York’s summer can be summed up in two words: glorious and short (okay, three words if you count ‘unpredictable’). If there’s one thing we know, it’s that you’ve got to make the most of it while it’s here, and that means enjoying the sun while it shines and splashing about near the water. No matter how old your kids are, there are loads of water-based activities to try in and around York, and these are some of our favourites. Let us know if we’ve missed anything, and don’t forget the towels!
Swim in the heart of the Moors at Helmsley Open Air Pool – Only open during the summer months, Helmsley Open Air Swimming Pool is a gorgeous place for an outdoor swim. Book a family fun session, pack a picnic and enjoy! Helmsley Open Air Pool, Baxton’s Sprunt, Helmsley, York YO62 5HT – Visit the website
Try a watersport at Allerthorpe Lakeland Park – A hidden gem for active families, Allerthorpe is brilliant fun for all ages. Have a go at the aquapark, try paddleboarding, or hire a kayak or pedalo. There’s a cordoned-off area for paddling and swimming, and a play area too. Allerthorpe Lakeland Park, Melbourne Road, Allerthorpe, Pocklington York YO42 4RL – Visit the website
Row under the viaduct at Knaresborough – Take the train or drive through to Knaresborough where you can hire a rowing boat or just enjoy a walk along the beautiful river Nidd. See if you can bag a river view table at the Marigold cafe and watch the boats float by.
Take a river cruise – Hop on board one of the fabulous City Cruises boats and enjoy a sightseeing cruise along the Ouse. There’s plenty of space for buggies, a fully stocked bar, loos and brilliant views galore. Visit the City Cruises York website
Wild swimming at Pool Bridge Farm – For older kids who love to swim, Pool Bridge Farm is a gorgeous summer outdoor experience. Take them along for a dip in the family lake, or treat yourself to an adult-only swim in the beautiful Monet lake or a sauna booking for the ultimate hot/cold experience. Top tip – book in advance if the weather’s good. It’s popular! Pool Bridge Farm, Wheldrake Lane, York YO19 4SQ – Visit the website
Hire a self-drive boat – Take the wheel of your own boat and enjoy the sights of the Ouse at your own speed. If you’re lucky, you might even catch the Two Hoots ice cream boat where they’ll serve your cones through a special hatch. Save £5 with our special Little Vikings discount.
Grab a cone from the Two Hoots Ice Cream Boat – Make your way to the Millennium Bridge on a sunny day and join the queue for a delicious cone from the quirky Two Hoots ice cream boat. Follow Two Hoots on Instagram.
Paddle at Falling Foss – One of the most magical places to paddle in a stream, try to time your visit to Falling Foss with the opening hours of Falling Foss Tea Garden. Follow them on Instagram.
Feed the ducks at Rowntree Park – Buy a bag of duck food from the cafe and become the most popular human beings in Rowntree Park, which is also one of the best places to take kids in York.
Take a walk along the river – Keep things simple and have a stroll along the river (even better if it’s at sunrise, if you’re up early with your little ones anyway).
