Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, Ripon
Go here for a fun-filled family day out in nature, exploring the ancient abbey ruins and breathtaking water gardens. This UNESCO World Heritage Site marks two iconic moments in history, where mediaeval strength sits side by side with 18th century eccentricity to create a truly unique landscape full of secrets, stories and beautiful views. Featuring one of the largest and best preserved ruined Cistercian monasteries in England, as well as the elegant ornamental lakes, canals, temples and cascades of a Georgian water garden, this place is sure to take your breath away. Don’t forget your camera!
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Castle Howard, York
Castle Howard is an estate where you can spend hours exploring architecture, gardens and a glorious calendar of creative and cultural events. The house has been home to the Howard family for more than 300 years and features stunning interiors, particularly when dressed for Christmas from November to January – our favourite time to visit. The gardens and grounds are dog-friendly and move from season to season in effortless beauty, comprising woodland, follies, lakes, temples and statues.
www.castlehoward.co.uk
Dalby Forest, Pickering
The enchanting woodlands of Dalby Forest are perfect for letting off some steam with the whole family in tow. Sitting in a picture-perfect spot in the heart of the North York Moors National Park, the opportunities are endless when it comes to walking, rambling, riding or relaxing with a picnic. The forest is home to over 8,500 acres of breathtaking vistas, challenging trails, wildlife and Gruffalo adventures, perfect for entertaining little people.
www.forestryengland.uk/dalby-forest
Newby Hall & Gardens, Ripon
A day exploring Newby Hall’s award-winning gardens is a box-ticker for all the family. From the Rose Garden and Tropical Garden, to the National Cornus Collection, Autumn Garden, Woodland Garden and more, there are beautiful landscapes everywhere you turn. You can also visit one of Britain’s finest Adam Houses – an exceptional example of 18th century interior decoration, tuck into a fine feast in The Garden Restaurant, hop aboard The Miniature Railway and let little ones run wild in the Adventure Playground. All of that, plus boat trips along the River Ure, the Dollshouse Exhibition and much more.
www.newbyhall.com
The Forbidden Corner, Leyburn
A labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, follies and surprises await at The Forbidden Corner. There’s no place quite like it, perfect if you’re looking for something a little different to entertain little adventurers and those young at heart. Expect the unexpected as you’re led down paths and passages to nowhere, uncover puzzles and secrets and unleash your problem solving abilities with big decisions to make everywhere you turn. It’s enchanting beyond belief and it will blow your mind time and time again. The Forbidden Corner is a day you’ll be telling tales of at the dinner table for years to come.
www.theforbiddencorner.co.uk
Mother Shipton’s Cave, Knaresborough
A Yorkshire holiday isn’t complete without a visit to England’s oldest tourist attraction, open since 1630. The legendary birthplace of the country’s most famous prophetess, Mother Shipton’s Cave tells the story of her life and legacy. Nestled in the picture-podcard town of Knaresborough, the site offers all kinds of experiences, from fascinating history and riverside walks, to interactive family events and The Petrifying Well – a natural wonder that people have visited for hundreds of years. Go here for enchanting stories, stunning scenery and supernatural wonders – a truly captivating day out.
www.mothershipton.co.uk
National Centre for Birds of Prey, Helmsley
Open 7 days a week, the National Centre for Birds of Prey is set within the Duncombe Park estate in Helmsley. Housing the largest collection of birds of prey in the north of England, you can expect to see everything from the burrowing owl to the majestic steller’s sea eagle. See spectacular birds take to the skies in flying demonstrations, stroll in the rolling 300 acre parkland, enjoy locally sourced snacks at the Owl House Cafe, and keep kids entertained with a free ink stamp trail and colouring in sheet.
www.ncbp.co.uk
National Railway Museum, York
From daily miniature railway rides to steam rides at the weekend, the National Railway Museum is home to hundreds of locomotives and carriages, and you can visit for free. Wander through the halls and explore the stories of the past, present and future of railways, be wowed by world-changing inventions like the Japanese Bullet Train and get up close and personal with the world’s fastest steam train, Mallard.
www.railwaymuseum.org.uk