Home Things to do The Very Best Free (or Cheap) Things to Do for Families in Yorkshire this Summer 2023
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The Very Best Free (or Cheap) Things to Do for Families in Yorkshire this Summer 2023

Ribblehead Viaduct in Yorkshire Dales National Park
Yorkshire Dales National Park

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Yorkshire has plenty to offer if you’re looking for an exciting family getaway this summer without breaking the bank. There’s something for everyone, from its beautiful national parks to its historic cities and cultural attractions. Yorkshire boasts an abundance of free or affordable family-friendly activities that will make your trip memorable.

Table of Contents

Yorkshire Dales National Park – free

Landscape scenery of Yorkshire Dales National Park, Yorkshire
Yorkshire Dales National Park

The Yorkshire Dales National Park is a great place for families to explore and get some fresh air. With over 800 square miles of breathtaking countryside, the park offers a variety of hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for picnics and wildlife watching. Kids can learn about the local flora and fauna, and participate in ranger-led activities that teach them about the environment and conservation. The park is free to enter and explore, making it an affordable day out for families on a budget. With so much natural beauty to discover, the Yorkshire Dales National Park is a great destination for families looking to connect with nature and make lasting memories.

National Science and Media Museum, Bradford – free

The National Science and Media Museum in Bradford offers a range of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that are both fun and educational for families. The museum covers topics such as photography, film, television, and the internet, and features galleries showcasing some of the most important scientific and technological breakthroughs of our time. The museum is free to enter and has something for all ages, from toddlers to adults. There are also regular events and workshops, as well as a cinema that shows a variety of films, making it a great option for a full day out. With its mix of science, technology, and media, the National Science and Media Museum is a great choice for families looking to learn and have fun at the same time.

York Minster – free for children under 16

York Minster is one of the largest and most impressive cathedrals in Europe, and a must-see attraction for families visiting the city of York. Children under 16 can enter for free, making it a great option for families on a budget. The cathedral offers guided tours, as well as interactive exhibits that teach visitors about the history and significance of the building. Kids can climb the tower for a breathtaking view of the city, and there are regular events and workshops that cater to families. With its stunning architecture, rich history, and educational opportunities, York Minster is a great choice for families looking for a cultural experience.

Royal Armouries Museum, Leeds – free

Building of Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds
Royal Armouries Museum

The Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds is a great place for families to learn about the history of warfare and weaponry. The museum offers interactive exhibits that allow visitors to handle weapons and armor, as well as live demonstrations of sword fighting and jousting. There are also regular events and workshops that cater to families, such as medieval reenactments and craft workshops. With free entry, the museum is an affordable option for families on a budget. With its exciting exhibits and hands-on activities, the Royal Armouries Museum is a great choice for families looking for an educational and entertaining day out.

Tropical Butterfly House Wildlife and Falconry Centre, Sheffield – ticket prices vary

The Tropical Butterfly House Wildlife and Falconry Centre in Sheffield is a great place for families to learn about and interact with a variety of animals. The center features over 30 species of animals, including lemurs, meerkats, and otters, as well as a collection of birds of prey. Visitors can participate in animal encounters, where they can handle and feed the animals, and watch live demonstrations of falconry and bird of prey displays. With ticket prices varying depending on the season and age of the visitor, the center is an affordable option for families on a budget. With its mix of animals, education, and entertainment, the Tropical Butterfly House Wildlife and Falconry Centre is a great destination for families looking for a fun day out.

Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Doncaster – ticket prices vary

The Yorkshire Wildlife Park is a fantastic place for families to visit. With over 400 animals from 70 different species, it’s a great opportunity for children to learn about wildlife and conservation in a fun and interactive way. The park offers a variety of activities, including feeding times, ranger talks, and animal encounters, which make it an engaging and educational experience for all. Plus, with ticket prices that vary depending on the season and discounts for online bookings, it’s an affordable option for families.

North Yorkshire Moors Railway – ticket prices vary

Black and red train in North Yorkshire Moors Railway
North Yorkshire Moors Railway

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway is a heritage railway that offers a scenic journey through the stunning North York Moors National Park. It’s a perfect way to spend a day with the family and experience a piece of history while taking in the beautiful countryside. Children will enjoy the steam train ride and the chance to explore the station and museum. With ticket prices that vary depending on the journey and discounts for online bookings, it’s an excellent value for a day out.

Jorvik Viking Centre, York – ticket prices vary

The Jorvik Viking Centre in York is an interactive museum that takes visitors back in time to the Viking era. With reconstructed buildings and authentic Viking artifacts, it’s a fascinating and educational experience for children and adults alike. The interactive exhibits, including a ride through a Viking village, are designed to engage and entertain visitors of all ages. With ticket prices that vary depending on the season and discounts for online bookings, it’s a must-visit attraction for families.

Scarborough Castle – ticket prices vary

Scarborough Castle is a medieval fortress perched on a headland overlooking the North Sea. It’s an ideal place for families to explore and learn about the history of England. Children will enjoy exploring the ruins, climbing the battlements, and taking in the stunning views of the coastline. With ticket prices that vary depending on the season and discounts for online bookings, it’s an affordable and educational day out for families.

The Deep, Hull – ticket prices vary

Aerial view of The Deep architecture
The Deep

The Deep in Hull is an award-winning aquarium that takes visitors on a journey through the world’s oceans. It’s a great opportunity for children to learn about marine life and conservation in a fun and interactive way. The aquarium is home to over 5,000 animals, including sharks, rays, turtles, and penguins, and offers a range of activities, including interactive displays, touch pools, and feeding times. With ticket prices that vary depending on the season and discounts for online bookings, it’s a great value for a day out with the family.

Written by
David Prior

David Prior is an NCTJ-qualified journalist and the editor of Big Family Breaks. He is also a father of five and an experienced traveller, especially with kids.

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