The temperature’s falling and the nights are drawing in, but let’s not be gloomy. Not only does that mean it’s easier to get your little ones to bed (in theory, at least), but it’s also the season for lovely light trails near York. From twinkling gardens to illuminated abbey ruins, Yorkshire’s packed with dazzling displays […]

Silent night? Not in York! This festive season, enjoy full-throttle family fun at one of the brilliant Christmas shows and pantomimes in York. From laugh-out-loud performances to heart-warming stories, there’s something to get everyone in the Christmas spirit. For a more traditional start to your celebrations, York Minster’s Crib Service is a magical must-see and […]

Following the success of The Little Vikings I Spy Trail (as recommended by The Sunday Times!), we’re thrilled to launch a brand new family walking adventure: The Snickelways & Silly Street Names Trail. This fun, free, self-guided adventure takes families through York’s maze of magical snickelways – those narrow, winding passages that are easy to […]

York Christmas Market – also known as St Nicholas Fair – is set to return from November 13th to December 21st 2025, with twinkling lights, the scent of mulled wine and lots of unique gift ideas. The famous alpine chalets will return to line Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square, creating a festive wonderland of local traders […]

We had no idea what to expect from Slava’s Snow Show at the Grand Opera House, and now we’ve seen it, we’re still not entirely sure! It’s an experience unlike anything we’ve ever had in the theatre, and almost impossible to sum up. Imagine tumbling into a strange, clown-filled fever dream after an overenthusiastic encounter […]

October half term in York 2026: 24th October to 1st November 2026 (for most York schools). Always check your school’s dates! October half-term in York is glorious, with so many things to do with kids. There’s a wide variety of activities going on, from pumpkin festivals to pumpkin picking and even the odd event NOT […]

You shall go to the ball with this year’s sparkling musical pantomime, Cinderella! York’s most magical festive tradition is back – and it’s bigger, bolder and more star-studded than ever. Cinderella at the Grand Opera House York is set to be the city’s biggest Christmas show, boasting dazzling casting, glittering production values and a laugh-a-minute script. Beloved star of […]

When it comes to autumn days out in York, few things beat the fun of pumpkin picking. Instead of grabbing one from the supermarket, head to one of the brilliant pumpkin patches near York where you can wander the fields, hunt for the perfect pumpkin, and soak up the autumn atmosphere. From family-friendly farms to […]

This October half term in York, step inside a museum of mysteries at York Castle Museum and uncover a world of curious stories, crafts and performances that bring York’s past to life. From hands-on creative sessions to live music and immersive theatre, it’s the perfect place for a family day out. Here are our highlights. […]

It’s that time of year again – your chance to show your love and appreciation for the many fantastic family-friendly places in and around York! Now celebrating its 11th year, the Little Vikings Awards – this year sponsored by Indie York – recognises the very best York has to offer for children and families. It’s […]

As part of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway’s Railway 200 celebrations, get ready for an unforgettable journey with a true British legend: the world-famous Flying Scotsman! This October half term, the Flying Scotsman will be steaming through the beautiful North York Moors between Grosmont and Pickering, and you can hop on board. Thanks to the […]

Have you heard the exciting autumn news?! There’s a new pumpkin patch in town! Farmer Ed’s Pumpkin Patch, from the team behind Piglets Adventure Farm, launches on Saturday 27th September and it sounds like a lovely seasonal experience in York that’s definitely not just for kids. Expect pumpkins galore, marshmallow toasting, tasty street food and […]

While we’ll never stop hoping that they’ll one day bring back the massive York bonfire night and firework displays we enjoyed as kids – anyone else remember the sight of fireworks waterfalling down Clifford’s Tower or the massive, free displays on the Knavesmire? – there are still some fun ways to celebrate York’s naughtiest plotter. […]

Families are at the heart of Aesthetica Film Festival 2025, taking place from 5th to 9th November 2025. York transforms into a hub of creativity and imagination, offering children and parents experiences they cannot find anywhere else in the city. From films and workshops to VR, games, music, and interactive events, the festival creates a […]

Autumn in York just got a whole lot more fun, and tiny troopers are at the heart of it! The York Army Museum is throwing open its doors to young explorers and fearless fun-seekers with a line-up of activities designed for kids and families to dive into history like never before. 🛡️ What to Expect […]

This October, Stockeld Park is alive with spooky magic! Gather the whole family for heaps of frightfully fun activities, fang-tastic immersive theatre, and magical play. Stockeld Park is open every weekend throughout October, and daily from the 25th of October to the 2nd of November. AND you can save 15% on admission with our special […]

Looking for the ultimate family escape? We’ve teamed up with our friends at Baxby Manor, North Yorkshire’s award-winning eco glamping and camping site, to give one lucky family the chance to win a two-night stay in one of their stunning Kabinas. Tucked away on a 700-year-old family farm, Baxby Manor is a little slice of […]

There’s something really special about seeing a familiar place in a completely new light, and that’s exactly what Echoes of Yorkshire: The Museum Illuminated does at York Museum Gardens this October half term. Running from 24th October to 2nd November 2025, this brand-new light and sound show by the internationally acclaimed team Luxmuralis transforms one of York’s […]

Looking for a brilliant day out in York this October half term? Head to York Minster for a fun-filled family adventure packed with creativity, exploration, and hands-on history. With activities designed for curious young minds, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The best bit? Kids go free! Up to four children (aged 17 and under) […]

We’ve got some excellent eerie news for you if you’re looking for something fun – and free – to do in York during October half term: the Little York Ghost Hunt is back for 2025! It’s part of York Ghost Week, which runs from Saturday 25th October to Sunday 2nd November 2025. The city will […]