Family fun doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg – Yorkshire is filled with free days out.
From awe-inspiring museums and art galleries to stunning natural landscapes and parks, there’s no shortage of fantastic and free days out in Yorkshire for the family. So, whether you want an educational adventure or just somewhere the little ones can let off some steam, we have you covered. Where will you be heading off to first?
Royal Armouries
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The Royal Armouries brings medieval England to West Yorkshire. This museum boasts thousands of awesome items, focusing on arms and armour. Check out Japanese samurai swords, marvel at movie props and be sure to check out the humungous armour of an Indian war elephant. With daily live shows, demonstrations and a calendar packed with family-friendly events throughout the year, it’ll bring the history books to life right in front of their eyes.
Royal Armouries Museum, Armouries Drive, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS10 1LT.
Roundhay Park
Spend a day wandering the glorious 700 acres of Roundhay Park with the whole family. Spanning parkland, woodland, gardens, lakes and play areas, it’s sure to be a hit. You can embark on children’s adventure trails, let them run wild in the playground or pack a picnic and unwind with something tasty. With five car parks and good bus links, it’s easy to get to. Plus, if you time your visit right, you might even be able to catch an outdoor concert.
Roundhay Park, Mansion Lane, Roundhay, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS8 2HH.
Leeds City Museum
Trawl a treasure trove of exhibits and collections at Leeds City Museum. It has something to captivate all tastes and interests across the six galleries. See centuries-old fossils in the Life on Earth gallery, explore different cultures and civilisations in the World View and Ancient Worlds gallery, or get to know the city better in the Leeds Story gallery. The top floor also has two temporary exhibitions, meaning there’s often something new to check out here.
Leeds City Museum, Millennium Square, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 8BH.
Leeds Art Gallery
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Looking for free ways to entertain creative young minds in Yorkshire? Leeds Art Gallery has you covered. With arguably one of the finest collections of 20th-century British art outside of the capital, there’s a spectacular array of paintings, sculptures and contemporary works here. Pack a sketchpad and let them be inspired to create their own masterpieces. You can even pop into the beautiful on-site Tiled Hall Cafe for a bite to eat – after all, art is hungry work.
Leeds Art Gallery, The Headrow, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 3AA.
Otley Chevin
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When it comes to free days out in the glorious Yorkshire outdoors, there are few better options than Otley Chevin. It’s open all year round, has five free car parks and you can even bring the pooch, so planning your trip couldn’t be easier. Once you arrive, you can ramble through the 700 acres of wide open space, take in the dazzling views over Wharfe Valley or keep an eye out for rare wildlife – such as the Woodcock and Green Hairstreak Butterfly – that call this designated nature reserver home.
Chevin Forest Park, Wharfe Valley, East Chevin Road, Otley, West Yorkshire, LS21 3DD.
National Science and Media Museum
Want a way to pull your mini movie buff away from the screen? Plan your trip to the National Science and Media Museum in Bradford. This immersive museum aims to inspire future innovators, with galleries across eight floors exploring the impact that sound and image technology has had on our lives. Take in world-famous collections in film, TV and photography and let them engage in activities that will educate and spark imagination.
National Science and Media Museum, Pictureville, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD1 1NQ.
Bradford Industrial Museum
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This is no ordinary museum – Bradford Industrial Museum hosts regular demonstrations of oldey-timey machinery and practices to really take your little one on a journey back in time. Whether they want to see a working blacksmith in action, discover how the mill ran or watch volunteers showcasing their printing skills, they’ll find it here. And that’s not to mention the impressive exhibits of steam-powered engineering, textile machinery and vehicles on permanent display.
Bradford Industrial Museum, 235 Moorside Road, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD2 3HP.
Lister Park
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When you think of free family days out in Yorkshire, parks are probably one of the first things that spring to mind. But not all parks are created equal – with many paling in comparison to the Green-Flag awarded Lister Park in Bradford. The picturesque setting is steeped in history and filled with splendid features and facilities. See the unique stylings of the water garden, take a picnic on the sprawling greens around the bandstand or visit the on-site Cartwright Hall Art Gallery, where you’ll find a permanent display of David Hockney works.
Lister Park, North Park Road, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD9 4NS.
St. Ives Country Park
This rolling, 550-acre country park in Bradford has something for all the family. The lush woodland and beautiful wildflowers make for rewarding walking, with plenty of cycling routes to whizz through. Little ones will be big fans of the state-of-the-art play area, which comes complete with a zip line, tunnel slide and tyre swings. Whether it’s a laidback picnic in scenic settings or somewhere to blow off some steam, St. Ives Country Park makes a great choice for your Yorkshire family day out.
St. Ives Country Park, Harden, Bingley, West Yorkshire, BD16 1AT.
Beaumont Park
An ideal setting for walking, playing and escaping into a creative world, Beaumont Park in Huddersfield offers over 20 acres of beautifully maintained parkland. With thick woodland, grottos, ponds, fountains and ornate features, it’s the ideal place for them to unleash their imagination. And of course, there’s a large children’s play area to enjoy as well. It’s the kind of place you could spend an entire day exploring, and still have plenty of reason to come back for more.
Beaumont Park, Beaumont Park Road, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD4 7AY.
Pugney’s Country Park
Pugney’s Country Park offers some incredible lakeside views and fun activities to create a memorable day out in Wakefield. The 250-acre park is a local nature reserve, so expect to spot plenty of ducks, geese and swans on the circular walking route. There’s also a Pirates Cove Play Area, on-site Boat House Cafe and Pugneys Light Railway – a miniature railway that you can ride for just £2. Be aware, there is a small charge for the car park, but we think it’s more than worth it.
Pugneys Country Park, Asdale Road, Denby Dale Road, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF2 7BN.
Sandal Castle
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Just a hop, skip and jump from Pugneys Country Park is Sandal Castle. These medieval castle ruins overlook the River Calder, offering beautiful views and a fascinating story from the past. Dating back to as early as the 12th century, it played a role in the Wars of the Roses and then fell into decay, before being stripped of its defences and left to become overgrown in 1646. Also offering a setting for a scene in Shakespeare’s Henry VI Part 3 play, it’s a history and literature lesson rolled into one, which you can take in the great outdoors.
Sandal Castle, Manygates Lane, Sandal, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF2 7DS.
Wakefield Museum
Delve into the story of this unique city with a day out at Wakefield Museum. This free museum is an ideal adventure for locals who want the opportunity to learn more about the capital of Yorkshire’s West Riding, from prehistoric times to modern day. With exciting exhibitions and experiences, you can listen to the sounds that forced rhubarb makes as it grows, learn about the region’s love for rugby or imagine what life would be like locked behind bars in Wakefield Jail in the 19th century.
Wakefield Museum, Burton Street, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF1 2UP.
National Coal Mining Museum
Now this is one free attraction in Yorkshire that allows you to dig deep and discover something new. The site of two former working coal mines, the National Coal Mining Museum in Wakefield explores over 200 years of history in coal mining production, as well as its impact on the nation. Admission to the museum, along with some of the surface walks, is completely free. For a small donation, you can also participate in the new Time Tunnel experience, which is temporarily replacing the underground tours.
National Coal Mining Museum, Caphouse Colliery, New Road, Overton, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF4 4RH.
Pontefract Castle
Known as ‘the Key to the North’, Pontefract Castle has served as an important setting for some momentous events in the country’s history. It has witnessed stages of the English Civil War and is thought to have seen the death of King Richard II. Today, these ruins are more about fun than fighting. Climb to the top of the keep to take in stunning countryside views, let the little ones test their skills with civil war training challenges and be fascinated by displays of objects found from around the castle.
Pontefract Castle, Castle Garth, Pontefract, West Yorkshire, WF8 1QH.
Oakwell Country Park
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It’s not hard to see why Oakwell Country Park is such a popular free family day out in Yorkshire. This 110-acre, Green-Flag awarded park is absolutely gorgeous, with nature trails for exploring the landscapes, splendid displays of flora and the imposing Fiddlehead and Fernblades sculpture calling this home. It’s not all about the sights though – you can also get stuck in with walking, mountain biking and clambering around the playground, before refueling at the on-site cafe.
Oakwell Hall and Country Park, Nova Lane, Birstall, Batley, West Yorkshire, WF17 9LF.
Shibden Hall Park
This heritage site is packed with quaint Yorkshire charm. Stroll around the beautiful gardens with the family and spot the fruit trees, enjoy some serenity in the tranquil Wilderness Garden or daydream as you stare across The Mere – a river-like body of water complete with row boats and wild birds. Check out the exhibits on display that showcase dry stone waller craftsmanship or simply let loose and get playful in the play area, with swings, a slide, climbing frames and cable rides.
Shibden Hall Park, Godley Lane, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX3 6XG.
Hardcastle Crags
For adventurous family walks in Yorkshire, you can’t do much better than Hardcastle Crags. This National Trust site in Hebden Bridge is home to some spectacular woodland, along with the imposing, 19th-century Gibson Mill. It’s a steep climb but it’s worth it for the incredible views, with plenty of resident wildlife to keep an eye out for along the way. Make sure you pay a visit to Gibson Mill to check out regular exhibitions and grab a bite to eat at the Weaving Shed Cafe.
Hardcastle Crags, Gibson Mill, Midgehole Road, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire, HX7 7AW.
Valley Gardens
Valley Gardens are wonderfully vibrant, with 17 acres of space for little legs to explore. It’s open all year round and there’s always something to do here. Take in the bright and beautiful flowers, shrubs and plant life or pay a visit to the historic buildings, such as the Sun Pavilion. There are places to grab a refreshment and, in the warmer months, kids can take a dip in the free seasonal paddling pool. Visit on Sunday afternoons in the summer to dance along to free band concerts.
Valley Gardens, Valley Drive, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG1 2SZ.
Druid’s Temple
Don’t be fooled by the name of this North Yorkshire attraction – it’s not actually a temple but rather a 19th-century folly, with stone formations styled after Stonehenge. There’s a lot of myth and intrigue surrounding it, including rumours that a hermit once lived here. Most likely, it was built by a wealthy landowner called Wiliam Danby in the late 1700s, but that doesn’t take away from any of the intrigue. With walking routes and ideal picnic spots, it’s a family day out like no other.
Druid’s Temple, Knowle Lane, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 4JZ.
Skipton Castle Woods
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This rare and ancient woodland spans 37 acres and is sure to enchant visitors of all ages. Dating back thousands of years and home to incredible species of wildlife, it’s easy to feel like you’ve escaped to a completely different world – but it boasts a convenient central location in Skipton. So, take in seasonal displays of 160 species of flowering plants, walk among towering trees and keep an eager eye out for the likes of deer, kingfishers and birds of prey, knowing you’re just a stone’s throw from town.
Skipton Castle Woods, Skipton, North Yorkshire, BD23 1AW.
Hackfall Woods
Hackfall Woods are one of the most beautiful destinations, not just in Yorkshire, but the whole country. A designated Site of Special Scientific Interest, it’s bountiful with woodland, carpets of colourful plantlife and a selection of birds. Visit the running waters of the River Ure to see grey wagtails, kingfishers and common sandpiper as you amble around the walking routes. Discover everything from grottos and waterfalls to rustic temples as you explore this outdoor haven together.
Hackfall Woods, near Grewelthorpe, Masham, North Yorkshire.
The Coldstones Cut
This isn’t your usual art installation. The Coldstone’s Cut in Harrogate is the biggest and highest public artwork in all of God’s Own Country. The monumental installation was created by Andrew Sabin and delivers big on spectacular views. Walk along different platforms to take in the surrounding landscapes, from the quarry hole to the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Beauty. Bring your cameras!
The Coldstones Cut, Greenhow Hill, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 5JL.
Aysgarth Falls
No matter who you are, it’s hard not to be captivated by the roaring, tumbling waters of a waterfall – and Aysgarth Falls takes it to another level. The triple flight waterfall is carved out by the River Ure, stretching for nearly a mile across gorgeous woodland and farmland. Visitors have been bewitched by it for more than 200 years, and away from the waters, there’s lots more to dazzle you, from pretty primrose to glimpses of roe deer.
Aysgarth Falls, Aysgarth Falls National Park Centre, Church Bank, Aysgarth, Leyburn, North Yorkshire, DL8 3TH.
National Railway Museum
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All aboard! Destination: one of Yorkshire’s best family attractions. The National Railway Museum in York is free to visit and tells the fascinating story of rail transport in Britain. Its collections include icons of the railway, displays of engineering brilliance and incredible locomotives, including the likes of the Mallard and the Japanese Bullet Train. With a Wonderlab interactive gallery and Flying Scotsman VR experience for an added cost, this is one day out you won’t want to depart.
National Railway Museum, Leeman Road, York, North Yorkshire, YO26 4XJ.
Peasholm Park
Paddle, pootle and picnic your way around one of Scarborough’s most beloved attractions. Just a short walk from the beach, Peasholm Park is an Oriental-themed municipal park jam-packed with plenty of fun for the family. Adventure around the gardens, walking through tree-lined paths and over miniature bridges. Buy some nuts from the on-site cafe and get up close and personal with the resident squirrels. Or head out onto the water, with dragon pedalos available to rent in the summer months.
Peasholm Park, North Bay Promenade, Scarborough, North Yorkshire, YO12 7TR.
Cannon Hall Museum, Park & Gardens
This idyllic family attraction is great for all seasons. The alluring rooms of the Georgian country house are filled with an astounding array of museum displays and exhibitions. From paintings and ceramics to historic furniture, it’s all here. Head outside to explore 70 acres of parkland and landscaped garden. It comes complete with a shop, cafes and an adventure play area, kitted out with swings, slides and climbing frames. Pack a picnic and make a day of it!
Cannon Hall Museum, Park & Gardens, Bark House Lane, Cawthorne, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S75 4AT.
Experience Barnsley Museum & Discovery Centre
Get hands-on with the history of Barnsley. This museum and discovery centre hosts a rolling programme of exhibits – with some even being created by members of the public. It’s a real love letter to the South Yorkshire town, filled with interactive exhibits and films showcasing its heritage in bright, carefully curated displays. With almost everything here being donated by locals, the unique displays span everything from a Bronze Age spearhead to retro teasmade machines.
Experience Barnsley Museum & Discovery Centre, Town Hall, Church Street, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S70 2TA.
Weston Park Museum
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Want to come face-to-face with a woolly rhino? Curious about Ancient Egypt? Eager to discover the people and stories that have made Sheffield what it is today. You can discover all this and more at Weston Park Museum. Sitting in a beautiful Grade-II listed building, it’s the city’s biggest museum and has a range of permanent and changing exhibitions. From little history buffs to zoological fans, everyone is catered to here, with the on-site Ambulo ready to fill up hungry stomachs.
Weston Park Museum, Western Bank, Mushroom Lane, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S10 2TP.
Rivelin Valley Nature Trail
Walk, run and splash as you make your way through the incredible Rivelin Valley Nature Trail. Traversing from Sheffield to the Peak District National Park, this glorious nature and heritage trail stretches for two-and-a-half miles, with shorter circuit options available for tired legs. There’s lots of flora and fauna here, as well as industrial features, such as watermills and mill dams, along the way. Head to the valley park end for the playground, cafe and a children’s water park.
Rivelin Valley Nature Trail, Rivelin Valley Road, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S6 5FE.
Sheffield Botanical Gardens
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Serving up a slice of bright blooms and botanical brilliance are these Grade-II listed gardens in Sheffield. Just off the bustling Ecclesall Road, it’s a tranquil haven showcasing 5,000 plant species across 19 splendid acres. Go inside the glass pavilions to peruse a pretty plant collection, see a fossil tree that could date back as far as 312 million years and seek out the much-loved Bear Pit. After all that excitement, we recommend grabbing a bite at the on-site cafe or taking a picnic on the sweeping lawns, if the weather permits. Bliss!
Sheffield Botanical Gardens, Clarkehouse Road, Broomhall, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S10 2LN.
Millennium Gallery
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Plonked right in Sheffield city centre, Millennium Gallery is one of the most visited free attractions in the country – and it’s not hard to see why. This premier art destination has two permanent exhibitions exploring the city’s famed metalwork, as well as the ideas of visionary Victorian artist and writer, John Ruskin. Plus, some of the country’s finest touring exhibitions make a stop here, too. During your visit, be sure to hop over to the neighbouring Winter Gardens to kick back in this glorious giant greenhouse.
Millennium Gallery, 48 Arundel Gate, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S1 2PP.
Damflask Reservoir
Need a peaceful setting to calm down those busy little minds? Damflask Reservoir is the answer. A massive 47 hectares of brilliant open water sits within the Peak District National Park boundary, painting the backdrop with luscious countryside views. It offers a moment of serene escape for the family, but if they’re craving some activity, you’re also in luck, as the spot is a popular one for angling and water sports. Or you can simply walk your way towards the charming Low Bradfield village where a hot drink and tasty refreshment awaits.
Damflask Reservoir, Damflask Dam, via the B6077 in the Loxley Valley, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S6 6SQ.
Streetlife Museum
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Enter an immersive world covering over two centuries of transport. Streetlight Museum in Hull showcases some amazing displays across six galleries, from bikes to rare cars, steam-powered vehicles to railways. You’ll truly be transported back in time, with a 1940s street reconstruction and a bold vintage tram that invites you to step aboard. Check out the website to help you plan your trip, as there are always exciting events taking place here throughout the year.
Streetlife Museum, High Street, Hull, East Yorkshire, HU1 1PS.
Hull & East Riding Museum of Archaeology
This free Yorkshire family day out is hand-made for budding archaeologists and natural history enthusiasts. Journey through 235 million years, with compelling displays that include an Iron Age coin hoard, mosaics from a Roman bathhouse and the only dinosaur bones discovered in East Yorkshire. You can even see a woolly mammoth standing tall in all its glory. And that’s just scratching the surface –this absorbing museum really brings history to life.
Hull & East Riding Museum of Archaeology, 36 High Street, Hull, East Yorkshire, HU1 1NQ.
