Make memories that will last a lifetime in beautiful gardens and outdoor playgrounds in the heart of North Yorkshire this summer. With so many beautiful outdoor spaces and historic properties to explore around Harrogate, Selby, Ripon, York and beyond, we’re put together some ideas for your next family day out this summer.
Stillingfleet Lodge Gardens
Lovingly tended by owners Vanessa and John Cook for over 40 years, this cottage garden is the perfect place to spend an afternoon as a family. Overflowing with beautiful blooms, why not count the butterflies in the wildflower meadow, or peer into the pond and see if you can spot any newts or frogs? The gardens are also home to some friendly residents including cheeky Pekin Bantams and guinea fowl, plus Donald the cat.
Take a seat amid the stunning flowers, with birdsong and buzzing bees as your soundtrack, while the kids explore the small play area which is perfect for under 8s. After your garden adventures, stop by the tearoom for refreshments and a slice of homemade cake, or take inspiration from the plant nursery where you can pick up seedlings for your own garden.
A Garden Museum with a story of victorian hardship.
The Ripon Workhouse Museum and Garden will transport you back to Victorian England, offering a glimpse into the lives of the poor. Explore history in its exhibits before taking to the kitchen garden, spread across an acre behind the museum, and discover how inmates grew their own food. During the school holidays, there’s plenty of family fun with a summer trail which uses your senses to experience how the Victorians really lived, plus activities like baking and hand-on crafts.
Admire the more formal front gardens, planted with popular Victorian perennials and scented blooms. The blossoms of the vegetable garden give way to apples in the autumn, which are harvested and made into juice that’s sold in the museum shop.
York’s Family Heritage Garden
Goddards is a hidden gem on the outskirts of York. Once home to the iconic Terry family, famed for their chocolate heritage, it’s a peaceful haven for adults and children alike.
Wander through five acres of garden ‘rooms’, each with its own charm, and discover fragrant borders and mature trees, a lily pond in the shape of a cross, a rock garden, and an historic glasshouse. This summer, use your senses to weave your way around the different garden rooms on the new sense-sational summer trail, and experience the gardens as the Terry family would have done with a round of croquet or skittles, with hobby horses for little adventures.
When you’ve finished exploring, soak up the sunshine on the terrace with a takeaway drink or light bite, or take in the view of York racecourse from the orchard.
Royal Horticultural Excellence
Just outside Harrogate, RHS Garden Harlow Carr is the perfect family escape with fragrant sensory gardens and beautiful formal borders, enchanting wildflower meadows and even an arboretum. Kids will love the adventure play areas where they can slide down the Log Ness Monster, and can take on the Craggle Top Treehouse.
Head down to the garden’s bird hide and spy on various resident and migrating species, or take a stroll by Queen Mother’s Lake, a tranquil haven that’s a perfect picnic spot.
The garden hosts events throughout the year, from discover trails and demonstrations, to outdoor theatre, so there’s always something new to enjoy. When you are feeling peckish, Bettys tearoom serves delectable treats and afternoon tea.
Enjoy a walk with the family
Spending time together in nature is a lovely way to make precious memories together. See what animals and wildlife you can spot along your route, and breathe in that fresh Yorkshire air.
The delightful Bewerley Tree Trail is a short walk that includes the charming village of Bewerley and takes you through Fishpond Wood. Alongside the lake, this route offers beautiful views throughout the seasons, from blooming bluebells in the spring to the rich autumn colours, and takes about an hour to complete.
While in the area, you could call into pretty Pateley Bridge for a stop at Cocoa Joe’s for a delicious chocolate drink, or visit the recreation ground for bandstand concerts and fun at the playground.
With so many gardens and outdoor spaces in the heart of North Yorkshire, you’re sure to find the perfect place for a family day out. Visit our Find Your Escape page and start planning your trip.
