If you're looking for some family-friendly inspiration for your Yorkshire staycation, we've got it by the bucket load at High Oaks Grange! We are very fortunate to be based in such a fabulous location, with the North York Moors quite literally on our doorstep, and there are many family-friendly attractions and activities to explore nearby.
So, we've compiled a list of our top 5 recommendations for days out with kids (and big kids!) in this exciting part of Yorkshire.
1. Flamingo Land
No family trip to North Yorkshire is complete without a visit to Flamingo Land. Containing the UK’s most visited zoo and a thrilling theme park with rides for all ages, it is a fantastic choice for a fun-filled day out.
The Flamingo Land zoo is home to more than 140 animal species, including red pandas, white rhinos, Sumatran tigers, lions, kangaroos, and of course, a lot of flamingos! There are regular ‘Meet A Creature’ experiences and Keeper Talks across the park, so there’s always something to see and learn about.
For the thrill seekers in your family, the theme park at Flamingo Land will be a big hit! There are many rides to try: from hair raising roller coasters and extreme vertical drops, to the peaceful cable car and plenty of smaller rides for young children.
High Oaks Grange is just a 10-minute drive from Flamingo Land Resort, making it a popular destination amongst our visitors.
2. Dalby Forest
If you’re looking for an adventure in the great outdoors, head to Dalby Forest. You will find over 8,000 acres of woodlands to explore and enjoy, including play areas for children, barbeques for the family and plenty of waymarked trails for walking and cycling. In the Enchanted Wood, look out for the living willow arches, owl carvings, a mystical fort, giant insects and a spider in the trees.
Dalby Forest is also home to a Go Ape centre! Explore the forest from high up in the trees as you navigate exhilarating rope bridges, climbing nets, and zip wires. Seasoned explorers can tackle the tricky Treetop Challenge, whilst the Treetop Adventure is great fun for younger families.
You can reach Dalby Forest in just 10 minutes by car… what are you waiting for?
3. Alpamare
Are your kids waterpark lovers? If so, you have to visit Alpamare in Scarborough! This state-of-the-art waterpark is unlike any you’ve seen before, with extensive water slides, enormous wave pools, family-friendly splash & play areas, beautiful gardens, and an Alpine-style wellness spa.
Adrenaline junkies will spend hours in the Slide Tower, whilst those looking to chill out can enjoy the heated Garden Pool and Infinity Pool.
Alpamare is approximately 30 minutes away from High Oaks Grange, so why not make it a full day out? We also recommend a visit to the Sea Life Centre, Peasholm Park, and Scarborough Castle.
4. North Yorkshire Moors Railway*
All aboard! See the North York Moors in the most magical way – by hopping onboard the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.
You’ll travel via old steam train and admire the stunning countryside that Yorkshire has to offer. With plenty of great locations to stop off at, a journey on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway makes for a great day out with the whole family.
If you’ve got some Harry Potter fans with you, make sure you stop at Goathland station, as this was the filming location for Hogsmeade train station in the first Harry Potter film!
Departures run from Pickering train station, which is a 5 minute drive away from High Oaks Grange.
*From now until the 27th September, there is only one service running on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. 'The Optimist' is a non-stop service between Pickering and Whitby. Find out more here.
5. Wolds Way Lavender
After all this excitement, a trip to Wolds Way Lavender is the perfect opportunity to relax. This quaint lavender farm grows an incredible array of lavender and other herbs, and the smell is just fantastic!
There are loads of fun activities for kids, including mazes, den-building, foot-golf, giant games, and there’s also a huge sandpit and mud kitchen. You won’t be leaving clean, but you will smell nice!
There’s also a miniature railway, an essential oil distillery, and a tea shop serving freshly made food and tasty treats.
It takes about 20 minutes to reach Wolds Way Lavender by car from High Oaks Grange.
So, where will you go first?
With so many fantastic family-friendly days out within easy reach, you're sure to have a whole lot of fun during your short break at High Oaks Grange.
