Things to do in North Yorkshire in January

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Overview

January is a less popular time to visit North Yorkshire.

North Yorkshire has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your January trip to North Yorkshire. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to January. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

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Best events and things to do in North Yorkshire in January

Top experiences in January
We couldn't find any experiences in January
Holidays in North Yorkshire in January
January
  • New Year's Day (January 1)
  • Twelfth Night (January 5)
Other notable holidays
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Best attractions for North Yorkshire in January

Besides the array of exciting events and activities North Yorkshire has to offer for travelers in January, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in North Yorkshire that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in North Yorkshire for January.
National Railway Museum York
1. National Railway Museum York
4.7
(30084)
Rail museum
Museums
Railway history & artefacts, with 300 vehicles including steam world record holder, the Mallard.
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Would highly recommend the Train Museum. We spent many hours walking round and reading the information plaques infront of each train. My son was very impressed with how big trains are up close. The Bullet train was really interesting. There were 2 well stocked cafes and ample seating. The road train back to the Minster was also a highlight. Its free to go but i recommend leaving a donation as they rely on these to keep the trains maintained and new trains coming in the future.
Excellent museum & rich in history. We booked tickets in advance via the website. It is free entry, easily accessible for wheelchairs etc. It does get busy so I would suggest booking tickets & it saves queuing. Within the ground there is plenty to see & I was pleasantly surprised how vast it is. Cafe's are set within the grounds (we had 2 large lattes at £8.10) plenty of seating if you wanted to bring your own pack lunches as many families did or you can order a family pack-lunch on site). Toilets are accessible & clean. There is a museum amongst all the history & this is payable to enter. There is another building across from the main one where you can continue the walkabout & continue viewing the fascinating history also a cafe in here too. I thoroughly enjoyed viewing Queen Victoria history. But there is something for everyone. A delightful way to spend a Sunday afternoon & the staff were very welcoming & polite which was a nice way to start the viewing. You can make a donation to the museum of your choosing & make it via cash or card if you so wish. I highly recommend going & making a day of it, you won't be disappointed. It is a gem of a place. Parking is permit only around the area or you can park on the car-park at a cost of £10 for the day (a very good offer considering entrance to the museum is free). 😊
Amazing experience at this Museum. Very interesting so see trains over 100 years old. Gets busy on weekends. Allow atleast 2-3 hours as minimum just for the museum. Good gift shops inside. Must visit. Free entry. Car park is expensive at £10 a day.
We visited this place last year ! We loved this place ! So many trains and so many nice experiences! A great selections of them and you actually have the chance to get on board. They have a nice dinner too. Museum highlights Iconic locomotives: See famous engines like the world's fastest steam locomotive, the Mallard, and Japan's Shinkansen 'bullet train'. Station Hall: Explore a century of railway life in this reopened gallery, which also houses the world's most extensive collection of royal carriages. Wonderlab: The Bramall Gallery: An interactive, family-friendly exhibit with hands-on science displays. A separate ticket is required for entry. Virtual Reality experience: Experience the history of the world-famous steam locomotive, the Flying Scotsman, in a special VR experience. Railway memorabilia: The museum holds a vast collection of railway artifacts and memorabilia.
Brilliant day out with the kids. Definitely worth a visit. Visited from the west Midlands so we left early in the morning, just so we could get to York with enough time. We did arrive bout 3mins before our timing slot, but we was aloud to walk in. It does get busy then does have quiet bits through out day. Loads to see all throughout. Great viewing platform overlooking York Station. Just a shame the was doing works on the line that weekend when we was there. So only seen a few trains coming and leaving towards Scarborough. We sent at least 4 to 5 hours there. My 3 children enjoyed the whole day out. Took our own pack lunch to save money. Definitely worth a visit.
Great museum for all ages. Apart from seeing the iconic engines, the railway memorabilia area is thoughtfully curated and displayed in an innovative manner. The newly opened Station Hall is well worth a visit with special carriages on display in an atmospheric vintage Station setting. Children can enjoy the ride on the outdoor miniature railway.
A Fascinating Journey Through Railway History. The National Railway Museum in York is an absolute must-visit for anyone interested in history, engineering, or simply looking for a unique and enjoyable day out. The collection is truly impressive — from beautifully restored steam locomotives to sleek modern trains, each exhibit tells a fascinating story about the evolution of rail travel in Britain and around the world. The museum is very well organized. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what they do. It’s also a great place for families — children can climb aboard some of the trains and enjoy hands-on activities that make the experience even more engaging. The museum café and gift shop are also worth visiting, offering good food and lovely souvenirs. Best of all, admission is free, which makes it an incredible value for such a high-quality experience. I highly recommend the National Railway Museum to anyone visiting York — it’s inspiring, educational, and full of charm.
Excellent 👌 staff and free entrance!!! Fantastic well laid out exhibits from all over the world with excellent mixture of relics from a by-gone era. Really impressed 👍 and loan of a mobility scooter if you need.
York Minster
2. York Minster
4.7
(22942)
Cathedral
Sights & Landmarks
Gothic cathedral with vast stained-glass windows, interactive Undercroft exhibition & tower tours.
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Simply amazing. Incredible history and architecture. You could easily spend all day here, it's phenomenal. Lots of staff and guides too at hand to answer questions and provide historical advice and information. The elderly gentleman who was in the underground foundation area providing information on the works to make the foundations safe in the 60's and 70's was amazing. We also paid extra to climb the 275 stairs to the roof which was awesome.
York is a wonderful town and well worth a visit. It's easy to park and the historic center is perfectly easy walkable. And the centerpiece of course is the massive York Minster. It's an Anglican cathedral. The first record of a church on the site dates to 627, but the bulk of the building was constructed between 1220 and 1472.The minster retains most of its medieval stained glass, a significant survival among European churches. The Minster stands tall at a max. tower height of 235 feet (72 m) and is visible from far away. Good if you get lost...just look out for the Minster. And it is a really impressive piece of history, art and architecture. Really amazes you when you first walk up to it. There are so many details to find, to explore. To think how long it's been standing here - surviving quite the fire in 1984. We didn't go in this time around, but that's surely something for another visit. Not sure it's always as windy as it was when we've visited (August), but boy....did it almost blow us away at Precentors Court on the west side of the Minster. So, hold on your hats! Definitely a must do - probably THE must-do when in York.
Visiting York Minster was a truly unforgettable experience! Walking through those magnificent stone arches made me feel completely lost in history. The stained glass windows, shimmering with colour, and the intricate craftsmanship throughout the cathedral left me in awe. The highlight was the climb up the Central Tower. Each step revealed glimpses of the cathedral’s inner structure, offering a rare perspective on its monumental design. Reaching the summit, I was rewarded with the most breathtaking panoramic view of York!
York Minster - A Truly Unforgettable Experience ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ As a Google Maps Contributor with over 6 million views, I’ve had the privilege of exploring some of the world’s most magnificent landmarks, and I can confidently say that York Minster stands in a league of its own. From the moment you approach its towering stone facade, you’re not just seeing a building; you’re witnessing a living, breathing testament to centuries of history, faith, and artistry. What truly sets the Minster apart is its incredible detail. The medieval stained-glass windows, particularly the famous Great East Window, are simply breathtaking. The light pouring through the vibrant, intricate panes tells stories that have captivated visitors for over 600 years. I highly recommend taking your time to study the rich narratives depicted in each section. Beyond the aesthetics, the sense of scale is awe-inspiring. Standing in the central nave, you feel dwarfed by the sheer height and grandeur of the Gothic architecture. A trip up the central tower offers a reward well worth the effort—a 360-degree panoramic view of the historic city of York that is second to none. The staff and volunteers are exceptionally knowledgeable and passionate, making the experience even more enriching. They're more than happy to share historical anecdotes and point out hidden gems. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a traveler in search of a profound experience, a visit to York Minster is an absolute must. It’s an essential pin on any serious reviewer's map.
Beautiful cathedral! Would recommend everyone to see this if in the UK. The architecture was astonishing, both inside and out. So lovely hearing church bells again, it really uplifts the soul. Only thing is it’s expensive to go inside and I would advise you buy tickets before hand.
York minister is an absolutely stunning cathedral, the architecture, stained glass windows and stone carvings are spectacular. The staff are very friendly and there is also a free guided tour. I would definitely recommend, it’s a must see if you visit York.
Hard to stress how important this place is! Walking distance from the Station, its worth the £20 admission fee. There are many medieval Stained glass windows, all worth a close look. The Great East Window, recently restored is a National Treasure, depicting the Revelation, constructed from 1405-8, the single largest expanse of medieval glass in Britain. A long camera lens or binoculars recommended! Dont forget the Zouche chapel and The Chapter House too. Plenty of other interesting things to see as well.
York Minster is an amazing Cathedral, it's like the TARDIS, huge on the inside, but doesn't seem that way from the outside. It's steeped in history and the peace and serenity inside was relaxing. I loved sitting in the Lady Chapel where you can collect your thoughts. The ticket I bought gave me a whole years access, which I thought was brilliant 😊
Shambles
3. Shambles
4.7
(1466)
Notable street
Architectural Buildings
14th-century timber-framed structures overhang this landmark road, once home to many butcher shops.
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Marvelous street to walk, just a bit too crowded: you have to get there really early in the morning or later in the evening (there will still be some people). It's definitely worth visiting!!
Lovely and cozy place to walk around. Very narrow lanes and looks line to be in horror movies streets.nearby many restaurants whee you can have variety and delicious food. Must to visit place
Second time back to York and loved it as much as I did previously. Sadly The Shambles was very much crowded and couldn't get the photos we were wanting to take, but I guess it's a tourist attraction and there are lots who want to go and see this anyways!
A beautiful place. Architecture its moved me in victorian era. How great looks all buildings. Loved it to walk on this street and surrounding.
Wow!!! What a magical street- fantastic if you are a Harry Potter fan!!! We went fairly early in the morning as I can image it would get very busy and crowded later in the day. The Christmas shop …. ❤️ wow!!!
Beautiful buildings, almost like you’ve gone back in time. If you want good photos you have to get there at the crack of dawn before it gets rammed with tourists. I got there at 6:30am to snap these shots. Wonderful
I loved the Shambles. Yes, it is crowded and attracts tourists, that’s no question. But it also has such a fun vibe and great shops. We arrived at 9:15 AM and it was almost empty. We got in line for the Ghost Merchants. Arriving early allows you to enjoy the street before it gets super busy. The eateries were great and the employees at every shop we went to were so kind and welcoming. Our entire experience was excellent. We came back in the evening during a witch tour and it was also quiet. All the shops had shut down and besides the unfortunate scaffolding currently in place, it was also charming and inviting. We did our best to enjoy all the shops (so many great ones!) and avoided any place that would provide royalties to she who shall not be named. Really loved our time here.
Some lovely shops, we waited an hour to get in the ghost merchants but it went quickly and it was worth it. Lovely street just very busy.
York City Walls
4. York City Walls
4.7
(2347)
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Remnants of a stonework enclosure around a rectangular fortification, erected in 71 CE.
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During my visit to York for the day, my overseas friend and I planned to walk the York City Walls and what a lovely experience it was! Made better by the sunshine and clear, blue skies. There were plenty of things to see along the way, and moments where we were able to stop off, take in our surroundings and simply be still, in the moment. At certain points, there are benches to rest and take in the sights and sounds of York. It was fascinating to try and picture, while walking these walls, what life would have been like back then. I found myself wondering throughout the walk "Who once walked these walls?" "Who were they as a person?" "What were they thinking about?" Of course, along the way, you come across the 'bars' which are great to see (came across one, which I didn't know was a cafe!) Although we didn't go inside, it certainly looked quirky! A great place to stop off, for a drink and maybe a slice of cake, before continuing on the adventure! Definitely a great day out, especially for those into history like myself, as there are information boards along the way, telling you about the history of York. And best of all? It's free! So if you fancy taking in the sights of this ancient city, want to learn more about it, and walk in the footsteps of those before us, then I'd recommend walking the York City Walls.
You don’t need to pay to go on the city walls, just walk around the main part of York and find some stairs going up onto the walls which can be found usually at the end of main roads. The York City Walls are a beautiful walk around the city, sometimes the wall is thinner on areas and can only allow single person file, whereas it is larger in other areas. Safe for children, not certain of the ability for those in wheelchairs or prams to use the city walls as I am not sure there was any ramps up onto the walls.
Visited York on many occasions but only now got around to touring the walls. A pleasant walk around the historic edge of the city also provided numerous unique views and perspectives on the history contained within. If you are in the city don't wait as long as I did to discover these sights for yourself.
Do not miss York's Walls. You can walk most of the way around the city, and in the Autumn the leaves of nearby trees look stunning. You need a head for heights, because most of the walls are not protected by railings on the inside edge, with a 3 meter drop to grass or thorns, but nobody seemed worried. The best views are from the highest point of the walls near the railway station, looking towards York Minster. The unexpected bonus is Baile Hill, a FREE mound beside the wall, which I preferred to its more famous cousin, £9-to-enter and no-views Clifford's Tower.
Great walk accessed by steep steps, I was 😍 vilaged to walk one year during sunset which bathed the walls in gold. The walk is free but closed at dusk or in bad weather for safety reasons. The Walk is not complete, some sections demolished, most saved by a Bishop who fought for it not to be demolished.
A free attraction in York which we were happy to take advantage of. We walked the wall route clockwise starting at Bootham Bar. They say these are the most complete city walls in England, personally I’m dubious of this claim as the ones in Chester seem more complete to me, albeit the Chester walls are shorter (2 miles not 3 as in York) whereas the York walls have a couple of significant gaps in them. Nonetheless this was a pleasant walk if you are moderately fit as there are several sets of steps to navigate. There are some sections without inner railings but the drop isn’t a sheer drop, but a grassed slope. If you are lucky, the Tudor ‘Red Tower’ might be open, as was the case on the Saturday we did the walk. Don’t miss the section of Roman wall near the multiangular tower.
The York City Walls (also known as the "Bar Walls") are the most complete and longest medieval town walls in England, running for a circuit of approximately 2 miles (3.4 km) around the historic centre of the city. The elevated walkway is free to access and offers unique views of York Minster and other landmarks. Key Information for Visitors Opening Times: The walls are generally open daily from around 8:00 am to dusk, except on Christmas Day, in very high winds, or in icy/slippery weather conditions when they may be closed for safety. Access: Access to the walkway is via steps at various points, including the main 'bars' (fortified gateways). The walk is not suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs/prams, or dogs (except assistance dogs). Route and Duration: A full circuit can be walked in about two hours at a leisurely pace, but many choose to walk only sections. The route is clearly signposted, with a brass stud trail marking the path where the walls are not continuous at ground level. Main 'Bars' (Gateways): The four principal gatehouses are Bootham Bar, Monk Bar, Walmgate Bar, and Micklegate Bar. Walmgate Bar is the only one in England to retain its barbican (an outer gateway). Points of Interest: The walk offers views of major attractions such as the Multangular Tower (Roman ruins in the Museum Gardens), Clifford's Tower, and York Minster.
Unfortunately, I didn’t get a chance to walk along all the city walls. But anyway, I was on some of them. That’s the best landmark after the York Minster, in my opinion. Speaking of York Minster, you can see it from the city walls. The walls give you a chance to explore the city and also dive into York’s history. There are text boards where you can read about the history of these walls.
York Castle Museum
5. York Castle Museum
4.6
(6834)
Historical place museum
Museums
Victorian-era cobbled street recreated indoors with costumed guides, plus other exhibits.
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Super fun afternoon spent here! Best museum Ive been too. Loved all the interactive bits with the dress up boxes and old games. £17 per adult isn't bad at all considering you can keep returning for 12 months with the same ticket. Will definitely be recommending this attraction.
Well worth the £17 ticket price for this amazing, award winning museum. Built on the site of the original castle, which then became a debtors prison and a women's prison. It was founded in 1938 t house the large collection of objects relating to the study of social history donated by John Lampugh Kirk. Biggest highlights for me was the atmospheric sights and sounds of the Victorian Kirkgate Street with museum staff, actors, in period costume giving their knowledge of the local history. I also loved the experience of the prison with the actors on video speaking about the harsh conditions.
Excellent museum well worth spending several hours going through. It's housed in the former Female Prison (1780) and the Debtor's Prison (1705) both of which have Georgian architecture. I had gone here 50 years ago and remembered the streets and shops of Victorian York they have. It was nice to see it again. The signs are very informative - if you have the time read them.
I am not really one for museums but being on a trip to York it seemed like the Castle Museum would be a good place to go! We spent almost 2 hours in this place and particularly loved the old cobbled street- especially with Xmas decorations! We also really enjoyed the prison with the film clips and some of the interactive activities. Well done for a great museum!
I had a great time here! Decided to visit the Castle Museum rather than the Jorvik on my trip to York because of my interest in the Victorians and was not disappointed. Visited on a Saturday, pre-booked but it wasn't too busy. Loved the Victorian streets, friendly and informative guides, the fashion exhibit, and the old chocolate adverts in the chocolate history section. Also a special mention for the antique 'gamesc machines, really fun that they're all working!
York Castle Museum – Tower Street, YO1 9RY (Visited Tuesday 18th November 2025) This is our own experience with this business, and we know different clients will have different experiences — but we always leave reviews based on the service we received when we ordered or visited. First Impressions From the moment we arrived, the York Castle Museum made a wonderful impression. Rowan at the front counter was friendly, welcoming, and set a positive tone for the visit. The entrance area is well organised, with umbrella stands provided so you can leave your umbrellas to dry before exploring the museum—such a thoughtful touch, especially on a wet November day. Cleanliness & Safety Concerns The museum was clean, well maintained, and easy to navigate. The bathrooms were tidy and thoughtfully set up, with small stools available for children to reach the hand towels or dryers—something we really appreciated. Accessibility is excellent throughout, with ramps, lifts, and easy-access toilets making the entire museum comfortable for wheelchair users and anyone with mobility needs. Food Quality The café is a lovely little spot serving drinks, snacks, crisps, and sandwiches. Perfect for taking a quick break before continuing your visit or at the end. Everything looked fresh and reasonably priced. Ambience & Surroundings Inside the museum, the atmosphere was warm, inviting, and full of character—especially welcome on a cold, rainy day. The displays are incredibly well signposted and wonderfully educational without feeling overwhelming. The Victorian Street area was a real highlight, beautifully dressed up for Christmas and full of charm. Service & Atmosphere The staff throughout the building were fantastic—friendly, approachable, and happy to interact and share knowledge. Rowan in particular was excellent, but everyone we came across added to the positive experience. The museum has a great energy, making it engaging for adults and children alike. Don’t forget to take some 20p and 50p coins—there are old machines dotted around that the kids absolutely loved. Facilities Facilities are excellent: accessible toilets, lifts, ramps, child-friendly features, a cosy café, and well-maintained exhibition spaces. The ticket you buy allows unlimited visits for 12 months, which offers great value. The museum is also just a short walk from the town centre, with a public pay-and-display car park only a few minutes away. A brilliantly laid-out museum with lots to see, do, and learn—we highly recommend a visit, especially with children. I hope this honest review helps others make an informed decision.
Faboulous. The entry fee is well worth the visit. There are 2 halves to the museum. 1 covers different periods of time with memorabilia from ww2 the 60s and more. The other is the replica period rooms and a very well done replica street with bits to explore. Loved it.
I am utterly impressed by the artefacts and realistically arranged rooms from different eras. The clothing section is very comprehensive too. The Victorian street - just perfect. One feels like on a movie set, for lack of closer experience. I spent a ton of time in the museum and would honestly revisit!
JORVIK Viking Centre
6. JORVIK Viking Centre
4.6
(13085)
History museum
Museums
A fully reconstructed Viking village complete with the sights and smells, and an adjoining museum.
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Really good attraction. Very interesting and entertaining few hours. The historical importance of the site is explained to you when you arrive you are then placed in pods which take you around reconstructed villages with commentary explaining what you are looking at. The exhibits are amazing at the end of your journey too. Tickets booked in advance online with discount for students and blue light card. Gift shop is small and expensive but that is often the case at these places. If in York would thoroughly recommend.
Loved this, great ride underground. Children will love the animatronics and smells 🤣 also very interesting and educational. The shopping centre build was postponed for over 5 years while the excavation of Coppergate street took place. 😱
A worthwhile excursion, but not awesome. They do their best to make a good presentation, but as museum experiences go, this is a commercialized and fairly minimalist experience. The staff are friendly, engaging, and informative. There is an off putting chemical smell (likely the smoke machine) in an around the “ride” through the animatronic displays. All in I did learn some interesting information, but I could easily have missed this and not been any worse off for having done so.
Been a number of times and always learn something new. The staff get dressed up and help bring the experience to life. The interactive ride is brilliant and the museum at the end extensive. Fabulous and unique experience
The information that was given by the people running it was very factual. The ride was about 20 minutes long and was also full of information. I can't help but feel like if they used real people at some parts of the ride then it would have been more gripping. But as many I understand with the wage costs it isn't possible. Over all its a quirky little spontaneous thing to do.
Lovely experience! I cannot believe it I was fascinated about the hairy pigs, the fake coins and the skeletons. Very educational for people of all ages! The staffs, please pay them well, as they truly bring this whole experience alive! Especially the guy with the beard minting coins.
I wasn't exactly sure what to expect, but this wasn't it. It was interesting and informative, but I expected more musem and less theme park. The ride is slow and therefore good for people of all ages and even people who have motion sickness. They say you'll be able to smell what the viking village would have been like, but it wasn't very noticeable to me and I have a very sensitive nose. The museum area has some interesting items, but is much smaller than I imagined. The option to have a viking coin pressed right in front of you is unique and is fun souvenir if you collect things. We had a very difficult time hearing the person out front who explains what to expect before you go in. I think it's worth a visit if you're in town, but lower your expectations of what you'll be experiencing. Timed tickets need to be purchased in advance.
Jorvik is a great place to visit. If you prebook your tickets arrive at least 10 minutes before so your tickets can get scanned. There's a great introduction first then onto the rida. At the moment it's set as a winter village so really in keeping with the season. Then after that a walk around the museum with plenty of people to answer any questions.
York's Chocolate Story
7. York's Chocolate Story
4.6
(6440)
Historical place museum
Museums
Tour exploring the history of chocolate & the city's confectioners, with a cafe & shop.
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Austin was a fantastic guide — knowledgeable, friendly, and full of great stories that made the tour even more enjoyable. The tour was not only delicious but also a lot of fun from start to finish, and we even received samples of chocolate along the way. Highly recommend for chocolate lovers and anyone visiting York!
We visited York Chocolate Story yesterday and had a fantastic time on the tour with Amy. The tour itself was informative, interactive, and engaging - and the chocolate tasting was especially enjoyable! Amy's delivery of the tour was equally as engaging, funny, and captivating. The tour was well paced and we felt the experience was good value for money! Staff in the shop were friendly and the variety within the experience was enjoyable. We really enjoyed our visit to the York Chocolate Story and would recommend a visit for all ages!
Very interesting story on 3 floors. (small lift available). Well presented history, but not many seats available in each period room for those with walking sticks. Few free chocolates too. Interesting and unusual chocolate items in shop.
Highly recommend and worth the entry fee. Very informative and interesting tour our guide Josh was engaging and knowledgeable. The exhibits are a mix of fun and Information and very interactive. With lots free sample. We added the truffle making and lolly workshop which was good fun too. I'll add we are 2 fully grown adults and still enjoyed it, so not just for kids.
This hour long tour was interactive & fun for people of all ages. Josh was engaging and entertaining getting everyone involved in the history of chocolate in York! We got lots of tastes and even made our own chocolate lolly. Highly recommend with or without kids.
A lot of fun and very interesting! We were a small group, so it was really intimate, and got to learn a lot about the history of chocolate production in York and how it's developed over time! I'd also signed up for truffle making, which was a lot of fun! Would definitely recommend! Plus, there was plenty in the shop to browse and buy!
York is a beautiful town with lots to see, do and shop. Read good things about York's Chocolate Story. We we travelling with our Bulldog, so we took turns visiting the shop. Got a bunch of chocolate bars (milk, dark and raspberry) and a selection of their pralines. Even though very busy, the staff was very friendly and helpful. Prices are very fair. The chocolate bars were quite good. But maybe not exactly our style. Or maybe I'm biased because I'm Swiss :D But the pralines were divine! Pieces of art. Tasted as amazing as they looked. Really up there with the very best ones we've had yet. All kinds of ingredients and fillings. Just amazingly tasty. Surely we'll be back for more whenever we're back in York.
A fantastic tour with the wonderful Harriet! Her enthusiasm and love for this place was clearly evident. She made the tour worth while. We managed to have our own sneaky tour as no one else turned up but this meant more chocolate throughout. A great way to learn and appreciate the confectionary we enjoy daily.
Whitby Abbey
8. Whitby Abbey
4.6
(14622)
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Perched on a clifftop overlooking the town, these ruins were home to the first known English poet.
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If you’re into gothic style ruin and seaside cliff view, Whitby Abbey is the perfect place. The view and ruin are magnificent. Beside that, you can go to the visitor centre which is very informative about the history. There’s a huge car park so you don’t need to climb up the steps to reach it.
Lovely place to visit. Halloween is a spectacular time to visit. So many people dress up, it's amazing. At night when the Abbey lights up, ghost talks, roast chestnut stands, fire pits and marshmallows. I would suggest any one to go, even with the kids, they will love it - ours did! And Whitby is a beautiful place to see. Lots of places around to go and look at.
Very beautiful historic buildings, lots of people, milling around in strange attire, my travelling companion and I, came to the conclusion it was some sort of erotically themed gothic festival, the fish and chips were splendid, straight from the sea. Parking was initially quite difficult, untill we happened upon a young farmer chap, who allowed us to park in his field for five pounds.
Whitby Abbey is a hauntingly beautiful place — dramatic ruins perched high above the sea with incredible views over the town and coastline. The atmosphere is both peaceful and powerful, especially at sunset. The visitor centre tells the story of the abbey and its connection to Dracula in an engaging way. A perfect mix of history, mystery, and breathtaking scenery — truly unforgettable.
Whitby abbey is a beautiful place to visit, and very interesting even if you are not bothered about Dracula. The abbey is practically nice as it's not restricted and you can explore as you please, seeing some great views of the area and the abbey. The visitor centre has lots of information about various things that have happened around the abbey over the years and there's a fun fact for everyone. The shop is spacious and has some nice objects.
I had the opportunity to visit Whitby during Goth Weekend, and I've always wanted to see the Abbey illuminated. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to enter the Abbey on this occasion due to the large crowds and extensive queue during the event. However, I was able to admire it from outside the walls, and it truly looked absolutely stunning when lit up. While it's a shame I couldn't experience it properly from the inside, the views from the Abbey overlooking Whitby town were quite spectacular.
Several websites entice readers to visit Whitby Abbey and “sink your teeth into years of history”. This figurative phrase is no doubt a nod to the dietary behaviour of Dracula, who has a connection to the Abbey. Whitby Abbey is steeped in history. It also has well-known connections to several literary giants, including Bram Stoker, Sir Walter Scott, and Lewis Carroll. Relatively little of the history or literary ties would be apparent when walking around the ruins, other than some info at the visitor centre. However, one of Whitby Abbey's charms is its gothic beauty on the barren hillside by the sea. Walking through the Whitby Abbey ruins during the day reveals the intricate work of the arches and pillars. But several other UK abbeys overshadow Whitby's relatively smaller size and substance, which makes the price a bit steep, unless you have English Heritage membership. Fortunately, we also visited the previous evening -- after hours, taking pics of Whitby Abbey from outside the stone walls. A glorious May sunset provided more striking illumination of the Abbey’s gothic style. That was also an excellent time to view the adjacent cemetery as well as Whitby town from the hill and to walk down the steps. Only an dozen or so people on the steps or near the Abbey at sunset. The visitor centre has a good display of Abbey information, including literary connections and a 1st edition of Dracula book inscribed and autographed by the author Bram Stoker. Visited in mid-May 2025.
1st time visiting the Abbey it's a bit of a trek upto the abbey itself as you've got to walk up 199 steps the steps are very small so I'd probably say 2 of those are the equivalent to 1 of the steps you have in your house you walk through a graveyard where near enough every headstone that you see is extremely weathered as it's been battered by the elements. It's an amazing place I'd love to have seen it in it's full glory before it got destroyed in the 9th century and then when Henry 8th ordered the dissolution of the monasteries where its valuable parts had been stripped and it was left to decay. It was bombarded by a German battleship in world war 1 where it destroyed much of the west front the abbey was placed under state guardianship in 1919 so it could be repaired stabilization work began a year later in 1920. It's said to be the inspiration behind bram stokers Dracula when he visited Whitby in 1890 more recently it's been used as a filming location for Netflix's Dracula there is a stone coffin in which some people say that it belonged to Dracula himself. It is managed by the English Heritage and if you're a member you can get into the abbey for free.
Peasholm Park
9. Peasholm Park
4.6
(10571)
Park
Nature & Parks
Landscaped park with gardens around a lake, with Japanese statues, pagoda and replica boat battles.
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Gorgeous park with a cafe serving tasty food and drinks including vegan ice-cream. Lots of birds, squirrels and a lake and streams/small waterfalls. We come here every time we holiday in the Scarborough area. There are disabled toilets and my husband can navigate about 95% of the park using his electric wheelchair. There were cute goslings there this time round and there are plenty of ducks, gulls and geese with a few swans also gracing visitors with their regal presence. Definitely worth a visit, with boat rides and picturesque walks etc to keep you active Lots of benches and there are a few covered areas if it starts to rain.
The park has multiple entrances, includes a lake (with island), pedalos (dragon boats), cafe, mini golf etc. We visited straight after having some train rides just over the road. There was a bit of a wait for the dragon boats, but it is the school summer holidays...! We comfortably fitted the whole family in... although I regretted being volunteered by the kids to do the peddling!
Fabulous walk around the lake with paths suitable for all mobilities. Also woodland walks, again with proper paths. Wild animals and water fowl to watch. Plenty of seating. Nice little cafe
Not been for too many years but getting back remember why I love it. The walk around the lake is lovely watching the birds and plenty of seating so you can watch the world go by. Wonderful little piece of tranquility in a crazy world.
Stunning park close to North Bay beach. The park has something for everyone. The main attraction would be the pedal boats. There is an elevated island in the middle with an oriental building to the top. There is ample seating and toilet facilities. You can also observe wildlife here. Very well designed gardens. Great place for family picnics.
Lovely setting. Enjoyed the walk around the lake, Didn't go on the paddle boats but they looked great and didn't seem overly expensive. Really nice Chinese style buildings and a gazebo with a band stand in the middle of the lake.
Big park with a beautiful lake and island in the middle. There is a cafe and toilets, and you can also rent a pedalo. The best part for me was the tree trail. Very relaxing, especially with the wildlife like the squirrels and birds running and flying around.
A little gem of peace and quiet, just a couple of minutes from Scarborough North Beach. We visited in mid-September. Lots of waterfowl, grey squirrels begging for food. There's a cafe with very pleasant, friendly staff and lots of benches to sit and watch the birds on the lake.
North Yorkshire Moors Railway
10. North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Building
Tours
This classic, 18-mi. steam railroad started in 1836 provides scenic rides through a national park.
Fountains Abbey
11. Fountains Abbey
4.8
(7338)
Abbey
Sights & Landmarks
The riverside remains of a medieval abbey form the focal point of an 18th-century landscaped garden.
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What an incredible place, if you are like myself you will need multiple trips to take in everything. We spent the entire day basically going around the ruins and didn't even get chance to go in the Hall or the deer park. Stunning place and it is lovely to see it busy as well, and not to mention how well maintained it is. English heritage and National Trust free entry which is a bonus. Highly recommended place to go and like I said maybe two days to explore the entire site properly but wow you won't regret it.
Wow, what a place! Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Gardens completely blew me away. The abbey ruins are absolutely stunning – huge, dramatic, and full of atmosphere. You can just wander around and lose yourself in the history. The gardens are gorgeous too – so beautifully designed with lakes, statues, little follies, and surprise viewpoints. Catching a glimpse of the abbey from across the water is like something out of a painting. We also spotted deer in the park which was a bit of a treat! Loads of walking routes to choose from, so you can do a quick wander or spend the whole day exploring. There’s also two good on-site cafes, one at the visitor centre, and one lakeside venue. There are also plenty of picnic spots if you bring your own. The whole place is spotless and really well looked after. This was one of the best days out I’ve had in ages – peaceful, scenic, and full of history. It is also a World Heritage Site to boot, so you are in for a treat!
We attends an evening event with a male voice choir which was just lovely. To explore the ruins in the dark/by torchlight gave it a very different feel. The acoustics for the concert were brilliant and gave me goosebumps! We will definitely return in the daytime to see it again. Nice to do something different, we had a great time.
Absolutely Stunning place to visit. The grounds are immense and walks were beautiful. So we'll looked after. I'll definitely be going back to see the rest of it, it is so vast. Tip. Go early and take a pick nic if it's nice, or enjoy the cafe on site.
The Abbey is beautiful and nd there is so much to see in the grounds. The Mill, Hall and the walk by the river through the woods to a lovely view point. The pools and statues are great. There are toilets and cafes in the grounds. Spent 5 hours there and still didn't get to see the deer park and church.
What a magnificent place to visit. Stunning ruins of the Abbey, most of it accessible to visitors young and old. Spread over a vast area. The gardens and water gardens are simply beautiful. You can walk round the water gardens it is a circular route. In places it is not suitable for all , but signs are in place to warn visitors. I highly recommend a visit
Stunning, a fantastic day out, set in a wonderful location, the Abbey remains are just amazing and maintained beautifully. We took the tour with a knowledgeable guide and was well worth it, the architecture is just amazing
Oh!!! What a place. I was not expecting this place to be as large as it was. I am so glad we visited. We came to the area for a couple of days and happened to find this place on Google maps. It didn't disappoint. Plenty of place for the kids, dogs and children at heart to run about and explore and climb. There is a restaurant on site too so you can have a meal after a long walk and explore of the area. By the Abbey there is also a little hut where you can buy drinks, sandwichs, ice cream ect. If I return to this area again. There is an old mill to look around and also a large house to go into with art to see. I will definitely be visiting again. Was 100% worth it. :D lots too see and do. We were here 5 hours
Flamingo Land Resort
12. Flamingo Land Resort
4.1
(10782)
Temporarily Closed
Amusement park
Water & Amusement Parks
Family resort and theme park with rollercoasters, rides for all ages and conservation zoo projects.
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Great theme park & zoo Don't think I've ever come in the 6 week holidays. Arrived at 11 and left at 5pm. Managed 4 rides in 6hours. Ques horrendous during the holidays. Seems there's no cap on entry (which I always thought there was, but maybe wrong) Enjoyed the new upgrade of the zoo area, seal viewing area and what looks to be seating for shows at a later date? Looking forward to seeing the lions getting an upgrade as it does look run down. Wasps ...loads of them blooming things! Overall had a great day. Be prepared to spend £2.30 on a bottle of water and upto £4.60 for a slush. They have now got reusable cups available. 1 for £18, can't remember how much it was for 2 and £36 for 3, this will give you free refills throughout the park, great for a hot day!
We visited Flamingo Land with online tickets. While the children enjoyed themselves, particularly the Peter Rabbit trail and the area around it, the overall experience was disappointing. The atmosphere felt flat, with no fun or engaging music to create excitement. Service near the rides was slow, and since we had online tickets, we didn’t receive a map at the entrance, which made it difficult to know where to go. Considering the high ticket prices, I expected a much better experience. Aside from the Peter Rabbit area, the day felt underwhelming.
We had the best 13th Birthday week in the cottages at Flamingo Land. Immaculate, comfortable accommodation with clean hot tub, right at the entrance to the park. We did a Meerkat experience which was incredible and a tour of the zoo after hours where we fed Giraffes, hung out with hippos and black rhino and stroked white rhino whilst learning so much from Danny, the animal encyclopedia! The rides were all working and really fun and the arcades were great too, not a single complaint! We took a trip over to Alpamare in Scarborough too for a swim and a ride on the slides (also owned by Flamingo Land) My 18 year old didn't want to come but since he's seen what we got up to, he's asking js to book again... and we definitely will!
Flamingo Land is a nice theme park in Malton. Getting here with public transport seems difficult, but it's really comfortable by car. We visited on a rather quiet day, but operations were slow and many of the big coasters were running on one train so we still had to wait a good while on some attractions. Sik was closed for the first half of the day but luckily it was fixed in time so that we could have a ride. Hero was closed all day. I think my biggest problem with this park is that they are really missing that standout coaster that really makes you want to travel to this park. Right now I only really visited because of the quantity of roller coasters. For the ride lineup we really enjoyed Mumbo Jumbo and Kumali, which were conveniently placed close to each other at the back of the park. Sik was a miss for me unfortunately, since I found the lap bars to be more uncomfortable than an over-the-shoulder restraint on e.g. Colossus in Thorpe Park, especially in the 5 heartline rolls. The park is overall quite clean, but the theming is lacking. It kinda feels like a big plaza where all the attractions are just placed down next to each other. Kumali does have a nice atmosphere though running next to the lake and with the big entrance sign. I can't say that I was disappointed, but I probably won't be visiting the park again unless they open a new headlining coaster in the future.
lovely caravans park really comfortable statics and well kitted out. The theme park is a good day out for all the family but a bit disappointing end of season some rides not open and those that were either opening late or closing early because of lack of light this I don't feel is 3.30 which is when most of queues closed. Zoo is good with a good selection of animals and informative keeper talks and various feeding times to be watched
Saved money on tickets by booking through kids pass, no wait to get in but arrived at 9.45 so before it opened at 10. Lots of walking, was a long wait for rides some 85 plus minutes. Really enjoyed the zoo would go again but very long day for under 18month olds not much there for them older children loved it apart from the waiting.
I do not recommend this park, one big scam, 30% of the carousels were closed, the game areas where you could win plush toys were also closed, only two were open, the train was not running, a lot of animals were not available. I took my child for his birthday to have a great time. I paid for everything that was supposed to be available, and almost half of the parks were closed for children. I do not recommend it, I will not return, scammers, avoid this park.
We went to celebrate a birthday. We were able to book concessions for two carers and two disabled people. This was a great start. We were able to book a wheel chair in advance to avoid disappointment, and we joined their virtual queue system so that we weren't waiting long between rides. The lady that served us deserves a shout out as she was fast, yet patient in dealing with us. Her name was Freya. She set the pace and all the staff kept up with her, customer service from all was great. Smiles around. The rides surprised me as a thrill seeker. There was something for everyone, but the thrill rides were very high quality. The only measured issue, is that they can be a bit short, 2 laps would solve this especially on quiet days. Excellent day, will go again
SEA LIFE Scarborough
13. SEA LIFE Scarborough
4.1
(6983)
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Family-friendly exhibits with a variety of sea creatures (most offer play areas & group packages).
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The workers were very kind and passionate people. The exhibits, displays, and touch pool were very well taken care of. I enjoyed the entire experience, though not all animals were available for viewing at the time I arrived. It was a wonder to see the land and sea life at this aquarium. My fave was the chameleon at the rainforest exhibit! And absolutely adored the photos we took at the start of the tour. We just had to buy prints and downloads of the photos. Great experience!
Very good for adults and children. We found it very interesting and factual. We spent two and a half hours here, we didn't rush. You have to pay for parking which is not very much. I would recommend buying tickets online before you go as I paid full price which was £22.00 each. Had i booked online it would have been £16.00. But really good nevertheless.
We really enjoyed our visit to this sea life adventure. Easily accessible from town center via bus, it is open from 11-3. The tickets are affordable. Toilets as you enter and you can also take photographs which you get to buy later on in the trip. So many beautiful aquatic creatures in this well maintained habitat, the staff is very well informed and there are many places to rest during the trip. We spent 3 hours there and could have spent more if the only bus out was not running at 1350 (the next bus is 5 and sea life closes 3). Otter display was closed but the sharks and sea lions were our favorite. We got to see the sharks being fed and the gift shop was reasonably priced. We also met vipers! Each staff member was so friendly and lovely- thank you. Loved our visit and will go again.
Lovely day out for adults and children. Plenty to see and do. I advise coming for 11 am to see the animals being fed throughout the morning. Staff are all very friendly and knowledgeable about the animals, they were all happy to answer questions. We had lunch here also which wasn’t too badly priced and a decent selection available including veggie stuff.
Visited with 2 friends using my Merlin Annual Pass and prebooked tickets to have cheaper tickets. We attended the Seal, Penguin and Shark/Ray feeds and talks. Niamh was amazing. The knowledge provided was educational but also fun. Engaging for both children and adults. Niamh’s visible love for the job made for an energy that was just contagious. She was very friendly and answered questions when asked by anyone. The only negative was that there was construction work being done on the Otter habitat meaning that we were unable to see them. This also meant there was drilling and digging causing loud noises and re-directions around the complex. However this did not affect our day. Just means we will have to come again when it re-opens next year. A Fintastic day was had by us all.
OUT IF THIS WORLD!! I bought special tickets to to feed the Seals as a surprise for our 25th Wedding anniversary. This included a guided tour of the rest of the exhibits and our guide Bev was brilliant. We both use walking aids to get around and we didnt feel rushed. Once we made it to the seals we weee givena bucket of fish to feed them it was great to see them swimming round and catching the fish, we also got to feed the grey mullet. Included in the ticket was admission tickets to look round after the tour and a great breakfast cooked fresh, this was all before the doors actually opened to the public. We had also booked to go to the Deep a few days later, but we found ourselves comparing it to the sealife centre and felt let down because of how great the sealife centre was. If you have the chance to do something special then I recommend paying to feed the Seals. A big thank you to all the staff (especially Bev) at Scarborough Sealife centre for making our visit so special and memorable.
Booked online in advance. I loved this place and the staff are very knowledgeable and approachable, more than happy to answer any questions. So many different things to see and a very good restaurant if wanted or there are picnic tables near the otters to have your own food
Have been here before but definitely almost 20 years ago. Went on a cloudy Thursday, just gone 10 am (all children had gone to school, our 15 year old wasn't starting back until the Friday). Friendly staff, all of them...one guy was telling us some really interesting information regarding the jellyfish, was nice of him to take the time to answer our questions. We were able to walk round leisurely as not hugely busy. Saw the seals being fed and talk by Josh who was funny and knowledgeable. Saw the penguins being fed also, Bev gave that talk I believe. Spent between 2-3 hours here. Daughter loved it as she's a fan of aquariums. Cafe was good, nice selection of regular lunch food, sandwich selection, toasties, hot dogs, chips, nachos, onion rings etc so easy for many "particular" eaters and reasonable pricing. Toilets very clean. We just had to buy the souvenir photos at the end as well 🤣
Scarborough Beach
14. Scarborough Beach
4.6
(5427)
Beach
Outdoor Activities
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Lovely beach, easily accessible and at least a part of it is dog friendly all year round. Much better than Whitby beach, which is not only difficult to access (down many steps/ramps) but only has a tiny section which is dog friendly during the summer, which is not well advertised.
Went on a sunny day but during the evening time, the parking is not so far from here, can park down the road or they have free parking underground after 6pm. The beach was nice and was not so busy but maybe this was on this particular day, the pier side with the shops was really busy. I'm sure if you go during peak sunlight hours it would be a great day out.
My family visited in the summer. The day was sunny but also windy and chilly. Scarborough Beach was beautiful — a lovely spot to enjoy some sunshine and the sea breeze, even though it was far too cold for a swim.
Stunning beach in Scarborough. Easy drive and access from the train station too. The beach is clean and maintained so well, beautiful place and very close to seaside amusements and even a paid and clean toilet. Also it has a lovely view of the lighthouse but not many shells.
Clean beach and nice long beach front for walk. Fantastic hot shower Fecilities could not believe it’s even done sustainable with solar energy .
Had a fantastic day here a lovely place to visit. We went on a coach trip to Scarborough for the day and really enjoyed ourselves, unlike a lot of places there is plenty to do here. We had a great time looking around the shops on the front looking for bargains, all the shops were open which was nice to see. We went on the beach that was Clean. We also went on a speed boat ride (highly recommend) and we also found a great place to eat fish and chips and there was plenty of eating place to choose from. We will definitely go again fantastic day out.
Never been to Scarborough before and didnt realise how big it is. Stayed at the North Bay which has Sea Life and is quieter than the South Bay which has the amusement arcades. In between is Scarborough Castle and a lovely shopping area. Both beaches were very good. From Scarborough there are plenty of places to visit, Whitby, Bridlington, Filey, Robin Hoods Bay. Goid train station & bus services.
Scarborough Beach is a wonderful place to visit, full of tourists, energy, and a very welcoming atmosphere. The beach itself is beautiful, with plenty of new experiences, great people, and excellent food options all around. It is definitely one of the highlights of the town. However, after playing a few games in Gilly’s Casino, I had an unpleasant moment when two employees made a racist comment as I was leaving. I chose to ignore it, but it was disappointing, especially as this was the first time I’ve experienced anything like this in my three years of living here. Overall, Scarborough Beach is an amazing destination that I highly recommend to travelers. It offers a mix of fun, culture, and relaxation, and is truly a must-visit spot despite the isolated negative experience I had at the casino.
Castle Howard
15. Castle Howard
4.6
(8398)
Country house
Sights & Landmarks
Ornate, gilded 18th-century stately home set in landscaped grounds with fountains, trails and lakes.
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A truly wonderful place, worth paying for both the house and gardens ticket if it’s a sunny day and the little boat trip was fun too. Stunning architecture and inside the house is visually impressive too. The gardens are also worth a walk around too, especially with the flowers in bloom. Delicious salad and cakes at the cafe too.
Beautiful gardens and forest. The walled garden is one of the best around. The audio house tour is highly recommended. One can easily spend a day wandering the grounds and forest trails. Excellent farm and garden shop, and a children's play area that makes adults want to join. Excellent cafe. All in all, a wonderful place to wander alone, or for a day out with the entire family.
My second visit after many years. Such a lovely historic building with volunteer staff to tell you about the family, the paintings, and just a wonderful experience all round. The gardens are huge but very well tended. If I get to Yorkshire again it will definitely get another visit. We had lunch there too. Very good food with help yourself to salad stuff. We had the cheese filled jacket potatoes with salad and homemade coleslaw. Too full for sweet but they looked amazing.
Came here to take part in 10k run, so had a lovely opportunity to run all the way round the gardens, and then have a further potter around in the walled garden afterwards, and nip to the cafe, and a peek into the big House itself. The gardens are magnificent, very natural, Capability Brown style. You could certainly imagine two Austen characters galloping across the grounds, laughing as they did so in the warming sun. At least that’s how it felt in October. Would have liked to look more round the house, but in terms of the gardens, and its peacocks, it’s quite superb, and a worthy afternoon out to enjoy it.
I loved the way Castle Howard revealed itself from afar as we approached the estate. That first glimpse of its dome rising through the trees felt almost cinematic — architecture commanding attention even before arrival, framed by rolling fields. The long avenues, historic gatehouses and distant obelisks spoke volumes about the estate’s scale and story. Every angle seemed like a scene waiting to be composed: symmetry, texture, and quiet grandeur unfolding with each turn. Though we did not step inside the House due to time constraints, the drive through the landscape was memorable.
This is the best non- mideval castle in all of Great Britain. While it is 500 years old, it is almost modern in the look and feel. The way it's set up for viewing, you can almost see and hear the family going about their daily routines and lives. The grounds are magnificent and and need to be seen to be fully appreciated. This is a historic site that should be mandatory for everyone visiting England.
If you enjoy a walk round some fabulous gardens, lakes, temples then this is for you. I didn't go in the house as I had a dog with me but the tea rooms, gift shop and farm shop all had something to give you joy. Really worth a visit.
This is my winter return to the camping and touring site at Castle Howard, whilst the facilities are sufficient rather than grand they are kept clean and for us, the whole package deserves five stars. The lake and Castle Howard itself are well worth a visit, I love walking my dogs from the touring site to the Castle . The walk is not easily accessible in parts due to muddy and slippery path sections but for short re-navigations to the road it’s not a problem. The costs to stay here are great compared with CAMC sites and we can’t thank the owners enough for keeping the costs achievable enabling us to visit regularly.
The Forbidden Corner
16. The Forbidden Corner
4.7
(5345)
Water & Amusement Parks
Theme Parks
Originally built as a folly, this family attraction is riddled with statues and unique buildings.
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We had a lovely afternoon wondering around the attractions and getting totally lost at the Forbidden corner. There's lots of weird and wonderful things to do and see. You'll wonder around not knowing where you are or how you ended up where you are only to end up where you were earlier! Very quirky and wacky but wonderfully fun! The coffee was great quality and the play area was a lot of fun for the kids. Priced at the higher end, however it's a very unique attraction so value for money was decent. Would definitely consider visiting again
This is a really fantastic place. Our visit was thoroughly enjoyed by both adults, our 9 year old and our 15 year old. The app is brilliant for solving the quest and although it was busy, the site was not crowded. No queues anywhere. A burst pipe meant that the water was off for a lot of our visit but the staff managed this brilliantly and it did not spoil our experience at all. The gift shop has a wide variety of items and is one of the best I've seen. Would definitely recommend to families of all ages.
Brilliant day out, well worth the money. Full of wonder and mystery, even for grown-ups - and the attention to detail is amazing. The staff are really friendly as well as incredibly helpful. Food is amazing at the cafe attached to the gift shop, with a very good gluten free range as well. And although some of the site is understandably not wheelchair-accessible, it is generally very good for people with limited mobility (however the car park could use a few more disabled bays - despite having a blue badge we had to park in the overflow car park which was quite a walk from the entrance). Overall, though, I rate the Forbidden Corner very highly and would recommend to all ages and tastes. We'll definitely be returning!
Brilliant place to visit. Full of surprises, quirky, funny, spooky, we had a great time. We’ve been visiting since it was a little bit smaller, but now a major tourist attraction. Well worth a visit. Try to go when it’s a little quieter, possibly during the week. It was really busy when we went on a Sunday, but all well mannered. Staff are very friendly and helpful. Beautiful location too in the heart of the Yorkshire dales.
What a fantastic day out for the family! We took our 9 year old son here on the first Sunday of October half-term. We all loved it. There were also much younger and much older children there who were having a great time too. We're looking forward to returning next year.
Great day out for kids and adults alike. A grounds to explore full of whimsical wonder. Not fully suitable for this unsteady of your feet of wheelchairs due to lots of narrow staircases and uneven grounds,although plenty to do on level.floor and beautiful views to enjoy. Great food choices, including gluten free and dairy free options. At a reasonable price too. Myself, my 23 y/o daughter and her partner had a great day out today. Highly recommend
We've been several times before, with friends and for a birthday party. Highly recommended for children over 5 years old as some nooks and dark paths that maybe scary for very little ones. Lots of outdoor paths and the playground is suitable for younger ones. Small Cafe wasn't open this last time that was on the main grounds so had to go back to the main one next to gift shop which was a bit of a trek with 4 hot drinks.
Absolutely incredible installations. Highly recommend this unique and impressive mix of sensory garden, haunted mausoleum and interactive srt installation. Excellent value for money.
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