There are some brilliant English Heritage sites in Yorkshire, and families in Leeds can take advantage of the English Heritage’s fantastic membership offer, when you can take up to six children for free with your annual membership (an adult membership is just £72 (or £6 a month)! You can get some great value days out – perfect for planning family fun during the school holidays!
This article contains affiliate links
CLICK HERE TO SEE THE ENGLISH HERITAGE MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS
Brodsworth Hall and GardensLocated in South Yorkshire near Doncaster, Brodsworth Hall and Gardens is a Victorian country house surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. The house, which has been preserved to look exactly as it did in the late 19th century, provides an interesting insight into the lives of its former inhabitants. Families can explore the opulent rooms, learn about Victorian daily life, and even dress up in period costumes.
The meticulously maintained gardens offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Children will love running around the expansive lawns, discovering hidden pathways, and playing traditional lawn games like croquet or badminton.
Clifford’s TowerStanding proudly in the city of York, Clifford’s Tower is a medieval castle keep that offers stunning views of the surrounding city. Originally built by William the Conqueror, it has played a significant role in English history and is now managed by English Heritage.
Families can climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views, learn about its turbulent past through interactive exhibits, and participate in fun activities like medieval archery or sword fighting.
Another castle that is sure to impress both children and adults alike is Conisbrough Castle in South Yorkshire. This 12th-century fortification boasts impressive ramparts, towers, and a great hall that transport visitors back to medieval times.
Families can explore the castle at their own pace using a free audio guide or join a guided tour for an in-depth look at the castle’s history. Kids will love dressing up as knights or princesses and pretending to defend the castle against invaders.
Credit: English Heritage
Located just outside of Yorkshire in Derbyshire (but absolutely worth a visit), Bolsover Castle is a captivating destination that combines history, architecture, and family-friendly activities. Known for its stunning design and the breathtaking views of the countryside, this 17th-century castle is a delight to explore.
Families can wander through the luxurious Little Castle, which features beautifully preserved interiors, or stroll through the elegant wall walk, offering spectacular vistas. Children can enjoy the Discovery Center, where hands-on exhibits bring the castle’s history to life, or participate in seasonal events, such as falconry displays and storytelling sessions. Bolsover Castle provides an unforgettable experience for all ages, blending education with entertainment seamlessly.
For a change of scenery, head to Rievaulx Abbey in North Yorkshire. This hauntingly beautiful ruin is one of the most complete and atmospheric monastic sites in England. As you wander through the remains of this once grand abbey, imagine the lives of monks who resided here centuries ago.
Children can take part in an interactive trail that encourages them to explore and learn about the daily routines of medieval monks. There are also hands-on activities such as brass rubbings and dress-up costumes available for kids to enjoy.
Visitors can relax in the peaceful surroundings or have a picnic on the picturesque grounds while soaking up the history of Rievaulx Abbey. The site also hosts various events throughout the year, including medieval reenactments and arts and crafts workshops.
Whitby Abbey, located in the charming seaside town of Whitby in North Yorkshire, is a popular destination for families. This imposing ruin, perched atop a cliff overlooking the town and sea, offers a unique setting for children to explore and learn about England’s rich history.
As visitors make their way through the abbey’s ruins, they can participate in various hands-on experiences that bring the history of the site to life. Children can try on costumes inspired by medieval monks or join an interactive trail that encourages them to uncover secrets and stories about the abbey.
Mount Grace PrioryMount Grace Priory, located at the edge of the North York Moors, is a fantastic destination for families seeking both adventure and a touch of history. This fascinating site, known as one of England’s best-preserved Carthusian monasteries, offers a combination of history, nature, and engaging activities that cater to visitors of all ages.
The priory features a variety of interactive exhibits that bring the past to life. Families can explore reconstructed monk’s cells to gain insight into the solitary lives of the Carthusian monks who once lived there. Children will enjoy the opportunity to imagine monastic life while walking through the ruins and seeing how the monks used to grow their own food and make herbal remedies.
Beyond the historical elements, Mount Grace Priory is set within beautiful gardens and woodlands, providing the perfect backdrop for outdoor family fun. Families can enjoy picnics in the serene surroundings or take leisurely strolls along the nature trails. Special family-friendly events and workshops are often organized, including craft sessions, treasure hunts, and storytelling, ensuring there is something to captivate everyone.
