The North York Moors National Park is on York’s doorstep, and it’s one of the most stunning areas of the country. It’s amazing walking country for families with children old enough to enjoy exploring, and there are some lovely family-friendly attractions too. Hop on a steam train, count the butterflies at a lavender farm, embark on a family walking or cycling trail and even see the finest view in England! You’ll find our guide to family walks in Dalby Forest and the wider North York Moors here.
Here’s our pick of the best things to do in the North York Moors and Yorkshire Wolds for families.
The North York Moors and Yorkshire Wolds for kids
Castle Howard
Castle Howard is a jewel in North Yorkshire’s crown and it’s perfect for a family day out. There’s woodland to explore, a brilliant adventure playground and regular children’s activities. The house is iconic, and well worth a visit too. York YO60 7DA, UK – Visit the Castle Howard website
Dalby Forest
Dalby Forest is stunning and a great budget option (just pay to park): walk, run or cycle your way around, and don’t miss the family walking trails (you might just spot a Gruffalo!). There’s a cafe, bike hire and Go Ape is on-site too. Dalby Forest Visitor Centre, Dalby Forest, North Yorkshire, YO18 7LT – Visit the Dalby Forest website
Eden Camp
Experience the sights, sounds and smells of life on the Home Front and front line at Eden Camp, the site of an original WW2 Prisoner of War Camp. It’s an immersive experience that the whole family will enjoy and there’s a fab adventure play area too. Eden Camp, Malton YO17 6RT – Visit the Eden Camp website
North Yorkshire Moors Railway
For an experience like no other, climb aboard a steam train on the North York Moors Railway for a magical experience with a hint of Harry Potter. There’s a selection of routes, but we love the Pickering to Whitby journey for some seaside fun. Visit the North Yorkshire Moors Railway website
Woldies Lavender and Nature Farm
Woldie’s Lavender and Nature Farm is packed with fun activities for children. There’s a willow maze, footgolf, outdoor play areas, giant games, a den zone, nature spotting, a miniature train and fields of stunning lavender. Seasonal opening. Wolds Way Lavender, Wintringham, Malton YO17 8HW – Visit the Woldie’s Lavender & Nature Farm website
Sutton Bank
For a bracing walk with beautiful views under an hour from York, Sutton Bank is just the place. Proudly boasting ‘the finest view in England’, there are numerous walking trails, bike hire and a Visitor Centre that’s free to enter. Just pay to park and pull on your walking boots or get on your bikes. Sutton Bank, Thirsk YO7 2EH – Visit the Sutton Bank website
Falling Foss
Falling Foss is a stunning place to visit, just outside Whitby. Walk through the woods, paddle in the stream, look at the pretty waterfall and enjoy a cup of tea or lunch at Falling Foss Tea Garden (seasonal opening hours). Find out more by reading our review. May Beck and Falling Foss, Whitby.
