15+ Outdoor Activities in York for Families

Step into the preserved 1940s home and veterinary surgery of James Herriot, exploring immersive exhibits that bring the beloved All Creatures Great & Small stories to life.

Experience a historic steam railway journey through the North Yorkshire Moors with vintage trains, heritage stations, and family-friendly activities.

Explore nine acres of award-winning gardens featuring a nationally significant collection of hardy water lilies, a historic museum, and family-friendly facilities year-round.

Explore one of England's most magnificent medieval cathedrals with dedicated family activities, interactive maps, and collections spanning centuries of history.

Explore Yorkshire's only model village featuring over 200 intricately crafted miniature buildings, a working train, and charming scenes perfect for all ages.

Experience a family-friendly working farm with animal encounters, adventure playground, and farm-made café just 10 minutes from York city centre.

Enjoy homemade dairy ice cream, tea rooms, and camping under the stars at this family-run farm in Whitby, North Yorkshire.

Explore 14 acres of rural Yorkshire countryside featuring a farming museum, railway, animals, play areas, and immersive living history sites for all ages.

Explore a working farm with a cafe, shop, miniature railway, and pick-your-own fruit in the heart of North Yorkshire.

Explore coastal cliffs and scenic woodland trails at this free nature reserve offering outdoor adventures for all ages.

Explore this beautiful Yorkshire nature reserve with family-friendly walking trails through diverse habitats perfect for spotting wildlife and enjoying the outdoors.

Explore the atmospheric ruins of a 12th-century Augustinian priory set in peaceful Yorkshire countryside, perfect for families interested in medieval history.

Explore a stunning 17th-century manor house with period rooms, gardens, and family-friendly activities in the heart of Yorkshire.

Watch spectacular flying demonstrations and explore the largest collection of birds of prey in northern England at this award-winning attraction in the North York Moors.

Discover an award-winning zoo featuring exotic mammals, birds, and domestic animals with interactive feeding opportunities and seasonal events for all ages.

Explore a historic stately home with woodland gardens, adventure playground, and walled gardens, plus on-site café and shopping.

Explore a scenic coastal nature reserve featuring dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities for the whole family.

Explore nature gardens, outdoor play areas, and trails with a miniature railway, mazes, sand play, and seasonal activities for all ages.