From dinosaurs to Vikings, steam trains to Victorians, chocolate-makers to history-shapers, a family adventure in York is unlike any other, whether you’re here for a day, a week or you’re lucky enough to call York home. Voted Best Place to Live in the UK by The Sunday Times, why wouldn’t you? You can read our Moving to York Guide here. 

With everything from first-class family attractions to stunning outdoor spaces and lots of fantastic places to shop, eat and drink in York with the kids, it’s a full of memory-making opportunities. Make time for a trip or two out of the city too: the beautiful North York Moors, Yorkshire Dales and Yorkshire coast are full of wonderful places to explore with children. And none of it needs to cost a fortune – there are plenty of wonderful things to do in and around York that are free or cheap, from walking the city walls to visiting the National Railway Museum. If there’s a way for families to save money, you can trust us to let you know about it!

Need somewhere family-friendly to stay? York has some brilliant hotels with family rooms as well as self-catering houses and apartments, not to mention camping and glamping options. They can be hard to find, but we’ve hand-picked our favourites for you so that you’re never short of a high chair or cot if you need one.

Let’s not forget York’s wealth of brilliant children’s classes too, from dance to drama, STEM to forest school, cookery to rugby. Looking for birthday party ideas? Look no further – take a look at the best birthday parties in York. And we’ve got some great holiday club and childcare options, too. 

Here you’ll find our pick of the very best things to do in and around York with children throughout the year, as tried, tested and recommended by a York family with three children. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X so you don’t miss a thing, and why not let us know what you get up to?