Things to do in Yorkshire for Families

Voted the best children’s attraction in Yorkshire, the award-winning Forbidden Corner makes a truly unforgettable day out for all of the family. A unique labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, follies, and surprises created within a four-acre garden in the heart of Tupgill Park and the Yorkshire Dales. Explore The Temple of the Underworld, the Eye of the Needle, a huge pyramid made of translucent glass, passages that lead nowhere and extraordinary statues. At every turn, there are decisions to make and tricks to avoid. A day out with a difference for those planning UK breaks for families which will challenge and delight all of the family.

A 10-minute drive away are the popular market towns Leyburn and Middleham. Running through Leyburn is The Wensleydale Railway which runs between Leeming Bar and Redmire.

Richmond offers families a relaxing place to unwind from everyday life, leaving in its place a sense of calm and clean country air. Take a family-friendly stroll along the Easby Abbey and Richmond Station Trail, taking in the ruins of what is known to be an ancient abbey, as well as the old Richmond Station. Wind your way along the River Swale and enjoy the woodlands along its banks.

The Station is the perfect place to visit en route with a cinema, café, art gallery, and an array of independent shops in Richmond. Look out for special events happening for the kids across the school holidays also.

Monk Park Farm is a fantastic family visitor attraction, situated in the heart of Herriot country, on the edge of the North York Moors National Park. The adventure playground and extended petting barn are great places to learn and make some furry friends. Kids can also blow off some steam and can race their friends around the electric pedal car arena. You can meet so many of our favourites whether you’re stroking the guinea pigs and rabbits, feeding the lambs or petting the baby goats. You can also get up close with the wallabies, deer and alpacas as you take a barrel ride through their fields! There is a 1-mile walk around the farm with feed stations (animal feed is available from the shop).

Throughout the year look out for the variety of fantastic events including Halloween, Easter and Christmas fun for all of the family.

A perfect place to meet up with friends or have some quality family time; discover, relax, and smile in the stunning setting of Newby Hall. Explore the 18th-century house and award-winning gardens with a guided tour.

Take a relaxing boat trip along the River Ure. The 2 boat fleet depart from the bottom of the borders on a 25-minute cruise up the river. Seeing the gardens from the river gives a different perspective and there are regular sightings of kingfishers, herons, the occasional otter and other wildlife.

The children will love the Adventure Garden with swings for toddlers through to climbing frames and bridges, an aerial slide and pedalo boats for the older children. The ‘Tarantella’ dancing water play area by William Pye is also a hit with the whole family. The Newby Hall Miniature Railway which runs along the River Ure, is a delightful ride with fantastic views of the gardens.

Thorpe Perrow Arboretum close to the Bedale in North Yorkshire is one of the finest private collections of trees and shrubs in the country. Spread over 100 acres of beautiful woodland to explore with nature and tree trails, lakes, picnic areas, a children’s adventure play area and a licensed tearoom.

A lot is going on throughout the year – thousands of scented spring flowers, guided spring walks, bring a picnic and enjoy the acres of spectacular colours, visit the Bird of Prey Centre with its large collection of 75-100 birds of prey from around the world with entertaining flying displays every day. Meet the Owls or visit Meerkat Island and Wallaby Wood!

Situated just outside of Bedale; this farm makes a great day out for all ages. You can feed the lambs and calves, look after the sheep, cuddle the goats, bath the pig while a friendly guide introduces you to the animals and tells you all about them. Why not take a pony ride or take part in the farm quiz? Children can play in the indoor play barn and go-cart arena while you browse the shop selling home-reared beef, cheese and farm-made ice cream.

In the heart of North Yorkshire is Stockeld Park, an amazing destination with thousands of 5* reviews. Nestled in acres of woodland you can find the perfect place for a family fun day out – all year round!

Within the park are themed adventure playgrounds, climbing nets, an ice skating rink, a yew tree maze, and an enchanted forest. At Christmas, enjoy the most magical experience at Stockeld Park; hire a pair of Nordic skis and glide your way around the Enchanted Forest, visit Santa’s Grotto, meet the reindeer and explore the illuminated snowflake maze. There are also other seasonal activities such as jumping pillows, pedal go-karts and laser throughout the year to keep a lookout for.