Flip Out Adventure Park, 3-7 Rose Ave, York YO26 6RU

Flip Out, 3-7 Rose Ave, York YO26 6RU

York Explore Library, Library Square, York YO1 7DS

Inside there is a unique Fairy Museum, largely the work and collection of Professor Harvey John Howland, an eminent fairy collector and fellow of the New Society of Arcane and Natural History, connected to both the Pre Raphaelite Brotherhood and New England Transcendentalists. The museum is based in Professor Howland’s old studio and houses some of his writings, drawings and curiosities. The bulk of the collection is made up of carefully restored fairy clothes, shoes, crowns houses and other stunning artefacts. This collection of exquisite miniatures is unlike anything else in the UK and will inspire and inform both children and adults.

Dreamery Kitchen is a new woodland café / bar, where you can enjoy the woods whatever the season. It’s a fabulous place to enjoy your daily coffee (no tickets to the trail are needed), or a stronger tipple by the fire. Striking woodland décor, friendly staff and the best local (organic if possible) food and drink.

Dreamery Gardens is a fantastic place to have a kids’ party and it welcomes schools and homeschooling groups. It’s nature, so be prepared with suitable footwear and if it’s wet, waterproofs or a change of clothes!

Full times and pricing are on the website. All children must be accompanied by an adult, and if you have young children be aware, as there are ponds and ditches within the larger woods.

Check out the website for exciting seasonal events, such as autumn lantern walks in the woods and magical candlelit storytelling with St Nicholaus…

Limited car parking means booking of time slots is in advance and online only, to allow them to manage visitor numbers and ensure a better experience for everyone. Dreamery Gardens is just 15 minutes from the outskirts of York and Malton, just 10 minutes from the A64, it is within easy reach of Hull, Leeds, Harrogate, Middlesborough, Sheffield and Newcastle and less than 2 hours from Manchester.

Good to know – If you want to make a break of it, Dreamery Gardens is also home to the Jollydays Glamping accommodation with its stunning lodges, communal campfire and more.

A visit to Dalby will uncover many magical things such as The Gruffalo orienteering course, Superworm trail, some of the very best mountain biking trails and endless stunning views. Keep your eyes peeled along the way for the unique sculptures dotted throughout the forest, get the adrenaline pumping at Dalby Activity Centre or test your nerve and swing amongst the trees on the Go Ape courses.

Dalby Forest is home to an abundance of internationally important wildlife species and is also a designated Dark Sky Discovery Site, where you can experience the magic of seeing the Milky Way with the naked eye.

In under an hour from York, find yourself embarking on a bike or walking trail (all abilities; clearly marked) or enjoying an amazing adventure playground that’s suitable for all ages. The themed kids’ trails are great fun and reduce the moaning that a long walk usually brings.

Good to know – You only pay for parking, making this a brilliant value day out. Don’t miss the adventure playgrounds, but do venture beyond them as there are lots of things to do in the forest itself. Keep an eye out for special events throughout the year.

Good to know – If you fancy a walk around the grounds, pick up a map at reception. There are a few alternatives depending on how energetic you’re feeling. Free entry to National Trust members.

Keep an eye out for special events, from an annual Tulip Festival, Sunday brass band concerts and children’s events held throughout the year. These include outdoor theatre, children’s crafts and trails.

For more places to walk and for fresh air near York, take a look at our guide.