Steam trains and railways in North Yorkshire

In terms of museums, North Yorkshire has its fair share. The National Rail Museum in York is great for kids and adults. It is free to enter and there are both indoor and outdoor picnic areas. As well as a fabulous array of trains from the first engines to the modern day, there are great facilities for children. The outdoor play area is good and there is also a ride-on miniature railway. Indoors, there is a soft play area for very young children and many hands on, interactive and educational ‘toys’ for children and adults to try. For the real train enthusiast, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway is also worth a visit. Based in Pickering, visitors can see and ride on real steam trains.

Eden Camp for a Second World War Experience

Meanwhile, a visit to Eden Camp is a must for older children and adults. It really is a full day visit, with some fantastic displays in the former POW camp, which bring to life the realities of the Second World War.

Castles and Abbeys of North Yorkshire

Further back in history, North Yorkshire houses some fabulous heritage sites. Whitby Abbey, Fountains Abbey, Rievaulx Abbey and Mount Grace Priory, as well as York Minster, are some unique religious sites within the UK overall. Meanwhile, Pickering Castle, Helmsley Castle, Richmond Castle and Middleham Castle, are must visits, charting important periods and characters in British history.

Of course, if the sun is shining, the beaches are wonderful. The Scarborough and Filey coastline offers real seaside fun, with donkey rides and traditional seaside entertainment. For quieter days, Robin Hoods Bay, Runswick Bay and Whitby have golden sands and safe paddling opportunities for children.

There’s so much to do, a day really isn’t long enough! Whatever your interests as a family, whether it’s an outdoor or an indoor activity, North Yorkshire is a fantastic place to visit.