Fun family days out in Yorkshire
Make it a trip to remember! Discover family days out in Yorkshire that you can tag onto your visit to Stump Cross Caverns.
A cracking place to start your Yorkshire Dales adventure
Go underground, overground and everywhere in between.
On the hunt for family days out in Yorkshire that are equal parts fresh air and fun (plus the occasional muddy boot)? Look no further than the Dales.
This stunning region is full of memorable moments waiting to happen for children of all ages – from fairy adventure trails to hikes with llamas. Whether you're local or looking for ideas for a day trip out in Yorkshire, you'll find something for every family to enjoy.
Start at Stump Cross Caverns
Right at the heart of the action is Stump Cross Caverns – a solid choice for anyone looking for magical children's days out in Yorkshire. Step back through the centuries to explore our unique ancient cave network that's been frozen in time for hundreds of thousands of years. It's full of unique rock formations, fossils and other relics of the past.
After you've wandered the mysterious depths, keep the kiddos entertained with a spot of
crystal panning in our very own gem sluice. Or why not try your hand at
digging for fossils?
Always fun – whatever the weather
Our caverns are especially handy for those unpredictable Yorkshire weather forecasts. They give you the option to head underground and still have fun without getting soaked through.
Plus, with a cosy cafe serving up all sorts of goodies and an on-site shop, it's the perfect place to refuel and plan your next move.
Fancy an unforgettable family day out in Yorkshire? It's quick and easy to
book your tickets online.
More family fun near Stump Cross Caverns
Enough about Stump Cross for now. Let us tell you what other delights the Yorkshire Dales has in store for your bunch of intrepid explorers.
Climb the Coldstones Cut
(5 minutes from Stump Cross)
You won't find Yorkshire's most ambitious public sculpture tucked away in a gallery. Oh no – it's carved into the edge of one of the deepest quarries in the UK!
Designed by artist Andrew Sabin, The Coldstones Cut is part monument, part viewing platform and part philosophical wonder. Fair warning: your kids may race up the winding paths like it's an adventure course, but know that there's a real treat waiting at the top for you stragglers at the back. Here, you'll enjoy amazing views over the dramatic Nidderdale countryside while basking in the unique art around you.
Free to enter and open 24/7, it's one of the best cheap family days out in Yorkshire if you like your scenery with a touch of the surreal.
Make friends with the Nidderdale Llamas
(15 minutes from Stump Cross)
If your kids are animal-mad, Nidderdale Llamas is a must-visit. This family-run business offers llama and alpaca trekking experiences in the heart of the Dales.
The llama farmers offer everything from half-hour meet-and-greets to full-on treks through the hills. That means there's an option for all ages and abilities to meet these quirky, gentle animals and enjoy their unique personalities.
Is one of your pack a little scared of these beauties? Don't worry, the sessions are led by friendly staff who make sure everyone feels confident and included.
The kids will come away with fun facts, happy memories and maybe a bit of llama spit (if they're lucky!) The views aren't bad either, with Nidderdale's rolling hills and the occasional curious sheep. It's ideal for kids who love animals but aren't quite ready for a pony ride or something faster-paced. And if you're travelling with teens, don't worry – they may try to act nonchalant, but they're usually won over within five minutes.
Put 'em to work on Hesketh Farm Park
(25 minutes from Stump Cross)
A working farm that's been transformed into a hands-on family attraction, Hesketh Farm Park is ideal for little explorers (and their animal-loving parents!)
There's plenty to enjoy, whatever the weather. Indoors, little ones can let off steam in the play barn. Clear sky? It's time for picnics and outdoor exploring. Tractor rides give young farmers a proper taste of country life, and hands-on animal sessions let kids get stuck in. There's always something fun to try, whether that's brushing ponies, cuddling guinea pigs, collecting eggs or bottle-feeding lambs or calves.
If your children have ever asked where eggs come from or why pigs roll in mud, this is the place to show them firsthand.
Make a splash at Ilkley Pool and Lido
(30 minutes from Stump Cross)
Ilkley Pool and Lido is a classic summer spot with a proper holiday feel. The 1930s lagoon-shaped outdoor pool provides the perfect setting for a good old-fashioned family day out.
It's unheated, so brace yourselves – but on a sunny day, there's nowhere better for a splash and a sunbathe. There's a slide and shallow end that's perfect for younger swimmers, plus a large grassy area where families can picnic and dry off in the sun.
Indoors, there's a separate heated pool, which is handy if the weather changes its mind. It has lovely old-school charm with plenty of space and a laid-back atmosphere that makes it easy to while away a few hours.
Keep an eye out for fun sessions and inflatable days during the school holidays. And pack a towel or two, because chances are, nobody's staying dry for long.
Discover Grassington
(15 minutes from Stump Cross)
This charming village is a lovely mix of the old and the delicious. Kids can peek into England's oldest sweet shop and spot animal carvings on the benches, while grown-ups enjoy a mooch through local bookshops and cafes. And don't miss the Grassington Folk Museum: a small but fascinating stop, packed with historical oddities and old stories from the Dales.
The square often comes alive with markets or seasonal events, so there's usually something to stumble across. Are you visiting in the first two weeks of December? Good news: that's when the Dickensian Festival transforms the village with carol singers, roasted chestnuts and costumed characters. It's a proper festive treat for the whole family.
Unlock the secrets of Skipton Castle
(30 minutes from Stump Cross)
A real-deal medieval castle complete with gloomy dungeons and imposing towers, Skipton Castle is brilliantly preserved and packed with stories. Kids can roam free (within reason!) while learning about knights, kings and legends from times gone by.
a peaceful extra, and the town itself has plenty of cafes for a post-castle treat.
Explore Studfold Adventure Trail
(25 minutes from Stump Cross)
This one's made for curious kids who like to run wild and hunt for fairies.
The Studfold Adventure Trail in Nidderdale brings together nature with a sprinkling of magic. Fairy doors peek out from tree trunks. Ride-on tractors wait in shady clearings. And storytelling corners make space for quiet moments between clue hunts and den building. Around each bend, there's something unexpected to discover, from giant storybooks to secret hideouts.
It's best for younger children, but grown-ups tend to get just as caught up in the fun. Expect mucky boots, big grins and a day that wears your little ones out in the best way.
Book your family day out in Yorkshire at Stump Cross Caverns
Caves, fossils and fairy doors – all in one stop.
Looking for somewhere that feels a bit magical but still sells sausage rolls? Look no further: the best day trips out in Yorkshire start with Stump Cross Caverns.
Our caves are full of weird and wonderful rock formations, but are never scary – even for the most nervous little explorers. Families come for fossil digs and stay for the bragging rights to say they've walked through a cave that's millions of years old.
In one fun-packed afternoon, you can go from sneaking around stalagmites to sipping a nice cup of tea. There's our cosy Time Cafe where you can warm up after your visit, plus a gift shop filled with fossils and pocket-money finds. The car park's just steps away, and the welcome is always genuine. Plus, if the weather changes, you're already under cover.
It's a place that sparks curiosity and sticks in your memory for all the best reasons. Book now and make it part of your Yorkshire Dales story.
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