It’s that time of year again when those of us lucky enough to have our dads around (or someone who does those dadly things for us) scrabble to find a way to say thank you for the things they do for us. While there’s a lot to be said for keeping it simple (and nothing says I love you like burnt toast and crumbs in the bed), if you’d like to do something extra, here are some ideas for things to do around York and some lovely things to give.
Father’s Day Treat at York’s Chocolate Story
York’s Chocolate Story is the perfect sweet treat to show your dad and loved ones how much you appreciate them. As an extra special treat, we’re giving away a free Chocolate Bar to every Dad booked into a tour on Father’s Day! AND you can use your Little Vikings Family Card to enjoy a 20% discount on admission to York’s Chocolate Story
Dads go free at Stockeld Park
Use the code DADS23 for FREE entry to dads on Father’s Day weekend (17th/18th June). Visit the Stockeld Park Facebook page for more info.
FREE entry for Dads at Piglets Adventure Farm – Dads, stepdads and grandads go free at Piglets this weekend when accompanied by a pre-booked child, adult or member. Follow Piglets on Facebook for the details
Digital photography course at the North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Treat the father figure in your life to a digital photography course at the NYMR for Father’s Day! Nurture creativity and enhance photography skills with an experienced teacher, and give them the gift of capturing cherished memories. Available at beginner and intermediate levels and includes heritage rail travel for the day. £215 per person; info: https://nymr.link/lvdpc
20% off self-drive boat hire with City Cruises York
Enjoy a unique and memorable experience with City Cruises’ self-drive boat hire, and now get 20% off with code “FATHER20“. Don’t miss out on this offer, valid until June 19th. Explore the waterways at your own pace and make unforgettable memories with family and friends. Visit the website
Afternoon tea and classic cars at Raby Castle
Enjoy a day of classic cars at Raby Castle this Father’s Day! Visitors can expect to see a stunning selection of classic cars in the glorious Deer Park. Also on 16th June, why not head to High Force Hotel for Father’s Day afternoon tea with a twist? Tuck into succulent prime sausage rolls and homemade Scotch Egg and Raby Longhorn roast beef stuffed Yorkshire puddings. It’s the perfect Gentleman’s Afternoon Tea to celebrate Father’s Day.
just Josh’s 10th Birthday Party
After a decade of doing other kids’ parties, top York family entertainer ‘just Josh’ (and two-time winner of the Little Vikings Award for Best Birthday Party Entertainer) has decided that it’s time he had his own! Tickets are now available for this special show which takes place on Sunday 18th June 2023 at Joseph Rowntree Theatre. Buy tickets here
Sunday Lunch voucher at Pearly Cow
With award-winning high-quality meat, Pearly Cow’s Sunday roast promises great things from the off. But there are also the trimmings – the perfected gravies, vegetables, sauces, stuffings and puddings. Vouchers can be purchased from the Pearly Cow website
Book a made-for-men treatment at No1, York
New boutique hotel, No.1, York, on Bootham welcomes non-residents to its stunning below-ground spa (we’ve been – it’s gorgeous). Why not book a Relax Regimen, a made-for-men ritual that includes a back, neck and shoulder massage and facial? You can book a voucher online. No.1, 1 Clifton, York YO30 6AA – Visit the website
Father’s Day Classic Car Show at Castle Howard
Enjoy a spectacular day of motoring heritage at Castle Howard, ideal for enthusiasts, families, and day-trippers, featuring exciting displays of vintage vehicles to classic motorcycles, trade and autojumble stalls, food and drink. Father’s Day at Castle Howard will be automotive heaven as hundreds of classic cars descend on the site offering visitors a great day out. Visit the Castle Howard website for more details
Take a trip on a steam train
All aboard for a family trip to remember on the North York Moors Railway! Kids go free during 2023, keeping down the cost of this wonderful, unique experience. Our favourite route is Pickering to Whitby so we can have a few hours at the seaside (and some fish and chips) too. Visit the NYMR website for details and to book.
Sparkling Sunday lunch at Middletons York
Head to Middletons York – one of the loveliest family-friendly hotels in the city centre – for a Father’s Day Sunday lunch to remember. Visit the Middletons website for more details
Classic car weekend at Brodsworth Hall
Vroom vroom! Visit Brodsworth Hall on 17th & 18th June (10am to 5pm) for a weekend of classic cars. See a variety of cars, from vintage vehicles to modern motors from the 1980s and 1990s. Book in advance to save. Visit the Brodsworth hall website for more info.
Father’s Day pork pie and deli boxes from The Balloon Tree
From ‘Dad’ pork pies to boxes brimming with local produce, give everyone a day off catering and let The Balloon Tree provide the food this Father’s Day. Pre-order online through The Balloon Tree website.
Free beer at The Blue Barbakan
Dads can enjoy a free beer at the wonderful Blue Barbakan on Fossgate. Tuck into delicious rustic Polish food, from pierogi to potato pancakes and stew. There’s a tasty children’s menu too. Visit The Blue Barbakan website.
The ‘Full English’ gift basket from Love Cheese
Who doesn’t love cheese?! Vegans and vegetarians aside, this selection of cheese and mini pork pies from Love Cheese on Gillygate is bound to hit the spot. Visit the website for more info and to book
Father’s Day Gift Bag from Bettys
This selection of Bettys teatime treats is delightful: a tasting selection of hand-finished artisan chocolates joins craft bakers’ buttery Yorkshire Shortbread and indulgent Chocolate & Orange biscuits, to be enjoyed with delicious Colombian coffee. Visit the Bettys website for details and to order.
Go for a lovely walk
If the weather’s good, why not pack a picnic and head out for a walk together? Take a look at our guide to the best places for a family walk in and around York.
Head to the seaside
Grab your buckets and spades and head off to the Yorkshire Coast. Whether you fancy hunting for fossils or hiring a pedalo, here’s our guide to the Yorkshire coast for kids.
