let off steam to their hearts content!  Great for kids’ parties too.

See our review of Energi Trampoline Park, York here.

Things to do in Yorkshire

Flamingo land theme park, malton.

Flamingo Land – another brilliant family friendly theme park on our list of things to do in Yorkshire.

Have a look at our review of Flamingo Land  with Younger Kids and our review of Flamingo Land at Halloween .

Places to visit in Yorkshire

York’s chocolate story, york.

This is a lovely visit to do if you are in York for the day. Learn all about the history of chocolate in York and make your own chocolate bars. Lots of chocolate tasting throughout the tour to keep the kids amused.

Have a look at our review of York’s Chocolate Story.

Beningbrough Hall, York

Beningbrough Hall is a fab stately home just outside of York, and on our list of places to visit in Yorkshire.  It’s a lovely relaxed day out.  They’ve recently rebuilt their adventure playground and it has something for kids of all ages.  They also run events over the kids holidays.

Have a look at our review to see what else there is to do with the kids at Beningbrough Hall.

Sledmere House, Sledmere, East Yorkshire

Sledmere House is not too far from where we live, so we are regular visitors.  The Gardens and Grounds, Café and Farm Shop will be open for you to have a wander and pick up some tasty treats.  They have a great adventure playground and petting zoo.

Have a look at our review of Sledmere House

Piglets Adventure Farm Park, York

Piglets Adventure Farm Park is a fabulous place to visit just outside York.  There is a large outdoor play area, bouncing pillows, crazy golf, pedal g-karts and a giant sand pit.  They also have an indoor play barn with drop slides and rope swings.  Check what they are doing for Halloween and Christmas too.

Have a look at our review of  May-Hem at Piglets.

Burton Agnes Hall, Burton Agnes, East Yorkshire

Burton Agnes Hall is a hidden gem.  A large Stately home, woodland walk, maze, garden games, cafe and farm shop.  

Have a look at our review of Burton Agnes Hall.

   Family Activities Yorkshire

Stockeld park, wetherby.

Stockeld Park is one of my favourite family days out in Yorkshire. There will be a roller or ice rink as well as the Enchanted Forest and the Maze. The Indoor play area will also be in place to let the kids play while you have a cuppa.

Have a look at our reviews of Stockeld Park in Summer and Stockeld Park’s Christmas Adventure.

Jorvik Dig, York

Looking for something a bit different? DIG is a hands-on archaeological adventure giving kids the chance to become trainee ‘diggers’ and discover the most exciting artefacts from 2000 years of York’s history!

Have a look at our review of Jorvik Dig.

Things to do in Yorkshire – Harewood House

Harewood sits in the heart of Yorkshire and is one of the Treasure Houses of England. The House was built in the 18th century and has art collections to rival the finest in Britain.  For families there is an amazing adventure playground for slightly older children and penguins to watch being fed!  

Kirklees Light Railway, Clayton West, Huddersfield

Open every weekend & daily during school holidays.

Spend a day out with Yorkshire’s Great Little Steam Trains! With a fleet of unique steam and diesel locomotives, adventure playgrounds, picnic areas, a miniature railway, cafe, tea room and the glorious scenery of the South Pennine Foothills, it really is a fun day for all the family. Special Events take place throughout the year – see www.kirkleeslightrailway.com for more info.

The World of James Herriot, Thirsk

I’m including this one as it’s somewhere I have always wanted to visit but never quite managed. Lots of Herriot related memorabilia, as well as the restored 1940’s house, and a ‘farrier’s workshop’.  I am secretly hoping Miss H will become a vet one day!

Cannon Hall Farm

From their website: ‘Cannon Hall Farm is officially the best family day out in Yorkshire after being named Best Large Visitor Attraction in the White Rose Awards.  There’s a reason why we’ve won multiple awards – and why we have been called the perfect family day out.  Come and visit our family owned farmed in the rolling Pennine foothills and spend the day admiring the scenery, the animals and letting the kids run off some steam in our amazing play areas.’.  Have a look at this great review of Cannon Hall Farm.

National Railway Museum , York

Another one of our brilliant free family days out.  From steam rides to storytelling, we’ve got lots of hands-on fun for the whole family.

FREE Entry!

Beetle Bank Farm, York

Looking for things to do in Yorkshire with toddlers?  Let off steam in the fields, go wild in the adventure playground, have fun in the sand pit or ride on the tractors and play with the inflatables. We predict two things: you won’t be bored and you’ll sleep well tonight! 

Mother Shipton’s Cave , Knaresborough, North Yorkshire

I love the look of Mother Shipton’s Cave, with it’s famous prophetess and petrifying well. 

Monk Park Farm , Thirsk, North Yorkshire

A varied collection of both Outdoor and Indoor Feeding Areas where you can see such as lambs, sheep, goats, calves, cattle, pigs, ponies, donkeys, horses, llamas, alpacas, wallabies, albino wallabies, deer, ducks, geese, hens, peacocks, rabbits and guinea pigs – and playgrounds to boot!

Big Cow, Little Sheep , Bedale

Another fab looking farm park that we are hoping to visit soon.

Harlow Carr, Harrogate

We love the maze and treehouse at RHS Harlow Carr. 

Eureka!  Children’s Museum, Halifax, West Yorkshire

Eureka is the National Children’s Museumand has special events on all year round.  Another one of our great days out in Yorkshire,

Creepy Crawlies, York

Creepy Crawlies is a huge softplay and outdoor adventure playground in York.  

See our review of Creepy Crawlies here.

Brimham Rocks in Nidderdale

With 400 acres of moorland and rocks to explore, there are plenty of activities for families and adventurers of all ages to keep themselves occupied. See this great review of a family day out at Brimham Rocks .

Aysgarth Falls at Leyburn

Aysgarth Falls is perfectly situated to visit the superb waterfalls on the River Ure, the National Park Centre can also point you in the direction of other lovely walks in the area taking in the surrounding woods or heading up to the lovely villages of Carperby or Aysgarth. Next to the Centre is the Coppice Café which serves a great selection of drinks and meals largely made with locally-sourced ingredients.

Family days out in Yorkshire

Also look at my other round ups for different times of the year, Things to do in Yorkshire with the kids at February half term , Easter , May half term , Summer Holidays , October half term and at Christmas . 

Rain stopping play?  Have a look at my list of ideas for places to go on a rainy day in Yorkshire .

Also, do have a look at my Things to do with Kids in Manchester and in Guildford posts.

2 thoughts on “55+ Family Days Out in Yorkshire with the Kids!”

I’m sure this was a great resource for frazzled parents over the summer holidays. What a fantastic round up!

So many great days out to be had. Some I’d forgotten about, some I’d forgotten existed and others we visit often. One of our favourites is The Deep. Mostly because you pay once and then can return as much as you like in one year for free. We visited York this year too and had a lovely weekend away. I do love Yorkshire….especially the coast.

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Featured , News , Yorkshire

10 of the best family-friendly attractions in yorkshire.

• By Alexis Wilson-Barrett

Looking for family-friendly attractions in Yorkshire?

With its rich history, fascinating cities, beautiful national parks and stunning coastline, Yorkshire is the holiday destination of choice for many. Of course, nature has provided a spectacular array of natural attractions that, weather permitting, make for fantastic days out. However, if you’re planning a trip to Yorkshire with children, you may be seeking things to do in the region that both adults and kids can enjoy in equal measure and will provide lasting memories of fun and togetherness. Luckily, there’s no shortage of award-winning museums , theme parks and quirky attractions in the county so you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to family days out.

To help you plan your Yorkshire itinerary and pinpoint some of the attractions most suited to your family’s needs and interests, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best family-friendly attractions in Yorkshire…

The Best Family-Friendly Attractions in Yorkshire…

Stockeld Park

The Adventure Park, Stockeld Park, Wetherby LS22 4AN

Stockeld Park is set in a 2,000-acre estate comprising parkland, farmland, a private Georgian mansion home and Yorkshire’s largest Christmas tree plantation. In 2013, imaginative adventure play areas, a go-kart track, large inflatable play and an indoor play area were added and the spectacular estate quickly became one of the most popular family-friendly attractions in Yorkshire.

Open to the public during school holidays only, it offers the ultimate family day out, whatever the weather. During the festive season, it also hosts one of the best Santa experiences in Yorkshire .

Explore the Enchanted Forest and discover various adventure play areas hidden in the ancient woodland, enjoy interactive and fun-filled shows at The Stockeld Theatre, take on The Magical Maze, take to the water in the Buccaneer Boats, rest your steering skills on the go-karts and then sit back and relax as the kids enjoy one of Europe’s largest and most original indoor play centres .

Visit Website

TripAdvisor Reviews

The Forbidden Corner

The Forbidden Corner, Middleham, Leyburn DL8 4TJ

The Forbidden Corner near Leyburn was originally built as a private folly but opened to the public in 1994. The four-acre garden in the glorious Yorkshire Dales is a unique labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, follies and imagination igniting surprises at every twist and turn.

Numerous features have been added since the attraction first opened to the public so there’s plenty to see and discover plus a variety of puzzles to tackle. Allow a good couple of hours to explore this family-friendly attraction in Yorkshire and be sure to test every door and follow every path to ensure you don’t miss any of the hidden surprises! The Forbidden Corner is in a beautiful setting with stunning scenery and a significant percentage of the attraction is outdoors so this one is best enjoyed during fine weather. Kids will love the adventure playground and the whole family can have fun exploring the garden maze before resting and refueling at the onsite cafe.

Yorkshire Wildlife Park

Hurst Lane, Auckley, Doncaster DN9 3QY

This is by far the best family-friendly attraction in Yorkshire for animal lovers! Built on a former riding school and small farm attraction, Yorkshire Wildlife Park now has over 400 animals with over 70 different species.

With a strong and inspiring mission to promote a wider understanding of the natural world and encourage more people to support and protect it, Yorkshire Wildlife Centre is so much more than somewhere to see animals. The team at this incredible centre for conservation and welfare have rescued numerous animals over the years including 13 lions that were residing in a dilapidated Romanian zoo and four brown bears that were confined to cramped cages at a Japanese museum.

During a day out at Yorkshire Wildlife Park, one can see and learn about the various animals that reside there in groundbreaking reserves and enjoy various educational and interactive animal experiences.

Adjacent to the wildlife park, there’s a recently opened free-admission shopping, dining and entertainment destination which is home to the utterly brilliant Evolution Experience Restaurant.

Castle Howard

Castle Howard, York YO60 7DA

Castle Howard is one of the most magnificent stately homes in Yorkshire . Its construction began in 1699 but took over a century to complete. Even if you haven’t visited previously, the house and grounds of Castle Howard may seem somewhat familiar due to the stately home being used as a filming location for period dramas, movies and even music videos. Brideshead Revisited, Death Comes to Pemberley, Victoria and, more recently, the Netflix original series Bridgerton all used Castle Howard for filming.

Of course, the house itself with its beautiful architecture and opulent interiors makes for a wonderful day out in itself but if visiting as a family, there are other elements that make this one of the best family-friendly attractions in Yorkshire.

Embark on a nature hunt through the magical woodland paths and peruse the beautiful Walled Gardens before visiting the farm shop and a gift shop to acquire tasty local produce and Castle Howard souvenirs. For children, however, the fun really begins with a land train that runs through the grounds to a lakeside play area and adventure playground. Skelf Island Adventure Playground comprises various treetop nest structures linked by rope bridges, slides, nets and climbing equipment. Once you’ve seen all there is to see and sufficiently tired out the children, enjoy a relaxed picnic by the lake or dine at The Boathouse Kitchen for burgers, loading hotdogs and indulgent milkshakes.

JORVIK Viking Centre

19 Coppergate, York YO1 9WT

Created by the York Archaeological Trust, JORVIK Viking Centre opened on York’s Coppergate in 1994. One of the most unique museums in Yorkshire , this family-friendly brings York’s Viking past to life through an impressive reconstructed village and a state-of-the-art gallery of Viking-age artefacts.

Unlike many reconstructed streets and villages found up and down the country, the Viking village at Jorvik Viking Centre is a ground-breaking visitor experience. The immersive ride experience takes visitors through the sights, sounds and smells of Viking-age York. On the 12-minute ride, visitors can gain an accurate insight into the lifestyles of those who resided in the city during the 10th Century, peeking inside their recreated homes and watching them partake in everyday activities.

This is one of the family-friendly attractions in Yorkshire which won’t take up more than a couple of hours so you’ll be left with plenty of time to explore York’s beautiful city centre.

Tower Street, Hull HU1 4DP

Housed in a dramatic building designed by world-class architects and overlooking the Humber estuary, The Deep is one of the world’s most spectacular aquariums. It has rather deservingly won numerous tourism awards over the years and in its first year alone, welcomed more than 850,000 visitors.

By exploring the eight unique animal zones at The Deep, you will discover a vast array of animals and learn about their natural habitats. A truly immersive experience that will delight visitors of all ages, The Deep is home to jellyfish, turtles, sharks, penguins and more.

This must-visit Yorkshire attraction operates as an education and conservation charity and through partnerships with various bodies and organisations, is working to make a positive impact in the vital conservation of the world’s oceans. So, in addition to enjoying a thoroughly brilliant family day out, you can leave knowing that your ticket money is going to help protect the futures of the hundreds of species you encountered during your visit.

Cannon Hall Farm

Bark House Lane, Cawthorne, Barnsley S75 4AT

Another excellent day out for animal lovers is the fantastic Cannon Hall Farm. This large family-run Yorkshire farm attraction near Barnsley is home to hundreds of animals and reptiles including alpacas, ponies, goats, sheep and a beautiful llama named Victor who has resided on the farm since it opened to the public in 1989.

In addition to the many, many animal encounters on offer, Cannon Hall Farm has an outdoor adventure playground and a a fun indoor play centre. Once you’ve met all the colourful characters, learned about their differing needs and personalities then made use of both play areas, there are still things to do!

The White Bull is Cannon Hall Farm’s flagship restaurant and serves a variety of hot and cold meals plus a wonderful Yorkshire afternoon tea . If you’re taking your four-legged family members with you, then a visit to the attraction’s dog-friendly cafe is a must!

Of course, no good day out would be complete without a spot of retail therapy and Cannon Hall Farm boasts a toy shop and one of the best farm shops in Yorkshire .

National Railway Museum

Leeman Road, York YO26 4XJ

One of the most visited and by far one of the best museums in Yorkshire is the National Railway Museum in York. As it’s part of the Science Museum Group, entry is free, making it one of the most affordable family-friendly attractions in Yorkshire.

The National Railway, as one would imagine, tells the story of the railway in Britain and its impact on society through various displays and collections. Regardless of whether or not you have a passion for locomotives, this free attraction is well worth a visit. The huge museum houses some truly iconic locomotives such as the Japanese Bullet Train and the world’s fastest steam locomotive, Mallard.

The museum houses a lovely little cafe serving meals, snacks and drinks but there are also benches scattered around should you prefer to take a packed lunch with you to consume during your visit. End your educational journey with a visit to the gift shop where you’ll find all kinds of locomotive-themed trinkets and treasures.

Harewood House

Harewood House, Harewood, Leeds LS17 9LG

Some of the finest craftsmen of the 18th Century had a hand in creating Edwin Lascelles’ beautiful county house in Leeds, including York-born architect John Carr and England’s greatest furniture maker, Thomas Chippendale. Now one of the Treasure Houses of England, this magnificent period property is open to the public and offers a truly splendid day out.

Inside, Harewood House is an opulently decorated treasure trove of historic trinkets, treasures and art collections. During a tour of the incredible country house, you can peruse a plethora of elegant staterooms including the breathtakingly beautiful State Bedroom which welcomed a young Queen Victoria in 1835 and three fascinating libraries, which between them house more than 11,000 books.

Outside, Harewood House also has plenty for visitors of all ages to explore. There are over 100 acres of gardens filled with plants from all around the world plus a cafe, ice cream kiosk, picnic areas and an excellent adventure playground. There’s a great farm experience too, allowing visitors the opportunity to meet various animals such as pot-bellied pigs and giant rabbits.

Mother Shipton’s Cave

Prophecy House, Harrogate Road, High Bridge, Knaresborough HG5 8DD

The birthplace of England’s most famous prophetess, Mother Shipton’s Cave, is a visitor attraction like no other! Hidden in the forest at Knaresborough, this tranquil and captivating site combines natural beauty, 500 years of history and legendary tales of the supernatural to provide a memorable family day out.

Enjoy a scenic mile-long walk through the forest during which you will come across the very cave where Mother Shipton was born. The highlight, however, is of course The Petrifying Well which turns everyday objects into stone as if it were enchanted by Mother Shipton herself. Small teddy bears take just a few months to transform entirely and many are displayed at the site’s museum. They are also available to purchase at the gift shop so you can acquire a lasting and unique reminder of your magical day.

There’s an adventure playground at Mother Shipton’s Cave too, so little ones can enjoy some play time before you enjoy lunch with a view at one of the picturesque picnic areas. Dogs are welcome in all areas except for the playground.

As with all our articles of this nature, we’ll be adding to this list as and when we discover, visit or are introduced to other businesses and attractions. To recommend your favourite family-friendly attractions in Yorkshire or to discuss advertising opportunities, please email [email protected]

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100 Things to do with kids in Yorkshire

Updated 26/05/2021

There are fantastic things to do with kids in Yorkshire (after all, it is England’s largest county!) and this post will give you 100 ideas for a fun, family day out in Yorkshire.

The historical county is divided into four administrative regions – North Yorkshire (including the Yorkshire Dales , Yorkshire Moors and Yorkshire Coast ), West Yorkshire, South Yorkshire and East Riding of Yorkshire. 

The major cities in the county are York, Leeds, Sheffield and Hull.

There are so many things to do in Yorkshire with kids that you could spend all your holiday in just one of these locations and still not see everything there is to see.

* Many Yorkshire attractions currently have Covid restrictions in place. Please check relevant websites in advance of your visit. 

Table of Contents

The City of York 

York is a small, family friendly city packed with historical and fun attractions for all ages. Plus, there are several city centre parks for a good runaround.

It is a compact city with a pedestrianised city centre. Most of the major attractions can easily be visited on foot but there are also excellent bus and rail links. York railway station is just a ten minute walk from the city centre making York an ideal destination to visit by train.

Best things to do in York with kids

A visit to York should start with a visit to York Minster , the largest Gothic cathedral in northern Europe and home to the largest expanse of stained glass anywhere in the world.

York Minster runs family friendly tours and kids can borrow free to use activity backpacks. Plus, the Minster runs drop in craft activities during the school holidays.

At York Chocolate Story families can explore the long history of chocolate making in York.  An engaging guided tour  culminates with the chance to make your own chocolate lollipop.

Jorvik Viking Centre is one of York’s most popular tourist attractions. 

Learn how Vikings lived and died in York and see the remains of Viking streets and homes beneath the glass floor of the museum. 

Take a historical ‘cab’ ride through a life size Viking settlement which evokes the sights, sounds and smells of the Viking era. Our kids still talk about the toilet section!

Visit one of York’s historical houses such as the Treasurers House, the Georgian Fairfax House or The Mansion House, home of the Mayor of York.

Join a craft activity at York Art Gallery or hunt for fossils at DIG , a museum aimed at younger families. Families with older children can visit the terrifying York Dungeons.

Explore York through the ages at the excellent York Castle Museum and see the spooky Victorian cells where Dick Turpin was held. Or discover York’s Roman and Jurassic history at the Yorkshire Museum.

For a fabulous 360 degree view of York, climb to the ramparts of Clifford’s Tower, the remains of a Norman era keep set in a car park right in the city centre!

You can read my detailed post about visiting York with kids here and our guide to the best places to stay in York here.

Free things to do in York with kids

The huge National Railway Museum is one of the best museums in York and is packed with engines and carriages of every shape and colour.

There are free, daily science shows, a small playground and miniature railway on site. Kids will love the outdoor balcony where they can wave at passing trains. 

York city walls are the longest city walls in England and are accessed by four impressive medieval ‘bars’ or gateways. Kids will enjoy the the portcullis, archer slits and murder holes in Monk Bar.

The atmospheric shopping street The Shambles has been voted ‘Britain’s Best Street’.

This medieval era cobbled street is packed with lopsided, overhanging buildings and is said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter movies. 

Stroll along the River Ouse or run off energy in the playground at Rowntree’s Park. Have a good runaround in Dean’s Park behind York Minster or a picnic in pretty Museum Gardens.

Free to explore within Museum Gardens are the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey, the 15th century Hospitium, a 19th century observatory and the third century Roman era multi-angular tower.

The Yorkshire Dales

The Dales (which includes the Yorkshire Dales National Park) is a rolling green landscape packed with waterfalls, caves, historic sites and amazing views.

The area gets its name from the river valleys found here, with each ‘dale’ named after the river that flows through it.

Things to do in the Yorkshire Dales

The Forbidden Corner is one of the most unusual things to do in Yorkshire with kids.

Visitors receive a map with the attractions of this 4 acre site but the map does not tell you how to find them. What you see depends on how hard you are willing to search for it!

Be prepared to dodge water spouting statues, seek out hidden underground chambers, explore dark tunnels and narrow staircases and crawl on your hands and knees through gaps.

There are surprises in store around every corner including in the car park and toilets. The Forbidden Corner is unmissable.

Families with younger children will enjoy searching for fairy doors and hidden fairy houses at Studfold Adventure Park. 

Learn about the history of the Dales and try traditional crafts at the charming Dales Countryside Museum, housed in Victorian rail station at Hawes. 

Don’t miss the nearby Wensleydale Creamery , home to Wallace’s favourite cheese (from the Wallace and Gromit movies).

Thorp Perrow Arboretum near Bedale is a 100 acre park with a fantastic adventure playground.

The arboretum contains 5 National Plant Collections and 51 Champion Trees (trees of rare size or nature). 

There is also a Bird of Prey and Mammal Centre onsite with daily falconry displays.

Adventurous families should visit   How Stean Gorge in Nidderdale. 

The short gorge offers guided, child friendly gorge walking, caving and Via Ferrata activities.

Read our detailed guide on things to do with kids in the Yorkshire Dales here. 

Family hikes in the Yorkshire Dales

The Yorkshire Dales are best explored on foot and there are accessible hikes for all ages and abilities.

One unmissable location is Malham Cove, a 230 foot high natural stone amphitheater. There was once a waterfall plunging over the top of Malham Cove that was higher than Niagara Falls!

Families may recognise the pitted limestone pavement at the top of Malham Cove as it featured in the Harry Potter movies.

There are several walks to choose from in Malham ranging from an easy 1 hour return walk to the base of the Cove or a 3 hour return hike to Gordale Scar gorge, passing Janet’s Foss waterfall on route.

Alternatively, tackle the 13 kilometre circular trail that covers all the major sites in this area.

An easy walk for little legs is Nidd Gorge, on the outskirts of Knaresborough.

This sheltered woodland trail runs alongside the River Nidd and includes secluded bays and stretches of sand.

Or visit the locals favourite Brimham Rocks near Pateley Bridge.

This National Trust property is an elevated plateau packed with tall, unusually shaped rocky towers created by a fast flowing river 100 million years ago.

The rock formations are riddled with alcoves and tiny caves for exploring and the elevation of Brimham Rocks provide fantastic views over the Yorkshire Dales.  Climbing the abrasive rocks is NOT advised.

TIP – If you plan to do several walks, it is worth investing in a detailed Yorkshire Dales OS map. We bring our map even on familiar walks; you never know when you might need it.

For route ideas, check out the excellent Ordnance Survey book Circular Walks in the Yorkshire Dales.  

Or for pushchair friendly walks, see the OS book   Short Walks For All The Family . Both of these detailed books will help you plan your walks in advance. 

Caves in the Yorkshire Dales

The limestone landscape of the Yorkshire Dales is riddled with caves.

Families can tour a show cave or join an adventurous organised trip into a cave. 

Show caves are not pushchair or baby carrier friendly and it is important to wear good gripping footwear. Pack a jumper as Yorkshire caves are a cool 8 degrees all year round.  

White Scar Cave near Ingleton is the longest show cave in England. Don a hard hat and descend 97 steps to enjoy the thrill of an underground waterfall and curiously named formations such as The Witches Fingers.

Stump Cross Caverns near Pateley Bridge is estimated to be 500,000 years old.

Visitors descend 65 steps into the cave to see unusually colourful stalactites and stalagmites.  

Reindeer and wolverine fossils have been found here and there is a fun fossil trail to complete. 

Yorkshire Dales waterfalls

If you like waterfalls, you are spoilt for choice in the Yorkshire Dales.

Visit iconic Aysgarth Falls which consists of three separate waterfalls plunging over limestone steps over a one mile stretch of the River Ure. 

Take a trip to see Hardraw Force, my favourite Yorkshire waterfalls. At 100 feet high, Hardraw Force is the highest single drop waterfall in England. 

Or tackle the Ingleton Waterfall Trail, a family friendly 4 ½ mile circular hike that visits six waterfalls on route.

Historic sites in the Yorkshire Dales

Kids and historic sites may not always go together but there are several fantastic options for ‘historic’ days out with kids in Yorkshire, with the Dales offering some of the best locations.

One of the best sites to visit is Bolton Abbey, part of a private estate owned by the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. Families pay £10 for parking and can stay all day making it a great value for money day out. 

Explore the atmospheric ruins of the Priory Church and Augustinian Abbey and walk the pretty woodland trails in Strid Wood. Enjoy a paddle in the river or spread out on the huge site for a picnic or ball game. 

Kids will love hopping across the river on Bolton Abbey’s famous stepping stones (60 of them!) and most adults find them hard to resist too.

Don’t miss a trip to nearby Billy Bob’s Ice Cream Parlour, a themed 50’s diner with amazing ice cream and an outdoor play barn.

Bolton Castle is the best preserved medieval castle in England and is owned by the same family who built the castle 600 years ago.

Families can tour furnished castle rooms and watch the daily archery display in the castle courtyard. 

The landscaped grounds of Bolton Castle contain a maze, herb garden, a bowling green, vineyard and rose garden. There is a daily Bird of Prey and Falconry display and families can pre-book their own Falconry experience or ‘hawk walk.’

Alternatively, visit intact but unfurnished Skipton Castle, Jervaulx Abbey or Middleham Castle.

North Yorkshire

Whilst the Yorkshire Dales, Moors and Coast fall under North Yorkshire, there are other attractions in the region that do not lie in these three popular destinations.

Things to do with kids in North Yorkshire

Fans of ‘All Creatures Great and Small’  will love the James Herriot Museum near Thirsk, where the ‘Yorkshire Vet’ is also filmed.

The museum was Herriot’s home and veterinary practice in the 1940’s and introduces children to all things farming.

There is a fantastic hands-on interactive gallery and kids will love the chance to put their hand up a cow’s bottom! Not a real one thankfully but my son still talks ‘about that time’ he put his hand in a cow.

Harrogate is an attractive 19th century spa town. Visit the Royal Pump Museum to discover Harrogate’s spa history and join one of the three daily tours to see the potent sulfur wells, the strongest in Europe. 

Grab a Fat Rascal bun from Betty’s Tea Rooms to enjoy in Valley Gardens, a colourful park with an excellent playground and paddling pool.

Wander the castle ruins at Knaresborough, visit the petrified objects at Mother Shipton’s Cave or hire a boat on the river.

Our kids enjoy Harlow Carr, a Royal Horticultural Society gardens on the outskirts of Harrogate. There are child friendly trails, craft activities and a fantastic woodland tree house. As a keen but untalented gardener, I like the Teaching Garden best! 

Flamingoland is one of the best days out in Yorkshire for families. You can easily spend a whole day here. 

The theme park rides for all ages and tastes (!) and also has an on site zoo with daily keeper talks, animal meet and greets and pre-bookable Zoo Keeper Experiences. 

For an authentic and sometimes moving step back in time, visit Eden Camp,  museum charting life in World War 2 both at home and on the frontline. This site was used during WW2 as a prisoner of war camp and the museum is housed in the original buildings from this time.

Historic sites in North Yorkshire

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden near Richmond is a perfect destination for a multi generational trip.

The 12th century Benedictine ruins are the largest monastic ruins in England. Visitors can explore the ruins or t ry traditional country crafts at The Grange. The adventure playground here is one of the best in Yorkshire. 

A riverside walk links Fountains Abbey to Studley Royal Water Garden, a World Heritage Site. Wander ornamental lakes, moon ponds, summer houses, statues and challenge the kids to find several quirky follies.

Ripley Castle near Harrogate is one of the most family friendly castles in England . 

Unlike many country estates, Ripley Castle offers 45 minutes tours specifically aimed at children. 

Families can pre-book additional activities such as archery, kayaking or a high ropes course or just explore the landscaped grounds and woodland playground. 

TIP – don’t miss the Ripley Ice Cream shop opposite the entrance to Ripley Castle. It is THE best ice cream in Yorkshire and people (like us) drive to Ripley just for the ice cream! 

Historic houses you should not miss in North Yorkshire

Historic houses have changed A LOT since I was a child being dragged around them by my parents.

Gone are stuffy guided tours and in are activity trails for children, dressing up costumes, treasure hunts and fantastic adventure playgrounds.

Newby Hall near Ripon is one of the best days out with kids in Yorkshire. The estate is well known with Yorkshire locals for its enormous adventure playground which has its own lake.

Kids will spend hours on the climbing frames, free to use pedalo boats, boat swings, aerial slide and sand pit.

There is also a popular ‘dancing’ water fountain which is impossible to resist on a sunny day. I recommend packing a change of clothes or a swimming costume for kids. Visitors to Newby Hall can explore the house, grounds and take a ride on a miniature railway.

Castle Howard featured in the TV series ‘Brideshead Revisited’ and ‘Bridgerton.’ 

Tour the fully furnished rooms of the house or enjoy  pushchair friendly lakeside paths, woodland trails, temples, monuments and a walled garden.

Skelf Island is Castle Howard’s exciting tree top playground consisting of rope bridges, nets and slides.  Adults are allowed to join in the fun here.

Beningbrough Hall, on the outskirts of York, is a Georgian era stately home with house tours, woodland trails, adventure playground and a lovely walled garden. Plus, there are regular ‘Artrageous’ family workshops during school holidays.

The Yorkshire Moors

The Moors are a scenic, windswept area stretching from Pickering to the Yorkshire Coast.

Hikers flock to this region for its hiking trails. My favourite walk in the Yorkshire Moors is in and around the Hole of Horcum, a natural amphitheatre 1/2 a mile wide and 400 foot deep.

If you plan on hiking in the Moors, I would recommend getting an OS map of the Yorkshire Moors . Trail signposts here can be few and far between.

Visit attractive market towns such as Helmsley and Pickering or picture perfect villages such as Goathland and Levisham.

Best things to do with kids in the Yorkshire Moors

A ride on a steam train on the North Yorks Moors Railway is without doubt one of the best things to do in Yorkshire with kids.

The train crosses the Moors between Pickering and Grosmont and passengers can purchase tickets that allow you to ‘hop on hop off’ the train along the route.

Stop at Levisham to see the Hole of Horcum or Goathland to visit locations featured in the hit tv series’ Heartbeat.’ 

Kids will recognise Goathland Station as Hogsmeade Station from the Harry Potter movies. 

The Dalby Forest on the eastern edge of the North York Moors is a giant playground. 

There are 13 hiking trails (including pushchair friendly walks), 6 cycling trails, a high ropes Go Ape course and 2 adventure playgrounds. 

The highly rated Ryedale Folk Museum in the heart of the Moors is an outdoor museum with buildings you can explore belonging to different eras such as an Elizabethan Manor house and an Iron Age roundhouse.  Kids will enjoy feeding the museums sheep and pigs.

The North Yorkshire Coast

Robins Hoods Bay is one of my favourite places to visit in Yorkshire, whatever the weather.    

Wander the maze of car free cobbled lanes and alleyways lined with old, tightly packed together cottages. 

This stretch of Yorkshire coastline is known as Yorkshire’s Jurassic Coast and visitors can search for fossils on the sandy beach. 

Whitby is a historic harbour town with a sandy beach.  Wander the Whitby’s cobbled streets, visit the Captain James Cook museum and  climb the 199 stone steps to the ruins of Whitby Abbey. R ounded off your day with a famous Whitby fish and chip dinner. 

Scarborough is a busy seaside resort with a sandy beach lined by arcades and a quieter pebbly beach. Visit the Sea Life Centre, take a ridee on the North Bay Heritage Railway or explore the ruins of Scarborough Castle.

Alternatively, hire bikes and cycle the scenic car free Cinder Trail.

Alpamare Water Park is one of the best things do in Yorkshire when it is raining.

The park has four exhilarating water slides, an infinity pool, heated outdoor pool, wave pool and splash zone for non swimmers. There is also an onsite spa. 

Half a million seabirds nest at Bempton Cliffs (including Puffins).

There are six viewing platforms, self guided trails and hikes. Children can borrow ‘Discovery Backpacks’ containing binoculars, a bird book and bug pot. 

The North Yorkshire Coastal Path is part of the 109 mile long Cleveland Way National Trail.  

The coastal path is fantastic with sweeping views of the dramatic Yorkshire coastline, secluded sandy coves and rocky bays. 

One of my absolute favourite things to do in Yorkshire is to hike the 7 miles Whitby to Robin Hoods Bay, which passes Whitby’s squat white lighthouse on route. Tired legs can catch a bus back from Robin Hoods Bay to Whitby. 

The path is well marked and not technically challenging but it is elevated and unfenced so it is more suitable with older children.

Read our detailed guide to the Yorkshire Coast here.  

North Yorkshire beaches

There is a beach to suit everyone in Yorkshire! 

My top recommendation would be stunning Runswick Bay, which is not only one of the best beaches in Yorkshire but was also voted the Best Beach In Britain 2020. The beach is sandy, clean and in a scenic spot. Sandsend and Filey are other top sandy beaches for families. 

For funfairs, souvenir shops and arcades head to Scarborough and Bridlington. 

If you prefer a quiet beach visit Hunmanby Gap and Reighton Sands whilst s urfers should head to windy Cayton Bay.

For old world charm visit Robin Hoods Bay and Staithes whereas a nimal lovers should visit the seal colony at Ravenscar and England’s largest nesting colony of seabirds at Flamborough Head. 

Things to do with kids in South Yorkshire

The Yorkshire Wildlife Park is one of the most popular Yorkshire attractions.

The Yorkshire Wildlife Park is home to over 400 animals from 70 different species. Wear comfy walking shoes for covering the 150 acre site! There are animals from Africa, Asia and Polar regions and most of the animals in the park are considered endangered.

There are indoor and outdoor play areas and pre bookable meet the animals experiences.

Gulliver’s Valley near Rotherham is a fun theme park aimed at younger children.

There are several options for a rainy day in South Yorkshire.

Magna Science Adventure Centre is an unusual attraction set in an enormous disused steelworks. There are over 100 hands on exhibits in four themed areas ( the water section is lots of fun) and a spectacular ‘Big Melt’ show.

Our son was not keen on the dark and loud noises in the show so we spent a lot of time outside in the Aqua Tek water playground outside. As the Magna website states, be prepared to get wet!

Alternatively, if you are looking for things to do in Yorkshire when it’s raining, head to The Dome or Calypso Waterpark.

The Dome near Doncaster has 7 swimming pools and the only split level ice rink in the U.K.   Calypso Cove in Barnsley offers fun waterslides and a pirate themed water play zone.

Things to do with kids in Sheffield

Check out the National Video Games Museum (my son’s idea of paradise) to discover how and why games are made plus have a go at making your own game.

Younger children will enjoy the hands on National Emergency Services Museum.

Things to do with kids in West Yorkshire

There is something for everyone in West Yorkshire!

Younger kids will love Diggerland in Wakefield or the excellent, hands on National Children’s Museum ‘Eureka’ in Halifax.

Our kids enjoyed the National Science and Media Museum in Bradford though I felt old looking at toys I used to play with now displayed in a museum! 

One of the more unusual places to visit in Yorkshire is the National Coal Mining Museum in Wakefield.

Visitors must don a hard hat and descend 140 metres in a mining cage for an underground tour with an ex miner. This Yorkshire attraction is more suitable for older children. 

Younger children will enjoy the adventure playground and bird garden at Harewood House. Tours of the house and grounds are also available. 

One of our favourite family days out in West Yorkshire is the Yorkshire Sculpture Park. As visitors only pay for parking, this is a fantastic value for money day out.

The family friendly 500 acre park is packed with quirky and intriguing sculptures of all shapes and sizes. You can easily spend a whole at the Yorkshire Sculpture Park and still not see everything.

And if you are visiting Yorkshire with kids around Halloween or Christmas, the themed activities at Stockeld Park are a must though it is worth visiting year round!

Things to do with kids in Leeds

Older children will enjoy the Royal Armouries Museum whilst younger children will love Tropical World  in Roundhay Park.

Take a trip on Middleton Railway, the oldest working railway in the world or discover Leeds on a fun, downloadable Treasure Hunt Leeds Trail.

Visit the Abbey House Museum, with its recreated Victorian street, or the quirky Thackeray Medical Museum .

I’d also recommend a trip to impressive Temple Newsam , an enormous stately home estate with a Rare Breeds farm on site.

Things to do with kids in East Yorkshire

William’s Den is a popular attraction with locals and visitors alike and is more suitable for younger children. The 15 acre park offers woodland trails as well as indoor and outdoor adventure play areas.  

Sewerby Hall near Bridlington is a 50 park with historic house, landscaped gardens and small zoo. Other East Riding historic houses we have enjoyed with our kids are Burton Agnes Hall and Burton Constable Hall. 

For something different, visit the John Bull World of Rock . For £14 a family of four can tour the factory to see how rock is made.

‘Rock’ is a British seaside tradition (it is basically a delicious but jaw breaking hard roll of candy) and for an extra £1.50, you can have a go at making your own, personalised rock!

Just outside York is the brilliant Elvington Air Museum, our son’s favourite York attraction.

East Yorkshire coast

Bridlington is a popular seaside resort with arcades and a events spa and a expansive sandy beach. Further along is Fraisthorpe Beach, a flat beach popular for swimming and kite surfing.

Withernsea is a sandy Blue Flag beach with newly built promenade. Don’t miss the town’s inland lighthouse where families can climb 144 steps to the top of the lighthouse for a 360 degree view of Withernsea.

At the end of the Trans Pennine Trail lies Hornsea, a charming seaside resort boasting another sandy Blue Flag beach.

Spurn Point is well worth visiting. This 3 1/2 mile sandy peninsula stretches out from the Holderness Coast into the River Humber.

It is only 50 metres wide in places and offers excellent bird watching and walking trails and cannot be accessed by car. The lighthouse here is also open to the public.

Follow safety instructions carefully at ‘The Point’ as there is a risk of getting cut off from the mainland at high tide. 

Things to do with kids in Hull

Hull is an underrated destination in Yorkshire for families as the city has lots of family friendly attractions, many of which are free.

Streetlife Museum of Transport charts the history of 200 years of transport through 6 interactive galleries plus there is a recreated 1940’s street with shops you can enter.

Older children and history fans should visit Wilberforce House, the birthplace of William Wilberforce. Exhibits explain the history of the slave trade and its abolition.

The Hull and East Riding Museum is a lesser known gem and is packed with archaeological finds and historical artefacts including the only dinosaur bones found in East Yorkshire.

All three museums are free to enter and lie in Hull’s historic Museum Quarter which is easily covered on foot.

One unmissable Yorkshire day out is The Deep, one of the biggest aquariums in the U.K.

This not for profit aquarium is home to over 5,000 species in 50 exhibits. We have visited several times and there is always something new to see. Check The Deep website for daily talks and events.

So there you have it – a comprehensive list of the 100 best things to do with kids in Yorkshire!

And there are so many more things to do in Yorkshire that you will leave planning to return.

Have you visited Yorkshire with kids? What was your favourite attraction?

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The best things to do in Yorkshire with kids

As the largest county in the United Kingdom, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to things to do in Yorkshire with kids.

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There’s coast and countryside – from the Yorkshire dales to the moors and the Pennines – not to mention some wonderful cities, including York and Leeds , fantastic family attractions from animals to theme parks, museums, castles and more.

For the purposes of the post, I’m including all the official counties, areas and metropolitan boroughs which make up Yorkshire, so you should find plenty of inspiration for every corner – bear in mind it’s a couple of hours drive across, from the Dales to Hull, or from Sheffield to Staithes, before you plan your day out!

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The Yorkshire Coast

With over 50 miles of varied coastline to explore, one of the best days out with the kids in Yorkshire is a trip to the seaside, especially on a hot day.

Scarborough

Believed to be the world’s first seaside resort, with visitors flocking here since the 17th century, Scarborough is a great destination for a day by the sea.

And there’s not one but two family-friendly beaches at the traditional seaside town, along with an amusement park and arcades, plenty of boat trips, and several ice cream parlours.

It’s also home to Sea Life Scarborough , with its seal hospital for rescued pups, as well as penguins, otters and fish galore.

There are a whole string of beaches in and around Whitby, so you won’t be short of choice if you fancy a paddle and some sandcastles.

Closest to the town, long sandy West Cliff Beach (also known as Whitby Sands) is a blue flag beach, where you can find lifeguards and donkey rides during the summer, as well as surfing lessons – plus two miles of sand for sandcastle building.

On the east side of the river is the smaller Tate Hill beach, another soft sandy stretch that’s relatively sheltered and dog-friendly year-round.

For more things to do in Whitby with kids , click here

Bridlington

Known for its award-winning promenades and historic harbour, Bridlington is another family-friendly gem on the Yorkshire coast – and one of the UK’s best spots for surfing.

For kids, there’s a funfair, amusements, and donkey rides on the beach, plus the model village at Sewerby, just north of Bridlington itself. The town also has its very own pirate ship offering 10-minute trips around the bay.

Robin Hood’s Bay

For a calmer day on the coast, Robin Hood’s Bay is a small stretch of unspoilt beach overlooked by towering cliffs and a picturesque fishing village by the same name.

The sandy beach is a fun spot for kids to go rock pooling and fossil hunting, while the town is home to a dinosaur and fossil museum.

Runswick Bay

Named beach of the year by the Sunday Times in 2020, Runswick Bay is another quiet and picturesque spot for swimming, sandcastle building, and fossil hunting with the family during the summer months.

You can also join  fossil hunting walks  with an expert on hand to help you know what to look for. The Runswick Bay walk to hunt for sea dragons – including ichthyosaur and plesiosaur fossils – is great for younger kids.

Royal Armouries, Leeds

When you describe the  Royal Armouries  – a free museum which traces the history of war, plus activities to see alongside the displays – it doesn’t capture how brilliantly engrossing it is.

The first galleries focus on the early empires, from the Egyptians and Hittites to Romans, Vikings, Anglo-Saxons and more, before moving through western Europe to China, Japan and India.

Along the way, you can follow the action in major battles, learn about everything from castle building to the development of armour (for animals as well as humans!), plus displays on forensics, spying, new technology and peace protests – all designed to make you think rather than celebrating war.

For a full review of a day at the  Royal Armouries with kids , check out my post

During the school holidays, you can also see activities including swordfighting and riders demonstrating Tudor sword and lance techniques on horseback, as well as visiting the stables.

Easily one of the best museums in Yorkshire with kids (probably one of the best in the UK), I’d assumed my daughter and I might while away an hour before moving on, but you could spend a whole day here without difficulty.

Jorvik Viking Centre, York

Transporting you back to Viking Jorvik, on the site of the original settlement in York, the  Jorvik Viking Centre had a major renovation a few years ago so it’s now even more convincing while keeping the old favourites (including the famous smells!)

Using information uncovered at the various digs around the city, right down to modelling some of the inhabitants on skeletons which have been unearthed, the attention to detail is fantastic.

Check out my  Jorvik Viking Centre review   for more of what we discovered during our visit

After a ride through the recreated settlement, there are more artefacts on display, while staff – dressed in Viking-style clothing – chat about life in VIking times and show off their skills at everything from needlework to making a coin.

It’s a great one to combine with a visit to sister site Jorvik Dig , to let kids try their hand at excavating York’s Viking history, once they’ve seen what was actually uncovered.

If you’re visiting York with kids , Jorvik Viking Centre is included in the  York City Pass

Eureka, Halifax

The National Children’s Museum is unmissable if you’re visiting Yorkshire with toddlers and younger kids – a chance to play at grown-up life, as well as some fantastic interactive exhibits mean it’s another one to allow plenty of time for.

With all the exhibits designed to inspire children aged 11 and under to learn about themselves and the world, there’s everything from the science of music to the chance to clamber inside other displays, as well as exploring a mini town, complete with supermarket, petrol station and more.

But there are also galleries focusing on the human body, others tackling the environment and extra activities, to mention only a few, with some set aside for under-fives too.

For my review of visiting Eureka with a toddler , click here

National Railway Museum, York

Home to Stephenson’s Rocket, the original locomotive which started the train age, as well as famous names like The Flying Scotsman and a Japanese bullet train, a visit to the  National Railway Museum  is is great for kids, especially younger ones.

As well as being able to get close to these legendary locomotives in the huge museum shed, you can see inside royal carriages and try a simulator experience, putting you (virtually) on the footplate of The Mallard, the world’s fastest steam locomotive.

There are also play areas, and a miniature railway to enjoy – you can even hop onto a road train from York Minster to take you to the museum in true train style.

There’s no charge for tickets (though you do need to prebook), so it’s ideal if you’re looking for free days out in Yorkshire with kids.

For the best things to do in York with kids , check out my top picks

​​Magna Science Adventure Centre, Rotherham

Kids will love getting hands-on at the Magna Science Adventure Centre , with four main zones themed around the elements fire, water, air, and earth.

Inside, there are over 100 exciting and interactive exhibits, letting visitors fire giant water cannons, explode a rock face, launch rockets, and control real-life JCBs – just for starters.

Housed inside a disused steel mill, once every hour you can also witness The Big Melt, an unmissable centre-wide pyrotechnic and audio display recreating the steel-making process.

Outside you’ll find the Sci-Tek playground, with trampolines, slides and climbing frames, and the huge Aqua-Tek splash park which is open during the summer months as well.

Thackray Museum, Leeds

After a £4 million redevelopment, the  Thackray Museum  reopened in 2021 with extra galleries – along with the return of old favourites like Disease Street – to tell the story of medicine and public health.

And it’s as family-friendly as it is fascinating. Starting with Disease Street, a recreation of Leeds in 1840 (complete with authentic smells), you can choose a character from a spinning wheel, then pick up a card to slot in to various points along the street, revealing more of their story.

Along the way, there are plenty of startling facts plus some of the major discoveries which still form the basis of medicine today, and plenty of chances to get hands on and make kids think – challenging them to answer whether you can be ‘too clean’, for example.

There’s also the opportunity to get creative and invent your own device, while spotting some weird and wonderful quack remedies from across the ages, an ornate apothecary’s shop and some live leeches, through to X-rays, transplants, the discovery of DNA, and the end of iron lungs.

Check out my review of a visit to the  Thackray Museum with kids

National Coal Mining Museum, Wakefield

There’s been coal mining in Yorkshire since the 14th century, and for a more unusual day out in Yorkshire with kids, the National Coal Mining Museum in Wakefield combines history and fun.

As well as learning about the history of coal mining in England, kids can also listen to stories of the people who worked in the mines during the visit, with exhibits showing how mining changed through the Victorian era up to the modern day – the last operating deep coal mine in the United Kingdom, Kellingley colliery in North Yorkshire, only closed in December 2015.

Even more excitingly, children over 5 can see first-hand how coal was extracted on a journey 140m below ground on an underground tour led by ex-miners.

The museum sits on 45 acres of land and has its own nature trail, train rides, and a large adventure playground, along with a small dedicated area for under 5s to play. 

National Science & Media Museum, Bradford

Another fantastic free museum in Yorkshire with kids, there are six floors to explore at the National Science & Media Museum , including temporary exhibitions and cinemas, with an IMAX screen and Animation Gallery as well.

Discover everything from the history of photography to retro video games, as well as the Experience TV area to look at the impact television has had on our lives and the world.

And don’t miss Wonderlab, with its hands-on exhibits letting you explore the science of light and sound – you may need additional (free) tickets when numbers are limited, so it’s worth picking those up as soon as you arrive.

During school holidays, there are usually extra talks and activities to try as well, which may also need booking in advance.

Weston Park Museum, Sheffield

Sheffield’s largest museum, the collections at Weston Park Museum trace the city’s history from prehistoric times to the modern day, with Ancient Egyptian mummies and a woolly rhino thrown in.

As well as artefacts found during archaeological digs in the Peak District , you can find Anglo-Saxon and Roman pieces, plus exhibits on local history over the past 500 years.

There’s a Natural History section as well – watch out for the polar bear – plus art and a special collection of Chinese ivory.

A great option for a rainy day in Yorkshire with kids if you’re close to Sheffield.

York Castle Museum

There’s a whole mix of everything from classic toys to a recreated Victorian street, period rooms and interactive fun at the  York Castle Museum .

One of the most memorable parts is the Victorian street, peering into old shop windows, discovering more ‘authentic’ smells – and it’s all decorated with original items too.

The fashion exhibition was another stand-out favourite, tracing the development of clothing over the centuries, with some really quirky artefacts on display, as well as showing the ways society has changed (hurrah for no wigs, corsets and highly flammable dresses).

Among more recent history, there’s a very moving section on the First World War and a distinctly colourful and upbeat room on the 60s.

The site was also once a prison, where Dick Turpin was held before his execution, with videos sharing tales of people linked to the prison, from the last woman burned in Yorkshire through to those meting out ‘justice’.

Check out my review of a day out at  York Castle Museum with kids

Leeds City Museum

The small  city museum  has a tempting mix of different displays, ranging from Romans and ancient Egyptians (including a mummy) to the history of Leeds and a cleverly designed natural history section.

We loved the exhibit on the development of language, from the earliest writings, plus a bit of code-breaking on the side, as well as the chance to trace Leeds’ history from prehistoric times through Romans, Vikings and Normans to the Industrial Revolution.

Meanwhile the natural history section has plenty on conservation and sustainability, as well as the chance to ‘design’ your own animal, following the lines on the floor.

With interactive exhibits thrown in, a visit here feels a little like a treasure trove, where you’re never sure what you’ll discover next: perfect for keeping kids entertained. There’s no entry charge, so it’s great if you’re looking for free things to do in Yorkshire with kids too.

Skipton Castle

It’s not just museums where you can discover the area’s history – another of the top things to do with kids in Yorkshire is visiting one of the best-preserved medieval castles in England, Skipton Castle , on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

The historic castle dates back to 1090 and was once home to the aristocratic Clifford family, surviving the English civil war during its turbulent 900-year-old life.

On a self-guided tour of the castle, you can visit the grand Banqueting Hall, see the 350-year-old Yew tree planted by Lady Anne Clifford in the central courtyard, climb the almighty Watch Tower, and even descend underground to the dungeons. 

A tour sheet helps kids learn about the castle and its fascinating history as you wander around, with picture and activity sheets available to keep younger ones engaged too.

Bolton Castle

Set in the Wensleydale valley, around a third of the rooms at 14th century Bolton Castle are still intact, and it’s easy to feel like the castle’s inhabitants have just stepped out.

You can explore Mary Queen of Scots’ bedroom, where the monarch was held captive for several months, as well as the old kitchens, dungeon and great chamber, with all the sights and sounds (and smells!) of a castle to bring the historic fortress to life.

Once the luxurious home of the Scrope family, it survived attacks by Cromwell’s forces during the English Civil War, and you can still explore the gardens, including the maze and vineyard – the castle has children’s activity packs for sale as well, with puzzles and a treasure hunt.

There are also flying displays from birds of prey, wild boar feeing, and medieval archery talks among the activities during the year, as well as special falconry experiences

Also on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, the castle is around an hour from Skipton Castle and Harrogate, and closes during the winter months. The castle also hosts weddings throughout the year, so it’s worth doublechecking before you visit.

Castle Howard, near York

This spectacular historic house has been named England’s best stately home by Lonely Planet, and has cropped up in so many TV shows and films, you’ll probably feel you know it before you arrive – around half an hour north of York , it’s easy to combine with a city break too..

If you’re visiting with younger kids who aren’t going to appreciate the historic interiors of Castle Howard , you could still spend all day exploring the grounds – there’s a landtrain to take you to a play area by the lakeside, and an adventure playground to discover, as well as wandering through the woods and walled garden.

For more adventure, the new treetop adventure includes rope bridges, nests, slides, nets and climbing equipment galore over the Great Lake, as well as taking boats out on the water.

The 18th century house, home to the Earls of Carlisle, is well worth exploring as well, with its spectacular decoration and opulent furnishings, not to mention the art collection and grandiose chapel too.

Fountains Abbey, Ripon

These ancient abbey ruins are one of the loveliest places to visit in Yorkshire with kids – spectacular in early spring when snowdrops carpet the Georgian water garden, there’s always something to marvel at at Fountains Abbey .

There’s also an adventure play area, as well as being able to explore the abbey grounds, and the fabulous Studley Royal Water Garden.

With deer in the deer park, lines of ancient trees and a whole series of reflective ponds and follies around the abbey ruins, you can let imaginations run wild as you roam.

Whitby Abbey

You don’t need to be interested in Dracula to be wowed by the dramatic ruins of  Whitby Abbey , which has been standing on the cliff-tops here for centuries.

The Gothic arches are just one remnant of the building’s 1,500-year-old life; starting out in the 7th century, the small monastery turned into a thriving Benedictine abbey before being suppressed in 1539 under the Dissolution.

But as you explore its history, you can also discover tales of a 7th century abbess who helped shape the fledgling Church of England (and turned snakes into stone, apparently), as well as explore the museum to discover how it inspired authors through the ages, including Bram Stoker and the first named English poet, Caedmon.

There are also regular  activities for families  during school holidays, an Ammonite Quest to follow, interactive performances of Dracula (better for teens/tweens than toddlers!), plus more amazing views.

York Minster

No trip to York is complete without visiting the beautiful  York Minster  – while it’s one I’d skip with toddlers, there’s plenty for kids to discover inside as well.

Along with the spectacular architecture and the minster’s glorious stained glass windows, there are statues of the early Kings of England (with very memorable carved hair!), plus you can venture down into the Crypt to see some of the remains of Roman Eboracum, as well as the tomb of the city’s saint.

There’s also a bigger display on the city’s history, with more on York’s Roman past, as well as information on the work needed to prevent the Minster’s collapse, plus regular temporary exhibitions.

York Minster is also included in the  York City Pass

Nostell Priory, near Wakefield

Built on the site of a medieval priory, the grand house dates from the 18th century, with its amazing Georgian dolls’ house on display.

You can also explore the restored Butler’s pantry as well as the luxurious furniture and furnishings of the mansion, with interiors by Robert Adam, furniture by Chippendale and artworks galore.

But there’s masses of space to explore outside, with 300 acres of parkland and lakeside walks, a kitchen garden, adventure playground with zipwire, plus formal gardens and woodland… not to mention and activity sheets to take along.

Read my full review of a  day out at Nostell Priory with kids

Harewood House, near Leeds

There’s far more than just the stately home to discover at  Harewood House  – this is somewhere to spend all day exploring.

The grounds have three walking trails to help you explore, along with a great adventure playground, and a natural play area in the woods, a ‘secret’ tunnel to the Norman church, formal gardens, a pretty lake with a ferry heading across to more gardens and usually boat trips running too.

You’ll also find a string of farmyard animals, from guinea pigs to actual pigs, and a host of rare birds, including macaws and cockatoos, lovebirds and a flamboyance of flamingos, not to mention penguins.

There’s just as much to tempt inside, with ornate rooms packed with portraits and artworks, including some more unusual African pieces – along the way, you can also discover more about Harewood’s links to the slave trade.

Then head below stairs – which fans of period dramas might already recognise as they’ve been used to film Victoria, Lost in Austen and Downton Abbey (Emmerdale is also shot on the estate) – with dresses and replica food on display, not to mention a gigantic collection of copper saucepans and moulds.

Read my full review of a  day out at Harewood House with kids

Temple Newsam, near Leeds

Another great historic house with plenty to do in the grounds for kids,  Temple Newsam  is only around 15 minutes’ drive from Leeds city centre, with children’s trails and extra family activities in school holidays.

The rare breed Home farm is a big hit with younger kids – and older ones, for that matter – with everything from the small and fluffy to rarer farm animals, all set within the outbuildings and around the cobbled yard.

There are some lovely walks around the grounds too, with nature trails and an adventure playground too. Check out the three lakes, all designed to have a slightly different feel, to choose your favourite, as well as exploring the walled garden and rhododendron walk.

The house itself was the birthplace of Lord Darnley, husband of Mary Queen of Scots, and there are over five centuries of history to discover here – you can learn some of the stories as you explore and get a sense of what life in this grand family home must have been like.

Walk York’s walls

The longest surviving town walls in England,  York’s medieval city walls  stretch for around two miles, although you can also choose to walk a shorter section.

As well as imagining what life might have been like for those guarding the walls, you get some fabulous views including back to York Minster – plus it’s free.

For an easy stroll with kids, head to Bootham Bar and walk to Monk Bar, for the experience of heading up through one of the old gates – they’re open from around 8am to dusk, weather permitting.

The new City Walls experience in Micklegate Bar replaces the Henry VII experience. The Richard III experience in Monk Bar is closed but running virtual events, with plans to open to occasional tours during the summer months.

Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Doncaster

Home to nearly 500 animals and 60 different species, Yorkshire Wildlife Park in Doncaster is one of the best things to do in Yorkshire with kids.

This fantastic walk-through wildlife adventure lets you spot everything from lions, tigers, and polar bears, to Himalayan red pandas, dik-diks, and Visayan warty pigs. Kids can learn about the park’s many endangered species at the daily ranger talks, as well as enjoy live feeding times and special animal shows. 

The wildlife park has several large play areas too. There are giant wooden tree forts and obstacle courses at the Jungle Lookout, three storeys of indoor fun in the Monkey Playhouse, and a dedicated area for toddlers at the Big Bug Play Zone.

With an astonishing 3,500 marine creatures to spot, The Deep in Hull is one of the UK’s largest and most spectacular aquariums.

You’ll discover sharks, turtles, rays, a colony of Gentoo penguins, and the UK’s only Green sawfish, along with the aquarium’s snakes and bugs too.

The award-winning site focuses on conservation and aims to educate people of all ages about life in the oceans, with lots of interactive displays and live presentations. You’ll also find extra fun and educational family-friendly events and activities taking place at the aquarium during the school holidays.

Sea Life Centre Scarborough

The Sea Life Centre at Scarborough is a great rainy day option if you’re staying by the coast, but a tempting day out with kids in Yorkshire whatever the weather.

The most unusual attraction is its seal hospital, which treats rescued pups before helping return them to the wild, as well as penguins, otters and fish galore – more than 2,500 creatures in total.

The themed areas include a Rainforest Adventure, with tree pythons and poison dart frogs, and a tropical ocean tunnel that’s home to blacktip reef sharks, and the otter river.

Cannon Hall Farm

You’ll find rosette-winning Highland cows, tiny Shetland ponies, majestic Shire horses, friendly alpacas, and many other farmyard animals at Cannon Hall Farm .

The large farm park has plenty to do for kids of all ages – as well as visiting the animals, children can enjoy the adventure playground, with towers, slides, zip lines, a climbing forest, and an unusual giant tube maze (much like a giant hamster run) full of twists and turns.

Keep an eye out for events taking place at the farm throughout the year, which include live feeding times, lambing season during the Spring, and special educational talks.

If you’re looking to get outdoors in Yorkshire with kids, you’re spoiled for choice. As well as the North York Moors National Park , there’s also the Yorkshire Dales National Park (on the border of Yorkshire not far from the Lake District ) and walking paths along the Yorkshire coast .

But for a few more great places to go walking with kids in Yorkshire, there are plenty of options for an easy stroll or some child-friendly trails as well.

Rivelin Valley Nature and Heritage trail, near Sheffield

Following the path of the river, the Rivelin Valley nature and heritage trail is a great mix of industrial heritage and natural beauty, with short loops to try if you’re exploring with younger kids.

You can spot the remains of watermills, some dating back to the 16th century, as well as kingfishers on the water, and even bats at dusk, plus trees and birds galore. Some sections are buggy-friendly, and there are stepping stones too.

Dalby Forest,  North York Moors National Park

There are 13 walking trails to explore in Dalby Forest , as well as play areas and Go Ape high ropes courses among the trees – not far from Pickering, and less than 30 minutes from Scarborough.

The Forestry England site, which is also a dark sky reserve, is home to a Gruffalo Trail and the Enchanted Wood, with its barefoot sensory walk, along with other regular trails for kids.

Keep an eye out for the world’s largest dry stone wall maze, currently being built in the forest using 4,000 tonnes of stone.

Brimham Rocks, near Harrogate

The giant rock formations of Brimham Rocks were formed 100 million years before the first dinosaurs walked the earth.

Look out for the Dancing Bear, the Gorilla, the Eagle and the Turtle, and if you want more than gazing at the shapes, you can crawl through the Smartie Tube and balance on the Rocking Stones.

Some are only a short walk from the car park as well, and there’s also an easy 2km walk to get a taste of some of the iconic formations if you’re visiting with younger kids.

Mother Shipton’s Cave, Knaresborough

Set within the Royal Forest of Knaresborough, Mother Shipton’s Cave is a fascinating Yorkshire attraction for kids with an interest in magical folklore.

The main draw of the area is a natural cave that was supposedly the birthplace of legendary prophetess Mother Shipton – often called a witch, there are many strange and unexplainable stories surrounding her.

Close to the cave you can also visit the Petrifying Well, the oldest tourist attraction in England, which has been operating as a paid attraction since 1630. The chemical make-up of the water in the natural well means that any objects dropped into it gains a hardened stone crust – seeming to be turned to stone, or petrified.

There’s also a museum, tea rooms, and two fun adventure playgrounds to enjoy while you’re there, along with lovely walks and regular activities during school holidays.

Stockeld Park, Wetherby

Open during the school holidays, Stockeld Park in Wetherby is an exciting outdoor adventure park with a huge variety of fun-filled family activities to choose from. 

Little adventurers can explore the themed play areas along The Enchanted Forest walking trail, get lost in the expansive hedge maze, and go crazy on the go-kart track.

There are lots of seasonal activities and events too. During the summer holidays, you’ll find an inflatable obstacle course and roller skating rink. Then at Christmas, you can visit Santa’s Grotto, explore the beautiful winter illuminations, pick up a tree from the Christmas tree shop, and go ice skating.

Yorkshire Sculpture Park, Wakefield

If you’re looking for a walk with a difference, the Yorkshire Sculpture Park near Wakefield is the perfect place to get imaginations racing – as well as plenty of literal running around.

Set in 500 acres of countryside, you’ll find around 90 different sculptures including giant statues of animals and works by famous names including Damien Hirst and Ai Weiwei.

There are plenty of other features to spot too, including the shell grotto, obelisk and stepping stones, as you wander around the lakes and through woodland.

If you want more inspiration, there are ideas for trails and activities for families on their website too.

Williams Den

Another great day out in Yorkshire with kids who love being around nature and enjoying the great outdoors is a visit to Williams Den . 

The unique attraction features an impressive 475 square metre play barn called the ‘Den’. A natural play space, it’s home to a huge wooden Tree House surrounded by rope bridges, tunnels, slides and water play areas.

Set within 15 acres of land overlooking the beautiful Yorkshire Wolds, there’s plenty more fun to be had too. Williams Den has an obstacle course, zip wires, tire swings, den building supplies, and a mud kitchen.

All activities at Williams Den can be enjoyed by children and adults of any age, so nobody has to miss out on the fun – it’s well worth bringing some extra clothes though, as things can get a little wet and muddy!

RHS Harlow Carr, near Harrogate

This lovely RHS site is also home to plenty of family attractions, including natural play areas and a tree house, as well as the gorgeous gardens at Harlow Carr .

Find the Log Ness monster, the swing seat in the Secret Garden, as well as the hedgehog friendly area – although with 58 acres to explore, you’ll always be able to find something new, plus regular family activities during school holidays.

A great spot to see snowdrops in spring, there are also wildflowers in summer, bright tropical blooms in the Sub-Tropicana Garden, a rockery in the Alpine garden, and plenty in the kitchen garden year-round.

Roundhay Park & Tropical World, Leeds

One of the largest parks in Europe,  Roundhay Park  – not far from Leeds city centre – stretches over a whopping 700 acres.

With lakes and woodland in the park, as well as activities galore and some open-air theatre in summer, you can also visit Tropical World, the largest collection of tropical plants outside  Kew Gardens .

There are also a string of  walking routes , including past the castle ruins and around the lake, and several play areas to entertain younger kids.

And older ones will love the areas based on famous gardens from around the world, including a recreation of the  Alhambra in Granada  as well as Monet’s Garden, or the more dramatic landscape of the gorge with its waterfall.

Room on the Broom trail, Anglers Country Park, Wakefield

While trails themed around Julia Donaldson’s books pop up regularly at sites around the country, this great Room on the Broom trail is permanent, and the perfect way to inspire kids out walking.

Set around the lake at Anglers Country Park , there are statues of characters from the story dotted along the trail, paw and footprints to follow, plus activity sheets including crayon or pencil rubbings.

The park itself has been awarded Green Flag status – given to the country’s best parks – and there’s also an adventure playground and more walking trails if you’ve still got the energy!

Check out my review of a  day out following the Room on the Broom trail

Northwood Trail & Fairy Sanctuary, near York

Add some magic to your day out, as you let kids reconnect with nature at the Northwood Trail and Fairy Sanctuary , tucked away within hundred acres of woodland around 20 minutes from York.

The enchanting woodland trail is filled with fairy treasures found over the years. You’ll pass by fairy doors on trees, mushroom fairy rings, and even a fairy hamlet with tree houses connected by bridges and walkways. 

At the end of the walk, children can enjoy the natural playground, with sandpits, a mud kitchen, tire swings, and den building supplies.

Plus don’t miss the fairy museum, where you can learn about fairy folklore and see artefacts including fairy furniture and tiny dresses made from foliage and feathers.

Find Harry Potter in York

If you’re looking for an enchanting day out, there’s plenty to tempt in York for Harry Potter fans .

Start at the Shambles, which helped inspire Diagon Alley – the picturesque narrow street was once lined with butchers, whose equipment gave the medieval street its name. Now one of the busiest places in the city for tourists, it’s lined with magical shops such as The Shop Which Must Not be Named.

Nearby, you can stop for a drink with a difference at the Potions Cauldron , while The Hole in Wand  wizarding golf is another very fun option if your kids love magic (or just fancy some crazy golf!)

For ideas of more things to do in  York for Harry Potter fans , including where to find the tiniest door in the city and the sign for Platform 9 3/4, check out more of my top picks.

City Cruises boat tour, York

Follow in the footsteps of the Vikings by heading out onto the River Ouse and seeing York from the water on a York boat tour from  City Cruises – included in the  York City Pass .

There are two different starting points – Lendal Bridge or King’s Staith – but the tour itself follows the same route, cruising past the city centre to the north, then venturing down to the Millennium Bridge in the south, passing under bridges and spotting landmarks along the way.

The boat tour has live commentary and you can sit out on the top deck in good weather, or shelter indoors to watch through the windows if it’s bad – plus there’s a small bar on board for drinks.

If you prefer to be the captain of your own boat, you can hire one of the little  self-Drive Red Boats  and head out onto the Ouse for an hour in your own private craft.

Take a boat trip along the coast

If you’re staying by the seaside, there’s a string of great boat trips to look out for, from whale-watching to pirate boat tours.

Yorkshire Coast Boat Trips  runs between Whitby and Scarborough (and vice versa), so it’s easy to combine a cruise up the Yorkshire coast with a chance to explore a second seaside town.

Whitby itself has a great choice of boat trips for families, including the  Black Pearl Pirate Ship  – with swashbucklers and brigands at the wheel, kids also get chance to unleash their inner pirate on a 25-minute cruise from the harbour.

Or  Whitby Coastal Cruises  also has some great 20-minute trips along to Sandsend (no need to book, and under-fives go free), if you just want a taste, as well as longer trips and wildlife spotting boat tours.

With older kids,  Whitby Whale Watching  is returning for 2022, with a chance to spot minke whales, but you can also see humpback, fin and sei whales, along with dolphins, along the north-east coast.

The Endeavour Experience, Whitby

Set off on an adventure – without even leaving Whitby harbour – aboard HM Bark Endeavour, on a voyage through time with  The Endeavour Experience .

Embarking on a visit to the life-size replica ship of Captain Cook’s famous ship of exploration and scientific discovery, you can explore the recreated ship, to see what life would have been like on board, including the ‘seat of ease’ and cat’o’nine tails.

There’s a chance to step inside the captain’s cabin, and hear about the narrow escape at the Great Barrier Reef, as well as the crew’s first sightings of indigenous Australians.

There are some great interactive exhibits too, from making your own map to tying knots as well as singing sea shanties, stargazing, seeing the beautiful botanical drawings created on the ship’s journeys and discovering what some of the jobs on board would have entailed

North Yorkshire Moors Railway, Pickering to Whitby

This lovely heritage railway runs for 24 miles through the North York Moors National Park, stopping at a string of pretty stations including Goathland – which doubled for Hogsmeade Station in the Harry Potter films.

With trains linking Pickering and Whitby, most are pulled by steam engines, and there’s often chance to get off and admire the 30s-style stations along the way (although not always, so be careful not to get stranded!)

It’s a lovely way to see more of the countryside, and along with the standard service, there are special trains throughout the year such as Santa specials and the Light Spectacular at October half-term. Or make the journey even more memorable by booking seats for the Pullman Dining Train for lunch on the move – everything from Yorkshire-themed menus to the Passage to India curry train.

If you’re in West Yorkshire, the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway runs for five miles through ‘Bronte country ‘, including the chance to hop off at Haworth as well as watching the scenery as you’re pulled by steam train

Gullivers Valley Theme Park & Resort, near Sheffield

If you’re visiting Yorkshire with younger kids, Gullivers Valley Theme Park in South Yorkshire is a small family-friendly theme park designed for children aged two to 13.

Little ones can enjoy a variety of rides, attractions, and play areas across multiple themed zones, including Western World, Smugglers Wharf, and the Lost World of the Living Dinosaurs. There are mini coasters, waterslides, spinning barrels, dodgems, a ferris wheel and more.

And for the ultimate family short break in Yorkshire, you can stay overnight at Gulliver’s Valley Resort. With glamping tents, princess suites, mermaid dens, pirate lodges and more to choose from, it’s a lot more memorable than an everyday hotel!

Flamingo Land Resort, near Malton

If you’re looking for a theme park in Yorkshire for older children and teens, Flamingo Land Resort is a great choice – plus there’s plenty for younger siblings as well.

Get your adrenaline pumping on Velocity, the tallest and fastest motorbike launch coaster in the world, experience a 112 degree vertical drop on Mumbo Jumbo, and go soaring into the sky on the Pterodactyl. For younger kids, the resort has plenty of smaller family rides too.

Don’t miss the resort’s award-winning on-site zoo, with everything from ferocious lions and tigers to friendly farmyard animals as well.

Flamingo Land Resort also has a schedule of live shows, special family events, and meet and greets with costumed characters too.

Lightwater Valley, near Ripon

One of Yorkshire’s biggest theme parks, Lightwater Valley , was once home to the world’s longest rollercoaster. And while The Ultimate has been shut for a few years now, there’s still plenty of family friendly thrills.

With over 40 rides across the 175-acre site, it’s aimed at kids aged 12 and under with themed areas including Dino-Roar Adventure, Eagle’s Creek, Go Safari and Skeleton Cove.

But you can also meet resident dragon Ebor at special events, enjoy Jurassic Adventure Golf, explore the tree-top trail and make the most of soft play and toddler areas if you’re visiting with younger kids.

Diggerland Yorkshire, Castleford

The chance to play with genuine diggers is every toddler’s dream come true – and just as much fun for bigger kids. Including very big kids.

With rides and digger activities, plus other play areas to explore, there are options for younger kids (those under 90cm enter free), including soft play and carousel style rides, plus the chance to get behind the controls of a giant digger for older kids (and adults).

One of several Diggerland attractions around the country, check out what we thought of sister site Diggerland in Kent .

York Dungeon

Like the other Dungeon experiences around the UK, the  York Dungeon  is one for teens (and older tweens) than more easily scared younger kids, as you travel through nine live shows with actors telling the story of York’s darkest history.

Think plague, ghosts, bloodthirsty Vikings and Guy Fawkes, not to mention the torturer of York Castle.

Expect gruesome tales, sudden frights and spine-tingling stories as you tiptoe through 2,000 years of terrifying tales.

For more things to do in York with kids , check out my top picks

Xscape Castleford

With a snow zone, trampoline park, rock climbing, laser tag, escape rooms, ten pin bowling, adventure golf and so much more, there’s endless family fun to be had at Xscape Castleford .

Xscape’s Snozone is the UK’s leading centre for indoor skiing and snowboarding on real snow, with the chance to have lessons as well as family sessions.

Children 3+ are welcome to enjoy the slope (all under-12s need to be accompanied by a paying adult), and even if skiing isn’t your thing, the family sledging sessions are always a big hit with younger kids.

With all of its activities under one roof, as well as plenty of shops and restaurants, Xscape Castleford is also one of the best places to go with kids in Yorkshire on a rainy day.

Find chocolate in York

York was once known as the chocolate city – and while many of the big names whose factories once scented the air have left, there’s still plenty of chance to discover the sweeter side to York.

Decorate chocolate lollies, take a tour or just enjoy some fabulous hot chocolate at  York Cocoa House , home to York Cocoa Works – there are even chocolate masterclasses for older kids who love getting in the kitchen, as well as being able to make your own bar.

If you can’t have too much chocolate, and chocolate history,  York’s Chocolate Story  tells you more about the history of the city’s most famous chocolate-making families.

And as well as the big names who came up with the Chocolate Orange and Kit Kats, you can watch a demonstration from chocolatiers, learn how experts taste it, and there are also chocolate making experiences to be tried here too. Keep an eye out for tickets with free cancellation  on tiqets as well.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links – any purchases you make are unaffected but I may receive a small commission

Images: Royal Armouries/Jorvik/Thackray Museum/York Castle Museum/Leeds City Museum/York Minster/Harewood House/York Walls/Room on the Broom/Shambles/Whitby boat tours/York Cocoa House copyright MummyTravels, all others courtesy of Depositphotos

Award-winning family travel blogger and mum to the mini traveller, aka Minnie. Together we've visited Europe, America, the Caribbean, Africa and Asia, tried a cruise and a road trip, and survived countless long-haul trips. London (UK) based. Serious beach habit.

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16 best things to do in Yorkshire

From music to museums, kid-friendly fun and scenic gardens, these are the best things to do in Yorkshire

A gem of The North, harbouring sprawling countryside and entertainment-filled metropolitan spaces all at once that offer a ton of fun things to do, Yorkshire is God's own county. Technically split across three regions of England , even its main bulk of Yorkshire and the Humber is home to seven cities including Leeds , Sheffield and York —each with their own vibrant scenes. It's a lot to take in, so we've gathered up the county's absolute best bits—cherrypicked from throughout the area, and chosen for their relative must-see qualities. So whether you want to tap into the local history, sit down for some top-notch grub or just keep the little ones entertained for a while, here's exactly where and why you should be going on your next visit.

Done something on this list and loved it? Share it with the hashtag #TimeOutDoList and tag @TimeOutEverywhere.

Find out more about  how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world .

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Best things to do in Yorkshire

1.  Yorkshire Dales National Park

What is it? A spectacular National Park of gently rolling hills and quaint stone villages. 

Why go?  Get out of the city and immerse yourself in one of the prettiest and greenest parts of the UK. The Yorkshire Dales National Park (also more casually referred to as just 'the Dales') has some seriously impressive scenery: Limestone outcrops, waterfalls and hidden cave networks as well as areas of wild moorland and rolling green countryside. Lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails, steel yourself and try some caving or just perch yourself at a proper Yorkshire pub and nurse a pint. 

2.  The Brudenell Social Club

What is it? A working men's club turned music venue, that's lost none of its old school charm.

Why go? To see the country's best new bands and eat a pie, all under one roof. The Brudenell Social Club might be a bit of a trek away from Leeds city centre, but there's a reason that it's still one of the area's most treasured musical gems, regardless. In the live room, you've got a lovingly-programmed bill of bands from new faves to established big hitters (Franz Ferdinand, Kaiser Chiefs, The Vaccines and more have all popped back for special gigs); in the bar area, you can play darts and chow down on grub from Pieminister, while outside in the substantial beer garden, they've got a permanent pizza van, too. What's not to love?

3.  Sheffield Winter Gardens

What is it? One of the largest temperate glass houses built in the last century (aka a very big, impressive greenhouse).

Why go? For an unexpected oasis of calm in the city centre. Having a bad day? Need to soothe your screen-burnt eyes with a little bit of greenery? Then head to Sheffield's Winter Gardens. A slice of serenity in the middle of town, it's home to 2,500 plants, all housed in one huge structure. 10 minutes in here and you'll have forgotten all about the outside world; the only trouble will be forcing yourself to leave.

4.  Abbey House Museum

What is it? A throwback to Victorian times, complete with a fully wander-able Victorian shopping street.

Why go? You don't have to be a history buff to get into the old fashioned spirit here. Located just outside of Kirkstall, Yorkshire's Abbey House Museum ditches the old-fashioned 'be quiet, no touching' stereotypes in favour of fully immersive, experiential fun. Step back in time to the Victoria era, where you can wander through a specially-recreated shopping street, play dress up and do some enjoyable learning through their series of guest exhibitions. When you're done, you can even wander over the road for a roam through Kirkstall Abbey's impressive grounds.

5.  Humber Street

What is it? Revamped area in Hull, home to all manner of arty and interesting exploits.

Why go? Go for the scene, stay for the Sesh. Until the beginning of the decade, Humber Street was home to a fading fruit market, and little else. Now after an almighty revamp, it's been turned into the city's hippest area with a veritable treasure trove of cool bars, tasty eateries, galleries and boutique shops in its midst. It's also home to the annual Humber Street Sesh – a massive party showcasing the best of Hull's local music scene.

6.  Harewood House

What is it? One of the Treasure Houses of England – and just as grand as the name might suggest.

Why go? Peruse some art or watch a show, in the most opulent of surrounds. You only need glimpse the grandiose exteriors of Harewood House to know it's a bit of a special one. One of nine 'Treasure Houses' (aka the poshest stately homes in the country), even just a wander round its interiors and grounds is enough of a reason to pay a visit. Harewood House doesn't just rely on its beauty to bring the people in, however. Hosting a constant stream of exhibitions, events and gigs, there's always something to tickle your fancy among the dazzling surroundings.

7.  Leeds Corn Exchange

What is it? A modern shopping mecca, under one giant dome.

Why go? For the best of Leeds' independent traders, in an unconventional setting. Sure, your Westfields and your city malls might be convenient, but they're not exactly brimming with personality, are they? If you're in the market for some more... well, market-like shopping experiences, however, then Leeds' Corn Exchange is the one for you. Under architect Cuthbert Broderick's expansive, domed roof, the best of the city's independent traders nuzzle up to seriously good food stands and places to stop for a quick bev; it's a creative spot with a focus on lifestyle and design and not a Starbucks in sight.

8.  Pintura

What is it? Basque-inspired small plates restaurant in Leeds with a gin bar in the basement.

Why go? To sample their delectable pintxos and tapas selection – if the food is small, that means we can have loads, right? A homage to Spain's gastronomic mecca, the Basque region, Pintura takes all the tiny treats of the area and serves them up in an authentically decorated space in Leeds' slightly-less-sunny Trinity Centre. Upstairs, it's all pintxos (bite-sized bar food) and lip-smacking tapas; downstairs, they've got over 100 types of gin, sourced from around the globe. Forget mother's ruin, this place is a glorious haven for us all.

9.  Showroom Cinema

What is it? Sheffield's premier independent picturehouse, showing arty flicks and special screenings.

Why go? To discover the kind of cinematic treats you won't find down the Odeon. Sheffield's independent cinema scene is thriving. Home to the annual Sheffield DocFest among other acclaimed events, the Steel City knows what it's talking about when it comes to the big screen. Showroom is the gem in its crown; featuring four screens and showing a range of current and classic left-field choices, it's the kind of place that would rather open your eyes than spoonfeed them the latest blockbuster. A real treasure

10.  The Donkey Sanctuary

What is it? A haven for the kind-eyed cuties, open six days a week.

Why go? Show us a kid (or an adult tbh) who doesn't want to pet one of these lot, and we'll eat our novelty furry ears. Founded in 1999, Leeds' Donkey Sanctuary – located on the outskirts of the city – does what it says on the tin. Home to 22 of the lovable creatures, it's a rural, charitable place that provides a home for animals, and offers donkey-assisted learning facilities for children with additional needs. Basically, if this place doesn't warm your heart, you're a lost cause. Pop down for a visit between 3pm and 5pm (except on Wednesdays), where you can meet the residents and take part in various donkey-related events. You'll be far chirpier than Eeyore when you leave.

11.  York Minster

What is it? York's most famous resident – its big ol' cathedral, of course.

Why go? People have been visiting this guy for over 1000 years, so he's probably got something going for him. There are some buildings so steeped in history, and so universally revered that you probably ought to tick them off the list at least once in your lifetime. York Minster is one of them. A grand cathedral built back in the 7 th century (that's pretty damn old), its grand, imposing pillars and ornate, exquisite carvings are still mighty impressive, even by modern standards. And they didn't even have electric tools to build it with! Imagine!

12.  Tamper Sellers Wheel

What is it? New Zealand-influenced eatery in the heart of Sheffield's Cultural Industries Quarter.

Why go?  Everyone knows that the best bit about a weekend afternoon is a leisurely brunch, and there's none finer to be had than Tamper Sellers Wheel's NZ-inspired affair. From sweetcorn fritters to Kiwi classic, mince on toast (braised beef cheeks, served with poached egg and hollandaise), the whole menu is a foodie delight from start to finish. And you don't even need suffer the crippling jetlag to sample it.

13.  National Science and Media Museum

What is it? Bradford’s six-floor mecca to the power of image and sound.

Why go? For all kinds of informative yet interactive fun. With a mission statement aiming to “inspire the scientists and engineers of the future to see more, hear more, think more and do more,” Bradford's Science and Media Museum is certainly aiming high. Luckily, its six floors of exhibitions, interactive areas, cinema screens and more are enough to make any wannabe visual explorers wide-eyed. What's more, it's free. So if you think you've got a budding Graeme Ferguson (he created the IMAX dontchaknow) in your midst, you've no excuse not to fuel their creative fires.

14.  Emily’s at The Bronte Birthplace

What is it? Locally-sourced dining at the first home of the literary dynasty.

Why go? To feel a little closer to Heathcliff, while also eating some avo toast. You've likely seen those little blue plaques around – detailing that someone of note previously resided at that address, they're worth a peek but often that's where it ends. Not so at The Bronte Birthplace, however. Of course, the main point of interest here is to see the place where the noted literary family, responsible for 'Wuthering Heights', 'Jane Eyre' and more, lived. But if you want to extend your stay, you can visit Emily's – a rather charming cafe serving locally-sourced produce and a damn fine ploughman's lunch. It's what they would have wanted.

15.  Jorvik Viking Centre

What is it? A York institution, dedicated to the old Norse seafarers.

Why go? For a history as bloody as Game of Thrones, but y’know, real. The Vikings haven't exactly been remembered as history's nicest guys, but you can't pretend they're not interesting. At the Jorvik Viking Centre, they certainly agree, as they've dedicated a whole building to the exploits of the Nordic folk. Travel back to the 10 th Century on a very 21 st century capsule ride, before checking out the centre's admirably large selection of genuine artefacts.

16.  Belgrave Music Hall

What is it? Top notch gig space with a rooftop bar serving after-hours cocktails.

Why go? To pretend you're lounging about on holiday, even though you're in LS2. Belgrave Music Hall's got a pretty natty 300-capacity event space, but it's the rooftop terrace that we're swooning over here. Featuring deck chairs, wooden canopies and various other places to perch while you swig on a craft ale / scoff some pizza from the Slice Bar downstairs, it's an unintimidating gem with the best vibes around. Who needs tropical holidays anyway, eh?

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Enjoy Yorkshire

Yorkshire Tourist Attractions

Nestled in the heart of England, Yorkshire is a treasure trove of captivating landscapes, historic sites, and cultural gems that beckon travelers from around the world. From the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales to the bustling city life of Leeds, this county boasts an array of attractions that cater to diverse interests. In this blog post, we will embark on a virtual journey to discover some of the best tourist attractions that make Yorkshire a must-visit destination.

Top 5 Yorkshire Tourist Attractions

• York Minster: A Gothic Marvel

No trip to Yorkshire is complete without a visit to York Minster, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that stands as a symbol of the city’s rich history. This awe-inspiring cathedral dates back to the 7th century and boasts magnificent stained glass windows, intricate stone carvings, and a breathtaking interior. Visitors can climb the Central Tower for panoramic views of York, making this a highlight for both history enthusiasts and architecture lovers.

• The Yorkshire Dales: Nature’s Playground

For those seeking a retreat into nature, the Yorkshire Dales National Park offers an idyllic escape. Verdant valleys, limestone cliffs, and charming villages characterize this stunning landscape. Hikers can explore the famous Three Peaks – Ingleborough, Whernside, and Pen-y-ghent – while cyclists can follow scenic trails, immersing themselves in the tranquility of the countryside.

• Saltaire: Industrial Heritage Unveiled

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Saltaire is a Victorian model village near Bradford that pays homage to Yorkshire’s industrial heritage. Named after Sir Titus Salt, who built the village for his mill workers in the 19th century, Saltaire showcases well-preserved mill buildings, quaint streets, and the fascinating Salts Mill. Today, this area has transformed into a cultural hub with art galleries, shops, and restaurants.

• The Brontë Parsonage Museum: Literary Legacy in Haworth

Literature enthusiasts will find solace in the Brontë Parsonage Museum, located in the picturesque village of Haworth. The former home of the Brontë sisters – Charlotte, Emily, and Anne – has been preserved as a museum, offering a glimpse into the lives and works of these iconic authors. The windswept moors surrounding Haworth inspired the Brontë sisters’ literary classics, making this a pilgrimage site for fans of Wuthering Heights and Jane Eyre.

• Leeds: Urban Vibrancy and Cultural Delights

For those who appreciate the energy of city life, Leeds stands as a dynamic cultural hub. The Royal Armouries Museum showcases an impressive collection of arms and armor, while the Leeds Art Gallery and the Henry Moore Institute celebrate the city’s artistic prowess. The vibrant mix of shopping districts, diverse cuisine, and a thriving nightlife make Leeds a must-visit urban destination within Yorkshire.

Yorkshire, with its diverse tapestry of attractions, offers a travel experience that caters to every taste. Whether you are drawn to the rich history of York Minster, the natural beauty of the Yorkshire Dales, the industrial legacy of Saltaire, the literary charm of Haworth, or the urban vibrancy of Leeds, this county unfolds as a multifaceted gem waiting to be explored. So, pack your bags, embark on a journey through Yorkshire, and immerse yourself in the magic that this captivating region has to offer.

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12 Top-Rated Things to Do in Yorkshire

Written by Bryan Dearsley Nov 17, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

One of the most visited regions of the UK , the historic county of Yorkshire has plenty to offer those seeking fun things to do while on vacation in England. Set on the east coast of Northern England and known officially as the County of York, Yorkshire is in fact split into four individual counties for administrative purposes: North Yorkshire , South Yorkshire , West Yorkshire , and the East Riding of Yorkshire .

Yorkshire is Britain's largest county and one of the best places to visit if you're seeking an authentic English travel experience. Here, you'll find everything from stunning old cathedrals to perfectly preserved medieval-era homes and shopfronts rubbing shoulders with world-class museums, art galleries, and entertainment facilities.

It's also easy getting to Yorkshire from London . It's also easy to get around by car or bus, with most of its remotest corners accessible by a good road network.

To learn more about the county's numerous attractions, be sure to read through our list of the top things to do in Yorkshire.

1. Take a Tour of York Minster

2. take the train to the national railway museum, york, 3. visit the royal armouries museum, leeds, 4. sheffield botanical gardens, sheffield, 5. amble along the shambles, york, 6. england's top country estate: castle howard, york, 7. visit britain's floral city: harrogate, 8. explore york castle museum & clifford's tower, york, 9. take the kids to the streetlife museum in hull, 10. hike the yorkshire wolds way, 11. make the climb to scarborough castle, 12. explore the ruins of rievaulx abbey, map of things to do in yorkshire.

Immensely walkable, the beautiful city of York makes for an ideal location to begin your Yorkshire adventure. One of the city's top attractions is undoubtedly its impressive cathedral: York Minster . England's largest medieval cathedral, York Minster was constructed in the 1200s and is as attractive on the inside as it is on the outside.

Notable features include its spectacular stained-glass windows, in particular the famous Pilgrimage Window. Added in the early 14th century, it's unusual for its golden dragon and monkey.

Also worth seeing, the Cathedral Treasury features fascinating interactive galleries depicting the cathedral's construction and rich history.

For an unforgettable bucket-list adventure, climb the 275 steps of York Minster's Central Tower. You'll be rewarded not just with spectacular views over the city but also of the cathedral's richly decorated interior.

Speaking of views, book one of the spectacular cathedral-view rooms at the fully renovated Principal York .

Even closer to York Minster on Chapter House Street, the historic Grays Court Hotel dates back to the 11th century and is just steps away from the cathedral; it's restaurant, The Bow Room , offers an incredible multi-course dining experience overlooking the hotel's garden and York City Walls.

Address: Deangate, York, North Yorkshire, England

Official site: https://yorkminster.org

One of the top free things to do in York for families is a visit to the National Railway Museum. While only a short stroll away from York's historic train station, it's a big museum, so be sure to allow plenty of time to see it all.

In addition to its huge collection of historic steam engines and carriages, many of which you can see from specially raised viewing platforms, the museum is home to the Rocket , the country's first passenger service. Plenty of modern engines are included, too, including high-speed British and overseas examples. A number of Royal carriages are also on display.

In addition to a well-stocked shop selling train-related models, toys, and books, a fun afternoon tea experience aboard a historic Royal carriage is also available.

Address: Leeman Road, York, England

Official site: www.nrm.org.uk

The county town of West Yorkshire, Leeds offers plenty of fun things to do . Topping most lists is paying a visit to the Royal Armouries Museum. Here, you'll find the UK's official collection of old arms and armor, including examples from around the world.

Laid out in a series of themed galleries, must-sees include the Tournament Gallery, with its displays relating to knights and jousting, including original armor once worn by King Henry VIII; and the international collection, which includes rarities from Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Tolkien fans will also want to visit the museum's collection of weaponry props used in the making of the hit Lord of the Rings movies.

Check the official website for details of special family events, workshops, and programs, including re-enactments and weapon demonstrations. Guided tours are available, and a gift shop and café are located on-site.

Address: Armouries Drive, Leeds, West Yorkshire, England

Green thumb or not, a visit to Sheffield Botanical Gardens is time well spent. Located just three miles west of the city center, it's an easy Sheffield attraction to get to by car or bus.

Set amid 19 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, the gardens were founded in 1836 and remain one of the top such collections in England.

Among its over 5,000 plant species, many of them housed in the property's historic glasshouses, are examples from the Southern Hemisphere. Also of note is the attractive Victorian Garden and the Four Seasons Garden with its hardier plant types.

Admission is free, and a café is located on-site. Best time to visit? If you can, try to plan a visit for spring or early summer when everything is in bloom.

Address: Clarkehouse Road, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, England

Taking a stroll along the famous Shambles in York is another great reason to visit this historic cathedral city. This large collection of fabulously preserved old timber-framed houses and shopfronts dates from the 14th century and is fun to explore.

Too narrow for cars and trucks, the Shambles is a cobbled street that is immensely pleasurable to explore thanks to the absence of anything other than people traffic. Along the way, you'll notice many of these old buildings actually seem to hang over the streets.

If you look closely, some still have the hooks used to hang meat, as the area was known as the city's butcher district. Today, they house everything from fun souvenir shops to tearooms and boutique stores.

Location: The Shambles, York, North Yorkshire, England

One of the most picturesque of English country estates, elegant Castle Howard is a must-visit when exploring the Yorkshire countryside. Just 15 miles from downtown York, Castle Howard is so vast, it actually took over 100 years to complete, with construction on the county's original mega-project completed in 1799.

It's easy to spend the best part of a day exploring both the grounds and the estate home itself, set on 1,000 acres of beautiful parkland. Highlights include enjoying a guided sightseeing tour of the sprawling, still-privately owned home, taking in its well-preserved furnishings, artworks, and stunning décor.

For the ultimate Yorkshire selfie, head to the fountain at the front, framing the home in your shot behind you.

Address: The Estate Office, Castle Howard, York, England

Known affectionately as "Britain's Floral Resort," the attractive town of Harrogate in North Yorkshire is a must-visit for fans of formal gardens and urban green spaces. An easy day-trip from Leeds, York, or the city of Manchester, Harrogate first hit the public's radar after the discovery of hot springs in the 1500s and has been a popular tourist destination ever since.

These days, the big attractions are the town's lovely gardens. One of the best is Valley Gardens , a 17-acre park replete with lovely floral blooms in spring. Other highlights include its spectacular Art Deco pavilion, a kids' adventure playground, and free music concerts in the summer.

Other must-visit green spaces in Harrogate include the 68-acre RHS Garden Harlow Carr with its garden museum and fun model village, and the year-round Harrogate International Festivals , which add a splash of culture and entertainment to an already colorful travel destination.

Address: Valley Drive, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, England

The recently refurbished and upgraded Clifford's Tower in York not only offers a fascinating look into the development of the city's first battlements, as well as spectacular views over the Minster and its surrounds. Built in the 1200s as a replacement for the original wood fort that stood here, it's the oldest remaining part of York Castle.

You can learn more about the tower and castle at the York Castle Museum . Just a short stroll away from Clifford's Tower, this excellent museum offers a fascinating glimpse at life in Yorkshire down the centuries.

Highlights include an authentic reproduction of a Victorian-era street scene, along with shops and homes, as well as a look at historic prison cells in the Debtors Prison.

Address: Tower Street, York, North Yorkshire, England

Planning a family outing to the Streetlife Museum of Transport is a great excuse to visit Kingston Upon Hull . One of this Northern England city's top attractions, this fun museum showcases over 200 years of British transportation innovation and history.

Exhibit highlights include large collections of historic carriages, the original "horse power" two-wheeled transportation, including bicycles and motorbikes, as well as cars and trucks from the present day.

Also fun are the recreations of "street scenes" from various periods in time, including WW2, as well as displays relating to train travel.

Address: High Street, Hull, East Riding of Yorkshire, England

Official site: www.hcandl.co.uk/museums-and-galleries/streetlife-museum/streetlife-museum

There's no better way to truly experience Yorkshire than by donning a pair of good walking shoes or boots and hitting the trails of the Yorkshire Wolds Way.

Stretching for 80 miles from the coastline near Scarborough all the way to Hull, this Yorkshire hiking route is part of England's National Trail Network and can easily be broken up into bite-size pieces for those wanting to tackle a picturesque portion of the stunning North Yorkshire Moors .

Other highlights include passing through Old Byland , one of England's prettiest villages , located in the heart of North York Moors National Park and notable for its old abbey ruins.

The seaside resort town of Scarborough makes for a superb day trip from York. It's less than an hour's journey via an extremely scenic train ride.

You'll want to make Scarborough Castle your first stop. It was built in the 12th century and largely destroyed during the English Civil War after being under siege, the last of five such sieges it experienced. Guided tours describe its importance in various periods of English history.

While you might think it a bit of a climb, the views from these castle ruins are simply spectacular. Below you, the town's beaches stretch into the distance in both directions up and down the coast, begging to be explored.

Once rested, visit neighboring St. Mary's Church , still bearing battle scars from the Civil War. Charlotte Bronte's younger sister was buried here in 1849. From here, you can take the downhill path through Royal Albert Gardens and head into town along scenic Marine Drive.

Address: Castle Road, Scarborough, North Yorkshire, England

Also within North York Moors National Park, the ruins of Rievaulx Abbey are well worth visiting. Dating from 1132, it was at one time reputedly one of the largest monasteries in England, abandoned. It was plundered in 1538 by a disgruntled, vengeful King Henry VIII. You can learn much about this fascinating and turbulent time in Northern England at the attraction's recently opened visitor center.

Afterwards be sure to have a wander through Rievaulx village itself, camera at the ready. It's some of the most idyllic village scenery in Yorkshire. You'll notice that many of the prettiest old buildings were in fact built using stones from the abbey ruins.

Address: Rievaulx Bank, Rievaulx, Helmsley, York, North Yorkshire

More on England

17 Amazing Yorkshire Day Trips (+ Map & Insider Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 27, 2023

Yorkshire county in northern England is a perfect destination that has something to offer for everyone. Beautiful towns, charming villages, and two national parks offer plenty of sightseeing options. There is something to see and do to suit all ages, interests, and abilities.

If you are looking for ideas on what to see and do in Yorkshire , this article will give you plenty of inspiration on where to go and what to do. In this selection, we feature 17 amazing Yorkshire day trip ideas – the very best things to do in Yorkshire. From the most famous tourist destinations to local’s favorites, quirky attractions, and hidden gems of Yorkshire.

Good to know: This article features insider tips and recommendations by Yorkshire-native Sinead from York with Kids . She lives in York and knows the region really well. For our blog, she selected the very best day trips and places to see in Yorkshire and also included practical tips and suggestions to help you plan your visit.

We also included a map featuring all the best places to visit in Yorkshire mentioned in this article. At the bottom of this post, you can also find tips for getting around Yorkshire and the best base for your day trips and excursions in this beautiful part of England. Find out!

Yorkshire is very diverse and there is so much to see and do! The cosmopolitan cities of York, Leeds, Sheffield, and Hull offer world-class museums and lively city centers. You’ll find countless historical attractions in Yorkshire’s market towns and villages.

The hills and valleys of the Yorkshire Dales NP have stunning landscapes of woodlands and waterfalls. Whereas the contrasting, windswept Moors provide fantastic hiking opportunities…

If you don’t have a car and are looking for the best day tours in Yorkshire, here’s an overview of the very best organized day trips that you can do from York:

• The Yorkshire Dales Tour from York
• Moors, Whitby & The Yorkshire Steam Railway Day Trip
• North York Moors & Whitby from York

Further below, you can find the very best day trip destinations in Yorkshire. And here is a map indicating all the main locations mentioned in this article.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Good to know: If you are looking for Yorkshire Dales National Park on this list, you should know that it’s a huge National Park with towns, villages, endless hiking possibilities, etc. So it’s not just one place to go visit. Several places mentioned in this article are inside Yorkshire Dales NP. If you want to see the very best of this area in a nutshell, then you should consider visiting with an organized day tour that covers several locations in one day .

These are the best things to do in Yorkshire as a day trip:

No trip to Yorkshire would be complete without visiting York , one of the nicest cities in the UK . It’s a fascinating city with a rich cultural heritage and a range of attractions dating from the Roman, Viking, Georgian, and Victorian eras. The city center has parks and pedestrianized streets making York a very pleasant city trip destination; it’s also easy to visit with kids. 

There are so many unmissable  things to do in York  that you will want to spend more than one day in the city!

Don’t miss the largest gothic cathedral in northern Europe, York Minster . If you are up for it, climb the 275 steps of the central tower for a fabulous view of the city. Every Saturday, York Minster runs engaging tours of the cathedral.

Walk the city’s medieval stone walls . At two miles long, they are the longest city walls in England. Make sure to check out the quirky old street The Shambles , voted ‘Best Street in Britain’. It’s said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter films. 

If you want to learn about the history of York, visit the Jorvik Viking Centre , the Yorkshire Museum , or the excellent York Castle Museum . 

Walk the windy ramparts of Clifford’s Tower or take a break from the city center with a relaxing cruise down the River Ouse.  

TIP:  Anyone visiting  York with kids , should take the tasty tour at York Chocolate Story . It ends with the opportunity to make your own chocolate lollipop. 

How to visit:   Leave your car at one of the city’s Park & Ride locations to avoid city center driving and parking fees. Alternatively, travel to York by train. York’s central rail station is a short, ten-minute walk to the city center. If you want to see all the highlights in a short time, consider joining this popular walking tour with a local guide . If you want to ‘see it all’ in a day, hop-on hop-off bus might be a good option for getting around York.

2. Bolton Abbey

Bolton Abbey or Bolton Priory is part of a private estate owned by the Duke of Devonshire and an amazing place to visit as a day trip from York. It’s located on the southern edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park and is often included in Yorkshire Dales day tours . This is not the same place as Bolton Castle, mentioned under the Wensleydale day trip above.

There is so much to see and explore at this historic site! The main highlight is the ruins of the Augustinian abbey and church which was founded here in the 12th century. 

The rest of the extensive estate lies across a narrow river accessed by a wooden bridge or over Bolton Abbey’s iconic 6o stepping stones. Kids and adults alike love hopping from stone to stone in order to cross the river. There are also a number of scenic walking trails along the riverbank or through the shaded Strid Wood. Don’t miss Strid Wood’s famous ‘money tree.’

Bolton Abbey is free to visit; you only pay for car parking. You can find more practical information on their website .

TIP: Pack a towel if visiting Bolton Abbey in summer as you won’t be able to resist paddling in the river on a hot Yorkshire day! You can easily spend 4-5 hours exploring the estate. Count even more time if you enjoy a paddle and a picnic.

How to visit:   Bolton Abbey is about 1-hour drive from York and is best visited by car. You can also catch a steam train from nearby Embsay. The train ride takes 20 minutes to reach tiny Bolton Abbey station from where it is a 1,5-mile walk to Bolton Abbey estate. Alternatively, you can also visit with this organized tour from York .

3. Wensleydale

Wensleydale is a valley in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. A day trip here encompasses the best that the Dales has to offer – waterfalls, history, food, and farming. This is the place that most Yorkshire Dales National Park tours visit.

First stop is Bolton Castle . This privately-owned castle is the best-preserved medieval castle in England and offers something for visitors of all ages.

From February to November, visitors can tour rooms in the castle and observe an archery display in the impressive castle courtyard. In the manicured grounds of the castle, you’ll find a maze and delightful herb garden. There is a Bird of Prey and Falconry display daily and visitors can brave the wild boar feeding session.

Two miles away from Bolton Castle is Aysgarth Falls . This attraction is free to enter, but there is a small fee for parking. The falls are actually three separate waterfalls – Upper Force, Middle Force, and Lower Force. These waterfalls tumble over three limestone steps over a scenic, one mile stretch of the River Ure. The falls can be viewed from a woodland path that runs alongside the river. 

Aysgarth Falls is a beautiful location to visit at any time of year. The changing colors of spring and autumn provide perfect photo opportunities. The waterfalls are particularly spectacular after heavy rainfall. 

A 12-minute drive away (unless you get stuck behind a tractor!) is the Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes . This small museum is housed in a lovely Victorian rail station and depicts the changes in life and farming for people living in the Yorkshire Dales. There is a rolling program of activities and exhibitions with the opportunity to try out traditional crafts and farming skills. 

Whilst in Hawes, pop into the Wensleydale creamery to see the famous Yorkshire cheese being made. 

Wensleydale is the favorite cheese of the character Wallace, from Wallace and Gromit movies. You will not be able to leave the creamery without making a purchase. 

TIP: At Aysgarth Falls, visitors can access the water’s edge at Upper Force and at Lower Force. Lower Force is accessed by an uneven path descending from the main path. Both riverbanks are unfenced and the rocks can be slippery when wet. Aysgarth Falls is the best location during this day trip for a picnic. 

How to visit : The start of your day trip, Bolton Castle, is a one-hour drive from York. You should count the whole day for this area.

Whitby is a popular seaside resort on the North Yorkshire coast but one that retains a traditional feel. it’s a working harbor town that is thankfully not overrun with arcades or funfairs. 

You can stroll Whitby’s long, clean, sandy beach, wander the town’s cobbled lanes, or visit the museum dedicated to Whitby’s famous son, the explorer Captain James Cook.  

Strong legs can climb Whitby’s famous 199 stone steps which lead to an iconic clifftop Yorkshire landmark, Whitby Abbey . The 13th century gothic ruins of Whitby Abbey are well worth a visit. You also get a fantastic view of Whitby and the North Yorkshire coastline. 

Whitby is an atmospheric, windswept location. This is why Bram Stoker was inspired to cast Whitby as Dracula’s landing place in his famous vampire novel.

TIP: People drive from all over Yorkshire just to buy fish and chips in Whitby! Don’t leave the town until you have tried a Whitby chippy dinner.

How to visit: Whitby can be reached by public bus or by car from York or Leeds. The regular ‘Coastliner’ service crosses the Yorkshire Moors to reach Whitby and the route was recently voted ‘Britain’s Most Scenic Bus Route’. Whitby is also part of organized day tours that include several other great attractions in this area .

5. Robin Hood’s Bay

Robins Hood’s Bay is an old fishing village whose steep, cobbled lanes are too narrow for cars to access. You can explore the winding lanes lined with tiny, Victorian-era cottages, or visit the free Old Coastguard Station on the seafront. This is a good place to learn about the geology of the area and its seafaring history. 

The village also has a long, sandy beach offering plenty of space to play, relax or explore the rock pools. Robin Hoods Bay is part of Yorkshire’s Jurassic coastline. Fossils such as ammonites, belemnites, and Devils Toenail are regularly found on the beach.

TIP: Extend your trip with a hike to visit the seal colony at nearby Ravenscar. 

Insider tip: Robin Hood’s Bay can be visited on foot from Whitby by hiking along the North Yorkshire Coastal Path, part of the long-distance Cleveland Way National Trail. It’s a scenic, 7-mile walk (one way) with dramatic views of the coastline, sheltered coves, secluded bays, and Whitby’s isolated lighthouse. The challenging, undulating walk is not technically difficult but is high up and unfenced! You can return along the same path or catch a public bus from Robin Hoods Bay back to Whitby.

How to visit: Visitors to Robin Hoods Bay must park in one of the fee-paying car parks on the top of the hill outside the village. It is a steep descent down into the village and your legs will feel the strain on the way back up! Robin Hood’s Bay can also be visited with a tour from York .

6. Ingleton

Ingleton is a charming Dales town lying on the southern edge of the Yorkshire Dales NP. It is well worth spending a long day trip here as there are several excellent attractions within this area. 

One of the most popular attractions in Ingleton is the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail . This 4,5-mile hike over privately owned land offers scenic views of 6 pretty waterfalls. This is a beautiful hiking trail offering a mix of woodland, waterside paths, and wooden bridges. There is a fee to access the trail, but it’s well worth it! Depending on your walking speed, the trail will take between 2 – 3 hours.

A trip to nearby White Scar Cave – the longest showcave in England – will take around 2 hours. Kids will love donning a hard hat to descend the 97 steps into the depths of the cave. Once underground, metal walkways and earthen paths lead you around the cave. You can see an underground waterfall and formations such as the spookily named ‘The Witches Fingers’. 

Most of White Scar Cave is head height, but there are a couple of sections where you have to bend a bit. There is also one very narrow section that will require a squeeze! 

Alternatively, bring your hiking boots and attempt to hike to the top of Yorkshire’s second-highest peak, Ingleborough , at 723 meters high. There are several routes of differing lengths to reach the top of Ingleborough. The most interesting route starts in the village of Clapham. You will pass several cave entrances along the way, including Gaping Gill which contains the largest cave cavern in England. 

When you reach the plateau summit of Ingleborough, you will be rewarded with fantastic views across the Dale. On a clear day, you can see the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct . 

You can descend via the same route or on a circular route on which you will cross over ethereal limestone outcrops similar to those at the top of Malham Cove. Ingleborough is not a technically challenging hike though there are some steep climbs in places. 

TIP: Expect the hike to the top of Ingleborough to take around 4-5 hours round trip. There are no facilities once you leave Clapham, so bring plenty of snacks and water. The weather in the Yorkshire Dales can change quickly so always be prepared for any weather. 

How to visit : From the city of York, Ingleton is a 2-hour drive. There are several day-tour possibilities as well.

7. North Yorkshire Moors Railway

The North York Moors Railway is an old-fashioned steam train running from Pickering, across the Yorkshire Moors, to the pretty village of Goathland. This is a very nice day trip in Yorkshire, popular with locals and tourists alike.

The ‘hop on hop off’ tickets are valid the whole day, so this is a great way to explore the villages and sights of the North Yorkshire Moors. For example, take a break at lovely Levisham and hike over Levisham Moor. Keep an eye for evidence of Bronze Age habitation and burial sites along the way. 

Your final destination is Goathland, featured in the hit tv series’ Heartbeat’. It will be more recognizable to children as the setting for Hogsmeade Rail Station in the Harry Potter movies. 

A direct, non-stop trip from Pickering to Goathland takes approximately 45 minutes. Stopping off at the different stations will require a full day, so arrive early to catch one of the first trains departing Pickering.

TIP: It is also possible to travel to Whitby using the North York Moors Railway. The line operates from April to October with festive trips available on December weekends.

How to visit : Catch the train from Pickering station, a 30-minute drive from York. The railway ticket is also included in the multi-day York explorer pass . There is also a tour that covers Whitby, Moors, and Yorkshire Railway as a day trip from York.

8. Malham Cove

Malham Cove is an unmissable location in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. The imposing stone cove is a natural amphitheater. It’s 230 feet high and was once home to a plunging waterfall higher than Niagara Falls. 

At the base of Malham Cove, a set of uneven stone steps wind to the top of the cove and a fantastic view over the Yorkshire Dales. The edge of the cove is unfenced and the limestone ‘pavement’ at the top is riddled with holes and crevices, so take care where you walk! 

The pavement top of Malham Cove is a must-visit for Harry Potter fans! This is the site where Hermione and Harry camped in the Deathly Hallows movie . 

There are a number of excellent hiking opportunities in this area. One of the best hikes is a long, full day circular hike that encompasses all of the major sights in this area. Starting from Malham Village, a signposted trail leads through woodland to pretty Janet’s Foss Waterfall . From here, it is a further 0,5 mile to dramatic Gordale Scar , a huge gorge with towering rock faces. 

There are a couple of route options to reach the top of the gorge where the path eventually arrives at Malham Tarn , one of only two natural lakes in the Yorkshire Dales. From Malham Tarn, it is a short walk to the top of Malham Cove to where you can descend back to your starting point in Malham village. 

The hike is not technically difficult but is a full day 13-kilometer hike. It will take around 5 hours with stops. There are no facilities on the hiking trails.

TIP: There are two family-friendly pubs and an excellent tea room in Malham Village.

How to visit : You’ll need a car to get here. Park in the permitted parking areas in Malham Village. This is a free to access rural area, but please be respectful to local residents and only park in approved car parks. There are also some guided day tours that visit this area from York, Liverpool, or Manchester.

9. National Railway Museum in York

The National Railway Museum is one of the best  free things to do in York. You will need a full day to see everything at the museum, so this is a great day trip in itself! But since it’s free, you can always take a look even if you don’t have that much time.

The museum is packed with gleaming train engines and carriages of every shape and color. See inside the luxurious Royal Train or rest weary feet in a Shinkansen carriage, the only Bullet Train carriage displayed outside Japan. 

Marvel at the size of a Eurostar nose cone under a cross-section of the Channel Tunnel and view historic trains such as the fastest steam train in the world, the Mallard. 

Families will love the entertaining and educational science shows that run daily. Kids will particularly enjoy seeing Barbie shot out of a cannon!

View the talented restorers at work from an elevated walkway above the museum workshop or wave at trains entering and departing York rail station from the Museum’s popular outdoor balcony. 

TIP: There is an excellent restaurant and cafe on site, but visitors are permitted to bring their own picnic. 

How to visit : The Museum is a 10-minute walk from the center of York or you can catch the museum’s ‘road train’ from outside York Minster. It is located just behind York railway station making it an ideal attraction to visit if arriving in  York by train . There is also a car park on-site (paid). For more practical information, please check the official website of the museum .

10. Castle Howard and Yorkshire Arboretum

Castle Howard is an impressive, privately owned country home located in the rolling Howardian Hills, just outside the city of York.

The historic house is beautifully restored and you can tour the elaborately furnished rooms. The highlights include the decorated dome of the main hall and the ornate chapel. The extensive grounds at Castle Howard provide scenic walks with lovely countryside views. 

In addition, there is a recently renovated outdoor adventure playground in an idyllic woodland/ lakeside setting. Visitors to Castle Howard will recognize it as the setting for the TV series ‘Brideshead Revisited.’

Castle Howard will take most of your day but if you have any time to spare, visit the Yorkshire Arboretum which is directly opposite the entrance drive to Castle Howard. The arboretum covers a huge 120-acre site and contains 6,000 trees from around the world. You can freely wander the tree collection or follow self-guided trails between 1 -2 hours long. 

TIP: Castle Howard is a great place to visit at any time of year but Yorkshire residents like to come here at Christmas time. For many, it has become a family tradition. Every Christmas, the rooms of the house are colorfully and artistically decorated to a new theme. 

How to visit : Castle Howard is only accessible by car. It is a short 20-minute drive from York city center. You can find more information and book your tickets here . Admission is also included in the multi-day York explorer pass .

11. Yorkshire Sculpture Park

The Yorkshire Sculpture Park is an outdoor art gallery in a stunning landscape in Bretton, just south of Leeds and less than an hour from York. It’s a wonderful day trip in Yorkshire, especially for those who are looking to get a bit off the beaten path. It’s also a great value for money as you only pay for parking. 

The 500-acre park is packed with sculptures ranging from unusual, abstract pieces to more traditional metal or wood carvings. Most of the sculptures are engaging, large works of art. Some pieces are over 10 meters tall. Even if you spend here the whole day, you are unlikely to cover all the sculptures within this beautiful park. There is so much to see!

Families can get creative at one of the family-friendly activities on offer in the indoor galleries. 

TIP: Pack waterproofs as the park is completely open to the elements. But don’t let bad weather put you off visiting; the sculpture park can be an atmospheric location on a rainy day. 

How to visit : The Yorkshire Sculpture Park is easiest to reach by car; it’s a 45minute drive from York via the major M1 motorway. Getting here by public transport is also possible. For more practical info, please check their website .

12. Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden

Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden is a beautiful historic property in Ripon, North Yorkshire. It is owned by England’s National Trust and one entry ticket covers both sections of the estate. 

Fountains Abbey contains the largest monastic ruins in England. The extensive 12th-century Benedictine ruins are full of hidden alcoves and secret staircases. The open, angular ruins create fantastic photo opportunities. 

Discover the history of the abbey at the Porters Lodge exhibition or have a go at traditional crafts such as weaving at Swanley Grange near the entrance to the abbey ruins. Don’t miss the Grange’s excellent, medieval-inspired vegetable garden. 

Fountains Abbey is linked by a grass walkway to Studley Royal Water Garden . These stunning gardens were landscaped in the 18th century and contain summerhouses, ornamental lakes, moon ponds, and countless sculptures. There are also several hidden folly’s for children to find and extensive walking trails around the deer park and Studley’s ancient woodland. 

Studley Royal Water Garden is a beautiful, tranquil location. It is not your average garden attraction. This is why it was granted World Heritage status in 1986. Well-worth visiting!

TIP:  Comfortable walking shoes are essential – you can spend all day walking here! If you are visiting with children, don’t miss Fountains Abbey’s large adventure playground. This is one of the best outdoor playgrounds in Yorkshire.

How to visit : The estate is a 45-minute drive from York. You can also visit with an organized small-group day tour from York .

13. Harrogate, Knaresborough, and Harlow Carr

Harrogate town in North Yorkshire was famous in the Victorian era as a wellbeing destination and rejuvenating spa town. The town retains many grand Victorian buildings. 

You can learn about the history of Harrogate at the town’s Royal Pump Room Museum and join one of their daily tours to see the wells. Be warned – the sulfur wells are reputed to be the strongest in Europe! Allow 1 – 2 hours for your visit. 

After the museum, indulge in a traditional Turkish bath in the beautifully restored, 19th-century Turkish Baths . Rejuvenated, take a stroll around pretty Valley Gardens , a landscaped park in the center of Harrogate. From the center of Harrogate, it is a 40-minute signposted walk or a short 10-minute drive to Harlow Carr. 

The nearby Knaresborough Castle and Knaresborough town is also well worth a visit.

RHS Garden Harlow Carr is a beautiful garden that is open to the public year-round. Every season offers a different experience for visitors. Within the 58-acre garden, there is a woodland and wildflower area as well as more traditional areas such as a kitchen garden, alpine garden, and colorful borders.

Harlow Carr offers activities centered around the plants and animals found within the gardens. There is also a huge woodland treehouse on site. To fully explore Harlow Carr, allow 2 – 3 hours for your visit. Many visitors stay here all day. 

TIP: After a full day exploring, treat yourself to an afternoon tea at the iconic Bettys Café Tea Rooms . This 100-year-old tea room can be found in the Harrogate town center. The tea room is famous for its art deco appearance and luxurious, elegant style. Make sure to try one of Betty’s signature cakes, the delicious Fat Rascal!

How to visit:  Harrogate can be accessed by train from York or Leeds in just 20 minutes. Avoid driving into the town center if you can as parking is limited. 

14. Sutton Bank NP, Kilburn White Horse & Rievaulx Abbey

Sutton Bank is a steep hill in North Yorkshire whose escarpment and plateau were formed as a result of the movement of ice age glaciers. This area forms the western edge of the North York Moors National Park . 

Visitors to the Sutton Bank National Park Centre will be rewarded with sweeping views of the Vale of York. You can get hiking maps at the visitors’ center, but most people come to Sutton Bank for its thrilling cycling trails and for the White Horse. Sutton Bank offers cycle trails to suit all ages and abilities and you can hire bikes and spend half a day here.

Don’t miss the Kilburn White Horse . The White Horse ‘sculpture’ is an iconic Yorkshire landmark that can be seen for miles around. Yorkshire people assess the weather based on whether they can see the white horse or not! 

The horse was constructed in 1857 to compete with giant chalk sculptures in the south of England. Unlike its competitors, the Kilburn White Horse was not cut into the chalk, but limestone. This means the horse requires regular ‘whitening’ with chalk chippings to stay white. This is no easy task as the horse measures 314 ft long and 228 ft high! 

You can complete a circular walk to the White Horse returning to Sutton Bank via a pretty woodland trail. Allow 2 hours for this walk. 

If you rather do some more sightseeing in Yorkshire instead of biking or hiking, you may want to check out the nearby Rievaulx Abbey . Here, you can visit the ruins of an impressive 11th-century abbey and a nice museum that captures the lives of monks. There is also a nice cafe on-site cafe serving amazing hot chocolates and scones.

TIP: Sutton Bank is a designated Dark Skies area. After dark, car parking is free for keen stargazers to gather to look at the night sky. Sutton Bank National Park runs year-round stargazing activities. The North York Moors National Park hosts an annual Dark Skies festival every February. 

How to visit : The White Horse can only be reached by car along some of Yorkshire’s windiest roads! Leave the A19 to head towards the small village of Kilburn from where you can pick up the brown road signs to reach the elevated car park under the White Horse. If you drive directly to Sutton Bank Visitor Centre, it can be found just off the A170 between Thirsk and Helmsley. Rievaulx Abbey is just a short ride from Helmsley as well.

The port city of Hull is an underrated visitor attraction in Yorkshire. It’s a great Yorkshire day trip destination for young and old! The city boasts a charming old town section lined with grand Georgian and Victorian-era houses, maritime warehouses, and cobbled streets. The old town is packed with lively restaurants and cafes and is a great place to get lost in! 

Within this old town is Hull’s excellent Museum Quarter . All of the museums here are worth a visit and are in close proximity to each other.

The free Streetlife Museum charts 200 years of transport developments. You can climb aboard trams, buses, and walk a recreated 1940’s street. It is a ‘must visit’ for social history fans as well as vehicle lovers.

Next door is the Hull & East Riding Museum and a little further on, Wilberforce House . Wilberforce House was the home of William Wilberforce, who is credited with bringing an end to slavery in England. Both of these excellent museums are free to enter and well worth your time.

In addition, check out Hull Minster church or head to the bustling Fruit Market at Hull Marina for a fantastic choice of street food. 

TIP: If you have any time left in your day trip to Hull, head to The Deep , a world-class, aquarium on the waterfront. 

How to visit : Hull can easily be accessed by train from York, Sheffield, or Leeds. Hull’s central rail station is just a 15-minute walk to the Museum Quarter. 

16. Newby Hall

Newby Hall is an 18th-century country house with beautiful gardens. It’s a favorite day out for many Yorkshire families, especially those on a multigenerational trip. The privately-owned Newby Hall helpfully offers separate entrance tickets to the stately home and the extensive gardens. So depending on your interests, you can choose which sections of the estate to visit. 

Newby Hall manor was built in the 1690s by Sir Christopher Wren who also built St. Paul’s Cathedral in London. The house is elegantly and elaborately decorated in an 18th-century style. You can visit recreated dining rooms and bedrooms, with highlights including the Billiards Room and the intricate needlework of the Tapestry Room. 

The colorful, landscaped gardens are dotted with winding paths leading to special interest sections such as the Tropical Garden or the White Garden. For reluctant little legs, there is a miniature steam railway that runs a 1.4-kilometer loop around a section of the garden that borders the River Ure.

However, the main attraction for families at Newby Hall is a huge, outdoor adventure playground. Kids will love the aerial slide, climbing frames, sandpit, and rope-operated aerial swing boats. Adults are not left out and are able to use the pedalo boats on the playground’s central lake. 

TIP: If you have any time after your day trip to Newby Hall, check out Ripon Cathedral in the nearby market town of Ripon. This stunning cathedral retains its original 7th-century crypt from the church that was originally built here by St Wilfred. 

The current church that now stands above the crypt was built in the 12th century. It is world-famous for its unusual misericords (supports in the choir stalls) which date from the late 15th century. 

How to visit:  Newby Hall is only accessible by car and is approximately a 40-minute drive from York. For practical information and opening times, please check their website .

17. The Forbidden Corner

The Forbidden Corner near Bedale is a fun, 4-acre park and a very unique Yorkshire attraction. Visitors receive a ‘map’ upon entry which shows you what there is to see inside the park. However, the map does not tell you how to find these attractions.

You have to follow every path and turn every door handle in a quest to discover the park’s secret passageways and underground chambers. It’s one of the best things to do in the  Yorkshire Dales with kids !

You will need to squeeze through narrow walls, crawl through cramped tunnels, and dodge water-spouting statues and follies. In other words, a visit to the Forbidden Corner is about expecting the unexpected! 

The park can be rushed in 2-3 hours but you will need longer if you want to discover all the park’s attractions. Food is not allowed inside The Forbidden Corner but there is a large, shaded picnic area outside the park entrance.

TIP: Spend the rest of your day exploring Tupgill Park in which the Forbidden Corner is situated. 

How to visit: Bedale is a one-hour drive from the city of York and a 1,5 hrs drive from Leeds. After leaving the major A1 (M) road, you will be driving on winding, undulating roads to reach the Forbidden Corner. For more info, please consult their website .

Because this place is so special and quirky, no pictures do it justice. Take a look at the video below if you want to get an idea of what to expect.

How to get to Yorkshire

Yorkshire is a 5-hour drive or just 2 hours by train from London . The region can be reached in 3 hours by train from Edinburgh .

The nearest airport is Leeds Bradford International Airport, located in West Yorkshire. The airport has good bus links to local train stations and to other parts of Yorkshire. 

Alternatively, many visitors arrive by ferry into the East Yorkshire city of Hull. Ferries travel to Hull from Rotterdam in the Netherlands and from Zeebrugge in Belgium.

How to travel around Yorkshire

Yorkshire is England’s biggest county and encompasses a large section of the north of England. It is divided into the smaller counties of North Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, West Yorkshire and East Riding of Yorkshire.

The major cities of each area – Leeds, Sheffield, York, and Hull can be accessed by motorway, major ‘A’ roads, and by frequent, fast rail links. 

There is a good public bus network to explore Yorkshire’s smaller towns and villages. But to fully explore rural Yorkshire, it’s best to hire a car ( see here for car rental ). Self-driving in Yorkshire is easy; roads are well maintained with good signposting. 

However, if you are visiting rural areas such as the Yorkshire Dales or Yorkshire Moors, you should be prepared for narrow, winding roads with high hedges and dry-stone walls blocking visibility in places. Yorkshire is dotted with one-lane roads, blind bends, and summits. So adjust your speed and familiarize yourself with the rules of countryside driving. 

In addition, country roads can add a significant amount of time onto relatively short journeys. For example, from the city of York to Ingleton in the Yorkshire Dales is only 68 miles / 109 km, but due to the nature of the roads, the journey time averages 2 hours each way.  

Where to stay for exploring Yorkshire

The city of York is a perfect base for exploring the rest of Yorkshire. York lies in the middle of the region and has excellent road, rail and bus links around the county.

Traveling by train, you can reach Leeds in 30 minutes and Hull in 50 minutes. By car, it is a 1-hour drive to the edge of the Yorkshire Dales and a 1 ½ hour drive to the North Yorkshire Coast.

TIP: If you don’t want to rent a car, York is the best base for exploring as well. There are many great organized tours from York that allow you to easily see some of the best places in Yorkshire.

Here are some nice hotels in York for all budgets:

• £££££ The Grand, York – a wonderful 5-star hotel with an excellent location.
• ££££ Hilton York and Novotel York Centre are popular choices among the 4-star hotels in York.
• £££ Park Inn by Radisson York City Centre – a great 3-star hotel, one of the best picks in York.
• ££ Ibis York Center is a good lower-budget option in York.

TIP: Using the map below, you can find the best deals for hotels, B&Bs, and short-term rental accommodations in and around York . Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see what’s available for your stay. Check it out!

More inspiration for your trip to England:

• Best Things to Do in Liverpool
• Liverpool Day Trip from London
• Best Things to Do in Manchester
• Manchester in One Day
• Best Places to Visit in Cornwall
• Where to Stay in Cornwall
• Best Things to Do in Blackpool
• Tips for Visiting Blackpool
• Places to Go Near Blackpool
• The Beatles Attractions in Liverpool

London travel guides:

• Tips for Visiting London
• Best Things to Do in London
• 2 Days London Itinerary
• Hidden Gems of London
• Things to Do in Greenwich
• Things to Do in Camden Town
• London with Kids
• Best Views of London
• Best Day Tours from London

Travel inspiration for Scotland:

• Top Things to Do in Edinburgh
• Isle of Skye Itinerary
• Scotland Whisky Tour
• One Day in Edinburgh
• One Day in Glasgow

READ ALSO: Best Traditional British Dishes to Try in the UK

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

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Colleen Bower

Wednesday 18th of January 2023

Thank you so much for this website it has given me plenty of ideas as I was not sure of best place to stay but it looks like York best place to be in and do tours. Again great website thank you

Thursday 19th of January 2023

Glad to hear you found it useful, Colleen. York can be a great base especially if you want to take some tours. But if you are renting a car, you can also plan a mini road trip around the region. It's all about how you prefer to travel. Have a great trip!

Friday 4th of February 2022

Wonderful website! Beautiful photos and helpful info

Thanks, Denise. Happy travels!

Saturday 20th of March 2021

Yorkshire is awesome

Must-see attractions in Yorkshire

Whitby Abbey

There are ruined abbeys, and there are picturesque ruined abbeys. And then there's Whitby Abbey, dominating the skyline above the East Cliff like a great…

York Minster

York Minster is the largest medieval cathedral in northern Europe, and one of the world's most beautiful Gothic buildings. Seat of the archbishop of York,…

Castle Howard

North Yorkshire

Stately homes may be two a penny in England, but you'll have to try pretty damn hard to find one as breathtakingly stately as Castle Howard, a work of…

Yorkshire Sculpture Park

West Yorkshire

One of England's most impressive collections of sculpture is scattered across the formidable 18th-century estate of Bretton Park, 200-odd hectares of…

Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal

The alluring and strangely obsessive water gardens of the Studley Royal estate were built in the 18th century to enhance the picturesque ruins of 12th…

National Railway Museum

York's National Railway Museum – the biggest in the world, with more than 100 locomotives – is well presented and crammed with fascinating stuff. It is…

Jorvik Viking Centre

Interactive multimedia exhibits aimed at bringing history to life often achieve exactly the opposite, but the much-hyped Jorvik manages to pull it off…

Rievaulx Abbey

North York Moors National Park

In the secluded valley of the River Rye about 3 miles west of Helmsley, amid fields and woods loud with birdsong, stand the magnificent ruins of Rievaulx…

Royal Armouries

Leeds' most interesting museum was originally built in 1996 to house armour and weapons from the Tower of London, but subsequently expanded to cover 3000…

Kelham Island Museum

Sheffield's prodigious industrial heritage is the subject of this excellent museum, set on a human-made island in the city's oldest industrial district…

Captain Cook Memorial Museum

This fascinating museum occupies the house of the ship owner with whom Cook began his seafaring career. Highlights include the attic where Cook lodged as…

Skipton Castle

Yorkshire Dales National Park

What makes Skipton Castle so fascinating is its splendid state of preservation, providing a striking contrast to the ruins you'll see elsewhere. Although…

Hull's Old Town is where a grand minster and cobbled streets flush with Georgian town houses give a flashback to the prosperity the town once knew. It…

Malham Cove

North of Malham village, a 0.75-mile field walk beside a lovely babbling stream leads to Malham Cove, a huge rock amphitheatre lined with 80m-high…

Hull's biggest tourist attraction is The Deep, Britain's most spectacular aquarium, housed in a colossal angular building that appears to lunge above the…

Wilberforce House

The wealth that Britain amassed as the world's first industrial nation was directly aided by the transatlantic slave trade, and this important museum…

Georgian Theatre Royal

Built in 1788, this is the most complete Georgian playhouse in Britain. It closed in 1848 and was used as an auction house into the early 20th century,…

North Yorkshire Moors Railway

This privately owned railway runs for 18 miles through beautiful countryside from Pickering to Whitby. Lovingly restored steam locos pull period carriages…

Endeavour Experience Whitby

In 2018, a full-size replica of Captain Cook’s HM Bark Endeavour became a permanent fixture in Whitby harbour and opened to the public as a visitor…

National Coal Mining Museum for England

For close to three centuries, West and South Yorkshire were synonymous with coal production. The collieries shaped and scarred the landscape and entire…

Barley Hall

This restored medieval townhouse, tucked down an alleyway, includes a permanent exhibition of life in the times of Henry VIII. It was once the home of…

Hepworth Wakefield

West Yorkshire's standing in the international arts scene got a boost in 2011 when the Yorkshire Sculpture Park was joined by this award-winning gallery…

Forbidden Corner

There can surely be no other place like this in the world: a modern walled garden furnished with Victorian-style follies, some veering into gothic horror,…

Hardraw Force

About 1.5 miles north of Hawes is 30m-high Hardraw Force, the highest unbroken waterfall in England, but by international standards not that impressive …

Merchant Adventurers' Hall

York's most impressive semi-timbered building is still owned by the fraternity that built it almost 650 years ago and it is the oldest surviving guildhall…

Treasurer's House

This historic home, which once housed York Minster's medieval treasures, is an anomaly: in the 19th century it was bought by Yorkshire industrialist Frank…

Museum Gardens

In the grounds of the peaceful Museum Gardens, you can see the Multangular Tower, a part of the City Walls that was once the western tower of the Roman…

Whitby Jet Heritage Centre

A museum housing the remains of Whitby's last Victorian jet workshop lies at the bottom of the 199 steps, with original tools rescued from a derelict…

Thornton's Arcade

Though not the grandest, Thornton’s Arcade was the first Victorian shopping arcade to be built in Leeds and remains one of the most interesting. Its sky…

Whitby Sands

Whitby Sands, stretching west from the harbour mouth, offers donkey rides, ice-cream vendors and bucket-and-spade escapades, though the sand is mostly…

Yorkshire Museum

Most of York's Roman archaeology is hidden beneath the medieval city, so the superb displays in the Yorkshire Museum are invaluable if you want to get an…

York City Art Gallery

As well as an impressive collection of Old Masters, York Art Gallery possesses works by LS Lowry, Pablo Picasso, Grayson Perry, David Hockney, and the…

Museum of Whitby Jet

Housed inside a 1901 chapel, this small museum has created a temple to Whitby jet – one of the town’s most prized exports, a gothic icon, and a favourite…

York Castle Museum

This excellent museum has displays of everyday life through the centuries, with reconstructed domestic interiors, a Victorian street and a prison cell…

St Mary's Church

The 199 steps of Church Stairs lead steeply up from the end of Church St, passing the spooky graveyard of St Mary's Church, a favourite haunt of Goth…

Kirkstall Abbey

Leeds' most impressive medieval structure is beautiful Kirkstall Abbey, founded in 1152 by Cistercian monks from Fountains Abbey in North Yorkshire. These…

Leeds Industrial Museum

One of the world's largest textile mills has been transformed into a museum telling the story of Leeds' industrial past, both glorious and ignominious…

Saltaire, a Victorian-era landmark and Unesco World Heritage Site, was an industrial village purpose-built in 1851 by philanthropic wool baron and…

Beverley Minster

One of the great glories of English religious architecture, Beverley Minster is the most impressive church in the country that is not a cathedral. The…

The Shambles

The Shambles takes its name from the Saxon word shamel, meaning 'slaughterhouse' – in 1862 there were 26 butcher shops on this street. Today the butchers…

More destinations you need to see

Top 10 places to visit in Yorkshire

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: May 29, 2023

Welcome to my guide to the top 10 places to visit in Yorkshire . If you are planning to visit the largest county in England you will find my recommendations for the best things to do and see in this article.

Home to over 5 million Yorkshire men and women who call it “God’s own county” Yorkshire is famous for beautiful scenery, historic cities , the Bronte sisters, tea, cozy pubs, Dracula, hikes, Yorkshire puddings , cheese, and pretty villages amongst many other things!

1. Visit Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Park

2. walk the yorkshire dales, 3. go shopping in diagon alley (the shambles), 4. visit the victorian model village of saltaire, 5. visit the seaside town that inspired dracula – whitby, 6. visit the national rail museum in york, 7. visit castle howard, 8. take a train ride on the north yorkshire moors historical railway, 9. visit york minster, 10. enjoy an afternoon tea at bettys tea rooms, fast facts – yorkshire, related reading, lets explore the top 10 places to visit in yorkshire.

One of my favourite destinations in Yorkshire is Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Park .

Fountains Abbey was closed after the dissolution of the monasteries by Henry VIII in 1539. Although it lies in ruins today you can get a sense of just how magnificent it was.

It is now surrounded by Studley Royal Water Park. The beautiful park and gardens were designed in the 18th century by John and William Aislabie.

They were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986.

Read more | Visiting Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Park

You are spoilt for choice when it comes to beautiful walks in Yorkshire with whether you are looking for a short walk or a longer hike.

My personal favourite walk to do in Yorkshire is the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail . The loop circuit is a manageable 7 km long. It does however incorporate lots of steps so is unfortunately not accessible for wheelchair users.

With lots of waterfalls and some incredibly beautiful scenery along the way, it is a popular walk with families and dog walkers.

Read more | Walking the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail

Take a stroll along the cobblestones of York and visit a street that dates back to the Domesday book of 1086. In fact, some of the buildings along the Shambles were built in the 14th century and are over 700 years old!

The street is said to be the inspiration behind Diagon Alley in Harry Potter. You may actually be forgiven for thinking you actually are at Diagon Alley as the street does seem to have rather a lot of Potter-related shops!

Look out for the timber-framed buildings which hang over the street!

Read more – York Travel Guide

Listen to our Podcast about visiting York

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site to visit in Yorkshire is the Victorian village of Saltaire.

Saltaire was created in 1853 by factory owner Titus Salt. He was the first to provide schools, hospitals, washhouses and decent housing for his workers in a move that was revolutionary at the time.

Take a stroll around the streets (many named after his children) and all lined with rows of houses still inhabited today.

The Mill that is at the heart of the village and today houses a selection of shops, restaurants and cafes. You will also find works by local (and of course very famous) artist David Hockney in the gallery.

Read more | Guide to visiting Saltaire

The coastal town of Whitby with its ruined Gothic Abbey is popular with visitors all year round.

The Abbey provided Bram Stoker with the inspiration to write one of the most famous novels of the late 19th century – Dracula.

Whitby is filled with quirky shops and some of the best fish and chip shops anywhere in the UK. You cannot visit Whitby and not have fish and chips!

Whitby was also home to the British explorer Captain James Cook. There is a museum in the town which is located in the house which belonged to the man to whom he was apprenticed as a sailor in 1746.

Read more | Very best things to see in Whitby

A great day out for all the family is a visit to the best train museum in the UK – the National Rail Museum in York.

Situated next to the main railway station this is a must for any rail enthusiasts.

Wander the Great Hall , Station Hall , and North Shed where you will find locomotives and millions of railway objects on display.

Highlights of the exhibitions include the Flying Scotsman , a replica of Stephenson’s Rocket and the Mallard (the world’s fastest steam locomotive). There are also many examples of more modern trains on show including a Shinkansen or Japanese bullet train and a Eurostar.

My favourite is Station Hall where you will find the royal carriages which belonged to the Royal Family including Queen Victoria’s favourite saloon. There are free talks given regularly during the day so check for times when you arrive.

Admission to the museum is free and the museum is open daily from 10:00 – 17:00 in winter and 10:00 – 18:00 in the summer.

Read more | Visiting the National Railway Museum in York

This stately home in North Yorkshire is the ancestral home of the Howard family for over 300 years. Recognisable to fans of the movie adaptation of Evelyn Waugh’s Brideshead Revisited as the home of the Flyte family Castle Howard is Brideshead.

The house and gardens at Castle Howard are open to the public with regular events scheduled throughout the year.

Don’t miss the annual Castle Howard Proms an outdoor concert that includes a firework display, lasers and a Spitfire flyover.

Read more | Visit Castle Howard

This heritage railway running from Pickering to Whitby is one of the most popular steam heritage lines in the UK. It is a not for profit charity and by travelling on the railway you are helping to preserve this wonderful train line and stock.

The train services pass through a number of stations Northbound from Pickering to Whitby or Southbound from Whitby to Pickering. These include Goathland which appeared in the Harry Potter films as Hogsmeade , Grosmont and Levisham .

The 24-mile journey through the North Yorkshire countryside is an absolute treat for all the family. Book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Read more | North Yorkshire Moors Railway

York Minster (or The Cathedral and Metropolitan Church of Saint Peter in York) is an absolute must-visit if you are heading to this beautiful and historic Yorkshire city.

A church has been on the site since the 7th century with the construction of the minster itself dating back to 1220. It took a total of 250 years to complete and was finally consecrated in 1472. The Minster is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe.

It is free to visit York Minster to pray, light a candle or attend a service. Otherwise, there is a charge to enter with online tickets available for the Minster only or Minster and Tower. Tickets are valid for 12 months and include a free guided tour.

Built in the Gothic style it is home to the Archbishop of York.

Read more | Buy tickets for York Minster

Bettys Cafe Tea Rooms are a Yorkshire tradition dating back nearly 100 years.

With a number of tea rooms including 2 in York, Harrogate and Ilkley if you enjoy afternoon tea then Bettys is the place to head!

Bettys was founded in 1919 by a Swiss baker named Fritz Bützer who moved to England with a dream of starting his own business. Little was he to know that he would create one of the most iconic brands associated with afternoon tea in England!

At Bettys you will find a vast array of cakes and biscuits to tempt your taste buds. Do book afternoon tea – just make sure to make the reservation well in advance as they are extremely popular.

Read more | Bettys Tea Rooms

• WHAT TO READ – Best books to read before you visit Yorkshire

• WHERE TO STAY : Click here to find the best accommodation in Yorkshire
• WHAT TO DO : Click here for recommended tours of Yorkshire
• WHAT TO EAT/DRINK – Fish and Chips at the Magpie Cafe in Whitby, Yorkshire Puddings, Pontefract Cake, Afternoon Tea at Betty’s Tea Rooms, A Cup of Yorkshire Tea!

• PRINCIPLE TRAIN STATIONS – York, Leeds, Doncaster and Sheffield
• WHAT TO PACK – The weather can be unpredictable along the coast even in summer so always carry a waterproof jacket (and I recommend an umbrella)
• If you are planning to go walking in the Dales make sure you are prepared and have good walking boots.
• TIP: York is a great city to base yourself as there are good transport links for the rest of the county from there.

Enjoy your trip to Yorkshire

Do you have a favourite destination in Yorkshire? Have you added a new attraction or place to your UK bucket list after reading this guide to the top 10 places to visit in Yorkshire?

Here are some related posts about Yorkshire:

• 10 places to visit in Yorkshire
• 19 best Yorkshire day trips
• Visiting the Yorkshire UNESCO village of Saltaire
• Things to do in York

Want to explore some of England’s other regions ? Head over to my other area guides to England which include the North East , East Midlands , West Midlands , North West , South West , South East and East of England .

If you are planning a trip to the UK why not join my free Facebook planning group – details are below!

If you have specific questions about a destination in England why not join my UK and London Travel Planning Group on Facebook where you can chat with others planning their trip.

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Podcast Episode 24 –  Getting around London: A introduction to the various public transport options

This post may contain compensated links. Please refer to my disclosure here for more information. In episode 24 of the UK Travel…

Podcast Episode 18 – The Bruns 4-week family trip around England & Scotland

Find more inspiration for your travels in my England Travel Guide which includes information about what to see, where to stay, how to get around, travel tips, recommended reading and more to make the most of your trip.

Discover new adventures

Events in yorkshire, offers, discounts and more, give the gift of a great day out, fun family days out, money off deals, and the best events at yorkshire attractions.

Whatever the weather, there is plenty of fun to be had both indoors and outdoors across our Yorkshire Attractions

Great Savings & Offers

Bronte Parsonage Museum at Brontë Parsonage Museum

Under 5’s Free at National Videogame Museum at National Videogame Museum

Tenpin Sunday Sessions at Xscape Yorkshire

15% discount on summer fun at Stockeld Park at Stockeld Park

2 courses for £18 at Fridays® at Xscape Yorkshire

FREE return visits for 12 months at The Deep at The Deep

Poetry Workshops and Coal Anthology

Adult experience days, our wonderful world, 84/85 – the longest year, caphouse creators, pithead baths explore, wacky wednesday, home education workshop, young engineers, character meet & greets – kung fu panda, group jcb experience, our attractions.

Buy your Yorkshire Attraction gift voucher today!

Yorkshire Attractions gift vouchers are the perfect present for friends and family. Treat them to an experience they’ll never forget with a day out at one of our amazing attractions!

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Kids Days Out In Yorkshire

Kids Days Out In Bedale

Kids days out in barnsley, kids days out in harrogate, kids days out in hull, kids days out in leeds, kids days out in scarborough, kids days out in sheffield, kids days out in skipton, kids days out in whitby, kids days out in york.

A must visit - why?

Eureka! The National Children's Museum, Halifax

Where children play to learn and grown-ups learn to play...

Yorkshire Step inside giant parts of the human body, rob the bank and drive off in a great big lorry, all in a day’s play!  

• Free Attraction: Partly - See Website
• Wheelchair friendly: Yes
• Offers: Pay once and play for the whole year with our annual pass!
• Kids Days Out visits: 12353

Great Family Shows all year!

Family Shows York Opera House

Don't miss out - Book now

North Yorkshire Lots of great family shows here like 'Shrek' the Musical' and many more. Book early to ensure your place!  

• Kids Days Out visits: 459

National Railway Museum, York

Great Day out for families! & FREE

For a fantastic free day out with railway legends, daily demonstrations and interactive exhibits visit the National Railway Museum in York.

• Free Attraction: Yes
• Offers: Free
• Kids Days Out visits: 16833

WOW - this has everything!

Mission Out, Tingley

West Yorkshire Mission Out is an active family day out where children and adults can experience epic challenges in the great outdoors!  

• Kids Days Out visits: 695

Outdoor and Indoor Farm Fun! Take a look.

Swithens Farm Leeds

Outdoor and Indoor Farm Fun!

West Yorkshire Families love our Farm Park, with animals, indoor play, tractor rides, cafe and shop! Feed the animals and find Bilbo!  

• Kids Days Out visits: 298

This looks like fun!

Grass Hoppers at Tong Garden Centre

Enjoy Proper Indoor and Outdoor Fun with kids

West Yorkshire Enjoy fantastic indoor and outdoor fun at Grass Hoppers play area. Have a bounce on the jumping pillows, zoom down the zip wire and much more!  

• Kids Days Out visits: 4176

A Magical Adventure

Studfold Adventure Trail

A great day out with a difference for your kids!

Want to get out with the kids for fresh air and fun? Situated in the magical Yorkshire Dales, the Trail is a play and discover experience for toddlers and children of all primary school ages, girls and boys, to explore nature, find fairies and run wild.

• Wheelchair friendly: No
• Kids Days Out visits: 9962

Mega Adventures - Book now

Lightwater Valley, Ripon

Lots of things to do here for kids.

Yorkshire With over 40 rides and attractions, you'll find a mega adventure around every corner at Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park Another of our Kids Days Out and things to do in Ripon.  

• Free Attraction: No
• Offers: Use code KIDSDAYSOUT to get £2 off a standard 4 years+ day ticket
• Kids Days Out visits: 14260

WOW - Take a look at this!

The Plotters' Forest at Raby Castle

Come and explore with us!

County Durham Come and explore our immersive adventure playground at Raby Castle, families can enjoy being surrounded by nature as they climb, slide and jump to their heart's content. Nestled within our natural Christmas tree plantation  

• Wheelchair friendly: Partly - see website
• Offers: Discounts to Raby Members and Kids under 4
• Kids Days Out visits: 825

See herds of red and fallow deer!

The Deer Park, Raby Castle

Enjoy the picturesque parklands at Raby Castle!

Durham Enjoy the picturesque parklands at Raby Castle! With 200 acres to explore and a range of wildlife on our doorstep, there is plenty to see and do across Raby Park. Discover our walking routes and meet our herds of red and fallow deer.  

• Offers: Raby Members and under 4s go Free
• Kids Days Out visits: 887

A great family day out!

Thorp Perrow Arboretum Bedale

North Yorkshire Come and take a stroll in the Arboretum, watch your children let off steam in the adventure playground, enjoy the wonderful Bird of Prey displays, or hand feed the wallabies in the Mammal Centre.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 263

Take a look at this!

Thwaite Watermill, Leeds

Visit Thwaite Watermills and wander through our magical woodland trails

West Yorksire Discover the charm of Thwaite Watermill, set on an island of its very own, hidden away in the south of Leeds.  

• Offers: Children under 5 free. Discount Leeds card
• Kids Days Out visits: 3522

Kids love crafts!

Rainbows Ceramics, York,

Creative Pottery Painting fun for the kids!

Yorkshire Many items to choose from in our York City Centre Pottery Painting Studio, North Yorkshire. No booking required. Parties also available.  

• Offers: Party discounts available for 6+ painters.
• Kids Days Out visits: 9077

Check this out!

Yorkshire Air Museum, York

The largest independent air museum in Britain with plenty of things to do for kids!

Over 50 historic aircraft including Tornado GR4, Spitfire & the rarely-seen Nimrod MR2. Large range of military vehicles. 

• Offers: Children under 5 free
• Kids Days Out visits: 14751

1.2 million! What?

Leeds Discovery Centre

West Yorkshire Leeds Discovery Centre is Leeds Museums & Galleries state-of-the-art storage facility, where we care for 1.2 million objects.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 3763

Fun for Kids up to 10!

Grass Hoppers Tingley

Things to do with kids this week or weekend near Leeds

West Yorkshire Here at Grass Hoppers you will find fantastic soft indoor play areas and huge outdoor adventure play areas where children up to the age of 10 years old can enjoy proper playtim  

• Kids Days Out visits: 719

NEW! Digital Adventures Castleford

Immersive Gamebox - Castleford

Wow this looks brilliant!

• Kids Days Out visits: 993

Castle Howard, York

Explore 1,000 acres of grounds!

Take the land-train to boat trips and our new adventure playground; discover our house & park near York, North Yorkshire

• Kids Days Out visits: 16768

Love animals then go today!

Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife & Falconry Centre, nr Sheffield

Why not place this in your days out diary.

South Yorkshire Meet lemurs, meerkats, owls, otters, snakes and other amazing animals and have fun in the play park and activity centre!  

• Kids Days Out visits: 23007

A Zoo in Leeds!

Lotherton, Leeds

A beautiful country estate and zoo in Leeds

West Yorkshire Visit Lotherton and discover the beautiful Edwardian hall and grounds. Journey through the continents at Wildlife World at Lotherton and discover animals native to the countries the Gascoigne family visited.  

• Offers: Leeds Card Discount, YGHCG, Annual Membership
• Kids Days Out visits: 3677

Free entry Museum

Leeds City Museum

Same City. Another World.

West Yorkshire Great for families - Leeds City Museum is a fantastic free museum in the heart of Leeds. Visitors can discover our four floors of interactive and exciting galleries, from Ancient Egypt to modern day Leeds.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 6297

As seen on TV!

Cannon Hall Farm, Barnsley

Another idea for kids days out!

One of the best Farm attractions in the country and winner of many awards. Animals in abundance and always something new!

• Kids Days Out visits: 20884

England's Oldest Attraction

Mother Shipton's Cave and Petrifying Well, Knaresborough

Englands Oldest Visitor attraction and still a great place for a family visit

North Yorkshire Visitors from all over the world have been enchanted by the park’s natural beauty, mesmerised by the Petrifying Well and fascinated by Mother Shipton’s story.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 4296

Learn to ski or snowboard!

Snozone, Castleford

Sledge, ski & snowboard on real snow - summer or winter! Snozone

West Yorkshire Sledge, ski & snowboard on real snow! Snozone in Castleford is an outstanding venue packed full of fun things to do with kids all year round Sledge, ski & snowboard on real snow! Snozone is an outstanding venue packed full of fun things to do with kids all year round Normal 0 false false false EN-GB X-NONE X-NONE  

• Kids Days Out visits: 3292

National Trust family days out!

National Trust Places England and Wales

National Trust Places

Find National Trust near me - Gardens, Beaches, Houses, Castles, Countryside and Coastal Walks with children and family on your Kids Days Out  

• Offers: Members Free Entry
• Kids Days Out visits: 320

A wonderful day out!

SEA LIFE Scarborough

More than 2500 creatures - Dive into an amazing underwater world

Yorkshire More than 2500 creatures - Dive into an amazing underwater world and take a fascinating journey to the ocean depths as you discover amazing creatures.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 1835

Something for all ages!

Newby Hall and Gardens, Ripon

Enjoy our fantastic Children’s Adventure Garden!

With sand pit and swings for toddlers, exciting pirates’ fort, aerial ropeway and pedalo boats for older children and much more!

• Kids Days Out visits: 13458

Medicine changed the world!

Thackray Museum of Medicine, Leeds

Yorkshire Immerse yourself in our imaginative and exciting galleries and activities, from the history of healthcare to the advances that have shaped the way we look after ourselves, and each other.  

• Offers: See website - under 5's free
• Kids Days Out visits: 11560

No1 Walkthrough Wildlife Adventure!

Yorkshire Wildlife Park

South Yorkshire Yorkshire Wildlife Park is home to over 200 rare and endangered animals, including lions, tigers, black rhinos and the largest collection of polar bears in the world!  

• Offers: Special online booking offers
• Kids Days Out visits: 3644

Holiday activities for the kids!

Kirkstall Abbey Leeds

Find out how the monks of Kirkstall Abbey lived and uncover the history of our magnificent abbey

West Yorkshire Kirkstall Abbey in Leeds is one of the best preserved Cistercian monasteries in the country, founded over 800 years ago. A free attraction.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 3794

Be prepared to be scared!

The York Dungeon

Walkthrough 10 live actor shows, telling the story of 2000 years of York's dark history

Yorkshire Walkthrough 10 live actor shows, telling the story of 2000 years of York's dark history.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 1772

Reach New Heights!

Rock Up, Meadowhall Sheffield

South Yorkshire Rock Up is a thrilling indoor climbing centre with a vast soft play area and onsite cafe offering delicious food and drinks. Another of our things to do in Sheffield  

• Offers: £1 off if you book online, in advance
• Kids Days Out visits: 1086

A great place to see Art!

Leeds Art Gallery

Great events for kids throughout the year

West Yorkshire A great programme of events for families and adults to take part in, Leeds Art Gallery holds plenty of free activities throughout the year.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 3773

KIDS GO FREE!

Himalayan Garden & Sculpture Park, Ripon

Family Adventures

North Yorkshire Rich in wildlife, winding woodland paths, cooling water ways & quirky sculptures....a tearoom & horsebox full of tasty treats with a woodland playground for kids.Just one of our things to do with kids in Ripon.  

• Offers: Kids Go Free
• Kids Days Out visits: 1209

Wenseleydale Railway, Northallerton

Railway days out for the family in Yorkshire!

Our trains are normally formed of heritage diesel railcars from the 1960s, which have large windows and a great view of the line ahead!

• Kids Days Out visits: 8798

Award winning family fun!

Thornton Hall Country Park, near Skipton

Family run, spotlessly clean, Award Winning Country Farm Park

North Yorkshire Thornton Hall Country Park is an award-winning all weather, working farm and leisure attraction. Open year-round, the park offers farm activities and entertainment for all ages  

• Offers: See website
• Kids Days Out visits: 21587

Family activites during School Holidays

Beningbrough Hall

Lots of great things to do on your Kids day Out to Beningbrough Hall, National Trust

Yorkshire Visit Beninbrough Hall (National Trust) for a great Kids Day Out with lots of activities during the school holidays for the family - take a look at what is on  

• Kids Days Out visits: 4844

More than you can imagine!

National Media Museum, Bradford

Filled with fun exhibitions, 3 cinemas inc. IMAX (charges apply) and galleries!

The National Media Museum is a FREE fun day out for the whole family devoted to film, photos, TV, radio & the web. Restaurant, Cafe.

• Offers: FREE
• Kids Days Out visits: 10206

Go Ape with the family!

Go Ape Dalby Forest

Yorkshire This thrilling high rope experience is set in Dalby Forest. Explore it through the trees, or by trail on a Segway adventure.  

• Offers: 15% Discount on Family Treetop Challenge Sun - Fri using code FAMILY15
• Kids Days Out visits: 697

Loads going on here!

Piglets Adventure Farm in York

Fantastic Family Day Out near York!

Yorkshire Get ready for a full day of fun for the whole family with hands-on animal activities, Indoor Play & Outdoor Adventure for all ages.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 17398

Great Tree Adventure!

Raven Tree Top Adventure, Skipton

Come find your adventure in the trees

North Yorkshire High ropes course set in Skipton, zip wires, balance beams, swinging logs and more. Reach over 6 metres above ground. Take a look.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 6600

Indoors and outdoors!

Boston Park Farm, Doncaster

Animal lovers will enjoy this family friendly farm

South Yorkshire At Boston Park the friendly animals love visitors whatever the weather! Play areas, maize maze and much more at this fun farm!  

• Kids Days Out visits: 11884

26 Climbing Walls!

Rock Up, Hull

Climbing & adventure for the whole family

Rock Up is a thrilling indoor climbing centre. With 26 climbing walls and a soft play area, Rock Up provides a great adventure for all ages

• Offers: See website for offers
• Kids Days Out visits: 10212

What a great idea!

Little Skipwith Carriage Rides, near York

North Yorkshire Join us with your family for a beautiful horse drawn carriage ride around beautiful grounds of Escrick Park Estate  

• Kids Days Out visits: 983

Book Mobile Tickets

York's Chocolate Story

Cocololate Paradise for the whole family

Yorkshire If you love chocolate this is for you. Plenty to do and eat and see!  

• Kids Days Out visits: 21120

History in the making!

Leeds Industrial Museum

West Yorkshire Discover the heritage of Yorkshire through home-grown industries in Leeds Industrial Museum at Armley Mills.  

• Offers: Discount with Leeds Card
• Kids Days Out visits: 3505

Great train journeys

West Coast Railways, "The Scarborough Spa Express", Scarborough, Leeds, Harrogate and York

Scarborough Spa Steam Train

Lancashire The Scarborough Spa Express. Travel coast to coast by steam, to York or Scarborough.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 24808

Your adventure begins!

Stockeld Park - Wetherby

Where magic is made and adventures begin!

North Yorkshire Stockeld Park is a unique all weather family attraction located near Wetherby in Yorkshire.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 15228

North Bay Railway, Scarborough

Yorkshire A warm welcome tothe Scarborough North Bay Railway. We have been delighting visitors young and old alike for over 90 years - there is so much on offer for the whole family at Britain's Biggest Miniature Railway!  

• Kids Days Out visits: 533

500 Years of History

Temple Newsam Leeds

Lots of great things to do with the family here

West Yorkshire Lots of great things to do with the family at Temple Newsam which is home to one of the finest historic houses in Yorkshire. Visitors can explore the grounds and visit Home Farm to see animals.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 3415

Step back in time!

Abbey House Museum, Leeds

Visit our fantastic family-friendly and interactive museum to step back in time to Victorian Leeds at Abbey House Museum.

West Yorkshire Abbey House Museum is a fun, family-friendly museum exploring social history and childhood in the Victorian era in Leeds.  

• Offers: Leeds Card Discount
• Kids Days Out visits: 3914

Places to visit in North Yorkshire

When you visit North Yorkshire, you’ll soon embrace the great outdoors. Bring your walking shoes for uphill climbs across Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors to castles and abbey ruins that frame the landscape, and afterwards, recharge in regal spa town tearooms and market town pubs over jugs of locally brewed Ruby Ale. One of the best things to do in North Yorkshire of all is amble round historic York, with its gothic York Minster cathedral decked out in stained glass. Get lost in cobbled snickelway passages, or take in ancient forts and bridges on a River Ouse cruise.

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24 hours in Whitby

Scratch the surface of the Gothic, historic and dramatic seaside town of Whitby, perched on the Yorkshire Coast.

8 places to switch off in North Yorkshire

Feast your eyes on dramatic coastal scenery, historic abbeys, and hidden villages on your next short break to the Yorkshire coast.

Take afternoon tea at Bettys Café Tea Rooms

Experience vintage English hospitality and choose from hundreds of delicious treats and tea varieties in this iconic Art Deco café.

Location: Harrogate, North Yorkshire

Kiss under the Heart of Yorkshire window at the Minster

According to legend, all loved up couples that kiss under the 'Heart of Yorkshire' window, will stay together forever.

Location: York, North Yorkshire

Go shopping medieval-style along The Shambles

Travel back in time along one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval shopping streets, with cheerful cafés and quirky shops in timber-framed buildings.

March along England's longest medieval city walls

Enjoy a bird's-eye view of the city and stroll along its 13th century defensive walls, passing historic landmarks, gatehouses and gardens.

Get on board at the National Railway Museum

The world's largest railway museum is home to a staggering collection of restored locomotives, including the fastest steam engine of all time.

Rainy Day Activities: Step back in time at York Castle Museum

Travel back in time on a rainy day at this trend-setting museum, which transports visitors back through 300 years of history.

Go ghost hunting in ‘Europe's most haunted city’

York claims to be the world’s first city to run ghost walks – you’ll soon see why, with tales of murder, mayhem and gore at every corner.

Take a cruise along the River Ouse

The city of York owes its existence to the rivers. Escape the city rush and admire the scenery from the comfort of a City Cruises boat.

Explore the city of York by bike

York is voted as one of the most bike-friendly cities in England with a wide range of cycle routes through the city and beyond.

See England's finest view from Sutton Bank

Celebrated author and vet James Herriot gave the view from Sutton Bank the ultimate accolade – “England’s finest”. Find out if he was right…

Location: Sutton Bank, near Thirsk, North Yorkshire

Keeping it in the family at Castle Howard

The Howard family has called Castle Howard home for 300 years but their house is your house as you explore one of Yorkshire’s finest historic estates.

Celebrate Ryedale's heritage at the Folk Museum

Discover this hidden gem deep in the North York Moors National Park and uncover English antiques and curiosities.

Location: Hutton-le-Hole, North Yorkshire

Take on adventures aplenty in Dalby Forest

See some of Yorkshire’s beautiful countryside from a mountain bike, Segway, tree-top trail and by night, at one of the UK’s premier activity centres.

Location: Dalby Forest, North Yorkshire

Dive into an underwater world at SEA LIFE Scarborough

Discover a magical underwater world at one of North Yorkshire's best family attractions.

Location: Scarborough, North Yorkshire

Get your jazz hands out for the Scarborough Jazz Festival

Each September, the annual Scarborough Jazz Festival on Yorkshire’s north coast provides the ideal tonic for music lovers to wash away those summer blues.

Enjoy a magical ride across the English countryside

With your day ticket in hand, hop on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and discover some of the best villages in UK between Pickering and Whitby.

Location: Whitby, North Yorkshire

Savour family fun in sandy Scarborough

If you’re looking for good old-fashioned fun that's easy on the wallet, you might want to consider Scarborough beach, also known as the “St Tropez of the North”.

Be royalty for a day at Scarborough Castle

Take an audio tour around the Castle, enjoy breathtaking views from the headland of the North Yorkshire Coast and have tea in a historic building.

Explore historic Whitby Abbey

Discover how over 2,000 years of history made Whitby Abbey one of England’s most important archaeological sites.

Create your own work of art in a quaint artist’s bolthole

Get the creative juices following and spend the weekend discovering inspiring landscapes just waiting to be captured.

Location: Staithes, North Yorkshire

Delve into the story of Dracula

Probe into the dramatic history of Bram Stoker’s Dracula in the very place where the stories of the bloodthirsty vampire were born.

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Yorkshire Dales & Harrogate

With its patchwork green valleys, craggy cliff faces and farmland laced with limestone walls, it’s little wonder that the Yorkshire Dales National Park is a film star in its own right.

North York Moors

Rights-of-way footpaths cut across heather coated heathland, ridges and North Sea cliff edges in the North York Moors. Follow dinosaur footprints to the Jurassic bays of the Heritage Coast.

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