Ultimate list of free days out in Yorkshire to enjoy but not break the bank

With the summer holidays upon us, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore our beautiful county – and that’s God’s Own Country to all of you living under those red rose banners.

Keeping the kids entertained can often come with a hefty price tag, so it’s crucial to know about places that won’t break the bank. Fortunately, we’re blessed with an abundance of green spaces and museums across the county that are sure to keep the little ones busy.

No matter if your children are into learning, playing, adventuring or climbing, there’s something for everyone that won’t leave you out of pocket.

READ MORE The lesser-known Yorkshire beach perfect to visit with a newborn baby

We’ve compiled a list of ten of Yorkshire’s top free family days out. If you think there are more that deserve a mention, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

The National Science and Media Museum, Bradford.

Here, the only expense is parking. The exhibits are constantly changing, ensuring that even if the kids have visited before, they’re unlikely to get bored.

The Wonderlab is a standout feature here. With a family-friendly cafe and picnic area on site, no one will go hungry. The interactive gallery at the Wonderlab allows kids to feel like scientists as they explore light and sound.



The National Science and Media Museum, Pictureville, Bradford
The National Science and Media Museum, Pictureville, Bradford

Admission to the museum requires online booking in advance. Throughout the holidays, the museum will be open from 10am to 4pm. They’ll also be hosting holiday events such as the Superheroes Animation Workshop, the ‘Funk Junk Trolley’, and ‘Get Sonic, Get Radiophonic’.

Robert’s Park, Baildon, Bradford

Within the grounds of Saltaire, Robert Park offers bike and skate ramps, swings, play frames and even a zip wire. Despite the chilly weather, it’s a picturesque setting with free parking available at Salts Mill, just a few minutes away, as well as a pay and display car park.

Cow and Calf Rocks, Ilkley

Cow and Calf Rocks in Ilkley are natural rock formations that offer more than meets the eye. While it may sound mundane, the climbing opportunities and breathtaking views make it a must-visit attraction.



Cow and Calf Rocks, Ilkley
Cow and Calf Rocks, Ilkley

The site features an outcrop and a boulder, which inspired its name, Cow and Calf. According to local legend, the Calf was separated from the Cow when the giant Rombald stamped on the rock while fleeing an enemy, leaping across the valley. Parking here is complimentary.

Beaumont Park, Huddersfield

Beaumont Park in Huddersfield is reminiscent of the ‘Secret Garden’. It promises countless adventures that will undoubtedly tire out the kids for the day.

Spanning just over 20 acres, the park boasts a beautifully maintained urban area, but the real attraction lies in the slightly overgrown and wilder castle area. Hidden trails reveal secret pathways and views, and now, with the ‘Love Exploring’ app, the trails have become interactive. Parking is available at the roadside.

Room on the Broom trail, Wintersett, Wakefield

The Room on the Broom trail in Wintersett, Wakefield, is sure to captivate children. Alongside an adventure play area, the trail features hidden footprints, drawings and statues scattered around the lake.



Room on the Broom trail, Wintersett, Wakefield
Room on the Broom trail, Wintersett, Wakefield

There is a pay and display parking area, complete with a cafe, and numerous picnic tables for visitors to enjoy.

Wakefield Museum

Wakefield Museum, located on Burton Street, offers an exciting adventure for children. They can ride the Rhubarb express, dare to stand on the back of a fearsome caiman, and learn to distinguish between enemy and ally World War 2 planes.

The museum offers free entry and typically takes one to two hours to explore fully. While there is pay and display parking available, the museum is conveniently located just two minutes away from the nearest train station, providing ample public transport links.

Jerusalem Farm, Halifax

Jerusalem Farm in Booth, Halifax, is a woodland paradise with a river running through it. It’s the perfect spot for paddling, jumping over stepping stones, and exploring nature.



Jerusalem Farm, Booth, Halifax
Jerusalem Farm, Booth, Halifax

With so much to see and do, you could easily spend the entire day here, provided you’re equipped with your walking boots.

Valley Gardens, Harrogate

Valley Gardens in Harrogate is a family-friendly destination with a large play area and a paddling pool. While these features alone could occupy a whole day, the site also boasts beautiful grade II listed gardens, a woodland area, and a skate park.

If you visit on a Sunday, you might even be fortunate enough to catch a band concert.



Valley Gardens, Harrogate
Valley Gardens, Harrogate

Druids Temple, Ripon

Druids Temple in Ripon is considered one of Yorkshire’s most unusual locations. Built in the late 1700s, the temple exudes an aura of magic and mystery that is sure to captivate children.

Sheffield Botanical Gardens, Sheffield

Sheffield Botanical Gardens in Sheffield is another must-visit location.

The site boasts thousands of unique plants, guaranteed to captivate children’s interest.

Additionally, a treasure hunt trail is available, guiding young explorers around the Victorian Glass House and pond.



Sheffield Botanical Gardens, Sheffield
Sheffield Botanical Gardens, Sheffield

You can find the latest event news in Yorkshire and nearby by visiting our What’s On homepage. There you can also find days out guides for things to do across the region.

Yorkshire Live has launched Explore Yorkshire, which will look at Yorkshire’s unique identity and destinations and celebrate God’s Own County for what it is – the best place in the world. Whether you are looking for a day out, a weekend away or to try somewhere new, Explore Yorkshire is here to help. Our brilliant new newsletter will bring all of this content together for you in one place – sign up here to get it direct to your inbox.

YorkshireLive – Halifax | News