It’s been months in the planning, but we’re delighted to say that the new play area at Yorkshire Air Museum is ready for lift-off! We’ve been along to check it out and it’s excellent. Families visiting the museum can’t miss it: it’s front and centre, right next to the admission desk. Our 8-year-old had great fun clambering on the aeroplane-themed climbing frame, spinning around on the inclusive roundabout and trying out the swings. She gave the whole area a big thumbs-up and told her siblings all about it when we got home.

There’ll be seating for grown-ups, and it’s just a minute’s walk from the NAAFI cafe where there’s plenty of food and drink to take away if you’d like to take the opportunity to refuel. We’ve visited the Air Museum many times over the years, and it’s great to see new family-friendly initiatives. The Hidden Harriers Trail is included in admission and really gets children engaged in their visit as they try to spot the letters around the site, and we’ve yet to take a toddler or pre-schooler who isn’t overawed by the sheer scale of the aircraft. So if you were wondering whether to visit the Yorkshire Air Museum for the first time with your kids, or you’re looking for a reason to return, look no further.

Good to know

• – Admission tickets for Yorkshire Air Museum are valid for 12 months
• – There are regular holiday activities and even a Santa experience, so keep an eye out for that
• – Children under 4 years go free
• – Parking is free

Yorkshire Air Museum, Halifax Way, Elvington, York YO41 4AU – Visit the Yorkshire Air Museum website