Ten minutes into this year’s York Theatre Royal and we’d already called it: Jack and the Beanstalk is five-star family entertainment, and one of the best pantos we’ve seen there for years. From the pared-down opening scene, it was clear that this show is doing things differently and better than ever. The York Theatre Royal […]

If you’re looking for an awfully big festive adventure this Christmas, we’ve got just the thing: Christmas in Neverland at Castle Howard. As long-time devotees of Castle Howard’s Christmas experience, we were excited to head along to the preview of this year’s offering to see whether it would live up to our festive expectations (which, […]

Tucked away in Shambles Market, The Dark Horse Espresso Bar has been a magnet for coffee lovers since Laura and family opened the hatch of the horse box a few years ago. We’ve long been fans of their incredible coffee, delicious toasties and sweet treats (the chocolate-dipped Anzac biscuits are so good), so we were […]

The Little Vikings Christmas Countdown is back and it’s a festive giveaway like no other. We’re sprinkling a little festive fairy dust across York this Christmas, giving away an amazing prize every day to one lucky follower. To be in with the best chance of winning: – Keep an eye on our website every day […]

The Little Vikings Christmas Countdown is back and it’s a festive giveaway like no other. We’re sprinkling a little festive fairy dust across York this Christmas, giving away an amazing prize every day to one lucky follower. To be in with the best chance of winning: – Keep an eye on our website every day […]

It was one of the most popular free activities in York last Christmas, and it’s returning for 2023! The York Bid’s giant nutcrackers are returning to the city this festive season and it’s even better than before. Ten unique bespoke nutcrackers, painted by local artists, will be hidden in locations in York just waiting to […]

How would you like to win a month of free bus travel in York? Fill in the quick 2-minute travel survey below to be entered into the prize draw and you could be the lucky winner. Don’t forget to check the terms and conditions here.  While we’re talking all things transport, did you know that up to three […]

It’s that time of year when visions of twinkly, picture-perfect Christmas give way to the reality of the festive end-of-term frenzy. Juggling the shopping, planning and digging out costumes for the kids can all feel a bit much, so it’s a good idea to carve out a little grown-up time to actually sit back and […]

This year, many families are watching the coins (the real ones in their bank accounts and, if our house is anything to go by, the chocolate coins that have been stashed away for later in the month), so we’ve been on the lookout for free and cheap ways to enjoy Christmas in York. The good […]

Loved Luna Cinema this summer? Well it’s back for winter, and it’s under cover! Hosted in the iconic Grade II listed building, with its stunningly decorated high ceilings, beautiful stained-glass windows, and impressive organ, St Saviourgate Church will be transformed into the perfect setting for a cosy winter experience.  What’s on? What’s not! They’re screening […]

There’s something magical about Raby Castle. It’s become a firm favourite for a family day out since we discovered it, and even more so since the opening of The Plotters’ Forest, their brilliant outdoor adventure play area. Set in a beautiful corner of County Durham, it’s a wonderful place to see the seasons change, and […]

Silent night? Not likely. Head along to one of these Christmas shows for full-throttle festive entertainment for the whole family, or head to York Minster for a lovely traditional start to your celebrations. Keep checking back here for our pick of the best pantomimes and Christmas shows in York this year, and the all-important details […]

Good news! After a period of closure, York Castle Museum’s iconic Kirkgate is opening just in time for the festive season. The atmospheric Victorian street really is one of the most magical spots in York at Christmas, with a smattering of snow on the cobbles and vintage shop fronts decked with all the trimmings. Admission […]

Jingle bells! Christmas will be here before we know it, and it’s looking good for a sparkling festive season. As always, there’s plenty of choice of family-friendly Christmas events in and around York for children of all ages, from meetings with Father Christmas to pantomimes and days out with added twinkle. Here’s our pick of […]

The Little Vikings Christmas Countdown is back and it’s a festive giveaway like no other. We’re sprinkling a little festive fairy dust across York this Christmas, giving away an amazing prize every day to one lucky follower. To be in with the best chance of winning: – Keep an eye on our website every day […]

Win four VIP tickets for The Cauldron Experience at The Potions Cauldron York The Little Vikings Christmas Countdown is back and it’s a festive giveaway like no other. We’re sprinkling a little festive fairy dust across York this Christmas, giving away an amazing prize every day to one lucky follower. To be in with the […]

Loved Luna Cinema this summer? Well it’s back for winter, and it’s under cover! Hosted in the iconic Grade II listed building, with its stunningly decorated high ceilings, beautiful stained-glass windows, and impressive organ, St Saviourgate Church will be transformed into the perfect setting for a cosy winter experience.  What’s on? What’s not! They’re screening […]

The Little Vikings Awards 2024 shortlists announced! Voting is now open Drumroll, please……We’re delighted to reveal the shortlists of the Little Vikings Awards 2024, sponsored by The Yorkshire Museum! Now in its ninth year, the Little Vikings Awards is the only awards scheme to reward the very best of family-friendly York, from the best family-friendly […]

Win a family ticket for Christmas in Neverland at Castle Howard! We’re excited to announce the return of the Little Vikings Christmas Countdown, a festive giveaway like no other. We’ll be sprinkling a little festive fairy dust across York this Christmas, giving away an amazing prize every day to one lucky follower. No spoilers, but […]

Sweet news, cake fans! Mama Doreen’s, the popular independent cake emporium, is expanding its little empire with a brand new restaurant in York. Hailing from Harrogate, Mama Doreen’s is much loved for its beautiful cupcakes, creative afternoon teas and incredible celebration cakes. As well as brunch, lunch and afternoon tea, there’ll be seasonal variations to […]