York Castle Museum is a Little Vikings Award-winning destination and one of the best things for families to do in York.

You’ll find yourself stepping back into York's past, from Edwardian living rooms to 1970s kitchens to the swinging sixties. The jewel in the museum’s crown is Kirkgate, the recreated Victorian street, which is a memory-making place that children adore. Walk down the cobbles, visit the shops and soak up the (very convincing) atmosphere. Why not treat them to something from the sweet shop? Other highlights include:

York Castle Prison

The museum buildings were once a Georgian Prison, and down in the felons' cells lies a dark and brutal history - a time of rouges, thieves and murders. Visit our infamous residents and shiver at their stories of rough conditions, crooked justice and harsh punishments... watch out for the most notorious inmate of all - the legendary highwayman, Dick Turpin

1914: When the World Changed Forever

From the recruiting office to the horrors of the front line, experience the objects and stories of the First World War.

Castle Museum Shop and cafe

Find traditional Victorian games and old-fashioned sweets to 60s books and stocking fillers in the shop. Refuel at the cafe with hot and cold drinks, snacks and light meals.

Opening hours - Open Monday, 11 am to 5 pm and Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm. During school holidays, it's open 10 am to 5 pm on Mondays

Good to know – Buggies aren’t permitted in the museum because of access restrictions, but you can leave your buggy in reception and borrow a baby carrier free of charge. It’s a museum of two halves, so don’t forget to pass through the gift shop to pick up the second half of the experience. Keep an eye out for special activities during the school holidays.