Yorkshire events and activities for the school summer holidays

The school summer holidays are just around the corner. You know what that means: fish and chips by the seaside, rainy days doing crafts and long, balmy barbecues… or maybe just trying to get your child away from their screen and out into the world.

However you tackle the six weeks off school, you'll certainly need some fun family activities and events up your sleeve. This way, you can keep everyone entertained and inspired as the sunny (and not-so-sunny) days tick by.

We've rounded up some of the best things Yorkshire has to offer during the school holiday period. Read on and start getting that diary filled up…

Museums and historical sites


Stump Cross Caverns

B6265, Greenhow Hill, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate HG3 5JL ( map link )

Here at Stump Cross Caverns, we offer an underground voyage of discovery that's suitable for all ages.

Visit us and you can dive deep into prehistory, learning all about the magical rock formations nestled under your feet in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales.

Throughout August, we run fossil dig activities , where you can hunt for your own fossils and learn all about their ancient past. You might even meet our resident Cavewoman !
Are you looking for a fun and educational trip for the kids that's just as enjoyable and atmospheric for adults? This is the day out you've been searching for.

Book tickets to Stump Cross Caverns online.


JORVIK Viking Centre

19 Coppergate, York YO1 9WT ( map link )

Over the 40 years since the JORVIK Viking Centre opened, more than 20 million visitors have enjoyed discovering an ancient way of life at this reconstructed Viking village.

The family attraction boasts an immersive (and newly upgraded) ride, plus state-of-the-art galleries where you can marvel at the beauty of real ancient Viking artefacts. It promises to transport you to 10th-century York, where you can experience history like never before.

JORVIK has also recorded podcasts , so you can continue on your Viking journey, even after the trip has ended. 


Eden Camp Modern History Museum

Malton YO17 6RT ( map link )

Set on the site of an old WW2 prisoner of war camp, Eden Camp is a truly immersive and interactive museum. Exhibits are brought to life with realistic tableaux, featuring moving figures and sights and smells that will transport you back in time.

Each of the original huts has been painstakingly themed to focus on an aspect of the war. There's the Blitz, women at war and rationing, to name a few. 

The museum will also run special events over the school summer holidays, with various activities and workshops running between Saturday 20 July and Thursday 1 September. They sound like great fun – participants will get the chance to make peg planes, ration biscuits and even egg box tanks.

If you need to refuel after your busy day, head to the themed Bunker Cafe. It's the perfect place to tuck into a ration pack (actually a tasty and fun kids' lunch) or enjoy the other delicious meals on offer.


Leeds City Museum

Millennium Square, Leeds LS2 8BH ( map link )

This free-to-visit attraction in Leeds is an inspiring option for those on a budget. There are six galleries across four floors, each outlining interesting facts about Leeds and its history. 
There are tonnes of events and exhibitions happening over the summer, including craft activities, interesting exhibits (Monopoly and Leeds tattoos, anyone?) and even a pop-up sensory room, designed with SEN children in mind. 

Outdoor fun

If you live in Yorkshire, you're lucky enough to have two beautiful national parks on your doorstep: the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors.

So, whether you're a Yorkshire native or a visitor, why not get out in nature and enjoy some of the more outdoorsy activities on offer? We've listed some of the below. 


Dalby Forest

Near Pickering ( map link )

Managed by Forestry England and set in the stunning North York Moors, Dalby Forest offers lots for children to enjoy.

The forest hosts 13 walking trails and six cycling trails. So, whether you're better on two feet or two wheels, you can really stretch your legs and see something different every time you visit. 

And if you look closely, you might even see a Gruffalo! For young fans, there's a Gruffalo orienteering trail and a Gruffalo party trail, both celebrating 25 years of our furry friend.


You'll also find a fabulous visitor centre and shop, as well as two lovely cafes. If you prefer, you could enjoy a picnic – if the sun's shining.

Hesketh Farm Park

Bolton Abbey, Skipton BD23 6HA ( map link )

Over the way, in the Yorkshire Dales, you'll find Hesketh Farm Park.

Hesketh is a working farm – and owners Chris and Sue are always keen to show visitors just what it's all about. You can meet the animals, stroke and feed them and learn about their lives. You might even get to brush a beautiful Shetland pony.

And in case the beautiful British weather lets you down, there are plenty of covered and heated barns to keep you warm and dry.

As well as the animal experiences, there are other activities for the whole family to enjoy, including tractor rides and a truly brilliant play area. 


Malham Tarn

Near Malham ( map link )

Why not take a hike to the country's highest alkaline lake? It's a truly impressive place.

Managed by the National Trust, Malham Tarn offers accessible boardwalks, a bird hide and ample parking. You can explore it at will, marvel at the natural beauty of the area and enjoy a lakeside picnic.

Now you're full of ideas for what to do over the summer, why not plan your trip and get those tickets booked for Stump Cross today?

We also offer an annual pass option , should you want to visit more regularly. There's plenty to see and do here, so we're sure you'll want to come time and time again.