May half term in York is packed with fun things to do with kids, so why go anyhere else?! It runs from 25th May to 29th May 2026 and there’s plenty going on for families to enjoy. Take a look at our handy guide for our pick of the best, and keep checking back as we’ll keep updating it. Make sure you’re following us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok for daily inspiration too. And if you’ve not signed up for our newsletter yet, what are you waiting for?

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Eboracum Roman Festival

Step back in time as the Eboracum Roman Festival returns, celebrating York’s fascinating Roman past. Once known as Eboracum, the city will come alive with living history, family activities, guided walks and hands-on experiences across a range of venues. With plenty happening over half term, it’s a brilliant way to bring history to life for all ages.

📍 York Museum Gardens and other locations
🗓 16–31 May 2026
ℹ️ yorkshiremuseum.org.uk

Day Out With Thomas on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway

Thomas the Tank Engine is rolling into the North Yorkshire Moors Railway this May for a brilliant day out with the kids. Climb aboard for a real steam train ride behind Thomas, enjoy lively shows, meet favourite characters and get stuck into crafts and fairground fun. Every child leaves with a special Thomas & Friends gift to remember the day.

📍 North Yorkshire Moors Railway, Pickering
🗓 23–27 & 29–31 May 2026
ℹ️ nymr.co.uk

Step back in time at York Castle Museum

York Castle Museum has a brilliant May half term programme, with retro school pudding demos, creative workshops and plenty of hands-on history. Families can enjoy Victorian classroom sessions, prison and Kirkgate talks, activity trails and sensory experiences celebrating York’s chocolate-making past.

📍 York Castle Museum
🗓 Saturday 23 to Sunday 31 May 2026
ℹ️ yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk

WizardFest 2026

York’s festival of wizardry returns this half term, conjured up by The Wizard Walk of York and co-hosted with Little Vikings. Expect a spellbinding mix of magical activities popping up across the city, from wand-waving fun to enchanting entertainment.

📍 Across York city centre
🗓 23–25 May 2026
ℹ️ wizardwalkofyork.com

Making Waves at York Art Gallery

Expect hands-on art sessions, storytelling adventures, live music, printmaking workshops and free outdoor fun in the Japanese Dry Garden. There are also daily drawing activities and short gallery talks, making it a lovely option for creative family days out in York.

📍 York Art Gallery
🗓 23 to 31 May 2026
ℹ️ yorkartgallery.org.uk

Wonderlab & Railway Adventures at the National Railway Museum

Have your mind blown this May half term at the National Railway Museum. Get hands-on in Wonderlab: The Bramall Gallery with 18 interactive challenges, explore the Great Hall’s legendary locomotives including Mallard and the Japanese Bullet Train, and discover more in North Shed. Don’t miss the Flying Scotsman VR Experience for a journey back in time.

📍 National Railway Museum, Leeman Rd, York YO26 4XJ
🗓 23–31 May 2026
ℹ️ railwaymuseum.org.uk

A magical Maytime adventure at Mother Shipton’s Cave

Follow the yellow brick road to an enchanting half term at Mother Shipton’s Cave. Wander through a woodland inspired by The Wizard of Oz and Wicked, with dazzling displays, magical characters and plenty of surprises along the way. Meet the Green Witch, the Good Witch and a jolly Scarecrow, then explore the historic cave, Petrifying Well, playground and riverside walk.

📍Mother Shiptons, High Bridge, Knaresborough HG5 8DD
🗓 23–31 May 2026
ℹ️ mothershipton.co.uk

Meet the Romans at York Minster

Chat to costumed Roman soldiers, handle replica weapons and artefacts and discover the ancient barracks buried beneath York Minster. Drop-in sessions run daily during May half term, and they’re included with a sightseeing ticket. Tickets valid for 12 months, and all under 16s go free (as do York residents).

📍 York Minster, Deangate, York
🗓 May half term, daily, 10am–12.30pm and 1.30pm–3.30pm
ℹ️ yorkminster.org

Foam is back at The Web Adventure Park!

Make a day of it with non-stop fun at The Web Adventure Park this May half term. Your ticket includes indoor play, outdoor adventure areas, role play villages, laser tag and the animal zone, plus unlimited rides throughout the day. Expect magic shows with Dazzling Darren, lively games and the return of the ever-popular foam parties.

📍 The Web Adventure Park, Clifton Park, Wigginton Road, York YO32 2RH
🗓 May half term
⏰ 9:30am – 6pm (rides from 10am, subject to availability)
💸 Book online to save £1 per ticket

May half-term adventures at Piglets Adventure Farm

Watch gravity-defying stunts at the Circus, take part in exciting Circus workshops and Animal Encounters sessions and splash into action at the Beach at Piglets Adventure Farm this half term!
📍 Piglets, Towthorpe Moor Ln, York YO32 9ST
🗓 23–31 May 2026
ℹ️ pigletsadventurefarm.com

River Cruises & Self-Drive Boats with City Cruises York

Ahoy there! Take to the water with City Cruises York for a memorable family adventure. Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the River Ouse with live commentary, or captain your own self-drive boat for a bit more freedom. We’ve tried both and loved them equally. Don’t forget your Little Vikings Family Card for a discount on river cruises this half term.

📍 King’s Staith Landing, King’s Staith, York YO1 9SN
🗓 Cruises daily
ℹ️ citycruises.com/york

May Half Term at York’s Chocolate Story

Uncover the secrets behind the Chocolate City’s past, discover the origins of chocolate, and get hands-on with a range of chocolate-making activities – the perfect family day out this May half term in York!

From Guided Tours and Truffle Rolling to Family Masterclasses, there’s something delicious for everyone to enjoy.

📍 York’s Chocolate Story, King’s Square, York YO1 7LD
🗓 23–31 May 2026
ℹ️ yorkschocolatestory.com

Viking Adventures at JORVIK Viking Centre

Travel back to Viking-age York at the award-winning JORVIK Viking Centre. Hop aboard the time capsule to 10th-century streets, packed with sights, sounds and even the smells of the past. Meet knowledgeable Viking hosts, handle fascinating artefacts and discover what life was really like over 1,000 years ago. Don’t forget you can save 20% on admission with our special Little Vikings Family Card offer.

📍 19 Coppergate, York YO1 9WT
🗓 Open daily
ℹ️ jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk

Hands-on History at DIG

Get stuck into York’s past at DIG, where kids can become archaeologists for the day. Explore four excavation pits packed with Roman, Viking, medieval and Victorian finds, grab a trowel and uncover clues to how people lived through the ages. Use your Little Vikings Family Card to save 20% on admission.

📍 DIG, St Saviour’s Church, St Saviourgate, York YO1 8NN
🗓 Open daily
ℹ️ digyork.co.uk

Potion-Making at The Potions Academy

Enjoy a magical experience at The Potions Academy, perfect for young wizards. Join a spellbinding Potions Class led by a potion master, uncover the secrets of famed alchemist Phileas Fry and mix your own magical creation. Every budding wizard or witch leaves with a potion and a graduate badge.

📍 1st Floor (entrance to rear), 37–38 Shambles, York YO1 7LX
🗓 Selected dates (pre-booking required)
ℹ️ potionscauldron.com

Discover Dreamery Gardens

Explore the magic of Dreamery Gardens (formerly Northwood Trail), a wonderfully enchanting spot for a family day out. Wander woodland paths, spot fairy doors, get lost in the willow maze and enjoy a well-earned stop at the Dreamery Kitchen. A Little Vikings Award winner and a firm family favourite.

📍 Dreamery Gardens, Buttercrambe Moor Woods, Buttercrambe, York YO41 1AP
🗓 Open daily during half term
ℹ️ dreamerygardens.co.uk

Beasts at Barley Hall
Step back in time at Barley Hall, a beautifully restored medieval townhouse tucked away in the city centre. Discover Beasts at Barley Hall, an engaging exhibition exploring the role of animals in medieval life, from everyday pets to mythical creatures. With hands-on activities, audio stories and family-friendly displays, it’s a real hidden gem.

📍 Barley Hall, 2 Coffee Yard, York YO1 8AR
🗓 Open daily
ℹ️ barleyhall.co.uk

The Serpent’s Bite: Taste the Venom, Claim the Power at The Hole in Wand

At the Hole In Wand, this May half-term, claim the power of The Serpent’s Bite. One taste of Serpent’s Venom will grant you the wisdom of ancient snakes, sharpen your Wizard Golf skills and enable you to understand the language of these wise, old creatures.

📍 The Hole in Wand, 14–16 Coppergate Walk, York YO1 9NT
🗓 Open daily
ℹ️ theholeinwand.com

Go for a family walk around York

Spring is the perfect time for a family walk: see the flowers in bloom, keep an eye out for butterflies and enjoy some fresh Yorkshire air. Take a look at our guide to the best places for a family walk in and around York for inspiration for all ages and abilities.

Do the Little Vikings I Spy Trail

Recommended by The Sunday Times, the free Little Vikings I Spy Trail is one of the best ways to explore York on foot with children. Collect a map from the Visit York Information Centre or click here to download it from our website.

Do something active

From clip’n’climb to aqua parks, soft play and swimming, you’ll find a selection of some of the most fun activities in York on our website. Take a look here for our pick of the best.

With the May half-term arriving and summer just around the corner, spending an afternoon on the Ouse is hard to beat when the sun is shining in York. Whether you’re a resident, or just visiting with the kids, getting out on the river offers a lovely change of pace!

If you want to take things easy and give little legs a rest, the York Sightseeing Cruise is a great way for all ages to experience the city’s oldest landmark: the river itself! Grab a cold drink from the onboard bar, sit back together on the open-air deck, and watch the history drift by. There is even a Fish and Chips Cruise if your crew fancies a classic dinner on the water, letting you avoid the hassle of finding a table in a busy restaurant.

For something a bit more hands-on during the school break, you can drive the boat yourself! Hiring a Self-Drive Boat lets you be the captain, steering up to four family members along the river. It gives you the freedom to pack some snacks and explore entirely at your own pace, which is always a bonus when traveling with children.

Later on, swapping a busy pub garden for a breeze on the water is a lovely way for the whole family to wind down. The ‘Alive After Five’ cruise lets you relax and catch the sunset as the city quiets down, making for a peaceful end to the day before heading back!

This is a sponsored post in partnership with our friends at City Cruises York

Looking for what’s on this weekend in York? You’ve come to the right place. If you’re visiting York or lucky enough to call it home, this is your weekly guide to the best things to do in York with kids this weekend. We update it every week with handpicked family events, free fun, rainy-day ideas and lovely days out.

This guide is put together by the Little Vikings team, who spend their weekends doing exactly what you’re probably planning: finding great things to do with kids, making the most of the city or heading out on a day trip. We know that your time is precious – not to mention your money! – so we’ll only share recommendations that we think you’ll love.

⭐ Our Top Pick

Do the Snickelways and Silly Street Names Trail – We might be biased, but the Little Vikings Snickelways and Silly Street Names Trail is a really fun way to explore the city. You’ll see the iconic sights and explore the hidden gems too. Pick up your free map from the Visit York Information Centre on Parliament Street.

💰 Free fun

Make the most of York without spending a penny! Discover the best free things to do in York with kids.

Head into town and see how many of the fantastic grass sculptures you can spot. They’re dotted around the city, adding some colour as well as some really wild selfie opportunities.

☔️ Indoor fun

Perfect for when the weather’s not on your side. Here are lots of ideas for things to do on a rainy day in York, and this is our recommendation for this week.

Swimming is great fun, whatever the weather, and we’re lucky to have great pools on our doorstep. York Leisure Centre, Energise and York Sport are all good options for families.

🌳 Day Trip of the Week

Fancy a little adventure beyond the city? Here’s a lovely family day out from York

For a magical walk that isn’t too long for little legs, Dreamery Gardens is a lovely option. With fairy doors galore, and a few things to do along the way, it’s a lovely place to spend some time. Buttercrambe Moor Woods, Buttercrambe, York, North Yorkshire, YO41 1AP – Find out more

🍰 Eat of the Week

There are loads of family-friendly places to eat in York, and here’s our recommendation of the week.

The Two Hoots ice cream boat is back! What better excuse to head to the Millennium Bridge (weather permitting), pick up a cone and have a nice stroll along the river? Find our best place for ice cream in York here.

😊 Plan Ahead

Not long now until WizardFest, York’s celebration of all things magical. The activities are available for booking now, so don’t delay. Find out more about WizardFest here.

✨ Little Vikings Family Card offer

Free chocolate frog for your child at The Potions Cauldron! Yep, that’s right – show your Little Vikings Family Card and your kids can enjoy a chocolate frog from this magical emporium. See the offer here.

Pick up your Little Vikings Family Card from the Visit York Information Centre for exclusive family discounts and offers across York.

For more inspiration for family days out, trails, events and places to eat, visit little-vikings.co.uk or follow us on Instagram @littlevikingsyork.

This guide was written by the Little Vikings editorial team. Little Vikings is an award-winning, independent guide to the best family-friendly activities in and around York, run by a local family with an in-depth knowledge of brilliant things to do and places to go.

About Little Vikings – York for Kids
Little Vikings is York’s award-winning family guide, run by a local family who know the city inside-out. We explore, review and recommend the best things to do, see, eat and experience with kids in York and beyond.

Where happy girls and boys thrive, The Mount Prep School is proud to be Primary School of the Year 2026 in My Local Awards!

The Mount Prep School offers a remarkable education designed to empower young minds, capture imagination and fulfil potential. Our pupils make the most of every opportunity, both inside and outside the classroom, including Forest School in our leafy acres. We are committed to igniting a lifelong love of learning in every child, fostering exploration and creativity so they can confidently make their mark on the world.

The unique ‘Explore, Discover, Create’ topic-led Prep School curriculum is an innovative way of teaching through independent thinking where curiosity leads the way, hand in hand with our vibrant co-curricular opportunities.

This is underpinned by our Quaker ethos where respect, equality, thinking and living adventurously and making a positive contribution to our changing world alongside striving for personal excellence are key values we all live every day.

The Good Schools Guide describes The Mount as, “a place of calm compassion in the heart of the city” and said, “pupils we met spoke eloquently and with confidence from Prep School onward”.

Nothing beats a visit…

Please sign up here for The Mount’s Open Doors event on Saturday 6 June 2026, 10 am – 12 noon to meet staff and tour the leafy acres, including the brand-new dance studio.

The Romans are marching back into York this spring as the Eboracum Roman Festival returns from 16 to 31 May 2026, with two weeks of events, activities and living history celebrating the city’s fascinating Roman past.

Once known as Eboracum, York was one of the most important cities in Roman Britain, so there’s no better place to step back in time. There’s a packed programme of family activities, expert talks, guided walks and hands-on experiences across venues in the city, with plenty happening during May half term.

Living History Encampment in York Museum Gardens

The highlight of the festival is the Living History Encampment, taking place in York Museum Gardens on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 May 2026.

During the weekend, the gardens will be transformed into a bustling Roman camp where families can meet costumed interpreters and discover what life was really like nearly 2,000 years ago.

Visitors can:

• – Meet Roman soldiers and learn about life in the army
• – Watch re-enactments and demonstrations of Roman life
• – Try Roman-style crafts and activities
• – Handle replica objects from everyday Roman life
• – Take part in mini archaeological digs
• – Join Roman battle activities!

Historians and curators from across York will also be on hand to share fascinating stories and artefacts from the city’s Roman past.

After exploring the festival in the gardens, head into the Yorkshire Museum to see the incredible Roman collection, including a real Roman mosaic! There will also be performances, family activities and hands-on experiences taking place throughout the half-term week. Please note that entry to the Yorkshire Museum and activities taking place within the museum are included in general admission.

A brand new exhibition at the Yorkshire Museum

The festival also coincides with the opening of a major new exhibition at the Yorkshire Museum. Chariots, Treasure and Power: Secrets of the Melsonby Hoard will showcase a remarkable discovery dating back more than 2,000 years, offering a rare glimpse into Iron Age Britain and its connections with the Roman world.

Roman discoveries, walks and activities across York

The festival is a real city-wide collaboration, with partners across York helping bring Roman history to life.

• – York Archaeology will host an archaeology zone during the Living History weekend, sharing Roman discoveries from the region.
• – York Civic Trust will run guided walks throughout the festival, exploring York’s Roman heritage.
• – At York Minster, costumed interpreters from Days Gone By will reveal the Roman history hidden within the site.
• – The University of York will help deliver Roman-themed trails across the city.

Special guest talks

Two much-loved historians will also be appearing at the Yorkshire Museum during the Living History weekend.

• – Greg Jenner, historian, author and host of the You’re Dead to Me podcast, will appear on 23 May.
• – Terry Deary, the much-loved author of Horrible Histories, will give a talk and book signing on 24 May.

Event info

📍 Various venues across York (main events in York Museum Gardens and Yorkshire Museum)
📅 16–31 May 2026
🎟️ Many events free, some ticketed activities
🌐 Website: https://yorkshiremuseum.org.uk

More details about the full festival programme will be announced soon. Follow the festival online for the latest updates.

Spring is in the air, and there’s no better time to head out on a family adventure in York. With longer days, blooming flowers and (hopefully) a bit of sunshine, you’re spoilt for choice this springtime. Whether you fancy meeting some animals, getting out into nature or enjoying North Yorkshire’s best adventure playgrounds, we’ve rounded up ten of the best places for a family day out this spring near York.

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10 gorgeous spring days out in York for kids

1. Awesome adventure playground and wonderful walks at Castle Howard

Castle Howard is a firm favourite for family days out from York, and spring is one of the best times to visit. The gardens burst into colour, Skelf Island, the epic adventure playground, is amazing for kids and it’s always a hit with the grown-ups too. Check out the walled garden, have a stroll around the lakes and spot the swans, and be sure to refuel at one of the cafes (The Boathouse is our top pick). Keep an eye out for special kids’ activities throughout the season. Castle Howard, York YO60 7DA.

2. Baby animals and play at Piglets Adventure Farm

If your little ones love animals and outdoor play, Piglets Adventure Farm is a must-visit. This popular attraction comes to life in the spring with baby lambs you can bottle feed, tractor rides and plenty of space to run around. There’s an indoor play barn if the weather turns, but on sunny days, the bouncing pillows, go-karts, sandpits, ride-ons and fairy trail are all big hits. They even have a fab man-made beach with huts you can hire! Piglets Adventure Farm, Towthorpe Grange, Towthorpe Moor Ln, York YO32 9ST

3. Run around the ruins at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal

For a breathtakingly beautiful day out with plenty to appeal to kids, head to Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal. This National Trust site is perfect for a springtime wander, with its dramatic abbey ruins, scenic gardens and wild deer park. Pack a picnic, bring the scooters and enjoy a relaxing day in one of Yorkshire’s most stunning places. Fountains Abbey, Ripon HG4 3DY

4. Waterfalls and rope swings at Falling Foss

For a magical outdoor adventure, Falling Foss is a hidden gem near Whity. The pretty waterfall, woodland walks and goergoeus Falling Foss Tea Garden (seasonal opening – check before you travel) make it a fantastic spot for a day out. Kids will love paddling in the stream and having a go on the rope swings (they’re dotted around the trees along the walk – keep an eye out). Take a towel, even if you think you won’t be getting in the water! Near Whitby, YO22 5JD

5. Gorgeous gardens and wilderness play at Beningbrough

Beningbrough Hall, with its impressive gardens and adventure and wilderness play area, is one of our top places for a family-friendly day out from York. The lovely gardens are perfect for a springtime wander and to see the seasons change, and a top spot for some tree climbing. Keep an eye out for seasonal trails and activities designed especially for kids. Beningbrough, York YO30 1DD

6. Forest fun at Dalby Forest

If it’s a huge dose of clear Yorkshire air you’re after, Dalby Forest is just the place! Whether your family loves biking, hiking or just playing among the trees, Dalby Forest has something for everyone. There are well-marked trails, fantastic adventure playgrounds and a brand new Room on the Broom Trail! There’s a good cafe, well stocked shop and several streams for paddling in. Pack a picnic and make a full day of it. Dalby Forest, Low Dalby, Pickering YO18 7LT

7. Sewerby Hall and Gardens

Sitting proudly on the Yorkshire coast, Sewerby Hall is a fantastic place to visit in spring. The stately home, beautiful gardens and zoo make it a great mix of history, nature and fun. Enjoy a picnic with stunning sea views, visit the animals, play some gardens games, enjoy the adventure playground and take part in family-friendly activities during the holidays. You can even catch the land train down into Bridlington, which is great fun. Sewerby, Bridlington YO15 1ED

8. Meet cute creatures at Beetle Bank Farm

A lovely family-run farm park on the outskirts of York, Beetle Bank Farm is perfect for young animal lovers. Meet and feed friendly farm animals, enjoy the outdoor play areas and let your kids run free in a safe and welcoming environment. There’s a cafe and a regular programme of activities. It’s a nice, relaxed day out for families with young children. Beetle Bank Farm, Moor Lane, York YO19 5XD

9. Enjoy the magic of Mother Shipton’s

Winner of the Little Vikings Award for Best Magical Experience 2026, Mother Shipton’s is a must-visit for families. Discover the legendary cave and petrifying well and enjoy a scenic walk along the River Nidd. Kids will love the adventure playground, wishing well and regular holiday activities. It’s an enchanting day out with a touch of history and folklore. Mother Shipton’s, Prophecy Lodge, High Bridge, Knaresborough HG5 8DD

10. Clamber and climb at Brimham Rocks

Enjoy an outdoor adventure at Brimham Rocks, a wonderful free day out (just pay to park). These dramatic rock formations are the perfect natural playground for kids to climb, explore and let their imaginations run wild. With miles of walking trails and stunning views, it’s a brilliant spot for an adventurous day out in the fresh air. There’s a takeaway cafe, loos and more places to picnic than you can count. Brimham Rocks, Summerbridge, Harrogate HG3 4DW

Looking for a fun, educational day out for the whole family in York this May half term? JORVIK Viking Centre offers an immersive Viking adventure where you can finally answer the big question in everyone’s house: do you all like Torgils and his dog or Asgeroa best? Or is this just our house?!

Step back in time (you don’t even need to leave York)

The highlight of a visit is the famous underground ride, which recreates everyday life in Viking-Age York. When you arrive our costumed Vikings will be on hand to tell you what life was like in their city of Jorvik. If this feels like a far away place, don’t be fooled, it’s actually the same ground you’ll be standing on. 

Whilst storytelling is a big part of their culture, these Vikings can also show you around their settlement and even into their home. Telling you tales of their neighbours and showing you valuable possessions to paint a picture of their life.

Meet the Vikings your family won’t stop talking about

Once the scene has been set it’s time for you to see, hear and even smell the streets of Jorvik for yourself. 

During your trip on our time cars your family will meet residents such as Torgils the Hunter and his Dog,  Eymund and Karl the Fishermen and Asgerða the Loom Weaver. Each has their own story about what life is like, but, who will be your family’s favourite? Who surprised them the most? And, how would you fare if transported back 1,000 years?

Can you find the famous Viking objects?

There are artefacts in our gallery that JORVIK is famous for but can you find them? There’s hints on the ride, where some are hidden in plain sight, and some are hinted at, not so subtly (looking at you Bogar!). 

Here you’ll find more Vikings on hand to answer questions and tell you more about the life of the Jorvik residents. Don’t miss your chance to get your very own Viking coin struck, the perfect souvenir.

By the end of your visit, don’t be surprised if your children are debating whether they’d be a fisherman, a hunter or a woodturner – and asking when they can come back, of course. 

What to expect

You’ll be inside for your visit so if the Great British weather does its thing you won’t need to worry. We do have spare brollies for while you’re queuing though, so just ask!

JORVIK Viking Centre is actually underground, so we have a lift in reception and we have buggy storage if you need it. 

We have costumed Vikings on-hand to help bring the experience to life for you and the family, and if you need anything else, just ask. 

JORVIK Viking Centre is a multi-sensory experience, including a range of smells on the ride. If this might prove a challenge for anyone we have sensory packs as well as a smell map so they know what’s coming and when their environment might change. 

The experience includes an area with a glass floor and big screen, our ride, which has a wheelchair compatible pod if you need it (please let us know in advance) and our artefact gallery. It’s a brilliant way to bring topics from the Key Stage 1 and 2 history curriculum to life. 

There’s plenty more information, including any accessibility requirements that might be helpful, on our website. 

Booking your ticket to the past is easy (and essential) this May half term

JORVIK Viking Centre is pre-book only and tickets often sell out during school holidays, so visit our website and secure yours. We offer family tickets, under 5’s go free and we have a selection of discounts available. And, did you know your ticket is valid for 12 months?

So, if you’re looking for things to in York with the kids, look no further: book your trip to Viking-age York today.

📍 JORVIK Viking Centre, 19 Coppergate, York YO1 9WT
📅 Open daily
🔗 Book online at jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk

This is a promotional feature in partnership with our friends at York Archaeology

York Minster might sound like one for the grown-ups, but it’s a brilliant family experience when you get it right (and that’s where we come in!). York Minster is a historic cathedral in the heart of York that’s surprisingly family-friendly if you know how to approach it. York Minster is a historic cathedral in the heart of York that’s surprisingly family-friendly, and it’s one of our top things to do in York with kids. The Minster is one of Europe’s largest Gothic cathedrals, with over 800 years of history to explore, regular children’s activities and a tower climb that rewards brave bigger kids with stunning views across the city. Here’s what to expect, and our insider tips to help you make the most of it with the whole family in tow.

Why visit York Minster with kids (and what to expect)

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York Minster is far more family-friendly than it might first appear, so it’s one of those places that tends to surprise people. We’ve visited countless times with our own kids, from babies to toddlers and teens, and there’s genuinely plenty to keep them engaged at every age. It’s also a place that grandparents tend to love, making it a brilliant choice when you’re out with all the generations together.

What kids will actually love

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The Minster is enormous, so it helps to go in with a plan. These are the things that kids will love, so don’t miss them!

Top tips for visiting with kids

1

Give them a mission

Pick up one of the children’s trails at the entrance to make the visit feel like an adventure.

2

Go early

The Minster is a lovely place to visit at any time of day, but it tends to be quieter early on, so arrive in the morning if you can for the best experience.

3

Do the Undercroft

This underground museum is included in your ticket and is genuinely fascinating. There are also lots of hands-on activities for children, too.

4

Check for special events

York Minster runs family-friendly events throughout the year, especially during school holidays. Check what’s on before you visit.

5

Save the Tower for the right age

The Tower Challenge is 275 steep spiral steps with no lift and some tight sections, so it’s not for everyone. Save it until your kids are really ready.

6

Book tickets in advance

By booking online, you’ll skip the queue. This is especially worth doing in school holidays when the Minster gets busy.

7

Hear the bells if you can

The Minster bells ring regularly and hearing them is something really special. Check the bell-ringing schedule on the website and try to time your visit around it.

8

Plan a festive visit

Christmas is our favourite time to visit the Minster. The Christmas Tree Festival is wonderful, and there are special family services too.

If you’re looking for a magical family day out this May half term, there’s no place like Mother Shipton’s Cave. From 23rd to 31st May, the award-winning attraction is inviting families to step into an Emerald Adventure inspired by the timeless world of The Wizard of Oz and the spellbinding charm of Wicked. Expect woodland paths transformed with dazzling pinks, shimmering greens and enchanting surprises around every corner!

A Woodland Full of Magic

As you wander through the forest, you’ll meet a cast of magical characters including the mysterious Green Witch of the Forest, the radiant Good Witch of the Glade and a cheerful Scarecrow. There’ll be plenty of themed scenes, interactive moments and brilliant photo opportunities along the trail, so don’t forget your camera. Families are encouraged to dress up too, whether that’s wonderfully wicked, gloriously good or somewhere in between!

Beyond the half term enchantment, explore England’s Oldest Tourist Attraction, home to the legendary Mother Shipton’s Cave, the Petrifying Well, adventure playground, gift shop and scenic riverside walk.

Win a family ticket for Mother Shipton’s this May half-term!

We’ve teamed up with our friends at Mother Shipton’s to offer one lucky family the chance to visit for free this half-term! Enter our competition to win a family ticket for four. You can enter in any or all of the following ways:

– Follow us on Instagram and follow the instructions.

– Visit our Facebook page, like the post about this competition and comment ‘win’. You’ll need to like/follow the Little Vikings page to be eligible to win, too.

– Visit our Facebook group and comment ‘win’ on the post about this competition

– Follow us on X and retweet the tweet about this competitio

– Email hello@little-vikings.co.uk with your name and postcode

The competition closes at midnight on 15 May 2026 and the winner will be notified shortly thereafter.

The small print

– The prize is as described above

– Not transferable and no cash alternative

– One winner will be chosen at random and notified as to how they can redeem their prize

What do families really think about visiting York Minster? Whether you’ve been recently, it’s been years, or you’ve never visited with the kids, we’d love your input. Take part in our quick York Minster Family Survey to help shape future family-friendly experiences, with the chance to win an annual family ticket and a York Minster teddy.

There’s something pretty special about York Minster, but how does it really feel to visit with children That’s where you come in.

We’ve teamed up with our friends at York Minster to find out what families want, need and love when they visit. Whether you’ve been recently, it’s been a while or you’ve never quite got round to going with the kids, your thoughts will help shape future family experiences at one of York’s most iconic places.

It only takes a few minutes, and every response genuinely makes a difference.

A little thank you for taking part

One family will be chosen at random to win an annual family ticket to York Minster, plus a York Minster teddy to take home!

👉 Click here to fill in the survey

🗓 Deadline: 31 May

Whether you’re planning your first visit or you’re already a fan, this is your chance to have a say and help make York Minster even more welcoming for families.