Looking for some fun activities for yourself and your children? You’ve come to the right place. In Yorkshire, you’ll find everything from water parks and cycling trails to park adventures and zoos. Whether you’re visiting for the day from Doncaster or Leeds or planning a weekend of adrenaline and excitement and looking for things to do in Yorkshire, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Read on as we take a closer look at some of the best outdoor activities in Yorkshire for kids and adults.
Outdoor Activities in North Yorkshire
Go Ape!
Welcome to the UK’s No. 1 treetop adventure at Dalby Forest in North Yorkshire. Rope bridges, Tarzan swings, high-speed zips and you name it. With 13 walking trails, six cycling trails and two play areas, there is something to keep everyone entertained. Go Ape! is the ultimate destination for some good fun and a great chance to admire Yorkshire’s finest landscapes.
Alpamare Scarborough
Water-lovers? With four slides, a wave pool, a garden pool, a splash and play area, and North Bay Beach just a stone’s throw, this fantastic water park is a place like no other. If you want to relax after a good swim, you can enjoy a refreshing drink at the café or a massage at the Wellness centre.
Flamingo Land Resort
Located between Malton and Pickering, this resort is perfect for families, as it includes a beautiful zoo with more than 100 different animals and a theme park offering kids and adults’ rides. And if you enjoy your stay, you can also book one of the cottages.
Birds of Prey
If you’re passionate about birds and have been dreaming of seeing eagles, hawks and falcons flying over your head, Birds of Prey is a must-go. This falconry is home to more than 70 birds and 30 species and regularly has guest speakers talking about the habitats and wildlife conservation.
The Forbidden Corner
Sitting in the heart of Tupgill Park in the Yorkshire Dales, ‘the strangest place in the world’ is an award-winning attraction, a labyrinth of tunnels, chambers and surprises in a four-acre garden. Statues await you at every turn, a pyramid made of translucent glass and the eye of the needle make this experience one-of-a-kind.
Lightwater Valley
With the longest rollercoaster in Europe, Lightwater Valley Theme Park is located in North Stanley, in North Yorkshire. Bounce in the trees on the trampoline nets, jump on the huge inflatable pillow or take your children on a safari. This adventure park has something to keep everyone entertained.
Ingleborough Cave
Found in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, in Clapham, Ingleborough Cave is a show cave that was first discovered in 1837. Today, you can explore the cave following a fossil gallery made of stalagmites, stalactites and flowstones. And if you love the stars, you can join expert astronomers for an unforgettable experience of stargazing.
Outdoor Activities in West Yorkshire
Diggerland Yorkshire
If construction machinery is your passion, Diggerland is the place for you. Sky shuttles, giant diggers, stack attacks, mini landrovers and more – fun at Diggerland abounds. Have a go on the Go-Karts, drive a real Komatsu excavator or take your kids on a safari for an unforgettable adventure.
National Coal Mining Museum for England
Discover the industrial heritage of West Yorkshire at the National Coal Mining Museum. Take a guided underground tour to learn about the region's coal mining history and experience what life was like for the miners. Explore the museum's interactive exhibits, visit the colliery buildings, and enjoy scenic walks in the surrounding countryside.
Outdoor Activities in South Yorkshire
Rother Valley Country Park
Situated in Rotherham, Rother Valley Country Park is an expansive outdoor recreational area. The park features several lakes where visitors can enjoy activities like canoeing, kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing. The surrounding woodlands provide opportunities for walking, cycling, and picnicking. Rother Valley is also known for its fishing spots and has facilities for camping and caravanning.
Clifton Park and Museum:
Located in Rotherham, Clifton Park offers a range of outdoor activities for all ages. The park features open green spaces, playgrounds, sports facilities, and a splash park for children. Take a leisurely walk through the park, play a game of tennis or football, or enjoy a picnic with family and friends. The nearby Clifton Park Museum showcases the area's history and offers insights into local heritage.
Outdoor Activities in East Yorkshire
Spurn National Nature Reserve
Located on the coast, Spurn National Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife and birdwatching enthusiasts. Explore the diverse habitats, including sandy beaches, mudflats, and salt marshes, which attract a wide variety of bird species. Take a guided walk, visit the observatory, and learn about the important conservation efforts in the area.
Bempton Cliffs
Witness a spectacular natural spectacle at Bempton Cliffs, a designated RSPB nature reserve. These towering chalk cliffs provide nesting sites for thousands of seabirds, including puffins, gannets, and kittiwakes. Walk along the cliff-top paths and marvel at the breathtaking views and the vibrant display of birdlife.