Summer is a fantastic season filled with longer days, warmer weather, and endless possibilities. However, deciding how to spend your free time can be a little daunting, especially when you have kids to entertain. But fret not; York truly comes alive during the summer, offering plenty of family-friendly activities for you to enjoy. From the ancient cobbled streets to delicious ice cream treats, the charming town may be small, but it has a lot to offer.
Whether you’re a nature lover, looking to broaden your historical knowledge or simply seeking an escape from the mundane, there’s no better place to spend a summer with your family than the beautifully understated city of York. Check out our top family friendly activities below.
1. River Cruise
One of the best ways to take advantage of the cooler weather is by enjoying a relaxing cruise on the River Ouse. Fun and informative, this 45-minute leisurely course comes accompanied by commentary detailing the impressive history and culture of York. It also doesn’t hurt that passengers can enjoy unobstructed views of stunning iconic landmarks such as Clifford’s Tower and the Museum Gardens. The cruise offers parents a fun and exciting way to get their kids to see the city of York from a totally new perspective while also learning some fun facts along the way.
2. Chocolate Bar Making
Unfortunately, Summer in the UK does not always mean sunshine, so if you find yourself experiencing one of those days and are unsure of what to do, why not try your hands at making your own custom chocolate bar at the renowned York Cocoa Works? Along with its charming medieval architecture, York also has a rich chocolate-making history that dates back to the 18th century, when everything from KitKats to Chocolate Oranges were produced in its factories.
The York Cocoa Works offers daily workshops where individuals can learn how to make their own chocolate bars by experimenting with different flavors and learning how to work with tempered chocolate. Moreover, it is also a very informative experience, as participants can discover York’s cocoa origins while biting into their delicious creations.
3. York Maze
The York Maze is an award-winning summer attraction created using over 1 million maize plants. Yes, you read that right. However, contrary to its name, the York Maze is not just the biggest maze in Europe, covering an area larger than eight Wembley football pitches, it also features over 20 other rides, shows, and attractions, including the Volcano Climb and the Corn Snake Tower Slides. Set in the beautiful Yorkshire countryside, just 10 short minutes from the city center, you’ll be sure to have an amazing family day jumping popcorn pillows or racing around the obstacle course.
4. Piglets Adventure Farm
Piglets Adventure Farm has so many exciting activities that we guarantee it will keep your family entertained all day long. Visitors can meet all the adorable farm animals, including donkeys, goats, and cows, by enjoying a relaxing walk along the farmyard trail. Piglets Adventure Farm also has a piglet maternity ward where people can go and see expectant moms and their piglets. The venue has also added fun themed activities, including new rockpools and a cliffside slide, to help all the kids keep cool in the hot summer months. Families can also enjoy tractor rides around the farm, mini golf, or relaxing in a hammock by the beach.
To end the summer season, Piglets Adventure Farm is also welcoming back the Lunar Circus with special guest Fatt Matt. From the 21st of August to the 3rd of September, families can enjoy the jaw-dropping performances of some of the best acrobatics York has to offer. Kids can even enroll in the Circus workshop, where they can learn all about the tricks and stunts performed throughout the show.
