A brand new way to explore York with the family has just launched, and it’s lovely! The York Rivers Trail follows the River Ouse, linking parks, green spaces and stories across the city. Even better, it’s completely free.

Kids can talk to the river on your phone, spot the sculptural viewing frames at Leeman Park and Tower Gardens, and collect a trail sticker along the way, keeping them engaged and involved. There’s no booking needed, just start anywhere along the river and go at your own pace.

Launching just in time for the summer holidays in York, it’s an ideal activity for families with children aged 0 to 11, whether you’ve got twenty minutes or a whole afternoon to fill.

There’s also a lovely event to look out for. On 25 July, Rowntree Park will host a family clay workshop where kids can make their own “river messenger” inspired by the Ouse’s stories (morning session, roughly 10am to 12pm). More events are being confirmed for later in July, so we’ll keep this updated.

📍 Along the River Ouse, York (Leeman Park and Tower Gardens for viewing frames)
🗓 Trail now open
ℹ️ york.gov.uk/YorkRiversTrail, share your photos using #Yorkriverstrail