Beamish - The Living Museum of the North, DH9 0RG
http://www.beamish.org.uk
Just 12 miles northwest of Durham, Beamish offers a unique day out for all ages. This award-winning open-air museum brings the past to life, showcasing everyday life in North East England from the 1820s to the 1950s. Covering 350 acres, Beamish is best enjoyed as a full-day visit. Explore original and recreated buildings, including an Edwardian town, 1940s farm, coal mine, school, and more. Ride on heritage trams and vintage buses, meet costumed guides, and don’t miss the traditional sweet-making demonstrations at Jubilee Confectioners.
Big Sheep Little Cow, Bedale, DL8 1AW
http://www.bigsheeplittlecow.co.uk
Located just outside Bedale, Big Sheep Little Cow is a friendly, family-run farm offering hands-on animal experiences and plenty of indoor and outdoor play. Join a guided tour to meet the animals – with seasonal highlights like bottle-feeding lambs – and enjoy the indoor play barn, sack slides, and go-kart track.
Flamingo Land, Malton, YO17 6UX
http://www.flamingoland.co.uk
Located near Malton, Flamingo Land offers a full day of fun with over 50 rides and attractions, including record-breaking roller coasters like Mumbo Jumbo and Sik. The park features themed zones for all ages, from thrill rides to the Peter Rabbit Adventure. Alongside the excitement is one of the UK’s most-visited zoos, home to over 140 animal species and involved in international conservation programmes.
The Forbidden Corner, near Middleham, DL8 4TJ
http://www.theforbiddencorner.co.uk
The Forbidden Corner is a unique labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, follies, and surprises located in Tupgill Park, near Middleham in the Yorkshire Dales. This four-acre garden is filled with eccentric sculptures, hidden passages, and whimsical installations that delight visitors of all ages. Highlights include the Temple of the Underworld, a glass pyramid, and talking trees.
Horse racing
Yorkshire boasts a rich horse racing heritage, featuring nine distinguished racecourses that collectively host approximately 180 race days annually.
Flat Racing Venues: Beverley, Pontefract, Redcar, Ripon, Thirsk, and York specialize in flat racing, offering a variety of events throughout the season.
Jump Racing Venues: Wetherby is dedicated exclusively to National Hunt (jump) racing, providing thrilling events for enthusiasts.
Dual-Purpose Venues: Catterick and Doncaster accommodate both flat and jump racing, ensuring a diverse racing calendar year-round.
For detailed information on fixtures, events, and ticketing, please visit the official websites of the respective racecourses.
Lightwater Valley, near Ripon, HG4 3HT
http://www.lightwatervalley.co.uk
Situated near Ripon, Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park is tailored for families with children under 12. The park features over 35 rides and attractions, including the new Jeep Safari, Splash Falls water slides, and the Lightwater Express Train. Themed areas like Skeleton Cove and Dino-Roar Adventures offer immersive experiences, while daily entertainment and character meet-and-greets add to the fun.
Newby Hall, near Ripon, HG4 5AJ
http://www.newbyhall.com
Set within 25 acres of award-winning gardens, Newby Hall is a beautiful Georgian stately home with much to offer beyond its impressive interiors. Families can enjoy the adventure playground, miniature railway, pedalo boats, and the Teddy Bear House, while garden lovers will appreciate the famous herbaceous borders and rare plant collections. Seasonal events, including open-air theatre and classic car shows, add extra appeal.
Station Cinema, Richmond, DL10 4LD
http://www.stationcinema.com
The Station Cinema in Richmond is housed in the old Victorian railway station and has three screens showing popular and art house films.
Wensleydale Creamery, Hawes, DL8 3RN
http://www.wensleydale.co.uk
Located in the market town of Hawes, Wensleydale Creamery is home to the world-famous Yorkshire Wensleydale Cheese. Visitors can explore its heritage in the museum, watch cheese-making from the viewing gallery, and enjoy local dishes in the on-site restaurant. Don’t miss the well-stocked shop—and yes, in Yorkshire it’s traditional to eat Wensleydale with fruit cake!
Wensleydale Railway, Leeming Bar, DL7 9AR
http://www.wensleydale-railway.co.uk
Running between Scruton and Leyburn, Wensleydale Railway is one of the UK’s longest heritage lines. This authentic railway offers a nostalgic journey through beautiful Yorkshire countryside, with special events throughout the year including the popular Polar Express and driver experience days.
York's Chocolate Story, YO1 7LD
http://www.yorkschocolatestory.com
Located in the heart of York, this interactive attraction takes you on a guided journey through the city’s rich chocolate-making heritage. Learn about iconic treats like the KitKat and Chocolate Orange, discover how chocolate is made, and even try tasting it like a connoisseur.