top Family Attractions in York for summer

York, a historic city nestled in the heart of England, is a fantastic destination for families, offering a wide range of activities for children of all ages. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and fun attractions, there’s plenty to keep young minds entertained during the summer months. Whether your kids are into history, outdoor adventures, or just having fun, York has something for everyone. Here are some of the top things to do in York with kids during the summer.

1. Visit the Jorvik Viking Centre

Step back in time at the Jorvik Viking Centre, one of York’s most popular attractions for families. This immersive experience brings York’s Viking history to life with a combination of interactive exhibits, a recreated Viking-age street, and a thrilling ride that transports you to 10th-century York. Children will love the chance to meet Viking characters, hear about their daily lives, and even explore the streets of Jorvik in a simulated environment. With a mix of history and fun, the Jorvik Viking Centre is a must-visit for families with kids.

2. Explore York Castle Museum

The York Castle Museum is another family-friendly museum that will captivate children with its exciting exhibits and hands-on experiences. The museum’s Victorian street scene is a highlight, allowing kids to wander through a recreated Victorian town, complete with shops and street performers. There are also exhibits on York’s history, including a fascinating section on the city’s role in crime and punishment throughout the ages. With interactive displays, costumed guides, and engaging activities, the York Castle Museum is a great place for kids to learn while having fun.

3. Go on a Ghost Walk

For something a little spookier, consider taking a family-friendly ghost walk around York’s historic streets. York is known as one of the most haunted cities in Europe, and a guided ghost walk offers a fun and slightly eerie way to explore the city. Many of the ghost tours in York are suitable for children, offering fascinating stories about the city’s supernatural history. Along the way, families can visit haunted sites, hear spine-tingling tales, and enjoy the thrill of discovering York’s spooky past. It's a great way to add an element of adventure to your summer trip!

4. Spend a Day at York Maze

For a fun-filled day outdoors, head to York Maze, a fantastic attraction that’s perfect for families with kids. Located just outside the city, York Maze features one of the largest mazes in Europe, which is transformed into a giant puzzle each summer. Kids will love exploring the maze and trying to find their way to the finish. In addition to the maze, there are numerous activities on offer, including a giant jumping pillow, adventure playgrounds, a petting zoo, and various rides. There are also seasonal events like a cornfield maze and themed attractions that change every year, so there’s always something new to discover.

5. Relax in the Museum Gardens

If you’re looking for a more relaxed activity, head to the beautiful Museum Gardens, located next to the Yorkshire Museum. The gardens are an excellent spot for a picnic, offering plenty of open space for kids to run around and play. The park is home to a variety of plants and flowers, as well as historical ruins like the remains of St. Mary’s Abbey. Kids can explore the gardens, spot local wildlife, or enjoy a leisurely stroll around the picturesque grounds. The gardens also host seasonal events, including outdoor theatre performances, which can be a delightful way to enjoy some entertainment in the sunshine.

6. York’s Chocolate Story

For a sweet treat, don’t miss a visit to York’s Chocolate Story, where kids can learn all about the city’s chocolate-making history. York has been home to some of the world’s most famous chocolate brands, including Rowntree’s and Terry’s, and this interactive attraction lets kids discover the history of chocolate and even try their hand at making their own sweet creations. The tour includes plenty of hands-on activities, including the chance to craft your own chocolate bar and watch live demonstrations of how chocolate is made. It’s a fun, educational experience that will leave everyone with a chocolatey smile!

7. Visit the National Railway Museum

For families with train-loving children, the National Railway Museum is an essential stop in York. This free museum is home to a huge collection of iconic trains, from historic steam engines to modern high-speed trains. Kids can climb aboard some of the trains, learn about the history of rail travel, and even enjoy interactive exhibits that teach about the science of trains. The museum also has a dedicated children’s area where little ones can play and explore. During the summer, there are often special events, including train rides and live demonstrations, making it a fantastic family day out.

8. Take a River Cruise

Experience York from a different perspective by taking a relaxing river cruise along the River Ouse. Various boat tours are available, many of which are family-friendly and offer commentary about the city’s history and landmarks. The calm waters of the river provide a peaceful way to take in the views of the city, and kids will enjoy the chance to spot wildlife along the riverbanks. Some boat tours even include refreshments and snacks, making it a pleasant way to spend a few hours on a sunny summer day.

9. Visit the York Dungeon

If your kids are old enough to handle a bit of scary fun, the York Dungeon offers a thrilling experience. Combining live actors, special effects, and historical storytelling, the York Dungeon brings York’s dark history to life. While the content may be a bit too intense for younger children, older kids will enjoy the interactive, spine-chilling experience. The Dungeon features themed areas covering everything from the city’s Viking history to its gruesome past during the plague and witch trials. It’s a fun, slightly spooky way to experience the darker side of York’s history.

10. Play at Rowntree Park

For a day of outdoor fun, Rowntree Park is a wonderful destination for families. Located just a short walk from the city centre, the park has a large playground with swings, slides, and climbing frames, making it an ideal spot for younger children to play. The park also has a boating lake where families can hire pedal boats and enjoy a leisurely ride. During the summer months, the park hosts outdoor events, including music concerts and festivals, so check out the schedule for any exciting activities happening during your visit.

Conclusion

York is a family-friendly destination that offers a wide range of activities for kids of all ages. Whether you’re exploring the city’s rich history, enjoying outdoor adventures, or indulging in some sweet treats, there’s no shortage of fun things to do with kids in York during the summer. From the interactive Jorvik Viking Centre to the thrilling York Maze and relaxing boat cruises, this historic city offers the perfect combination of education, adventure, and entertainment for the whole family to enjoy.