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 12th 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 the only awards scheme that shines a spotlight on the top places to visit, things to do, classes to join and the best spots for shopping, eating and staying in and around York, all chosen by the people who matter most: families themselves.
A huge thank you to all of our sponsors!
Headline sponsor – Indie York
Indie York is a not-for-profit membership organisation that supports and champions hundreds of York’s independent businesses. These independents are a huge part of what makes the city so special, and we always encourage families to eat, shop, stay and play independently whenever they can. Find out more
Stockeld Park
Stockeld Park is an wonderful family day out, just a short drive from York. Explore the Enchanted Forest, discover the many adventure playgrounds and treat everyone to admission to Playhive, the huge indoor play area. With pretty woodland, a maze and so much to do, it’s a full day out, whatever the weather.
📍 Stockeld Park, Wetherby, North Yorkshire, LS22 4AN
🌐 Visit the website and book tickets
York Leisure Centre
From making a splash in the pools to reaching new heights at Clip ’n Climb, there’s plenty of family fun under one roof at York Leisure Centre. With swimming lessons to Junior Gym and birthday parties, it’s a brilliant place to burn off energy all year.
📍 York Leisure Centre, Kathryn Avenue, Monks Cross, York, YO32 9AF
🌐 Visit the website and book activities
Delta Hotels by Marriott York
With spacious family rooms, an amazing location and a warm welcome, Delta Hotels by Marriott York is a lovely base for exploring the city with children. Overlooking York Racecourse, the hotel has an indoor swimming pool for a splash after sightseeing, gardens to explore and an on-site restaurant.
📍 Delta Hotels by Marriott York, Tadcaster Road, York, YO24 1QQ
🌐 Visit the website and book a stay
The Bloody Tour of York
Step back in time and uncover the dark, twisted history of one of England’s most haunted cities. Led by the infamous Mad Alice or Lady Peckett, this tour reveals spine-chilling tales and blood-curdling secrets lurking within the city’s ancient walls. It’s great fun for fans of Horrible Histories. Find out more
The Yorkshire Foundry
The Yorkshire Foundry is a family-run artisan workshop based on the edge of the North York Moors, specialising in beautifully crafted metal hardware. They produce door knockers, handles and hooks all cast in Yorkshire, blending traditional craftsmanship with eco-conscious design. Find out more
Caramel Cottage Filey
Caramel Cottage is a lovely, three-bed family-friendly cottage in the holiday village of The Bay, Filey. Perfectly located for exploring the Yorkshire coast, you can even take your dog! Find out more
The businesses with the most nominations will be shortlisted, so it’s up to you who makes it! Nominations are open until 31st October 2025, and we will announce the shortlists in November. Winners will be chosen by public vote and announced in the New Year. Nominate in as many, or as few, categories as you like.
The Details
- – How do I nominate? Visit little-vikings.co.uk
- – When do nominations close? 15 November 2026
- – How are finalists chosen? Shortlists will be based on the number of nominations received by our followers – we leave it up to you to tell us what you love. We don’t choose the nominees or winners, and any business or person can be nominated. It doesn’t matter if they have worked with us in the past or not – the awards are a true reflection of what families love in and around York this year.
- – When can we vote for the winners? Once the shortlists are announced, you will have until midnight on New Year’s Eve to vote for your winners. Winners will be announced in the New Year.
