24 Nov Best Things to Do with Family in York: A Complete Guide for All Ages
York is one of the best family destinations in the UK. The city is packed with history, fun attractions, green spaces, hands on experiences and plenty of places that keep both adults and children entertained. Whether you are exploring for a weekend or planning a longer break, you will find loads of things to do with family in York that suit all ages and energy levels.
This guide brings together the top York attractions for families, unusual experiences, free days out, outdoor activities and ideas for exploring wider Yorkshire. If you are researching your trip, you can also check our helpful local guides such as Family Breaks in York and Visit York for more inspiration on planning your stay.
Let’s get into the best family friendly things to do in York.
Top 10 Things to Do with Family in York
If you just want quick ideas to get started, here are the ten best things to do with family in York. This simple list is perfect for planning a fast itinerary and works well for featured snippets.
- Explore the National Railway Museum
- Walk the York City Walls
- Discover Vikings at the Jorvik Viking Centre
- Enjoy a chocolate workshop at York Chocolate Story
- Step back in time at the York Castle Museum
- Take a scenic boat trip on the River Ouse
- Visit York Minster and climb the tower
- Follow the York Cat Trail around the city
- Play in Rowntree Park
- Visit York Maze during the summer months
These highlights cover history, outdoor spaces, interactive attractions and unique experiences that families always love.
York Attractions for Families
York is known for its museums and historic sites, but many have been designed with families in mind. Children can get hands on, explore replicas and enjoy storytelling that brings the city to life.
National Railway Museum
This is one of the top things to do with family in York. It is packed with iconic trains, engines, hands on exhibits and interactive zones. Best of all, entry is free. Kids can climb aboard historic locomotives, learn about the speed record holders and enjoy the outdoor play area on sunny days.
Jorvik Viking Centre
The Jorvik Viking Centre is a brilliant immersive experience for children. A ride takes you through a recreated Viking village complete with smells, sounds and characters. It is a great way for families to learn about York’s Viking history in a fun and memorable way.
York Chocolate Story
York is famous for its chocolate making history, and this attraction is perfect for families. Guided tours explain how chocolate shaped the city, and children can get stuck into chocolate making workshops. It is educational and delicious at the same time.
York Minster
York Minster is one of the most impressive cathedrals in Europe. Families can enjoy self guided trails and climb the central tower for amazing views of the city. It is a great way to learn about York’s heritage while enjoying a bit of adventure.
York Castle Museum
This museum is perfect for children who enjoy interactive learning. The Victorian street is the star attraction. Families can wander down cobbled paths, pop into shops and see how life has changed through the years. It is one of the best York attractions for families who enjoy history with a fun twist.
Unusual Things to Do in York for Families
If you want something a little different, York also offers unusual activities that families always find memorable.
DIG York Archaeology
This hands on archaeological experience lets children dig for artefacts, try excavation tools and learn how archaeologists uncover York’s past. It is interactive, fun and unusual.
York Cat Trail
The Cat Trail is a free and quirky trail around the city. Families follow a map and lookout for cat sculptures perched on rooftops and buildings. It is one of the most enjoyable unusual things to do in York for families because kids love the treasure hunt style challenge.
Ghost Walks and Story Tours
York is known for its ghost stories. Many tours offer child friendly versions that focus more on storytelling than scares. Families get to explore hidden streets and learn myths, legends and history along the way.
Museum Gardens Exploration
The Museum Gardens are full of squirrels, ruins, green space and opportunities to explore quietly. Children love spotting wildlife and climbing small ruins. It is a simple but enjoyable experience.
Outdoor Things to Do with Family in York
York is a very walkable city, so families can enjoy plenty of outdoor fun without travelling far.
Walk the York City Walls
Walking the walls is one of the top free things to do with family in York. The walls offer amazing views and give everyone a sense of York’s ancient past. Families can walk short sections or complete the full circuit.
Rowntree Park
Rowntree Park has a large playground, lakes, sports areas and plenty of picnic spots. It is ideal for families needing a break from the busy centre.
River Ouse Boat Trips
Boat trips are a relaxing way to see York. Families can choose guided cruises or small self drive boats for a bit of adventure.
Cycling Around York
York has several bike friendly routes that are safe for children. Families can cycle near the river, around parks or along local pathways.
Things to Do Near York for Families
York is a great base for exploring wider Yorkshire, and there are many family attractions within short driving distance.
Yorkshire Wildlife Park
Located around 40 minutes from York, this wildlife park offers walk through enclosures, playgrounds and interactive animal experiences. It is one of the top things to do near York for families who love animals and outdoor fun.
Flamingo Land Resort
This theme park and zoo is a favourite with families. With rides, rollercoasters, play zones and animals, it offers a full day out for children of all ages.
Castle Howard
Castle Howard is a beautiful estate with gardens, woodland paths and an adventure playground. Families can enjoy nature walks and seasonal events.
Eden Camp
This museum turns wartime history into an interactive experience for children. It is great for families wanting learning with plenty of fun.
Piglets Adventure Farm
Just outside York, this farm park is perfect for younger families. Children can meet animals, enjoy indoor soft play and explore themed areas.
Things to Do with Family in Yorkshire
If you want to explore a little further, Yorkshire offers a huge choice of family days out that are easy to reach from York.
Whitby and the Yorkshire Coast
Families can enjoy a day at the seaside, explore Whitby Abbey or enjoy classic fish and chips by the harbour.
The Deep Aquarium in Hull
This award winning aquarium is one of the largest in the UK. It is ideal for rainy days and offers close up views of sharks, rays and colourful fish.
North York Moors Steam Railway
Families can enjoy a scenic steam train ride through the countryside. Kids love the old fashioned engines and beautiful views.
Yorkshire Dales National Park
Perfect for families who enjoy walking, nature spotting and waterfalls. You can plan easy routes suitable for all ages.
Free Things to Do with Family in York
Family days out do not always need to be expensive. York has plenty of free experiences that families can enjoy.
The Shambles
Children love exploring the narrow medieval street, spotting quirky shop signs and enjoying the Harry Potter like atmosphere.
Museum Gardens
Free and beautiful. Families can enjoy picnics, strolls and wildlife watching.
Walking the Walls
Completely free and full of views, history and fresh air.
Riverside Walks
York’s riverside paths are great for relaxing family strolls.
Where to Eat with Family in York
York has loads of family friendly restaurants, from casual cafes to places with kids menus and quick service. Look for spots near the Minster, Fossgate or the river for easy access.
Family Travel Tips for Visiting York
Planning helps make family trips smoother. Here are some helpful tips.
Best Times to Visit York
Spring and summer are great for outdoor activities, while winter brings Christmas markets and cosy attractions.
Getting Around York
York is walkable, and most attractions are within easy distance. Buses and taxis are available if needed.
Parking Tips
Park and Ride options are available, and several central car parks offer full day parking.
Where to Stay for Family Breaks in York
If you want somewhere comfortable, well located and family friendly, check out our stays linked below:
- Family Breaks in York
- Visit York
- Romantic Breaks York
- Accommodation York
These pages offer more inspiration, detailed guides and accommodation options suitable for families.
FAQs
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Plan Your Family Break in York
York is packed with family fun, great attractions and memorable experiences. Whether you are planning a weekend or a full holiday, you will always find new things to do with family in York and wider Yorkshire.
Start planning your stay today and enjoy everything this amazing city has to offer.