Free family day out alert! From March 17th to 15th 2026, National Lottery Open Week returns, offering families in York an amazing chance to explore various attractions for free or at a discount. This annual event is a thank you to National Lottery players, whose contributions support numerous good causes across the UK. Here are our highlights around York, and don’t forget to check details before you travel including whether you need to pre-book. Enjoy, and don’t forget to pack the snacks!

The place – With spring arriving now is the perfect time to visit RHS Harlow Carr for just £1 thanks to this year’s National Lottery Open Week. Harlow Carr is a gorgeous place to visit, with loads for children and adults alike to enjoy. Explore the gardens, discover the play areas and refuel at Bettys!

The deal – £1 tickets to all RHS Gardens for National Lottery Open Week, 7 to 14 March 2026. Please bring your valid National Lottery Ticket to the garden. Pre-book online.

Ticket requirements – As above – pre-book here.

Address – RHS Harlow Carr, Harrogate HG3 1QB

Harewood House

The place – From epic outdoor adventures to creative indoor play, Harewood is packed with spaces where families can explore, imagine and burn off energy. It’s gorgeous, and a short drive from York.

The deal – Reduced entry price – adult £9, child £6. One National Lottery ticket or scratchcard is valid for one reduced adult and any accompanying children to get the offer. Additional adults will need their own National Lottery ticket or scratchcard to receive discounted entry – otherwise full price day ticket will be charged on arrival. Valid from 7th to 8th and 13th to 15th March 2026.

Ticket requirements – Bring your Harewood ticket and National Lottery ticket or scratchcard (physical or digital) when you visit. No date restrictions on your National Lottery ticket – as long as you have one, you’re good to go! No need to book in advance.

Address – Harewood House, Harewood, Leeds LS17 9LG

Fountains Abbey

The place – Fountains Abbey is one of the most magnificent places to visit in North Yorkshire, with so much to explore and discover. As well as deer to spot, ruins to run around and streams to throw sticks in, there’s also a fab play area.

The deal – Showing a National Lottery ticket will entitle the player (who must be an adult) and up to 4 children free admission between March 7th to 14th 2026 inclusive.

Ticket requirements – Show a National Lottery ticket/proof of play at the ticket desk.

Address – Fountains, Ripon, HG4 3DY

Goddards

The place – Goddards, the National Trust garden on York’s Tadcaster Road. Admission is for the gardens only (the house is not accessible to the public).

The deal – One adult and up to 4 children get free entry to Goddards on 7th, 8th and 14th March 2026.

Ticket requirements – Show a National Lottery ticket (physical or digital). Each ticket can be used once for free entry. Pre-booking is not required to visit Goddards.

Address – Goddards, 27 Tadcaster Rd, Dringhouses, York YO24 1GG

Beningbrough

The place – Beningbrough Hall, Gallery and Gardens, a lovely National Trust property outside York. Kids will love exploring the gardens, climbing trees and playing in the play area

The deal – One adult and up to 4 children get free entry on 7th and 8th and 11th to 14th March 2026.

Ticket requirements – Show a National Lottery ticket (physical or digital). Each ticket can be used once for free entry.

Address – Beningborough Hall, York, YO30 1DD

RSPB Bempton Cliffs

The place – Bempton Cliffs is a stunning RSPB reserve in Bridlington. It’s one of our favourite spots on the Yorkshire coast, and the perfect place to spot thousands of seabirds (including puffins, depending on the time of year).

The deal – One National Lottery ticket entitles the holder, plus up to one additional adult and three accompanying children to free entry between 7th and 15th March 2026 inclusive.

Ticket requirements – Show a National Lottery ticket (physical or digital). Each ticket can be used once for free entry.

Address – RSPB Bempton Cliffs, Bridlington, YO15 1JF

RSPB Fairburn Ings

The place – RSPB Fairburn Ings is a beautiful place for a family day out, just a short drive from York. There are some lovely, clearly marked paths and lots of wildlife to spot along the way.

The deal – One National Lottery ticket/scratchcard entitles the holder, plus their car occupants, to free parking between 7th and 15th March 2026. Please display proof of play in the windscreen of your vehicle.

Ticket requirements – Show a National Lottery ticket/proof of play in the windscreen of your vehicle.

Address – RSPB Fairburn Ings Visitor Centre, Castleford, WF10 2BH