Family Friendly Fun

Richmond offers families a relaxing place to unwind from everyday life, leaving in its place a sense of calm and clean country air. As well as offering a world of thrilling adventure with plenty to entertain all ages and create memories to last a lifetime! There is a lot on offer for the whole family in Richmond, between exploring, eating, drinking and relaxing so Holiday at Home has helped you out with our top recommendations for the perfect family-friendly escape to Richmond, North Yorkshire…

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 which will challenge and delight all of the family.

Whilst at Forbidden Corner, try out The Saddle Room for a fantastic dining experience; a new restaurant, serving good honest food and an award-winning wine cellar and bar area.

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. Middleham is a famous hub for horse racing; take a walk up to the gallops and watch the famous trainers. Middleham Castle was once home to Richard III.

The Wensleydale Railway is an authentic heritage railway serving the local community, offering tourists, families and transport enthusiasts a great day out in the Yorkshire Dales with lots to see and do along the way. Timetabled services run over the 16 miles from Leeming Bar to Redmire (for Bolton Castle). Most trains are diesel multiple units from the 1950/60s offering spectacular views up Wensleydale; some steam hauled services in the high summer and in December.

Thorpe Perrow Arboretum 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 licensed tearoom. There is a lot 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, a place where magical memories are made and family adventures can begin. Nestled in acres of woodland and within 45 minutes of Richmond, North Yorkshire you can find the perfect place for a family fun day out – all year round!

Within the park you can find themed adventure playgrounds, climbing nets, ice skating rink, a yew tree maze, 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 reindeers 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.

Lightwater Valley Theme Park, nestled within beautiful North Yorkshire Countryside, is simply bursting with over 175 acres of action-packed adventures. With over 40 rides and attractions for thrill seekers of all ages, this is the perfect day out bursting with thrills, chills and adventure.

Catapult to dizzying heights aboard The Whirlwind, a typhoon of screams that’ll twist even the bravest of souls, or bravely take on the challenge of Europe’s longest roller coaster – The Ultimate, get swept high into the air by the powerful grip of The Eagle’s Claw and ‘feel the force’ as you shoot the raging water of the Wild River Rapids.