6 amazing natural sights in Yorkshire that are perfect for kids
Looking for things to do in North Yorkshire with the kids in tow? Get your walking boots ready – here are 6 incredible natural sights that are worth a visit.
It's August and the school Summer holidays are upon us. Six weeks of memory-making with your little ones. (Or perhaps it's six weeks of trying to think of things to keep everyone entertained without breaking the bank…)
Here's an idea: why not pull on your wellies and take the little ones on a nature-rich day out? They'll get some fresh air and learn a little about history, geography and geology to boot.
Here are six places in Yorkshire that should give your teenagers a screen break and give your primary-age kids some new places to run, explore and stretch their legs.
1. Brimham Rocks
Brimham Rocks, North Moor Road, Summerbridge, HG3 4DW.
Cost: free to enter. Parking charges apply.
Car park? Yes.
Dog friendly? Yes.
Good to know: there are toilet facilities and a kiosk.
An awe-inspiring geological wonder nestled in the scenic North Yorkshire countryside, Brimham Rocks captivates visitors with its otherworldly beauty. This natural site is an extraordinary collection of bizarre rock formations, sculpted by wind and weather over millions of years.
Standing majestically, the rocks appear as if they were haphazardly stacked by giants. This is a place for kids and big kids to let their imaginations run wild.
The site is owned and operated by The National Trust and as such there are well-maintained trails and platforms to allow visitors to explore the rocks.
It's a paradise for hikers, photographers and anyone wanting to escape into a world of geology and the imagination.
2. Spurn Point
Kilnsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, HU12 0UH.
Cost: free, but some activities and events will incur an extra cost.
Car park? Yes – £5 all day.
Dog friendly? No dogs are permitted.
Good to know: there is a discovery centre, a cafe and toilet facilities.
This is the first of two places on our list that are havens for bird lovers. An iconic and unique geographical feature, Spurn Point stretches approximately three-and-a-half miles off the East Yorkshire Coast into the North Sea. It's a narrow strip of sand and shingle that is ever-changing, shaped over time by tides and storms.
Spurn Point is a National Nature Reserve, meaning the wildlife and habitats there are highly protected. Spurn attracts a wide range of birds including rare visitors during migration season.
The site also boasts an award-winning lighthouse. It served sailors from 1895 until 1985 when it was decommissioned. Last year, it was awarded Lighthouse of the Year by the Association of Lighthouse Keepers. Entry to the Lighthouse is £10 per family (height restrictions apply).
3. Malham Cove
Malham, Skipton, North Yorkshire, BD23 4DJ.
Cost: free to enter. Parking charges apply.
Car park? Yes.
Dog friendly? Yes.
Good to know: the cove and limestone pavement are only accessible on foot, after a walk from the car park through the village. Come prepared!
Malham Cove is a curving cliff of white limestone – a feature of the Yorkshire landscape that formed over millions of years. Atop the cliff is the limestone pavement, which is home to many rare wildflower species.
In more recent times, the limestone pavement has found fame for appearing in
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. (That's one way to encourage your kids to go on a hike. Magic!)
4. Janet's Foss & Gordale Scar
Malham, Yorkshire Dales National Park, BD23 4DL.
Cost: Free. Parking charges apply.
Car park? Yes.
Dog friendly? Yes.
Good to know: enjoy this walk as part of your trip to Malham Cove or as a shorter trip of its own.
If you're paying a visit to Malham Cove, you may wish to take in these two places of interest as part of your trip.
Janet's Foss is a picturesque waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery. It's perfect for a picnic – and offers the perfect excuse to dip your toes in the cool waters.
Gordale Scar is just a short walk away. This awe-inspiring limestone gorge is ideal for adventurous spirits.
On the way, there's lots of wildlife to spot – and great photo opportunities. The natural beauty of Gordale Scar has inspired works by William Wordsworth and JMW Turner.
5. Flamborough Head
Bridlington, East Riding of Yorkshire, YO15 1AR.
Cost: free.
Car park? Several pay-and-display car parks are in the area.
Dog friendly? Yes.
Good to know: North Landing has parking, a cafe and toilets but the walk down to the beach is quite steep. South Landing is a shingle and pebble beach and is accessed via steps.
This is our second recommendation if you love birdwatching. The cliffs at Flamborough – and just up the coast at RSPB Bempton Cliffs – are teeming with gannets, guillemots, puffins and many more seabird species for you to observe.
With two beaches, a lighthouse, rock pools and caves to explore, Flamborough is a great day out for all the family.
6. Stump Cross Caverns
Greenhow Hill, Pateley Bridge, North Yorkshire, HG3 5JL.
Cost: adults £14. Concessions £12. Children £10. Under fours go free.
Car park? Yes.
Dog friendly? No dogs are allowed in the cavern, but they're welcome in the visitors' centre, gift shop and cafe.
Good to know: the self-guided underground tour takes around 40 to 50 minutes. Be sure to wrap up warm.
If you have a budding geologist or historian in the family, then Stump Cross Caverns is an absolute
must. If you're looking for an interactive and engaging day out for all the family, then Stump Cross is for you, too.
Take a trip to discover a prehistoric underground world and learn all about a time before humans, or even dinosaurs, existed. You can take part in a gem discovery dig, pan for gems or take a fun fossil quiz. Every child from three to 13 is given a free activity worksheet and a special prize.
But the star attraction is, of course, our caves. With their stunning rock formations and evocative lighting, they promise an exciting and educational adventure, deep beneath the Yorkshire Dales.
Best of all, you don't have to cross your fingers and wish for sunshine. Because Stump Cross is underground, it makes for a great
rainy-day activity in Yorkshire.
Stump Cross Caverns is open seven days a week, from 9 AM to 6 PM. It's easy to
book your tickets online.
